I don’t know about you, but I completely forget that Bosch was getting ready to launch new electrical testing and measurement tools.
See Also: Bosch Launched New Electrical Testing Tools
Because of that, I was completely shocked when I saw that Bosch had launched new non-contact voltage testers at USA retailers.
Bosch electrical testing tools? Yes!
They entered the product category very quietly, with no press or media materials. Or even marketing materials. Just like the new Bosch 12V cordless and polishers (see Bosch Launched 6 New Cordless Sanders and Polishers) the new non-contact testers just appeared for sale, and they have shipping ETAs for this month.
Bosch Voltage Tester GVD1000-15
To start off, there’s the GVD1000-15, which looks to be a no-frills model. That’s not a bad thing, most users just need a reliable device to tell them whether an electrical wire, device, or circuit is energized or not.
This model is rated for CAT IV 1000V environments.
It has a color-coded signal, with a green light indicating no voltage is detected and red indicating that it was detected.
Additional features include an audible alert, continuous self-testing, and pocket clip.
Price: $35
Bosch Voltage Tester GVD1000-17
The Bosch GVD1000-17 voltage detector has the same CAT IV safety rating plus some added features.
It has a built-in LED flashlight, and is said to have IP67 rating for protection from water and dust.
This model also has a dual voltage range where it can detect in a low voltage range from 24V to 1000V AC, or standard voltage range from 90V to 1000V AC.
Price: $45
Discussion
I’m surprised that Bosch isn’t making any noise about this launch, or about the digital multimeters that I also spotted at USA retailers – more on those soon.
Yes, the electrical test and measurement market is saturated. But, maybe Bosch stands to gain some marketshare.
Don’t forget that Bosch has an entire business segment devoted to electronic sensors. Frankly, I’m optimistic about their expansion into test and measurement tools.
Maybe Bosch as a newcomer can bring something different to the electrical tool pouch.
