What tool is essential for testing electrical circuits for live voltage?

A multimeter is essential for testing electrical circuits for live voltage because it is a versatile device that can measure various electrical parameters, including voltage, current, and resistance. When testing for live voltage, the multimeter can be set to the appropriate voltage range, allowing a technician to safely and accurately determine whether voltage is present in a circuit. This ability to measure AC and DC voltages makes the multimeter an indispensable tool for diagnosing electrical issues and ensuring safety when working on live systems.

In contrast, an insulation tester is specifically designed to measure the insulation resistance of wires and components to ensure they are safe from leakage currents; it does not measure live voltage directly. A continuity tester checks if there is a complete path for current flow, which is important, but it’s not used to measure live voltage levels. A wire stripper is primarily for removing insulation from wires and does not test electrical parameters at all.