Test Clips - Alligator, Crocodile, Heavy Duty

Image Part Number Description / PDF Quantity Rfq
AC285-FTP

AC285-FTP

Fluke Electronics

GATOR CLIP STEEL INSULATED 10A

0

AC120

AC120

Fluke Electronics

GATOR CLIP STEEL INSULATED 10A

7

AC285

AC285

Fluke Electronics

GATOR CLIP STEEL INSULATED 10A

32

AC173

AC173

Fluke Electronics

GATOR CLIP INSULATED

0

AC220

AC220

Fluke Electronics

GATOR CLIP INSULATED 10A

0

AC87

AC87

Fluke Electronics

BUS BAR CLIP INSULATED 5A

0

TPS/MBX DOLPH RED

TPS/MBX DOLPH RED

Fluke Electronics

DOLPHIN CLIP

0

AC285/NAP

AC285/NAP

Fluke Electronics

ACCY ALLIGATOR CLIP

0

AC72

AC72

Fluke Electronics

GATOR CLIP INSULATED 10A

0

AC220/NAP

AC220/NAP

Fluke Electronics

ACCY ALLIGATOR CLIP

0

Test Clips - Alligator, Crocodile, Heavy Duty

1. Overview

Alligator, Crocodile, and Heavy Duty test clips are specialized electrical connectors used for temporary connections in testing and measurement applications. These clips enable secure attachment to conductors, components, or devices under test (DUTs) while ensuring electrical continuity and safety. Their importance spans across electronics manufacturing, automotive diagnostics, power systems, and research laboratories, where reliable signal transmission and high-current capacity are critical.

2. Main Types and Functional Classification

TypeFunctional FeaturesApplication Examples
Alligator ClipsLightweight, spring-loaded jaws with serrated edges for low-current (up to 1A) connectionsPCB testing, battery terminal connections, signal tracing
Crocodile ClipsMedium-duty design with wider jaws (2-10A capacity) and insulation sleevesAutomotive wiring diagnostics, power supply testing, electrochemistry
Heavy Duty ClipsHigh-current (10-100A) rated with reinforced jaws and heat-resistant materialsIndustrial motor testing, battery bank analysis, high-power electronics

3. Structure and Components

Typical construction includes: - **Jaw Assembly**: Made from phosphor bronze or beryllium copper with nickel/platinum plating - **Spring Mechanism**: Stainless steel springs for consistent clamping force - **Insulation Housing**: Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sleeves - **Termination**: 4mm banana plug, BNC connector, or solder terminal options - **Contact Points**: Replaceable tungsten carbide tips for high-wear applications

4. Key Technical Specifications

ParameterTypical RangeImportance
Current Rating0.5A - 100ADetermines power handling capability
Voltage Rating30V - 1000VEnsures dielectric strength and safety
Wire Size CompatibilityAWG 10-28Affects connection reliability
Contact Resistance<5m Minimizes measurement errors
Operating Temperature-20 C to +125 CDefines environmental suitability

5. Application Fields

Key industries include: - **Electronics Manufacturing**: SMT reflow oven calibration, component testing - **Automotive**: ECU diagnostics, starter motor analysis, battery pack validation - **Energy Systems**: Solar inverter testing, wind turbine controller verification - **Research Labs**: Material resistance testing, prototype validation - **Aerospace**: Avionics harness continuity checks, fuel cell characterization

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

ManufacturerRepresentative ProductKey Features
Keysight TechnologiesN285xA High-Current Clips150A rating with thermal protection
Fluke CorporationT80 Series Test LeadsCat IV 600V safety rating
TE ConnectivityMicroCrocodile Clips0.1A precision for medical device testing
Pomona Electronics6520A Heavy Duty ClipsCorrosion-resistant marine-grade plating

7. Selection Guidelines

Key consideration factors: - Match current/voltage ratings to application requirements - Verify jaw opening size for DUT geometry compatibility - Choose appropriate insulation level for working voltage - Consider tip material for contact resistance stability - Evaluate environmental requirements (temperature, humidity) - Prioritize safety certifications (IEC 61010, UL 61010)

Example: For 12V automotive battery testing, select Crocodile clips with minimum 10A rating, 20mm jaw opening, and PVC insulation.

8. Industry Trends

Current development directions include: - Integration with smart test systems via IoT connectivity - Adoption of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) materials for weight reduction - Enhanced EMI shielding for high-frequency measurement applications - Standardization of color-coded insulation for improved safety - Development of self-cleaning contact surfaces using nanocoatings

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