Which equipment is used to check if an AC power outlet is properly grounded?

Question

Options

• AA conductive workbench mat
• BA ground polarity tester
• CA grounding cord with alligator clips
• DA nylon probe tool (black stick)

• A
  7% (2)
• C
  90% (27)
• D
  3% (1)

Explanation

Note: The marked correct answer (C) appears to be incorrect for this question. B (a ground polarity tester) is actually the proper tool for checking whether an AC outlet is properly grounded.

A ground polarity tester - a small plug-in device with indicator lights - is specifically designed to verify that an outlet is correctly wired, properly grounded, and has no reversed polarity; it gives an instant visual result without any disassembly. A grounding cord with alligator clips (C) is an ESD wrist strap accessory used to bond a technician to a grounded surface while handling sensitive components - it confirms continuity to a known ground, not whether the outlet itself is grounded. A conductive workbench mat (A) dissipates static charge but has no testing capability. A nylon probe/black stick (D) is a non-conductive pry tool for opening cases and poses no electrical risk - it measures nothing.

Memory tip: Think "tester tests" - a ground polarity tester tests the outlet, while the other three items are passive protective or disassembly tools.

If your study materials mark C as correct, double-check the source - this is a common point of confusion in A+ prep materials, and B is the industry-standard answer.

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