Hioki 3490 Analog Insulation Tester | Drop-Proof 3-Range 1000V MΩ Meter

The Hioki 3490 delivers reliable analog insulation testing across three voltage ranges (250V/500V/1000V) in a rugged, drop-proof design built for Australian job sites. Bright LED backlighting lets you work confidently in switchboards and dark spaces, while the analog needle provides instant visual confirmation of insulation quality. CAT III 600V rated with optional remote control testing for improved workflow efficiency.

Brochure: INSULATION TESTER Series

Categories: Hioki, Test Equipment For Electricians, Test Equipment For Solar PV Tags: Hioki, Insulation Testers Brand: Hioki

Hioki 3490 Analog MΩ HiTESTER – 3-Range Drop-Proof Insulation Tester with LED Backlight

The Challenge: Testing Insulation Resistance in Demanding Field Conditions

Electrical contractors and maintenance teams across Australia face constant pressure to verify insulation integrity quickly and reliably—often in cramped switchboards, poorly lit plant rooms, or outdoor installations where conditions aren’t ideal. Digital meters can be hard to read at awkward angles, and many insulation testers simply aren’t built to survive the knocks and drops that happen on real job sites.

You need a tester that’s tough enough for daily field use, provides clear readings regardless of viewing angle, and lets you work efficiently in low-light environments. When you’re testing motor windings in a factory basement or checking transformer insulation in a substation, you can’t afford equipment that fails when you need it most.

The Hioki 3490: Analog Reliability Meets Modern Ruggedness

The Hioki 3490 Analog MΩ HiTESTER brings old-school analog dependability into the modern era with features that matter for Australian tradespeople. This 3-range insulation tester covers 250V, 500V, and 1000V test voltages—giving you the flexibility to handle everything from control circuits to industrial motor testing without switching instruments.

Built for Australian Job Sites

The 3490’s drop-proof construction withstands 1-meter drops onto concrete—because we all know test equipment doesn’t always stay in your hands on busy sites. The rugged analog meter movement is protected inside a tough housing that meets IP40 dustproof standards (excluding terminals), keeping internal components safe from job site debris.

See Clearly Where You Work

The bright LED backlighting transforms productivity in dark working environments. Whether you’re inside switchboards, under machinery, or working during extended outages, the illuminated analog scale remains clearly visible. The large analog needle provides instant visual feedback that’s easier to read at difficult angles compared to small digital displays—especially important when you’re reaching into tight spaces.

Safe, Simple Operation

Live circuit detection alerts you before testing begins—the red LED indicator lights up whenever voltage exceeds 20V AC between LINE and EARTH terminals, preventing accidental testing on energised circuits. This extra safety layer helps protect both you and the equipment under test, particularly important when working in complex installations where circuits might be unexpectedly live.

One-touch start and stop functionality keeps testing efficient. Simply press and hold the MEASURE button for single tests, or lift and lock it for continuous measurement when you’re checking multiple points on the same circuit. The intuitive analog interface requires minimal training—experienced sparkies and apprentices alike can use it confidently.

Key Capabilities & Real-World Benefits

Three Testing Ranges, One Instrument

250V Range: Ideal for control circuits, electronics, and sensitive equipment where lower test voltages prevent damage (0.05 MΩ to 100 MΩ measuring range)
500V Range: Standard for most general electrical installations and equipment per AS/NZS 3000 requirements (up to 4000 MΩ)
1000V Range: Essential for motors, transformers, and high-voltage equipment where IEC 60364 specifies higher test voltages (up to 4000 MΩ)

Having all three ranges in a single, portable tester means you’re equipped for varied testing scenarios without carrying multiple instruments.

Analog Needle Response Shows Insulation Trends

The analog meter movement does something digital displays can’t—it shows insulation behaviour in real-time. Watch the needle gradually creep upward as insulation polarises under test voltage, or see it drop sharply indicating moisture absorption or contamination. This dynamic response helps experienced technicians assess insulation condition beyond just the final numerical value.

The graduated scales are clearly marked with multiple measurement ranges, letting you quickly determine whether readings fall into acceptable zones. At a glance, you can see if insulation resistance is trending toward failure thresholds—valuable information for preventive maintenance programs.

AC Voltage Measurement (0-600V)

The 3490 doubles as a basic AC voltmeter, measuring up to 600V AC. This eliminates the need to carry a separate multimeter for voltage verification checks, streamlining your toolkit. Confirm circuits are de-energised before testing, or verify nominal voltage after restoration—all with the same instrument.

Continuity Check Function

Verify earth continuity and bonding connections before insulation testing, ensuring test results aren’t skewed by poor earthing. The continuity function helps confirm your test setup is correct before applying high voltages.

Battery Status Monitoring

Three-stage battery status indication (Hi/Lo/Dead) ensures you’re never surprised by flat batteries mid-job. The clear LED indicators let you know when it’s time to replace batteries before they affect measurement accuracy. Twenty hours of continuous operation from four AA alkaline batteries means the 3490 handles full working days with battery life to spare.

Applications Across Australian Electrical Trades

Electrical Contracting & Maintenance

Periodic verification testing per AS/NZS 3000 for domestic, commercial, and industrial installations
Pre-energisation testing of new installations and circuit additions
Troubleshooting earth leakage and insulation deterioration issues
Switchboard commissioning and testing
Testing after electrical repairs or modifications

Industrial Maintenance

Preventive maintenance testing on motors, pumps, and industrial equipment
Transformer insulation verification
Cable testing before load application
Scheduled testing programs for critical plant equipment
Condition monitoring to predict equipment failures before they occur

HVAC Service & Refrigeration

Compressor motor insulation testing before startup
Verification of control circuit insulation in air handling units
Testing after equipment exposure to moisture or contamination
Commissioning of new HVAC installations

Building Services & Facility Management

Regular compliance testing for building electrical systems
Testing following water damage or flooding events
Verification after maintenance work in switchrooms
Tenant fitout electrical certification
Scheduled testing programs for aged installations

Why Choose the Hioki 3490 from Our Range

Proven Hioki Quality

Hioki has manufactured precision test equipment in Japan since 1935, earning a reputation for measurement accuracy and long-term reliability. The 3490 carries a 3-year product warranty with 1-year accuracy guarantee—significantly better than many budget alternatives offering only 12-month coverage.

CAT III 600V Safety Rating

The 3490 meets CAT III 600V safety standards per EN61010, providing appropriate protection for testing in distribution boards and fixed installations up to 600V. This safety rating, combined with live circuit detection, gives you confidence when working in typical commercial and industrial electrical systems.

Analog Technology Advantages

While digital testers dominate the modern market, analog meters offer distinct benefits that many experienced technicians prefer:

Instant visual indication of measurement trends
Easier to spot unstable or fluctuating readings
No display update lag—you see changes as they happen
Readable from extreme angles where LCD displays become difficult to see
No digital display failures in harsh environments or temperature extremes

Optional Remote Control Test Lead

The L9788-11 remote control test lead set (sold separately) dramatically improves testing efficiency. Start and stop tests at the touch of a button near the test point—no need to return to the instrument for each measurement. The integrated bright LED spotlight illuminates test locations, while the red live voltage indicator warns of dangerous conditions. This optional accessory is a game-changer for rapid testing scenarios like pre-rental property inspections or large-scale preventive maintenance programs.

Smart Lead Storage

The flip-up cover design allows quick lead storage without disconnecting—just wind the leads and flip the cover closed. This simple feature speeds up workflow when moving between test locations and keeps leads organised rather than tangled in your toolbox.

Calibration & Support

We can arrange NATA-traceable calibration services for the Hioki 3490, ensuring your test results remain defensible and compliant with Australian standards. Regular calibration maintains measurement accuracy and provides documented evidence of due diligence in your testing programs.

Specifications

Accuracy guaranteed: 1 year

Rated output voltage	250 V DC	500 V DC	1000 V DC
Effective maximum indicated value	100 MΩ	100 MΩ	4000 MΩ
Accuracy 1st effective measuring range	±2 % of scale length 0.05 to 50 MΩ	±2 % of scale length 0.05 to 50 MΩ	±2 % of scale length 2 to 1000 MΩ
Lower limit resistance	0.25 MΩ	0.5 MΩ	1 MΩ
	(Measurement resistance value to maintain testing voltage)
Overload protection	660 V AC (10 sec.)
Low resistance range	3 Ω (at 200 mA testing current), ±0.09 Ω accuracy, 30 Ω (at 20 mA testing current), ±0.9 Ω accuracy, Open-circuit voltage: 4.1 to 6.9 V
AC voltage range	0 to 600 V (50/60 Hz), ±5 % of maximum scale value accuracy, 100 kΩ or more input resistance
Other functions	Bright LED luminous scale, Drop proof (on concrete, 1 m/1 time), Battery check, Live circuit check, Auto discharge
Power supply	LR6 (AA) alkaline batteries ×4, Continuous use: 20 hours (at 500 V range, no load)
Dimensions and mass	159 mm (6.26 in)W × 177 mm (6.97 in)H × 53 mm (2.09 in)D, 610 g (21.5 oz), (including battery, excluding test lead)
Included accessories	Test lead L9787 ×1, Instruction manual ×1, Shoulder strap ×1, LR6 (AA) alkaline batteries ×4

FAQ's

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Why choose an analog insulation tester over a digital model?
A: Analog meters provide instant visual feedback that shows insulation behaviour in real-time. The needle movement helps experienced technicians assess insulation condition beyond just the final number—you can see if readings are stable, climbing gradually (good insulation polarising), or fluctuating (potential moisture or contamination). Analog displays are also easier to read from awkward angles and don’t suffer from display failures in extreme temperatures or harsh environments. Many veteran sparkies prefer analog meters for these reasons, though digital models offer data logging and other features.

Q: Is the Hioki 3490 suitable for AS/NZS 3000 compliance testing?
A: Yes. The 3490’s 250V, 500V, and 1000V test voltage ranges align with AS/NZS 3000:2018 insulation resistance test requirements. The CAT III 600V safety rating makes it appropriate for testing fixed installations in domestic, commercial, and industrial settings. The 1-year accuracy guarantee ensures measurements remain within acceptable tolerances for compliance reporting.

Q: Can I use the 3490 to test solar PV installations?
A: The 3490 can test de-energised PV components (cabling, junction boxes, isolators) but is not suitable for testing live PV arrays. For testing solar installations while they’re generating, consider the Hioki IR4053-10 or IR5051 which feature dedicated PV insulation measurement modes that compensate for generated current.

Q: How do I know which voltage range to use for different equipment?
A: General guidelines: Use 250V for control circuits, electronics, and sensitive equipment; 500V for most general electrical installations, appliances, and standard equipment (this is the most commonly used range); 1000V for motors, transformers, generators, and high-voltage cables. AS/NZS 3000 and equipment manufacturer specifications will indicate required test voltages. When in doubt, start with 500V unless equipment data specifically requires higher.

Q: What insulation resistance values indicate acceptable condition?
A: Minimum acceptable values vary by equipment and voltage rating, but general rules of thumb: For circuits/equipment rated up to 500V, minimum 1 MΩ is typically required (AS/NZS 3000 minimum); for equipment rated above 500V, minimum 1 MΩ per 1000V rated voltage. However, new installations should show much higher values (typically 10 MΩ+). Trending analysis is equally important—insulation resistance dropping over time indicates deterioration even if values remain technically acceptable.

Q: How often should I have the 3490 calibrated?
A: We recommend annual calibration for instruments used in professional testing and compliance verification. Hioki provides a 1-year accuracy guarantee, after which annual NATA-traceable calibration ensures measurements remain defensible. More frequent calibration may be required if the instrument experiences harsh conditions or if used for critical testing where measurement uncertainty must be minimised. We can arrange calibration services—contact us for details.

Q: Is the 3490 drop-proof enough for real job site use?
A: The 3490 is rated to survive 1-meter drops onto concrete, which covers most accidental drops from benches, toolboxes, or hand height. The rugged construction and protected meter movement handle typical job site knocks. However, no instrument is indestructible—always use the neck strap to prevent drops when working at height or in awkward positions.

Q: Can I use rechargeable batteries in the 3490?
A: Yes, the 3490 works with rechargeable NiMH AA batteries, offering a more economical and environmentally friendly option for high-use scenarios. Battery life will vary depending on battery capacity, but quality rechargeable AAs typically provide adequate runtime for a working day.

Q: Does the backlight drain batteries significantly?
A: The LED backlight uses minimal power compared to the high-voltage test circuitry. You can use the backlight whenever needed without major battery life concerns. The 3490 provides approximately 20 hours of continuous operation (with typical intermittent backlight use), which translates to weeks of normal field use.