The TnT Titan is the latest portable appliance tester from Wavecom. Myke Ireland looks at how it works as well as integration with the WinPATS App via Bluetooth.

Historically, wielding an electrical tester in the field has been far from exhilarating for technicians. The prospect of reviewing such devices? Even less so – until now.

Wavecom has infused a fresh dose of excitement into the conventional art of tag and test with the Wavecom TnT Titan. This isn’t just about meeting compliance or conducting routine checks; it’s about redefining how much you can achieve on-site with the right gear.

By integrating an 8” Android tablet and developing a bespoke application brimming with features once only dreamt of in tag and test scenarios, Wavecom has reshaped the user experience. This device isn’t merely another tester; it’s a glimpse into the innovation that comes from careful consideration of what a day in the field actually looks like.

While the integration of an 8” Android tablet and a tailored application certainly distinguishes the Wavecom TnT Titan, these features may be outshone by its connectivity and mobility. The true innovation lies in its cloud-connected capabilities and complete battery operation, transforming it into a mobile powerhouse.

This advance in design not only boosts functionality but also enriches its usability. With these attributes, the TnT Titan transcends its role as a mere tool for compliance – it becomes a modern marvel that brings the convenience and power of technology directly to those who need it most, anywhere and anytime. Here, Wavecom’s innovation shines, transforming routine tasks into a seamless, integrated part of the digital age.

Out of the box

Upon opening the robust pelican-style case of the Wavecom TnT Titan, you encounter a comprehensive mobile testing station engineered for reliability and ease of use in any setting.

The case, constructed from durable ABS plastic, is designed to endure the rigours of travel. It features a retractable handle and wheels that facilitate effortless transportation. Each component within – the printer, tester, tablet and IR scanner – is optimised for both mains and battery power, ensuring complete portability for field operations, but with the ability to be anchored to power when performing higher voltage tests.

Secure, snap-down locks keep the contents tightly sealed during transit while metal eyelets on the case allow for the addition of a personal lock, upping the security a notch for the precious internal cargo. The package is comprehensive; along with the main hardware, the box includes all necessary auxiliary cables and adapters for testing, as well as chargers for each component.

Wavecom’s meticulous attention to detail ensures that from the moment the box is opened, every piece is primed for action, underscoring their commitment to delivering not just tools, but solutions that are instantly operational in any environment. They even ensure the devices all ship with a baseline charge, so you can unwrap your kit and get to work immediately.

Primary components

The tester: The cornerstone of the kit, the Wavecom TnT Titan tester is designed to accommodate a variety of tests including Class I and II, RCD, leakage and extension lead tests. It’s equipped with a high-capacity lithium-ion battery allowing for up to 3,000 tests on a single charge, ensuring reliability in even the most remote locations.

The tester houses the 8” Android tablet with a convenient snap-on-off function. This allows you to work with the tablet on the tester while performing appliance tests, but when taking care of the more mundane database management tasks, you can remove the tablet and find yourself a more comfortable chair. The tablet not only displays test results in large, easy-to-read fonts but also manages test data through the WinPATS app, supporting cloud-based storage and report generation.

The printer: An essential component, the portable printer is critical for producing physical tags and labels immediately after testing. This printer is both mains and battery-powered, facilitating full mobility and ensuring it can operate in various field conditions without the need for a continuous power supply.

It supports the efficient documentation of compliance and safety standards, printing clear, durable tags that adhere to the new AS/NZS 3760:2022 standards. There’s a great option to print tags in an array of sizes, especially helpful for mains switches and equipment racks where that sort of real estate is always at a premium. The printer is easy to load and super lightweight.

The IR neck scanner: A notable addition, the IR neck scanner enhances the kit’s efficiency through advanced scanning capabilities. Designed to quickly scan barcodes on appliances and tags, it facilitates rapid data entry and minimises human error.

Like the other components, it’s battery-operated, ensuring it can function independently in the field. The scanner interacts seamlessly with the tablet via Bluetooth, streamlining the process of logging test data and integrating this information with cloud storage, further automating and securing the test and tag process and saving you a ton of time on repeat client visits.

The WinPATS App

To quote Anakin Skywalker: “This is where the fun begins…”

All the key intelligence behind the TnT Titan is from the WinPATS application and the WinPATS cloud management service that connects your field devices back to base.

WinPATS stands out with its simplicity and intuitive design, a refreshing change from the cumbersome testers traditionally used in the field. The interface is user-friendly, well-organised and touch-responsive, streamlining the entire testing process. This efficiency extends to every aspect of the job: conducting tests, generating detailed reports, updating databases and managing multiple client databases are all done directly from the device. With reliable 4G connectivity, you can synchronise your data in real-time, ensuring that you are always operating with the most current information.

The real beauty of an application-based testing environment is its seamless integration with the other functionalities of a mobile device. Imagine wrapping up a day’s work in the field: your customer signs off directly on the device, you synchronise their database with your cloud and instantly email them their compliance reports – all from a single screen. Most importantly, this means when it’s time to head home, there’s no lingering administration waiting for you.

Why local matters…

The fact that the Wavecom TnT Titan is manufactured in Australia extends beyond national pride to practical advantages in the realm of electronic devices and field equipment. Local manufacturing often ensures quicker support response times, more efficient warranty handling and heightened overall reliability – sharply contrasting with the challenges frequently associated with offshore manufacturing.

These benefits were clearly evident during the test phase of this review. For instance, I was able to connect directly with Evan from the support team, spending over two hours discussing various features and troubleshooting, an interaction that underscores the accessibility and efficiency of local customer service.

This direct line of support is invaluable for maintaining and maximising the functionality of professional technical equipment. Every issue I had was solved in seconds.

The wrap-up

As I reflect on the many features of the Wavecom TnT Titan, it becomes clear that its greatest strengths lie in its portability and advanced cloud functionalities – traits that redefine the efficiency and scope of field testing. The device’s design for mobility allows it to excel in various environments, from tight office spaces to expansive industrial sites. The inclusion of a robust, cloud-connected system means that data management and accessibility are as streamlined as possible, ensuring that up-to-date information is always accessible, no matter the location.

However, the true ‘magic fairy dust’ that brings the entire offering together is the WinPATS application. This software transforms the TnT Titan from a mere testing device into a comprehensive testing solution. WinPATS not only simplifies the interface to the level of everyday consumer technology but also enriches the user experience by making tasks like data entry, report generation and client communication seamless and integrated. The app’s ability to sync data instantly to the cloud eliminates traditional boundaries, allowing technicians to manage their workload with unprecedented ease and efficiency.

For those considering an upgrade of their testing fleet or exploring new avenues for appliance testing management, the Wavecom TnT Titan should undoubtedly be on your list. Its combination of innovative software, user-centric design, and powerful cloud-based capabilities make it a standout choice. Whether you are looking to streamline your processes, enhance the accuracy of your compliance testing, or simply bring a new level of technological integration to your operations, the TnT Titan offers a compelling case as the tool for the future of appliance testing.

Manufacturer: Wavecom
Distributor: Wavecom