On display within the Enterprise Ireland Innovation Arena at the Ploughing and attracting the attention of many, was the Voltera portable battery-powered light tester. Designed, built and exhibited by Ross Whiteford of HLR Machinery, based in Co Laois, the unit acts as a power supply to test the functionality of any trailer or towed implement’s lighting circuit without the need for a tow vehicle to be present.

Using the correct adapter, the battery-powered Voltera system plugs directly into any 12V 13 pin or seven-pin sockets found on agricultural, utility or car/jeep trailers. Then, using the wireless remote, one person can individually test the functionality of each light and indicator without the inconvenience of hooking up and running a tow vehicle. A HGV version is available to test the 20V 15-pin connectors for commercial trailers and also includes continuity checks on parking brake and brake pads wear circuits, while the AUX power can check the ABS module.

The buttons on the remote control are colour-coded to match standard trailer wiring colours, so the connection between what is pressed and what should light up is intuitive. Another key feature is its electronic flasher relay system for the indicator circuits. Beyond flashing the indicators at the correct rate, the flasher relay helps a technician identify a bad earth connection.

Rather than using its own integrated battery, Voltera runs on all common 18V powertool battery ecosystems. With most workshops now associated with one particular powertool brand, customers simply specify the 18V battery brand of choice, with Milwaukee, DeWalt, Metabo, HiKOKI and Bosch brands supported.

The unit is contained within a sturdy 3D printed housing. The basic unit is priced at €460 including VAT.