I agree the kV tests seem overkill, but its part of IEC protocols. Beyond insulation its also used for shock hazard for exposed parts of the design that may contact user fingers, it may also be done after the probe has been abused physically and environmentally. For a 1kV rated probe, the steady state test voltage is ~ 10kVdc or 7kVac rms and 13kV impulse and if it says 10A, it can take 10A continuously for? > 2-3 hours without changing any of its rated specs.
Here is a link to a free full IEC DMM test, and the separate test of its probes. I don't know how long this link will be valid. The IEC document itself runs over $100 but pdf shows every step, sans detailed explanation.
http://www.topelcom.gr/cms/M300_3.pdfNow, whether the
testers are honest about each step of the process is another thing, that's why the CE mark is weak relative to 3rd party marks, like UL. What looks like the M300 Hyelec is in the cover of this safety document from the EU, but maybe its not the same DMM?
Here is a link to a 3rd party test done to a Uni-T probe, it also lists a number of 'brands' its sold under.
http://www.element14.com/community/servlet/JiveServlet/download/42359-3-102013/110103600214-216-217_test%20report.pdfIf the above fails, here is the main link:
http://www.element14.com/community/docs/DOC-42359/l/software-for-tenma-72-9280-for-windows7IMHO the Uni-T test are excellent. Those probes sell as low as $2-3/pair and US eBay about $8/pair delivered. To summarize, you can get quality safe probes for very little money, and its been tested.
Otherwise you may get stuck with these:
http://www.saferproducts.gov/ViewIncident/1417431It doesn't happen to all the Centech probes, but you never know when or if it will fail, and they appear to not have been abused at the time it failed.
i am very interested to know if the test leads provided can actually withstand 1kV ... or more ? especially for the sake of recording some numbers ... maybe the 2.5kV insulation test?
There is not much need to do hipot/IR tests of insulated wire at 1kV. These tests are mostly to ensure no major failures like metal chips or broken strands creating a near short exist.
A .050 airgap (in >70% RH) will be a "perfect" insulator to ~2kV. Any sort of insulator can only be better. I have seen medium-quality 300V-rated hookup wire withstand 5kV repeatedly.