[quote]This Is a Test According to Underwriters Laboratories, Northbrook, Ill., special equipment isn’t necessary for testing of AFCIs. There isn’t a reason for a test on circuits with AFCIs that wouldn’t be conducted on standard circuits. If you choose to test the installation, it’s possible to check it’s properly functioning by pressing the test button after the device has been energized with 120V, as if in service. Pushing the test button, which imposes a simulated arcing condition on the circuit, should result in the device opening. If the device does not open, then the AFCI should be replaced. If the device opens and can be reset, then it is a properly functioning AFCI. The test button is the only recognized method for testing the proper operation of the AFCI. You can also perform an insulation resistance test to verify that the wiring and connections are properly insulated. Disconnect all loads and verify that unconnected wire ends are insulated. To prevent AFCI and GFCI devices from being damaged by high voltage, disconnect the load wire to any device in the circuit. Use an insulation resistance tester that will apply a direct current voltage of at least 500V to the circuit you’re testing. All resistance readings should be at least 1 megohm. The test should indicate that the insulation is intact and that an arc would not be likely to occur in the portion of the circuit tested.[/quote]

I'm not sure what UL is referring to with the statement the test button on the device is the only recognize test method. Right after the requirement came out in the 2002 Code, my department got a AFIC tester for each inspector. It looks very much like a GFIC tester but is for AFIC and is approved by UL.

IIRC, we had to wait several weeks because the first batch of testers were recalled by UL.

Am I misreading something?