what the heck is a Namiki DF-100 Direction Finder

Tbg writes:
"You can accomplish the same using a volt meter and a contact to ground. You touch the chassis or a grounded part and go with the lowest reading."

I beg to differ. When you check leakage against ground, as you suggest, you're measuring "leakage against ground", which is helpful, but this is NOT what the DF-100 does.

It does not measure "against" anything. It is a single lead sampling device that detects an electrostatic field. Since these fields can have the equivalent "zap" power of several kV, it is helpful to minimize these, especially to protect solid-state electronics.

But truthfully, I don't quite understand how it works.

I've discussed my theories in my current EBay listing (I'm selling mine), but I must admit that I'm perplexed how it detects "proper polarity", with no ground connection.

Could this be a really advanced gadget that is not recognized because of lousy instructions? Or quackery?

radioman, I always wondered how the Namiki worked without a ground, but in probably 20 instances where I tried the volt meter versus the Namiki, they gave the same results. I also like to know the voltages both ways. Sometimes I am shocked by the high values.

Seasoned- Would you still have a copy of the Namiki instructions that you could share with me?  I recently purchased one but the previous owner did not have the instruction sheet.

Does anyone have a copy of the instructions they can share?

You will need to open the unit and make sure a 9 volt battery is connected. First thing you do is to connect the alligator clip to some part of exposed chassis, or a ground connection if available. I usually loosen a screw attached to the chassis if its available and clip it to that exposed head.   Sometimes I take the cover off and attach to the metal chassis.  With the clip secured you need to turn on the unit (top button) ... then while it stays on for a few seconds, push the memory button below. Then, you will need to quickly reverse the power cord going into the socket. Within three seconds push the memory button again. A light will indicate which position was the correct in the socket. If you have a three prong IEC cord?  You will need to get a cheap one and cut off the ground plug so you can flip the cord. If you find the polarity is reversed, it will require someone who knows how, to reconnect the power wires inside the unit. Warning: Its not safe to use an IEC plug minus the ground plug, so don’t just flip it and leave it that way. If your system is high end what you hear will make a difference. I have one component that came with a wall wart and found it needed to be placed upside down (tail side up) to be correct. It sounds better with the the correct orientation. I found only one piece of equipment that was wired IEC to be reversed. The other manufacturers were diligent to get it right.