http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mega328ESR-Meter-LCR-led-Transistor-Tester-Diode-Triode-Capacitance-MOS-PNP-NPN-/201087634115?
20 bux... does more than my fluke does
:icon_eek: I'm impressed
Wow, nice find.
If anyone ends up ordering one let us all know how you go with it.
I'm very interested but have done my dosh on fleabay too many times.
Looks like a very useful piece of kit.
i pulled the trigger on one, i'll let ya know how it makes out... may be a while, like, a 2 month ship time!! jeez!!
Looks pretty versatile. Let us know how it does.
This one has jacks for leads to test components in circuit:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Transistor-Tester-Capacitor-ESR-Inductance-Resistor-LC-Meter-NPN-PNP-Mosfet/181161606431?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D23928%26meid%3D8465191503775906631%26pid%3D100005%26prg%3D10200%26rk%3D2%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D201087634115&rt=nc
And it's cheaper! :)
Thanks guys. I was just about to pull the trigger on one of these for $25. You saved me 5 bucks! :icon_razz:
Useful. MC
^^ Ordered mine. Thanks guys!
Which one did you order John?
Interesting I might have to get one of these though I might wait to see if they get positive reviews.
Quote from: armdnrdy on July 21, 2014, 01:29:57 PM
Which one did you order John?
I ordered the one with the probe jacks that you found.
I think that I might get that one too.
I was kicking around the idea of removing the tactile switch and jacks and extending them to facilitate putting this thing in a plastic project box.
I like boxing! ::)
Quote from: armdnrdy on July 21, 2014, 02:49:25 AM
This one has jacks for leads to test components in circuit:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Transistor-Tester-Capacitor-ESR-Inductance-Resistor-LC-Meter-NPN-PNP-Mosfet/181161606431?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D23928%26meid%3D8465191503775906631%26pid%3D100005%26prg%3D10200%26rk%3D2%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D201087634115&rt=nc
And it's cheaper! :)
I got one almost exactly like this and I love it. I really like the look of the big display screen though. Mine just had the little sockets we use for socketing transistors, etc for the test point, which I removed in favor of wires which I keep connected to my breadboard.
Ordered, yesterday, got an email this morning showing it as shipped. Fingers crossed.
mine shipped yesterday, too
I bought a similar device two years ago when I started making circuits.
It measures some things well others not so well depending on the device.
but I find for quick checking componants before use in a circuit its really handy.
I bought the version with the little SIP pins and soldered some wires with gator clips on the back terminals so i can still take advantage of the pins
it has smd pads too on the front.
The gators are soon to be replaced, since I bought a batch of chinese hook probes.
I hope you find it works well for you all
Rich
On another chinese note. Yippee great news. My oscope probes arrived on the slow boat today. They look great. Al I have to do now is test them and all for the princely sum of a poorly octopus. Fwee shipping too
I think I would find it most useful for measuring caps that have funky markings-- when they are hard to determine the value. That is my hope anyway.
Mostly works fine on caps Mark. It may take a while to charge them up depending on the cap though.
Quotebut I find for quick checking componants before use in a circuit its really handy.
That's one of the reasons I ordered as I always try to measure what I can at build time so I don't troubleshoot for 3 hours after the fact only to find I misread or mispicked a component or value or have a bad component as far as values go. This won't be a cure all but it may be a "cure an awful lot more than not checking".
This looks interesting, can't wait to see what you guys think of them.
Ordered this one a couple of months ago. It arrived in the UK in 3 days later!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/161002450834
Wanted it for checking out transistors but have ended up using it for lots besides. Readings seem to match my Uni-T 60 but capacitance readings appear to be more stable on this little thing. It kind of looks like the internals of a little Peak meter?
Quote from: stallik on July 22, 2014, 07:54:43 PM
Ordered this one a couple of months ago. It arrived in the UK in 3 days later!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/161002450834
Wanted it for checking out transistors but have ended up using it for lots besides. Readings seem to match my Uni-T 60 but capacitance readings appear to be more stable on this little thing. It kind of looks like the internals of a little Peak meter?
That's the exact one I have and I love it. I don't remember how long shipping was to the states but I believe it was around a week or so.
I placed my order today!
Subscribing to this. If these are good I'm going to order one and an CNC an enclosure.
Quote from: therecordingart on July 25, 2014, 03:55:51 PM
Subscribing to this. If these are good I'm going to order one and an CNC an enclosure.
That would be a good idea. I really like mine but I do wish I had a sturdy enclosure to keep it in.
Quote from: vigilante397 on July 25, 2014, 04:38:27 PM
Quote from: therecordingart on July 25, 2014, 03:55:51 PM
Subscribing to this. If these are good I'm going to order one and an CNC an enclosure.
That would be a good idea. I really like mine but I do wish I had a sturdy enclosure to keep it in.
Try this one:
http://www.ebay.de/itm/271556264712 (http://www.ebay.de/itm/271556264712)
Got mine for 29€ in an auction.
Shipping from germany so no additional taxes in the EU.
Really handy for fast checking of any part on your workbench.
For transistors and diodes nothing beats a PEAK Atlas DCA75 connected to a PC.
electrip
Literally just opened it, pretty cool once I figured out just where to place the transistor:
(http://wallsonic.com/public/posts/captool.jpg)
Zero instructions but I did find his website and was able to get this much translated:
http://item.taobao.com/item.htm?spm=a1z10.1.w4004-2018583620.2.ZOF8sF&id=38407360227
PCB dimensions: 63*71 mm weight: about 48g
LCR-T4 graphical multifunction testing instrument of resistance + c + diode + SCR + l + +MOS triode tube
12864 LCD LCD with backlight, backlight color is yellowish-green.
Power supply 9V stacked battery. If the power supply for a long time, you can use 2 lithium battery 8.4V battery powered.
Function
* Added power voltage detection function
* Automatic detection of PNP and NPN transistor, n-channel and p-Channel MOSFET, diode (including dual-diode), thyratron tube,Components such as transistors, resistors and capacitors,
* Automatically test the pin of the component, and display on the LCD
* Can detect transistor, MOSFET protection diodes, such as the zoom factor and to determine base-emitter transistor forward biased voltage
* Measure the gate threshold voltage and gate capacitance of the MOSFET
12864 LCD * display LCD (128 * 64 characters)
* Higher testing speed, component tests the validity period: 2 seconds (except in the larger capacitors,Large capacitance measurement also takes a long time, measuring time to 1 minute is normal)
* One-touch operation, power on the test, one-click fix.
* Power consumption shutdown mode: less than 20 nA
* Auto power off function, you can avoid unnecessary waste, saving battery power, improve battery life.
The following features for M8 and M168 Advanced Edition version are different **** please choose according to their needs of *********
1. ATmega8,ATmega168 or ATmega328 microcontroller.
2. 2x16 character liquid crystal display displays the results.
3. One-button operation, automatic power off.
4. Shutdown current 20nA only supporting battery operation.
5. Low cost versions without Crystal, and supports automatic power off. Software version 1.05k when measuring the ATmega168 or ATmega328 without using sleep mode to reduce power consumption.
6. Automatic detection of PNP and NPN bipolar transistor, n and p-Channel MOSFET,JFET, diode dual diode, thyristor SCR.
7. Automatic PIN layout.
8. Measure the current bipolar transistor threshold voltage amplification coefficient and emission knots.
9. Darlington transistors can be a high threshold voltage and high-current amplification factor recognition.
10. For bipolar transistors, MOSFET protection diode testing.
11. Measuring MOSFET threshold voltage and gate capacitance value.
12. Supports two resistance measurements and symbols appear, the highest four-digit digital display and the unit. Display symbol is the tester probes at both ends of the resistance number (1-3). Potentiometer can also be measured. If the potentiometer adjustment to one end and tester cannot distinguish between the middle and the ends of the pins.
13. Resistance measurement resolution of 0.1 ohms, maximum measurement value 50M ohms.
14. A capacitor can be detected and measured. Up to four digits and the units displayed. Values can be from 25pf (8MHz clock 50pF@ 1MHz clock) to 100mF. Resolution up to 1 pF (@ 8MHz clock).
15. For 2UF more than value of capacitor equivalent series resistance (ESR) capacitance measurements. 0.01 ohm resolution and display two-digit numeric value. This feature requires at least Flash 16K ATMEGA (ATmega168 or ATmega328).
16. Two diodes can be shown symbols in the right direction. In addition, the display forward voltage drop.
17. LED testing diode, forward voltage drop is much higher than normal. Two light emitting diode dual diode.
18. Zener diodes can be detected, if the reverse Breakdown voltage is below 4.5V. This will appear as two diodes, can only be determined by voltage. Probe round the diode symbol is the same, in this case, you can use the 700mV real identification of threshold voltage diode anode!
19. This year know that, do not turn the ****
If more than 3 diodes part tests established diode shows the number of failed messages. This will only happen, if the diode is connected to all three probes, and at least one diode. In this case, you should only connect the two probe and start the measurement again, one by one.
20. Measurements of a single diode reverse capacitance value. Bipolar transistor can also be measured, if you connect the base and collector or emitter.
21. Just need a measurement to find out full-bridge connections.
22. Number below 25pf capacitors usually is not detected, or at least in parallel with a diode 25pf capacitors in parallel. In this case, you must subtract the parallel capacitance of the part.
23. Measurement below 2100 Ohm resistance inductor, ATMEGA if you have at least Flash 16K. Range from the 0:01mH over 20H, but accuracy is not good. Survey results show only a single component connections.
24. Testing time is approximately two seconds, only the capacitance and inductance measurement will take a long time.
25. Software before you can set auto power off the measuring frequency.
26. Built-in self test feature check with optional 50Hz signal clock frequency accuracy and waits for the call (the ATmega168 and ATmega328).
27. Optional equipment calibration port output impedance and zero disorder self-test capability of measurements (the ATmega168 and ATmega328). Need a 100nF to 20uF capacitor connected between pin 1 and pin 3 to compensate for offset voltage analog comparator. 40uF capacitor measuring errors can be reduced. Using the same internal calibration of capacitor voltage and reference voltage is found to adjust the internal reference measurement ADC gain.
If the test current exceeds the holding current, thyristor and TRIAC can be detected. But some semiconductor thyristor and TRIAC currents higher than the tester can provide trigger current. Provides the test current is about 6mA! Note that all functionality is used only there are more program memory of the microcontroller as the ATmega168.
Has anyone tested any of these with JFETs? I've got a DCA55 and am tempted to get the DCA75 just for the JFET measurement, but it would be great if one of these did similar
Here's another pic...
(http://wallsonic.com/public/posts/captool2.jpg)
I also found that the diode tester is pins 1/3. If you reverse the diode and rerun the test, it flips around in the display. How cool is that?
I don't know how accurate it is, but it sure is cool....
Resistor
(http://wallsonic.com/public/posts/captoolresistor.jpg)
Capacitor
(http://wallsonic.com/public/posts/captoolcap.jpg)
Diode/LED
(http://wallsonic.com/public/posts/captooldiode.jpg)
Trimpot
(http://wallsonic.com/public/posts/captooltrimmer.jpg)
Karbo, where did you order yours from?
That is so...
(http://insight.cloudxdpo.com/Portals/202963/images/joe%20cool.png) (gets wallet out...)
Quote from: Buzz on August 01, 2014, 12:33:16 AM
Karbo, where did you order yours from?
Hi Buzz, I ordered from the ebay link in the first post.
Sweet, thanks Karbo.
Just ordered one too! Thanks for the links guys! Hope it will fit into the enclosure I have in mind. ;)
Looks pretty cool! I ordered one about a week ago...they say up to 6 weeks' shipping, so we'll have to wait to see what it can do! I'd think it might have a lot of use with inductors, roll yer own, that kind of thing.
>>>>>"I don't know how accurate it is, but it sure is cool...." >>>>>
You could take some wire of a known gauge, look up the resistance per foot, and test a foot of it! See if it's close...
Whoever is selling these should thank Jimi for the spike in sales!!! :icon_mrgreen:
Quote from: karbomusic on July 31, 2014, 11:32:38 PM
I don't know how accurate it is, but it sure is cool....
Maybe you can test a few components (resistors, caps) with a meter to compare readings to get a rough idea.
Question: In your images I see something that resembles a small piece of electrical tape at the top center on the display.
What is this thing?
Quote from: armdnrdy on August 01, 2014, 08:56:09 AM
Quote from: karbomusic on July 31, 2014, 11:32:38 PM
I don't know how accurate it is, but it sure is cool....
Question: In your images I see something that resembles a small piece of electrical tape at the top center on the display.
What is this thing?
From what i can make out in the pictures that looks like the ribbon cable that comes from the display to connect to the pcb.
Quote from: armdnrdy on August 01, 2014, 08:56:09 AM
Quote from: karbomusic on July 31, 2014, 11:32:38 PM
I don't know how accurate it is, but it sure is cool....
Maybe you can test a few components (resistors, caps) with a meter to compare readings to get a rough idea.
Question: In your images I see something that resembles a small piece of electrical tape at the top center on the display.
What is this thing?
It's the ribbon cable for the LCD display. On the accuracy yep, I'll get around to it. The one in the screenshot is 100 ohm and reads 100.1, I'll check that against my other three meters just to see how far they all disagree. Its about 5n off for caps from my other meter (uncalibrated). If you notice that small three way pad thing just to the right of the pin holder, I think that is some calibration access. See the notes I posted above from the website so it might can be calibrated.
If we can decrypt the translated info I pasted further up we might be able to spec this thing out and calibrate properly. It uses an ATmega328 FYI.
Also FYI: I ordered my on 7/22 and it arrived yesterday so not too long of a wait.
Just bought it. Karbo's screenshots got me ! ;)
Or maybe someone can reprogram for GE leakage..... :icon_wink:
Quote from: armdnrdy on August 01, 2014, 09:31:38 AM
Or maybe someone can reprogram for GE leakage..... :icon_wink:
I know I thought the same thing!
A couple more questions:
What is that thing to the right of the display?
I'm thinking about housing one of these in an ABS enclosure. If I'm interpreting what I see correctly, there are only three "test" pins, with pin #1 being duplicated for orientation, and for lead spacing. Is this correct?
Quote from: armdnrdy on August 01, 2014, 09:45:42 AM
A couple more questions:
What is that thing to the right of the display?
I'm thinking about housing one of these in an ABS enclosure. If I'm interpreting what I see correctly, there are only three "test" pins, with pin #1 being duplicated for orientation, and for lead spacing. Is this correct?
Yes I think that is correct on the pins, if you note the number lettering on the PCB, I think that is an accurate depiction of pins. Here is a side view as well, that "thing to the right" is part of the LCD but recessed just enough for possible mounting:
(http://wallsonic.com/public/posts/CapToolSideView.jpg)
Thanks for that.
In the other images it looked like that "thing' was sticking up a bit.
So...it looks doable.
hemmel - is this wot you were really looking for? it was what I was thinking of, but not finding.
owners of - are the pads next/right to the ZIF socket for SMD testing?
Quote from: duck_arse on August 01, 2014, 10:18:07 AM
owners of - are the pads next/right to the ZIF socket for SMD testing?
Possibly, good call since I thought it was for calibration but I think you may be right. Also if you note the translated instructions I posted in my first reply yesterday there may be some additional clues.
I've read on other versions of this tester that these pads are for testing SMD.
Quote from: duck_arse on August 01, 2014, 10:18:07 AM
hemmel - is this wot you were really looking for? it was what I was thinking of, but not finding.
I was looking for the small LED volt-meter and you provided Rob's link (thanks!).
karbomusic's pics got me interested just today.
Holy crow!! I ordered mine on 7/22 also, and it came today! I am pretty surprised and pleased by this thing...I've had a bunch of inductors lying around, with no (easy) way to determine their value.....this little bugger came thru. I tested the accuracy against a known inductor, and it is very close (within a few %, it seems). Same for resistances and cap values.
The 3 pads to the R of the test jack seem to be for SMD, yes. You can hold a cap over the 1&3 pad and take a reading, ha ha.
I wonder if this can be used to match FETs?
Well worth $20, IMO.
Quote from: GibsonGM on August 01, 2014, 07:54:26 PM
Holy crow!! I ordered mine on 7/22 also, and it came today!
YAY!
Yes I agree, so far a no-brainer at that price.
I did some comparisons between this and my more expensive DMM....they agree pretty closely. Maybe a couple nF discrepancy as was suggested, but resistance matched down to 10ths of ohms. I like the ESR feature...
Quote from: karbomusic on August 01, 2014, 09:59:42 AM
Quote from: armdnrdy on August 01, 2014, 09:45:42 AM
A couple more questions:
What is that thing to the right of the display?
I'm thinking about housing one of these in an ABS enclosure. If I'm interpreting what I see correctly, there are only three "test" pins, with pin #1 being duplicated for orientation, and for lead spacing. Is this correct?
Yes I think that is correct on the pins, if you note the number lettering on the PCB, I think that is an accurate depiction of pins. Here is a side view as well, that "thing to the right" is part of the LCD but recessed just enough for possible mounting:
(http://wallsonic.com/public/posts/CapToolSideView.jpg)
Does it test JFETs or only mosfets? I've been reading about them but can't find anything about JFET testing.
This one says it tests JFETs and comes in a handy dandy case...
http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-Transistor-Tester-Diode-Triode-Capacitance-ESR-resistance-Meter-MOS-PNP-NPN-/141296318232?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item20e5eab718
This is what is written in the description of the tester linked on the first page of this thread:
Automatically detect NPN, PNP bipolar transistors , N -channel and P -channel MOS FET, JFET , diodes , two diodes, thyristors small power unidirectional and bidirectional thyristor.
This is the same tester with the green LCD back lit display and the yellow PC board shown in this thread.
Maybe someone who has received this tester already can confirm JFET testing.
Quote from: Ripdivot on August 02, 2014, 10:50:02 AM
Does it test JFETs or only mosfets? I've been reading about them but can't find anything about JFET testing.
(http://wallsonic.com/public/posts/CapToolJFET.jpg)
What I'd like to know is if you can match JFETs with that data. Kind of an area I don't go that far into.....I just use the 2 voltage source + meter trick, but it takes time.
IOW, there is Vgs, but is I the same as IDss?
Thanks for confirming that karbo.
Just a follow up....
I created a layout and soldered up an overdrive I was working on last night. I can't tell you how nice it was throwing each part in this thing before soldering. I usually like to measure each part before I commit it to the perf board so that I know its a good and correct part and it also just gives me a feel for the circuit as a whole; keeps the debugging down which is the main reason.
It was beautiful to grab a part, hit one button to see the real value, solder. 8)
Quote from: armdnrdy on August 01, 2014, 09:31:38 AM
Or maybe someone can reprogram for GE leakage..... :icon_wink:
Not neccessary, mine does measure and display GE-leakage:
ICE0 (leakage base floating) and ICEs (leakage base shorted to emitter)
MK-168 Firmware 1.10k
To compare different component analysers one has to know the test conditions of every parameter tested.
hfe is dependent on Ic (and Uce),
Uf is dependent on If
C_reverse is dependent on U_reverse
Example (OC75 @ 27.0°C)
DCA75pro Test Result:
PNP Germanium BJT
Red-C Green-B Blue-E
HFE=78 at Ic=5,01mA
Vbe=0,370V at Ib=5,00mA
IcLeak=0,377mA
MK-168 fw1.10k Test Result:
PNP
B=69
Uf=177mV
ICE0=0.37mA
ICEs=0.02mA
Lower B/HFE and Uf/Vbe readings indicate a lower Ic/If for measurement
Now one could check the R.G. Keen-method against it
which actually tests at different Ic's depending on the transistor HFE.
Documentation for the chinese-german-tester is here:
http://www.mikrocontroller.net/svnbrowser/transistortester/Doku/tags/english/?view=tar (http://www.mikrocontroller.net/svnbrowser/transistortester/Doku/tags/english/?view=tar)
You have to extract a tarball (*.tar.gz). 7zip does it for you on MS-OS based computers.
electrip
Got my magic box yesterday in the mail. This is an awesome thing!
Seems to be very accurate. I already identified the values on some mystery components. The Hfe seems pretty close too. I had one germ I had labled at 57, and it read 67. Most of the time when I measure them, they start out higher using the R.G. method and take a short while to stabilize with voltage run through them-- and the final Hfe is lower... But, man.. HOW EASY.
MC
got mine a week ago, just tried it today. best 2o bux i ever spent. identifys everything i throw at it, shows all kinds of useful info. i don't know if it displays leakage, mine displays hfe and ua in miliamps which i'm guessing is the proper bias current or something?
cool toy, for sure...
without reading the whole thread (sin, i know) anybody figure out what the definitive diy one is? i'd love one that read leakage on ge's
I ordered this one http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item.view&id=161002450834&globalID=EBAY-US (http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item.view&id=161002450834&globalID=EBAY-US)
It was cheaper but it seems like the extra 4 bucks would have been worth it from the reports here. It seems to work well enough thoug I have some mp20a germs that measure as p channel JFETS in one direction and when rotated they read in the 400s for hfe though some of them read around 50 to 80 which would be expected range. For JFETS it seems to just give the pinout. Resistor is spelled resister haha. For mosfets it gives Vt reading, is that anything useful? It doesn't appear to give anything for leakage as far as germs. It gives a Uf reading in mv is that forward voltage?
Has anyone had similar experiences? Is the slightly more expensive unit as much better as it seems?
Also of note this one doesn't have a graphic interface for pinout, it just has for example GDS=312 and it is not backlit. All in all it still seems like a nice tool just not everything I hoped it would be.
Quote from: electrip on August 04, 2014, 05:35:01 PM
Quote from: armdnrdy on August 01, 2014, 09:31:38 AM
Or maybe someone can reprogram for GE leakage..... :icon_wink:
Not neccessary, mine does measure and display GE-leakage:
ICE0 (leakage base floating) and ICEs (leakage base shorted to emitter)
MK-168 Firmware 1.10k
To compare different component analysers one has to know the test conditions of every parameter tested.
hfe is dependent on Ic (and Uce),
Uf is dependent on If
C_reverse is dependent on U_reverse
Example (OC75 @ 27.0°C)
DCA75pro Test Result:
PNP Germanium BJT
Red-C Green-B Blue-E
HFE=78 at Ic=5,01mA
Vbe=0,370V at Ib=5,00mA
IcLeak=0,377mA
MK-168 fw1.10k Test Result:
PNP
B=69
Uf=177mV
ICE0=0.37mA
ICEs=0.02mA
Lower B/HFE and Uf/Vbe readings indicate a lower Ic/If for measurement
Now one could check the R.G. Keen-method against it
which actually tests at different Ic's depending on the transistor HFE.
Documentation for the chinese-german-tester is here:
http://www.mikrocontroller.net/svnbrowser/transistortester/Doku/tags/english/?view=tar (http://www.mikrocontroller.net/svnbrowser/transistortester/Doku/tags/english/?view=tar)
You have to extract a tarball (*.tar.gz). 7zip does it for you on MS-OS based computers.
electrip
electrip, would you mind taking a photo of your tester showing what the display looks like when testing a transistor? I think I may pay the extra bucks to get the one you got because it tests leakage. Also yours tests JFETs does it not? Much appreciated.
Quote from: Ripdivot on August 08, 2014, 08:32:08 PM
Quote from: electrip on August 04, 2014, 05:35:01 PM
Quote from: armdnrdy on August 01, 2014, 09:31:38 AM
Or maybe someone can reprogram for GE leakage..... :icon_wink:
Not neccessary, mine does measure and display GE-leakage:
ICE0 (leakage base floating) and ICEs (leakage base shorted to emitter)
MK-168 Firmware 1.10k
To compare different component analysers one has to know the test conditions of every parameter tested.
hfe is dependent on Ic (and Uce),
Uf is dependent on If
C_reverse is dependent on U_reverse
Example (OC75 @ 27.0°C)
DCA75pro Test Result:
PNP Germanium BJT
Red-C Green-B Blue-E
HFE=78 at Ic=5,01mA
Vbe=0,370V at Ib=5,00mA
IcLeak=0,377mA
MK-168 fw1.10k Test Result:
PNP
B=69
Uf=177mV
ICE0=0.37mA
ICEs=0.02mA
Lower B/HFE and Uf/Vbe readings indicate a lower Ic/If for measurement
Now one could check the R.G. Keen-method against it
which actually tests at different Ic's depending on the transistor HFE.
Documentation for the chinese-german-tester is here:
http://www.mikrocontroller.net/svnbrowser/transistortester/Doku/tags/english/?view=tar (http://www.mikrocontroller.net/svnbrowser/transistortester/Doku/tags/english/?view=tar)
You have to extract a tarball (*.tar.gz). 7zip does it for you on MS-OS based computers.
electrip
electrip, would you mind taking a photo of your tester showing what the display looks like when testing a transistor? I think I may pay the extra bucks to get the one you got because it tests leakage. Also yours tests JFETs does it not? Much appreciated.
Well this sucks, apparently the new M328 firmware doesn't show leakage.
http://www.ebay.de/itm/Transistor-Tester-Diode-Triode-Capacitance-ESR-Meter-MOS-PNP-NPN-Module-Schale/271498772909?_trksid=p2047675.c100011.m1850&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D24201%26meid%3D8900038664636516450%26pid%3D100011%26prg%3D10287%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D10%26sd%3D271556264712
Quote from: Ripdivot on August 08, 2014, 08:42:08 PM
Quote from: Ripdivot on August 08, 2014, 08:32:08 PM
electrip, would you mind taking a photo of your tester showing what the display looks like when testing a transistor? I think I may pay the extra bucks to get the one you got because it tests leakage. Also yours tests JFETs does it not? Much appreciated.
Well this sucks, apparently the new M328 firmware doesn't show leakage.
http://www.ebay.de/itm/Transistor-Tester-Diode-Triode-Capacitance-ESR-Meter-MOS-PNP-NPN-Module-Schale/271498772909?_trksid=p2047675.c100011.m1850&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D24201%26meid%3D8900038664636516450%26pid%3D100011%26prg%3D10287%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D10%26sd%3D271556264712
Hi Ripdivot,
I've got the one from your ebay link, same seller, same tester.
M328 is the processor/controller type, firmware (functionality) is 1.10k on mine which is up to date.
Mine does measure JFETs but I don't like the data format I @ Vg.
I prefer the Vgs(off), gfs, Id and Vgs(on) data from my Peak DCA 55/75.
Leakage is only displayed if the tested transistor has some leakage
so most of silicon bjt will show only HFE and Uf data.
In my opinion it is a 'good to have' thing with its pros an cons.
I once zapped my PEAK LCR 40 and bought a new one (quite expensive)
but i wouldn't do it again because the MK-168 does it all for less money.
And it does diode_capacity, ESR and both poti-resistances at once.
Easy for a quick check of any part at your workbench.
The testers with bigger display will not measure more or better data it is just the presentation.
I was going for the one with the enclosure for practical reasons.
For serious research on specific semiconductors nothing beats the ATLAS PEAK DCA75 pro
with its curve tracer functions and data export to spreadsheet analysis (-> spice model).
And you can download updates from the manufacturer.
Hope this helps a little,
electrip
That is very helpful, thank you electrip! There are versions with the nicer display that come in a case like this:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/12864-LCD-Transistor-Tester-Diode-Triode-Capacitance-ESR-Meter-MOS-PNP-NPN-LCR-/121342332277?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c40910d75
Hey karbomusic, have you tried measuring a germanium transistor in your tester to see if it will show leakage when there is leakage present?
Quote from: Ripdivot on August 09, 2014, 01:19:26 PM
That is very helpful, thank you electrip! There are versions with the nicer display that come in a case like this:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/12864-LCD-Transistor-Tester-Diode-Triode-Capacitance-ESR-Meter-MOS-PNP-NPN-LCR-/121342332277?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c40910d75
Hey karbomusic, have you tried measuring a germanium transistor in your tester to see if it will show leakage when there is leakage present?
I did and it didn't display it but I only tried one due to being in a hurry. Will try again tonight. :) I'll tell you one unexpected benefit. This morning was cleanup day and bet I had 200 various parts lying around in little paper cups, baggies and on my workbenches. I had been putting off, putting them back in their right places due to all the differing values and so on. This made it a breeze in comparison, sometimes it's the little things.
Quote from: Ripdivot on August 09, 2014, 01:19:26 PM
That is very helpful, thank you electrip! There are versions with the nicer display that come in a case like this:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/12864-LCD-Transistor-Tester-Diode-Triode-Capacitance-ESR-Meter-MOS-PNP-NPN-LCR-/121342332277?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c40910d75
Hey karbomusic, have you tried measuring a germanium transistor in your tester to see if it will show leakage when there is leakage present?
That's a nice one but the socket is soldered on, no leads and clips.
If someone sells this within the EU maybe I buy a second one. ;-)
Back to the leakage:
I forgot to mention that on the small display
leakage is shown only for some seconds
and then the display shows HFE and Uf until shutdown.
So you have look while testing to get the leakage data.
Maybe it is shown all together on the big displays but I don't know!
electrip
P.S.:
This one looks very nice:http://www.ebay.de/itm/111395885356 (http://www.ebay.de/itm/111395885356)
Built in LiIon-battery charged via micro-usb.
This does zenerdiodes up to 50 V. Small processor AT168 although:
http://www.ebay.de/itm/111253189174 (http://www.ebay.de/itm/111253189174)
i just got the one from the original post and was wondering if anyone has been able to access any sub functions by long pressing? If i long press, all i get is a display contrast control
That's what I get too -- contrast control.
I just measured a bunch of leakage on some Germaniums. Compared the RG method to the gadget. Values all over the place... Some measure substantially higher, some measure substantially lower. :-\ On the average, the batch I did (16 transistors) were 122 Hfe (RG), and 142 (gadget). I'm going to do some more... MC
Quote from: italianguy63 on August 17, 2014, 08:58:51 AM
I just measured a bunch of leakage on some Germaniums. Compared the RG method to the gadget.
Values all over the place... Some measure substantially higher, some measure substantially lower. :-\
On the average, the batch I did (16 transistors) were 122 Hfe (RG), and 142 (gadget). I'm going to do some more... MC
Sorry for quoting myself:
http://www.diystompboxes.com/smfforum/index.php?topic=108294.msg986737#msg986737 (http://www.diystompboxes.com/smfforum/index.php?topic=108294.msg986737#msg986737)
Hope this helps a bit.
electrip
Quote from: electrip on August 17, 2014, 09:55:42 AM
Quote from: italianguy63 on August 17, 2014, 08:58:51 AM
I just measured a bunch of leakage on some Germaniums. Compared the RG method to the gadget.
Values all over the place... Some measure substantially higher, some measure substantially lower. :-\
On the average, the batch I did (16 transistors) were 122 Hfe (RG), and 142 (gadget). I'm going to do some more... MC
Sorry for quoting myself:
http://www.diystompboxes.com/smfforum/index.php?topic=108294.msg986737#msg986737 (http://www.diystompboxes.com/smfforum/index.php?topic=108294.msg986737#msg986737)
Hope this helps a bit.
electrip
Hey, thanks for that! I am doing the RG vs. MK-168.
I just did 10 more, with better results. This time, across the board, all but two were measured 35% to 40% higher by the MK-168 vs. the Keen Method. By RG They averaged 126Hfe and the gadget got 169Hfe. on the average. I am going to go do 10 more that I have to do, and call it quits.
MC
Edit-- Did another 9. 1 was bad. Anyway.. similar results, but the MK-168 read between 30% to 70% high. Avg. was 43% higher.
Quote from: italianguy63 on August 17, 2014, 10:13:39 AM
Quote from: electrip on August 17, 2014, 09:55:42 AM
Quote from: italianguy63 on August 17, 2014, 08:58:51 AM
I just measured a bunch of leakage on some Germaniums. Compared the RG method to the gadget.
Values all over the place... Some measure substantially higher, some measure substantially lower. :-\
On the average, the batch I did (16 transistors) were 122 Hfe (RG), and 142 (gadget). I'm going to do some more... MC
Sorry for quoting myself:
http://www.diystompboxes.com/smfforum/index.php?topic=108294.msg986737#msg986737 (http://www.diystompboxes.com/smfforum/index.php?topic=108294.msg986737#msg986737)
Hope this helps a bit.
electrip
Hey, thanks for that! I am doing the RG vs. MK-168.
I just did 10 more, with better results. This time, across the board, all but two were measured 35% to 40% higher by the MK-168 vs. the Keen Method. By RG They averaged 126Hfe and the gadget got 169Hfe. on the average. I am going to go do 10 more that I have to do, and call it quits.
MC
Edit-- Did another 9. 1 was bad. Anyway.. similar results, but the MK-168 read between 30% to 70% high. Avg. was 43% higher.
Pardon the noob ignorance but I've never seen leakage displayed on my gadget. If that is the case could the discrepancy be due to the gadget not taking leakage into account? And if the gadget does show leakage, how do I make mine do that? ???
Quote from: italianguy63 on August 17, 2014, 10:13:39 AM
Edit-- Did another 9. 1 was bad. Anyway.. similar results, but the MK-168 read between 30% to 70% high. Avg. was 43% higher.
What specific types of transitors were tested?
@karbomusic:
Which tester do you have? (ebay-link?)
electrip
Mine was the one from post #1 in this thread.
EDIT-- Karbo, it does NOT appear to be related to the leakage.. Both high and low leakage are off by a similar %. But, there is still a good amount of randomness in it.
I tested some GT402B and GT402G Russians.
I also tested some NKT275s just now, and they read like 80% higher.
Working on some AC128's as I write this...
Mine doesn't show leakage. I do it with a spreadsheet, DMM, breadboard rig, and a laptop.
I'm actually just trying to determine if I can use the gadget instead of the rig and save gobs of time and effort. The answer is MAYBE. If I take the reading and deduct off like 40%, I will probably be in the ballpark.... for germs anyway.
MC
Don't forget that the values of germanium leakage and Hfe, are affected by temperature. The action of measuring will heat up the device due to the current flowing through it. If one measurement is made then the device must be allowed to return to room temperature before a further measurement is made.
Also the different test methods will use different voltages (Vce) This will also affect values of leakage and Hfe.
Thanks Tony.. doing all the measurements the same. Doing the 2nd measurement while the device is still "hot" as the 1st is after the measurement takes time to stablize...
Here is a sample of what the data looks like. This is from a sample of (10) AC128's I just did:
Hfe (RG) Leak Hfe (MK168) % Diff.
54 158 85 57%
108 608 211 95%
95 488 192 102%
80 375 145 81%
83 325 154 86%
113 758 251 122%
56 242 103 84%
57 313 105 84%
102 467 218 114%
75 308 136 81%
It is typical of what I have been seeing.
Quote from: electrip on August 17, 2014, 12:47:04 PM
Quote from: italianguy63 on August 17, 2014, 10:13:39 AM
Edit-- Did another 9. 1 was bad. Anyway.. similar results, but the MK-168 read between 30% to 70% high. Avg. was 43% higher.
What specific types of transitors were tested?
@karbomusic:
Which tester do you have? (ebay-link?)
electrip
Yea, this one from the first post: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mega328ESR-Meter-LCR-led-Transistor-Tester-Diode-Triode-Capacitance-MOS-PNP-NPN-/201087634115?
Yes
Mine does fine.
Tested one AC128 (TO-1 case, no Siemens marking, NOT TUNGSRAM) HFE in the 50s.
(HFE=68 @Ic=5,01mA Uce= ca 4V)
MK-168 HFE=55 Leakage=0,15mA
R.G. (*) HFE=54 Leakage=0,143mA
(*) read from DCApro Data Ib=4μA @Uce=8,5 Volt (9V- (2,472k*HFE*Ib))
from DCApro data MK-168 should be HFE=52 (Ib=9-10μA Uce= 4,3-4,7V)
I guess one of your test setups is not properly working.
electrip
Still waiting for mine, can't wait !
Quote from: electrip on August 17, 2014, 02:50:18 PM
Mine does fine.
Tested one AC128 (TO-1 case, no Siemens marking, NOT TUNGSRAM) HFE in the 50s.
(HFE=68 @Ic=5,01mA Uce= ca 4V)
MK-168 HFE=55 Leakage=0,15mA
R.G. (*) HFE=54 Leakage=0,143mA
(*) read from DCApro Data Ib=4μA @Uce=8,5 Volt (9V- (2,472k*HFE*Ib))
from DCApro data MK-168 should be HFE=52 (Ib=9-10μA Uce= 4,3-4,7V)
I guess one of your test setups is not properly working.
electrip
It would be nice to know or see how it actually displays leakage.
Quote from: karbomusic on August 17, 2014, 03:31:21 PM
It would be nice to know or see how it actually displays leakage.
Leakage (Base floating)
(http://www.aronnelson.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=51458&g2_serialNumber=1)
Leakage (Base grounded)
(http://www.aronnelson.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=51462&g2_serialNumber=1)
HFE and Uf
(http://www.aronnelson.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=51465&g2_serialNumber=1)
2SB202 choosen for guaranteed leakage. ;D
electrip
Quote from: electrip on August 17, 2014, 04:04:28 PM
Leakage (Base floating)
(http://www.aronnelson.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=51458&g2_serialNumber=1)
electrip
That is nothing like mine displays and mine simply doesn't do leakage it appears. Thanks for posting that!
Cool, mine turned up today. I'm looking forward to checking it out tonight.
Quote from: electrip on August 17, 2014, 04:04:28 PM
Quote from: karbomusic on August 17, 2014, 03:31:21 PM
It would be nice to know or see how it actually displays leakage.
Leakage (Base floating)
(http://www.aronnelson.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=51458&g2_serialNumber=1)
Leakage (Base grounded)
(http://www.aronnelson.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=51462&g2_serialNumber=1)
HFE and Uf
(http://www.aronnelson.com/gallery/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=51465&g2_serialNumber=1)
2SB202 choosen for guaranteed leakage. ;D
electrip
I ordered the same one electrip has a few days ago. The display is not fancy but I felt it was worth the extra 20 bucks to get a case with jacks and be able to measure leakage.
Had a muck around with it last night, what a great gizmo.
Got the one that doesn't do leakage, which I thought was a bit of a bummer.
Then it occurred to me how rarely i do Ge builds, and when I do I get my sets pre-measured from Chromesphere so no skin off really.
I ordered a 2nd one like RipDivots... I like the idea of having a case, and the test leads as an option.
I will probably sell my 1st one off...
MC
There now listed as Mega328 firmware. Has anyone received one of these versions and if so are all the options still available, I'm sure I read somewhere in this thread that the 238 lost some options (possibly leakage) has it been re added to the 328 firmware ?
Quote from: Ice-9 on August 22, 2014, 04:43:01 AM
There now listed as Mega328 firmware. Has anyone received one of these versions and if so are all the options still available, I'm sure I read somewhere in this thread that the 238 lost some options (possibly leakage) has it been re added to the 328 firmware ?
All new chinese testers seems to be AT Mega328.
The developer of the original firmware for the Transistortester AVR writes wrote in this thread
http://www.mikrocontroller.net/topic/248078#3723733 (http://www.mikrocontroller.net/topic/248078#3723733) (german language)
that the chinese developers changed/adapted the software for the graphic display
and left out leakage and 'NPNp' (sic) recognition.
Maybe someone could try a thyristor with his tester if this function is available.
There will be further development by the original developers to support some graphic displays
without loosing functions but it is not easy to squeeze it into that little bit of memory.
The 'handicaped' testers could be updated if the hardware is set up for it.
Personally I will wait for that tester with all functions, enclosure, graphic display and LiIon-Akku,
it will surely come one day you can trust those smart chinese people. ;D
electrip
Hi, I got the same piece of kit as karbo and jimmy photon.
I noticed something odd about it that is way out of my comprehension level.
I tseted about 5 Q's in a row. They were all from the same bag of BC109s.
They all read 438 hfe right on the knocker. Well they are Si NPNs so they're going to be close, it just looked a bit too convenient.
So on the 5th one I left it in. Waited for the display to switch off then tested it again. Now the hfe reads 388.
Afew more reps and I can get the hfe to read as low as 288.
WTF?
Quote from: Buzz on August 24, 2014, 08:32:42 AM
Hi, I got the same piece of kit as karbo and jimmy photon.
I noticed something odd about it that is way out of my comprehension level.
I tseted about 5 Q's in a row. They were all from the same bag of BC109s.
They all read 438 hfe right on the knocker. Well they are Si NPNs so they're going to be close, it just looked a bit too convenient.
So on the 5th one I left it in. Waited for the display to switch off then tested it again. Now the hfe reads 388.
Afew more reps and I can get the hfe to read as low as 288.
WTF?
If I remove the transistor and put it back in while it is still on, I get 291 every time (thus far). Maybe something is holding some "charge" somewhere and you need to remove it and reinsert.
Here is a link to PDF instructions for the most recent version I can find. This is not for the current version but...it may be of some use.
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/53299166/DIYstompboxes/ttester_eng106k.pdf
Quote from: armdnrdy on August 24, 2014, 10:47:38 AM
Here is a link to PDF instructions for the most recent version I can find. This is not for the current version but...it may be of some use.
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/53299166/DIYstompboxes/ttester_eng106k.pdf
http://ddl7.data.hu/get/0/7621720/ttester_eng110k.pdf (http://ddl7.data.hu/get/0/7621720/ttester_eng110k.pdf)
electrip
I would guess the bogus readings are due to bugs in the source code, probably the "Checkpins" routine, dunno? I took a quick look at the code but it's quite complex... would take some time. The version 1.06 is a few revisions back since I found 1.10 to be the latest and fixes quite a few bugs and add new functions etc..
Is this what you guys have? If so, all files are available including the source code, eagle files etc... Also, there are change logs in each revision.
http://www.mikrocontroller.net/articles/AVR_Transistortester
If you are running Windows you will need to download and unpack the tarball with something that will extract .tar/.tgz files, plenty of freeware progs for that...
http://www.mikrocontroller.net/svnbrowser/transistortester/
Nice OSH board for the transistor tester... probably more floating around
https://oshpark.com/shared_projects/ir4NKmKE
I am all about DIY but this crosses the line for me!! Much easier to just buy it from ebay for the price of a couple packs of smokes...
These are ISP so you can probably upgrade the firmware if you have the right stuff...
Hey guys,
I got mine a few weeks ago but I haven't had time to play around with it yet.
I did but myself a plastic enclosure because I know myself very well and that small flat tester will get lost among stuff and probably get shattered.
I also bought a 9V wall-wart at 600mA, thinking I could plug it in when needed and basically do the same thing as with pedals, having a battery backup if I ever carry the tester around.
The wall-wart tests out at 11.2V (which I found very strange). Do you think it might damage the tester if I plug in 11.2V instead of a 9V battery ?
EDIT : I also thought of putting a 7809 regulator on the DC in ... that would probably be safer...
Quote from: Hemmel on September 08, 2014, 10:01:28 AM
I also bought a 9V wall-wart at 600mA, thinking I could plug it in when needed and basically do the same thing as with pedals, having a battery backup if I ever carry the tester around.
Just an FYI that I still have the same 9V battery I put in when I got mine and it has only dropped 20-30 MV since I got it. IOW, the battery seems to last quite a while and it always displays the battery voltage when the test runs.
Quote from: Hemmel on September 08, 2014, 10:01:28 AM
The wall-wart tests out at 11.2V (which I found very strange). Do you think it might damage the tester if I plug in 11.2V instead of a 9V battery ?
EDIT : I also thought of putting a 7809 regulator on the DC in ... that would probably be safer...
. It sounds like the wall wart is not regulate. Probably will drop down to 9v when it has a load... Easily corrected without modifying the tester.
Quote from: J0K3RX on September 08, 2014, 02:53:06 PM
It sounds like the wall wart is not regulate. Probably will drop down to 9v when it has a load... Easily corrected without modifying the tester.
Ok I'll try it. I didn't want to modify the tester, I was planning to solder the 7809 on the DC plug inside the plastic enclosure. But then maybe that would've been too hot ? 2V dissipation....
I dunno... maybe I should test this out but I wanted to ask before melting any expensive stuff (like the tester).
Quote from: Hemmel on September 08, 2014, 03:10:57 PM
Ok I'll try it. I didn't want to modify the tester, I was planning to solder the 7809 on the DC plug inside the plastic enclosure. But then maybe that would've been too hot ? 2V dissipation....
I dunno... maybe I should test this out but I wanted to ask before melting any expensive stuff (like the tester).
Maybe just make a small external box to plug the adapter into then into the tester..?
http://www.dxing.info/equipment/wall_warts_bryant.dx
(http://www.dxing.info/photos/wall_wart_circuit_adjustable_voltage.jpg)
If anybody cares.. the more expensive version comes with a small jack and a cable dongle..... (I ended up purchasing both kinds to compare). I am planning on keeping the one in the case and selling the other one once I find a little time to compare/test them.
MC
I have lots of similar toys where a 9V batt lasts "forever". My Fluke lasted 6 years on the last battery. I have a sound level meter which has had the same battery for a decade.
Stuff like this: low-low power and short use times, a battery is more practical.
That wall-wart cord will always be snagged on something.
Received my tester the other day and for the most part it works good. The leakage function works but I haven't compared the results to RG's method. When testing LEDs or diodes there is a minor glitch depending on which way you insert the component.
Here is the result with an LED:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ij2a3xbcd1ldqht/test%201.jpeg?dl=0
And when I flip the LED around:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/fkq9m0b52zew7t6/test%202.jpeg?dl=0
Now back to the first way but this time with light shining on the LED. I'm not sure what the "Ir" means other than maybe infra red leakage?
https://www.dropbox.com/s/xk9rpvy6och6yxl/test%203.jpeg?dl=0
And now with the LED flipped the other way:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/sxaszuv0oyy5lzc/test%204.jpeg?dl=0
Notice it only shows the diode orientation with the LED inserted one way but not the other.
One last thing, how do I upload an attachment from my hard drive without having to post a link? Most forums seem to have a function called "upload attachment". I've used image shack in the past but there must be an easier way?
Quote from: PRR on September 09, 2014, 12:29:03 AM
Stuff like this: low-low power and short use times, a battery is more practical.
That wall-wart cord will always be snagged on something.
Perhaps. The tester will stay put 99.8% of the time. I'll try with the battery for a while.
Another thing is : the momentary switch isn't soldered on. It's simply "gripped".
Is there a reason or is this an oversight that I can correct easily by soldering the connections ?
Quote from: Ripdivot on September 09, 2014, 12:52:45 AM
One last thing, how do I upload an attachment from my hard drive without having to post a link? Most forums seem to have a function called "upload attachment". I've used image shack in the past but there must be an easier way?
you have to post a link.
I too used to use imageshack, but since they went "script", they can get stuffed. now it's imgur, all the way. no need for an account, just copy the link they provide, then paste in yr message. as far as dropbox and the like, I usually follow the link, but close the page before anything shows, it's just too slow to use here.
"Ir" would be reverse current, surely, and therefore leakage?
Quote from: duck_arse on September 09, 2014, 10:18:29 AM
Quote from: Ripdivot on September 09, 2014, 12:52:45 AM
One last thing, how do I upload an attachment from my hard drive without having to post a link? Most forums seem to have a function called "upload attachment". I've used image shack in the past but there must be an easier way?
you have to post a link.
I too used to use imageshack, but since they went "script", they can get stuffed. now it's imgur, all the way. no need for an account, just copy the link they provide, then paste in yr message. as far as dropbox and the like, I usually follow the link, but close the page before anything shows, it's just too slow to use here.
"Ir" would be reverse current, surely, and therefore leakage?
Thanks, tried a test using imgur and it works fantastic.
"Ir" is reverse current (like leakage).
If you connect a voltmeter to the diode in with light shining you could even measure some voltage.
I couldn't reproduce the messed up diode symbol with my tester and a bunch of different LEDs.
electrip
Quote from: Ripdivot on September 09, 2014, 12:52:45 AM
Received my tester the other day and for the most part it works good. The leakage function works but I haven't compared the results to RG's method. When testing LEDs or diodes there is a minor glitch depending on which way you insert the component.
Here is the result with an LED:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ij2a3xbcd1ldqht/test%201.jpeg?dl=0
And when I flip the LED around:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/fkq9m0b52zew7t6/test%202.jpeg?dl=0
Now back to the first way but this time with light shining on the LED. I'm not sure what the "Ir" means other than maybe infra red leakage?
https://www.dropbox.com/s/xk9rpvy6och6yxl/test%203.jpeg?dl=0
And now with the LED flipped the other way:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/sxaszuv0oyy5lzc/test%204.jpeg?dl=0
Notice it only shows the diode orientation with the LED inserted one way but not the other.
One last thing, how do I upload an attachment from my hard drive without having to post a link? Most forums seem to have a function called "upload attachment". I've used image shack in the past but there must be an easier way?
I have contacted a couple of the sellers on ebay to see if their version tests for GE transistor leakage. So far I have had a reply from the below who apologised and said their unit does NOT test leakage:
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=301121031278&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:AU:1123
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=191269851156&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:AU:1123
I'll post if I hear back from any more.
Well mine is just about to earn it's outlay. I keep ( kept ) all my box caps in a big fishing tackle kind of box. You know the ones. One big lid and a lot of compartments.
I managed to knock it over on the weekend.
It's quicker to test them on this unit than it is to read the numbers. Glad I have it... making a big job small for an old bugger with crap vision.
Cool.
I have just received mail back saying that these DO test ge leakage:
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=201094479210&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:AU:1123
http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=390846793588&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:AU:1123
I just got my tester through, I am impressed with how solid it feels. I have a bit of a noob question:
Testing a germanium transistor, I get the following:
Battery 8.7v
ICE0 = .20mA
ICEs = .01mA
B = 89
Uf = 133mV
Now my understanding is that the gain is hfe 89, does this take into account the leakage or should I perform more calculations to work out true gain?
Thanks to the OP and others for the find. This device is incredibly useful. My Fluke 287 now seems to rarely come out of the case when working on effects!
I went with the version in the enclosure from this link: http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-Transistor-Tester-Diode-Triode-Capacitance-ESR-resistance-Meter-MOS-PNP-NPN-/141296318232?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item20e5eab718 (as posted by Ripdivot -- thanks dude!)
However, mine came damaged in shipping with the micro banana plugs on the ZIF socket all bent, and one irreparably snapped/sheared off. I contacted the seller and we are working things out.
Anyways, due to the obvious fragility of the micro banana plugs, their low build quality, and poor interoperability with my beloved Fluke accessories, I decided to swap the micro banana jacks for standard shrouded banana jacks.
A walk to the corner electronics store and a couple hours of work yielded the following. I am quite happy with the device now, and I can use all of my Fluke probes, mini/micrograbbers, etc. I did have to slightly relocate what seems to be a power filtering cap, as it was in the way of the much larger shrouded jacks.
(http://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/sh/3otqlk4ahhaok62/AAAps2SH1CWcqfkk_IB1Ss-6a/mk-168_40.jpg)
(http://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/sh/3otqlk4ahhaok62/AADXPCnuI-Mj4E-83TM-YEZHa/mk-168_01.jpg)
(http://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/sh/3otqlk4ahhaok62/AADKgEXZaRos18aBkUe4u_Pqa/mk-168_37.jpg)
(http://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/sh/3otqlk4ahhaok62/AAAGAd4ZCkj9b80Q6jmrSzWea/mk-168_35.jpg)
More pictures: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/3otqlk4ahhaok62/AADU8PccUQGgPb_9pGdoLp0Ta?dl=0
Apologies for the massive pics. I really did scale them down. I guess iPhones take huge pictures these days.
@dadler: That is remarkably cool.
sorry about the necrothread, but I want to get an MK-168. Do all Mk-168´s measure Ge leakage?
Quote from: leito79 on April 15, 2016, 07:57:47 AM
sorry about the necrothread, but I want to get an MK-168. Do all Mk-168´s measure Ge leakage?
I had to re-read my own postings.
I looked up recent ebay auctions and all MK-168 (small display, case with small banana plugs)
are coming with '2013 latest M328 version of the software ,more functions.',
so I would expect this version is able to measure leakage.
No guarantee!
I did not follow further developments of the software,
or did tests on newer incarnations of the component tester.
There are some handy packages out now but at moment I do not need another one.
At last my shameless plug for the Atlas DCA Pro - Model DCA75.
Only drawback is you need a Microsoft OS for the graphics, no LINUX support.
electrip
P.S.:
http://www.ebay.de/itm/MK-328-TR-LCR-ESR-Tester-Transistor-Inductance-Capacitance-Resistance-ESR-Meter-/201444131690 (http://www.ebay.de/itm/MK-328-TR-LCR-ESR-Tester-Transistor-Inductance-Capacitance-Resistance-ESR-Meter-/201444131690)
At least in the photo gallery transistor measurements are shown with ICE0 and ICEs (0.00/0.00ma Uf=672mV obviously silicon)
P.S.S.:
There are cheaper offers, look for MK-328 in this design, leakage is even in the description mentioned.
Thanks electrip for your answer! I´ve noticed that now Tayda offers a caseless one with the big display and ZIF socket for 12 bucks, I´ll ask their CS if those can measure Ge leakage and if they use the ATMega328...
Quote from: leito79 on April 15, 2016, 01:41:41 PM
Thanks electrip for your answer! I´ve noticed that now Tayda offers a caseless one with the big display and ZIF socket for 12 bucks, I´ll ask their CS if those can measure Ge leakage and if they use the ATMega328...
Let us know what you find out. It looks too handy to not have, and I buy from tayda as regularly as the moon phases
I have one, they are an ESR meter ..you need the other one for 12 bucks for bipolar junctions and fets; and what you are seeing here is a poor mans lab minus my diy audio probe lolol:
(http://s22.postimg.org/nomh34ec1/Full_Size_Render_22.jpg)
I recommend this if youre measuring a lot of active semiconductors and need accuracy:
http://smallbear-electronics.mybigcommerce.com/peak-atlas-semiconductor-component-analyzer/
Has anyone tried this one? http://www.ebay.com/itm/12864-Mega328-ESR-Transistor-Resistor-Diode-Capacitor-Mosfet-Tester-w-Test-hook-/321963237498?hash=item4af681207a:g:sBMAAOSwa-dWhWzn
Looks basically like the one LSG posted above there, CNS...I have essentially the same one, also...no 'test hooks', and no battery case, tho ;) Same blue connector with lever and the PCB looks the same as mine.
I am going to say that for $16, it is well worth the price. I like mine for quickly sorting caps, finding unknown inductance values, or finding pinouts of transistors incl. FETs and MOSFETs.
I think coils would be even more fun with one of these:
http://www.sainsmart.com/sainsmart-12864-lcd-transistor-tester-capacitance-esr-meter-diode-triode-mos-pnp-npn-lcr.html
Working power: DV 9V (9v battery powering stacked . If prolonged power , please use two 8.4v lithium battery pack consisting of .)
Standby current: 0.02uA
Operating current: 25mA
Resistor Range: 0.1Ω-50MΩ
Capacitor Range: 25pF-100000uF
Inductance Range:: 0.01mH - 20H
Quote from: dbp512 on April 17, 2016, 01:29:49 AM
Quote from: leito79 on April 15, 2016, 01:41:41 PM
Thanks electrip for your answer! I´ve noticed that now Tayda offers a caseless one with the big display and ZIF socket for 12 bucks, I´ll ask their CS if those can measure Ge leakage and if they use the ATMega328...
Let us know what you find out. It looks too handy to not have, and I buy from tayda as regularly as the moon phases
Apparently it doesn´t measure leakage, this was Tayda´s CS response:
"I am sorry for late reply. This ticket was assigned to wrong department mistakenly.
You will need to create a circuit to be able to test ICEO and ICEs values using this multimeter.
Thank you for choosing us.
Best Regards,
Hugo
http://www.taydaelectronics.com"
All this talk about leakage!
Anybody with a real ESR meter compared this thing?
Any good to test amp caps?
after having mine for a few weeks, I want my money back ..junk ..hard to get legs in and measure ..I use my DMM more than anything now ..I need a good fluke one especially since I am stepping up voltages ..and going to be sticking my hand inside tube amps , want to make sure the electros are totally drained and not up to a junk dmm !
the long and short of it is, best to just buy a really good DMM and use that imho
I've owned both styles, the one in the original post and the other with the 2x20 LCD display. Neither were very accurate for transistor gain, or leakage values, nor diode forward voltage, nor Idss or cutoff voltage for JFETs. Resistance and capacitance measured well but not as good as a quality DMM. In the end I just bought a Peak analyzer.
They were good for giving the pinouts of transistors.
So the old saying still stands true. When it looks to good to be true......it usually isn't.
QuoteI've owned both styles, the one in the original post and the other with the 2x20 LCD display. Neither were very accurate for transistor gain, or leakage values, nor diode forward voltage, nor Idss or cutoff voltage for JFETs. Resistance and capacitance measured well but not as good as a quality DMM. In the end I just bought a Peak analyzer.
They were good for giving the pinouts of transistors.
Mine seems pretty accurate - it compares to my Peak anyways. Diode forward voltage and transistor gain is dependent on the current through the device. The units do not use the same test currents which could account for differences in the readings.
Andrew.
Does anybody have this variation?
Does this show leakage?
(https://s11.postimg.org/zfsp5j2lf/20161018_010752.png)
Yeah ICEO is the relevant field.
If anyone wonders, search for gm328a on the ebays or the alis. There seems to be a newer one as well, with a rotary thingy to select function, for a few dollars extra.
Anybody get the rotary switch model? Does it actually add any functionality? I can't figure it out from the description.
GM328A seems to be very cheap and it measures ICE0
Have anyone tested it? How accurate it's measurements (compired to DCA55, and perhaps ther devices)?
my original one died, so i bought another. i've found it to be very useful and quite indispensible.
i get the same readings with this thing as i do with my fluke, and my cheapo harbor frieght meters.
i guess ymmv
I have one there is a calibration procedure.
Something useful for builder might be to post what meter was used to measure the beta etc when values are posted in threads
In some of my posts the betas from the different meters Radio Shack DMM, HF centec, atmega based ones like in this thread are shown in the screenshots
but isn't a ballpark fine most of the time? i mean, if ya have a 10 or even 20% part tolerance many measurements i don't think are super critical, but then.... i'm an idiot, so...... :icon_mrgreen:
Before I saw this thread, I've bought one of these from aliexpress, from the link above.
https://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/0.html?orderId=82513302552004&productId=32788437678
It takes a longer time to arrive, but it's half of the price and it comes with an acrylic case and free shipping :icon_mrgreen:. There's other options at aliexpress, but for me this one have the best price, because of the case and the shipping. Usually it takes about 1-2 weeks to things get shipped from China to Brazil, and 2-12 weeks for the customs check the packages from China :icon_eek: but if you're not in a hurry or your customs works faster than ours, it's an option to consider.
The acrylic cases for a few different models are sold separately on Ebay.
I purchased a small black case...and was going to get around to modifying it to fit the tester...but for $4.00....the work is already done.
I do want to add a DC plug because...I'm not a battery guy!
Mine finally arrived today, after a little bit more than a month. Here's a picture:
(https://s3.postimg.org/eixazo57z/P_20170418_115451.jpg) (https://postimg.org/image/eixazo57z/)
I've tried testing resistors, ldrs (which was identified as a fixed resistor), transistors (pinouts, type and hfe), caps and leds (shows drop voltage and blinks the led a few times). I've tried a voltage regulator too, but it identified it as a diode.
I'm happy with this little device. It's good for the price. And about the batteries, I'm not a battery guy too, but I think this one deserves one. Also, I'm using a "dead" battery from my acoustic guitar, measured at about 6V, and it's working fine.
Just ordered this here:
https://www.amazon.de/dp/B01HCU8VTM (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B01HCU8VTM)
(http://www.mrscolumbo.com/uploads/stomps/tester.png)
i liked mine so much when it finally died, i bought another. then i went back and got the acrylic case
https://github.com/madires/Transistortester-Warehouse/blob/master/Documentation/ttester-1.13k.English.pdf
petey, NICE!!!!!!!
hey petey, you get yours yet? i just got one, finished the build, but now it needs calibration and either it is or i am on acid, or should be...