LCR-Reader-MP: Multipurpose Debugging Tool

LCR-Reader-MP: Multipurpose Debugging Tool Description:

LCR-Reader-MP is a full PCB debugger and component tester tool that provides high accuracy measurements with just a touch. The MP model combines all the best features of LCR-Reader and Smart Tweezers including oscilloscope mode, large capacitance testing, more test frequencies and more.

The device is controlled using a jog-wheel that allows users to change basic test settings from the main screen, including test mode and test frequencies. One of the new features includes a 100 kHz test frequency; this allows for a 0.01 pF resolution while testing capacitance and 1 nH while testing inductance. Other features on the device include continuity testing, AC/DC voltage measurements, LED/diode testing, Large Capacitance measurements, pulse counting, signal generator, and a wide range of test frequencies (25, 100, 120 Hz, 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 75, and 100 kHz).

Siborg brought the Oscilloscope Mode back from the Smart Tweezers ST-1 model. This mode is especially useful when used with the LCR-Reader Kelvin Probe Connector. The Probe Connector is an extension kit that turns any LCR-Reader-MP, LCR-Reader or Smart Tweezers device into a full probe station. The kit is a shielded two-wire connector with 5 different attachment that extends the reach of the test device. When connected, the MP is able to test wave-forms with frequencies up to 100 kHz on active circuit boards as well as at various nodes on the PCB.

The devices' Large Cap Mode is able to measure large and super capacitances up to 600 mF. The device automatically reduces the test frequency to 25 Hertz which increases the accuracy while testing under this mode. MP also measures electrolytic capacitors at 120 Hertz with the ESR being measured at 100 kHz according to regular electrolytic capacitor test conditions.

LCR-Reader-MP is slightly larger and twice the weight (2 oz.) of LCR-Reader and Smart Tweezers devices. The MP has a larger backlit display that is easier to read. The MP also uses a jog-wheel for navigation; basic test parameters (mode, frequency) are easily changed on the main screen by turning the jog-wheel left or right. Press down on the wheel to 'select' or enter the menus to set manual parameters. The MP is powered by a Li-Ion battery and is rechargeable via micro-USB.

Some disadvantages of the LCR-Reader-MP is a high signal source resistance of 1 kOhm. The MP also has a maximum test signal level of 0.65 Vrms; this signal level may cause lower than actual capacitance values when testing some ceramic capacitors.

Recently Siborg had sent the MP to be calibrated by Navair Technologies in Toronto, Ontario. This calibration allows Siborg to issue NIST Traceable Calibration Certificates for each individual device. The MP has also been granted FCC compliance.

LCR-Reader-MP features:

• Automatic and manual LCR, ESR, LED/Diode measurements
• 0.1% Basic accuracy
• AC/DC voltage measurements
• Diode/LED and Continuity testing
• Two test signal level, Automatic Test Signal Reduction to 0.1V for in-circuit measurements
• Frequency, Pulse Period and Duty Cycle measurements
• Oscilloscope Transient Voltage display up to 100 kHz
• Displays Active and Reactive components
• Measures components to a 0201 size (about 0.3 mm)
• 2 oz. weight
• Li-Ion battery with micro-USB charging; ~8 hours continuous use