View Full Version : Capacitor Checker


chipper
04-02-2012, 06:23 PM
Looking for a Newer model cap checker, at a reasonable price and suggestion?:scratch2:

bandersen
04-06-2012, 09:14 PM
How new ? Do you need to check ESR on electrolytics or just for leaky old paper caps ?
I've heard the Sprague Tel-Ohmike's are pretty nice, but the newer models can be pricey.

Personally, I use a vintage Solar CB-1-60 and Simpson 383A Capacohmeter. Both work well for testing micas and paper caps but are somewhat limited for electrolytics.

http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6175/6198858323_73f82d2c8a.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/70039806@N00/6198858323/)

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5011/5541759813_9f89fe699a.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/70039806@N00/5541759813/)

bob91343
04-06-2012, 09:21 PM
Oh my goodness, that Solar unit is the same as one I used to have! Such memories it evokes! With a 6E5 electron ray indicator and a 1-v rectifier, I got years of use out of it.

Right now I have two instruments, both General Radio bridges, that measure capacitance at low frequencies. One also measures ESR. If I need a high frequency measurement I cobble up a circuit with an RF generator and an oscilloscope.

I had a Hickok VTVM with a capacitance function but that didn't actually measure capacitance; it measured voltage drop at 60 Hz, which is only valid for low loss capacitors.

chipper
04-07-2012, 06:44 PM
Yes; That test eqoupment looks great, I would like to find something that could test just about any type found in vintage tv and radio set's .

DavGoodlin
04-12-2012, 03:13 PM
That Solar unit seems to be similar to the EICO 950 I built and still use. It works fine for me.