Instructional Video for LCR-Reader-MP: The Ultimate PCB Debugging Tool

Siborg Systems Inc. Feb 09, 2018

Canadian Siborg Systems Inc. has recently released their newest multimeter, the LCR-Reader-MP. The device, which joins the LCR-Reader family of handheld LCR- and ESR-meters, offers users a record high basic accuracy of 0.1% and various features for testing circuits and components. Siborg has recently added an introductory video that covers the features and functions of the device.

Digital Multimeter LCR-Reader-MP follows the LCR-Reader design of a lightweight multimeter combined with a set of tweezers that have gold-plated probes. The device is controlled using a jog-wheel navigation that makes it easy to scroll through and select desired test parameters for any task at hand. Now it is All-in-One: the MP offers more measurement features than LCR-Reader and Smart Tweezers ST-1. These features include: LED/diode measurements, continuity testing, pulse counting, oscilloscope mode, signal generator, AC/DC voltage measurements, large capacitance measurements, etc. One of the most important features is the ability to test at 100 kHz test frequency that allows for a 1 nH resolution while measuring inductance, and 0.01 pF for capacitance.

The introductory video begins with the basic overview of the device features and physical features. It then explains the various test settings and menu capabilities including how to use some of the functions.

The MP device's Large Cap mode measures large and super capacitances up to 600 mF by offering a wider range of test frequencies ( 25, 100, 120 Hz, 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 75 and 100 kHz.) When testing electrolytic capacitors, the MP measures at 120 Hertz with ESR measured at 100 kHz according regular electrolytic capacitor test conditions. The device will automatically reduce the test frequency to 25 Hertz when using the Large Cap mode. This allows for better accuracy while testing.

The oscilloscope mode and signal generator mode are especially helpful when using the LCR-Reader Kelvin Probe Connector. The Probe Connector allows users to turn their device into a full probe station with 5 different attachments (long and medium pin-probes, spade connector, multimeter plugs, alligator clips). When using the Probe Connector with oscilloscope mode, the device is able to test wave-forms with frequencies up to 100 kHz on active circuit boards as well at various nodes on PCBs.

Some disadvantages to the LCR-Reader-MP are a high signal source resistance of 1 kOhm. The device also had a maximum test signal level of 0.65 Vrms; this signal level may not be enough for reliable measurements of certain ceramic capacitors thus leading to less than actual capacitance values.

Some of the obvious differences between the LCR-Reader-MP and LCR-Reader and Smart Tweezers devices are the size and display. The MP uses a larger back-lit LCD display that has larger icons and values making it easier to read. The device is also twice the weight of LCR-Reader at 2 oz. Instead of a one-button navigation, MP uses a jog-wheel. The device is powered by a Li-Ion battery and is rechargeable using micro-USB. The 8 hour continuous-use battery life, lightweight compact design and hard-shelled case make the device especially useful for in-field tasks.

Features:

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

Recently, Siborg has had the LCR-Reader-MP calibrated and received the results back from Navair Technologies, one of Canada's leading calibration houses. With this calibration, Siborg is granted the ability to accompany each device with an NIST traceable calibration certificate. Siborg has also been granted FCC compliance for the LCR-Reader-MP.

The LCR-Reader-MP is available from the LCR-Reader Store in September 2017. The LCR-Reader Store also offers the LCR-Reader Kelvin Probe Connector, Smart Tweezers Blue Tooth, LED Tester and other devices and accessories for SMT testing and troubleshooting.