Show us your $20 Transistor Tester enclosures and mods (note: lots of pics) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 04:36:47 pm
content: Starting this new thread for everyone to share how they package up their $20 transistor tester (LCR T3, LCR T4, GM320, AY-AT, etc.) or make other physical customizations to the basic kit.For firmware-related discussion, visit the original thread$20 LCR ESR Transistor checker project.Here are some examples to get started (click thumbnail for larger image):upsssAdded an ISP connector, banana jacks, a Li-Ion battery which is charged through the DC connector, and replaced the crystal with a 16MHz one.madiresMy very first tester with the rotary encoder and frequency counter options.pepe10000A 3D-printed case with banana jacks.

author: upsss
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 05:09:30 pm
content: This was my original tester.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 06:30:29 pm
content: Thanks, upsss. You can attach larger images. The forum will create the thumbnail for you. I had to do them manually in my original post because I referenced images from the original transistor tester thread rather than reupload.

author: pepe10000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 08:29:39 pm
content: This post seems to me a very good idea, so I'm going to put the photos of my 3 LCR-T4-H multimeters.Box inclined printed in 3D:https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1372607ISP Connector.Ni-Mh 9v battery.Charger module built with an LM317 with constant current.Battery cutout switch.Copper sticker for discharge of capacitors (used in glassworks).Rubber stickers for the base (used as insulation in windows).Stickers for serigraphs printed on inkjet printer and improved with spray varnish.

author: pepe10000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 08:37:19 pm
content: Flat box printed in 3D:https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1797074ISP Connector.3.7V Lithium battery for a cell phone (recycled).Charger module + power supply (9.2v).LC filter (not necessary, but I like well filtered voltages).Low battery LED.Battery cutout switch.Banana connectors.Copper sticker for discharge of capacitors (used in glassworks).Rubber stickers for the base (used as insulation in windows).Stickers for serigraphs printed on inkjet printer and improved with spray varnish.

author: pepe10000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 08:42:27 pm
content: Door bell box:https://www.ebay.es/itm/White-Plastic-Box-Project-Diy-Electronic-Case-Box-100-80-29mm-L-W-H/190998494412?hash=item2c7865bccc:g:K4IAAOxyUrZSptU7ISP Connector.Ni-Mh 9v battery.Charger module built with an LM317 with constant current.Battery cutout switch.Adapters for SMD components.Adapters for IR and Optocouplers.Copper sticker for discharge of capacitors (used in glassworks).Rubber stickers for the base (used as insulation in windows).Stickers for serigraphs printed on inkjet printer and improved with spray varnish.

author: casinada
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 08:52:22 pm
content: Muy didacticos PepeCondensador tambien Capacitor

author: upsss
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 09:13:11 pm
content: @pepe10000, What is this chart Cap vs. Voltage on the bottom of your testers?

author: aargee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 09:19:24 pm
content: Looks like a capacitor ESR values table. Recommended values for the capacitor vs the capacitor working voltage.Nice cases, designed yourself?

author: pepe10000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 09:24:37 pm
content: Quote from: upsss on March 09, 2017, 09:13:11 pmIt is a table of ESR values of capacitors that I use as reference.

author: linux-works
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 09:25:26 pm
content: just got that done todayidea from the other main thread; I'll post more photos and the design files for those that want to lasercut their own.

author: pepe10000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 09:28:26 pm
content: Quote from: aargee on March 09, 2017, 09:19:24 pmNo, the 3D printed boxes are from a well-known website, which I have only modified to suit my tasteI do not know if the rules of the forum allow to put links to these 3D pages.And the doorbell box is recycled and adapted.

author: upsss
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2017, 10:07:08 pm
content: Quote from: pepe10000 on March 09, 2017, 09:24:37 pmFYI, there is no such thing as "standard" ESR values of Capacitance vs. Voltage. "Regular" (crappy) Electrolytic of the same value and voltage can have up to TEN times higher ESR than a high quality "Low ESR" Electrolytic designed specifically for high frequency PWM circuits.

author: aargee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 10, 2017, 12:06:47 am
content: Yes, but it is a nice go-to reference for common DC / Low frequency expected values. Most of the ones I've changed are quite obviously stuffed, with the readings way above the ball park.I usually go with an "A-B" comparison with a new good brand electrolytic if in doubt.I'll post my Th!ngyverse sourced 3D printed case later. (That's not the website you're looking for - no?)

author: pepe10000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 10, 2017, 06:04:42 am
content: Quote from: aargee on March 10, 2017, 12:06:47 amExactly, the designs I used are from that page.

author: pepe10000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 10, 2017, 06:21:51 am
content: Quote from: upsss on March 09, 2017, 10:07:08 pmThis table is quite old and as it says aargee only serves as a small reference of the expected values of ESR for low frequency.

author: linux-works
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2017, 03:39:38 pm
content: tweaked some measurements (allowing more room for finger/thumb to access the lever). also added a small slide switch to cut power directly.the pcb is red, so for fun, I went with red plastic, too. I kind of like how it ended up.I have extra cases; if you want one, PM me. I also have extras of the mounting hardware (rubber feet, screws, standoffs, nuts, switch, small rotary encoder knob). all the parts were from amazon, so for those that have amazon in their locale, these parts are somewhat easily buyable.parts list:kit:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HCXG9YSrubber feet and 4-40 screws:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007HKFPYMhttps://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00137N2J0small rotary knob:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015E4CUAOslide switch (bottom mount):https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007Q854MSstandoffs (4-40, 1/2" and 5/8"):https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00137S0V0https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00137NJBQscrews (4-40x1/4")https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F34USTG/plastic 4-40 nuts:https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009EENZ002-56 nuts and screws (for switch):https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F3320HKhttps://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009EENY88other than the raw 1/8" plastic, I think that's all the parts that did not come in the kit, and that I used to build the unit, above (other than the 3 test lead mini banana jacks; those were from mouser or digikey and I don't have their #'s handy; but they are easy enough to find).HTH

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2017, 07:12:18 pm
content: The red turned out great! One tweak that I might try on it would be to add a riser of some sort (IC socket(s)?) to raise the zif connector for easier access to the lever and the component under test.Do you plan to add connectors for the signal gen and counter? I suppose at least one would fit on the side opposite the power switch.

author: PointyOintment
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 01:12:24 am
content: That looks amazing! One question: what does the 1112333 mean? Is it this layout?1112333NCNCNC2NCNCNCI haven't seen any layout like that on the testers I've looked at closely so far.When mine arrives (hopefully soon—I've waited 4 months so far) I think I'm going to do a 3D-printed case for it. I want exposed ZIF socket, exposed SMD pads, low-profile knob, and permanently attached leads at the top, with ideally both pointy probes and some kind of grabbers (double-ended). Does anybody know of leads like that, that come in three colors?

author: StillTrying
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 01:35:51 am
content: Both rows of the zif are probably the same, I've got a yellow T4 one with a normal green backlight LCD, on that the zif connections are12311111231111That 1112333 zif arrangement looks more convenient than mine!

author: madires
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 01:51:44 am
content: I like to following pinout (+/- is the optional Zener check up to 50V):123+++--112233+-Another handy pinout would be:1231232111223321

author: linux-works
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 03:06:14 am
content: the way this kit was made, the pin1 slots are the left 3, pin2 only has the middle slot and the rest of the 3 to the right are pin3. seems very logical that way. other layouts seem odd to me, but I had no choice with this kiton my chassis, I did not plan to add freq-out and voltage/freq-in, but I could be talked into it, I guess. there is room on the back for connectors, but the front is taken by the battery.as for the riser of the zif socket, I agree its down too low. maybe a wire-wrap socket would be a good idea for the base, then press and glue the zif into the wirewrap socket. not sure it will fit, as the wirewrap socket is machine pin style (round) and the pins on the zif are flat.I also want to find a real zif socket since the fake 'textool' one will go 'funky' in no time flat. its already acting funny (press the lever down and its sometimes hard to grab and push back up again).that aside, I got some requests for this case from folks in europe. I wonder: would someone be willing to be a middleman for me and take the combined pkg of plastic and re-mail out to the local guys who want one? might be easier for me that way than sending X pkgs to various locations in europe.I do plan to post the mechanical drawing (files) for this so anyone who has a laser cutter can do it or farm it out. the only slight problem is that the thickness of the acrylic is somewhat non-standard; its less than 1/8" and if you use standard 1/8" plastic, the notch holes will be too tight. I used what my local techshop had in stock, but unfortunately, they don't seem very keen on reordering and so I have no stock left right now and unless they order more (been waiting weeks for them to get on the ball!) I can't print anymore. I keep asking them to order more plastic but they don't seem to care, for some reason (anyone know who the manager is of the redwood city tech shop? no name or number is listed on the main site and I'd like to call that manager and let him know his people are not doing their jobs - no one is ordering more plastic and the desk jockeys don't ever relay my messages to the ordering person, sigh...).

author: perieanuo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 06:54:38 am
content: Lokk what this guy did, I think it's the best case I ever seen for the GM328.Maybe it may costs a little more,for me in France you go for 40 euros or more to print it but finally it's a semi-pro case.Maybe even pro, the project was forced to obey the actual shitty solutions for i/o-s.All credits go to the person who did this of course.http://3dtoday.ru/3d-models/mechanical-parts/body/box_tft_gm328_transistor_tester_/best regards to everyone,ovidiu

author: luma
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 01:37:59 pm
content: I printed thiscase from Thingiversefor my M12864 style tester:

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 14, 2017, 08:49:14 pm
content: Quote from: PointyOintment on March 14, 2017, 01:12:24 amI think the dropped '2' is for visual effect. It helps it not to blend in with the multiple '1' and '3'. I like it.

author: Dubbie
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 15, 2017, 12:26:44 am
content: Does no-one else use the SMD pads? I use them probably just as much as the ZIF socket.

author: linux-works
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2017, 01:04:19 am
content: Quote from: bitseeker on March 14, 2017, 08:49:14 pm(smile) - yes, you got it. I dropped the 2 below the 'line' just to set it off visually. that's all it was about

author: ebastler
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2017, 06:16:22 am
content: Quote from: perieanuo on March 14, 2017, 06:54:38 amOnce you close the ZIF socket by pushing the lever down, how are you ever going to pry it back up again?Not convinced...

author: aargee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2017, 07:31:50 am
content: If it's like mine, you just push the lever far enough to 'grab' the component and then push test while you're holding it.

author: Codebird
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2017, 11:27:35 am
content: Do diode testers count?https://birds-are-nice.me/ipfs/Qmd8GXUEkw63J8SBmkS5thnoDTyJTyp1yM6SfzEHvLZp3M/tester_complete.jpg0-5V (true zero) high-precision lower supply with voltage and current display, and serial output for drawing nice I/V graphs. Includes a built-in meter for voltage and current measurement using an external supply too. I built it to test schottky diodes. Can't trust eBay parts to be on spec - I got caught once by a diode sold as a schottky that turned out to be a regular diode with a false label on it.

author: PointyOintment
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2017, 10:14:23 am
content: Quote from: linux-works on March 14, 2017, 03:06:14 am3 mm? Around here, that, not 1/8", is the standard.

author: linux-works
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 16, 2017, 05:48:35 pm
content: 2.64mm is what my mitutoyo calipers say.

author: upsss
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2017, 07:10:59 am
content: Quote from: ebastler on March 15, 2017, 06:16:22 amI solved the problem by simply bending up the lever.

author: ebastler
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2017, 10:48:41 am
content: Does this count? Note the highly optimized human factors design, with easy access to the ZIF lever, SMD pad, and battery compartment...With hindsight, I should have put the battery holder on the left side, to make the SMD pads even more accessible. I had not wanted to block the LCD contrast pot, which sits on the left below the display, but I never touch that anyway.I did patch in the encoder, on a PCB that was laid out for just a pushbutton. The layout was accommodating enough; drilling four extra holes and soldering two patch wires did the trick.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2017, 01:26:00 am
content: Hehe, nice tweaks.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2017, 01:28:38 am
content: Bookmark -pic tomorrow ...

author: aargee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2017, 01:53:19 am
content: Chalk and cheese.Got the colour just right, it was printed before the Agilent arrived.

author: Dubbie
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 21, 2017, 03:02:26 am
content: Ebastler, yours is the only one I would find useful so far! All the others don't have the SMD pads exposed.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2017, 04:35:24 am
content: @aargee: That's quite a color match. Just a coincidence or did you have another Agilent/Keysight meter to base your filament color on?

author: ebastler
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2017, 10:50:48 am
content: Quote from: Dubbie on March 21, 2017, 03:02:26 amThanks! Laziness might have played a part in my "design decision" as well, to be honest...Pepe10000's black enclosure (on the first page of this thread) also does a nice job keeping everything accessible. The board he used seems well-suited for an enclosure, with all user interface elements sitting nicely on the same level.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2017, 11:29:42 am
content: Here's what I threw together.

author: aargee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2017, 01:11:17 pm
content: Quote from: bitseeker on March 21, 2017, 04:35:24 amPurely coincidence, the roll of PLA 3D filament I have here is an exact match for Agilent orange!

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 21, 2017, 11:50:37 pm
content: Amazing coincidence!

author: linux-works
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2017, 02:51:04 am
content: I guess the lack of smd pad access does not bother me. if I need to check an smd device, I might just make a jig that plugs into the zif socket and gives me 'direct' access that way.this could be a good small project; design a small board that has .1" spacing for pins and various smd layouts on the top board that connect to the 1/2/3 pins. there could be a panel of such boards with different spacing and you just plug in the right extender module.the laser-cut method does not lend itself well to multi layers.

author: upsss
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2017, 03:29:43 am
content: Here you go,http://www.ebay.com/itm/5pcs-Double-Side-SMD-SOT223-SOT89-to-DIP-SIP3-Adapter-PCB-Board-Converter-NEW-CA-/141975735634?hash=item210e69cd52:g:gMoAAOSw7NNT4gB-, 1$ and just solder 3 pins.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2017, 04:27:43 am
content: Over the past couple years, I've seen in the original thread several variations of test pads for these testers, either integrated into the case or via adapter PCB. After scrolling through over 2100 poststrying to find them, here's a summary:This one has the ZIF socket and SMD pads on the adapter and connects via banana plugs:Someone else made adapters like these:Mauro made his own:One by zhqsoft:This one has many layouts:And a Russian tester with DIP socket and adapter:

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 22, 2017, 04:31:48 am
content: And now, for something completely different. An LCR-T3 in an audio cassette case.

author: linux-works
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2017, 10:55:16 pm
content: has anyone done a Qi charged build before?this is using off-the-shelf parts, more or less. a $10 credit card thing that is a qi coil and circuit in a thin card; this is taped to the base of the plastic box, inside the box (the thickness of the plastic is between the sender coil and this unit's coil). a $10 charger/boost converter board from amazon (many models like it at the usual places). this takes 5v from a usb connection (or my qi coil!) and charges a 3.7v lipo battery. I used a quadcopter toy battery that is 500mah rated and should run this tester for a fairly long time (have not tested it yet for run-time).that's really all this is, the $10 qi coil card thing, remove its usb male and solder to its 2 wires after confirming which is red and which is black (they are flat wire and the plastic has to be scraped off from one end and then wires soldered to that copper flex trace. its not hard to do). and then some combo of a charger board and a boost converter to create the final 5v.I used my existing box design that worked for a 9v battery but the wiring now goes to the input of the volt reg chip instead of thru a diode or transistor. I get a 'warning' at power-up (I'll get rid of that with a custom sw build) but other than that, it seems to run ok on 5v.also on this build: I removed the crappy TFXTDOL zif and put in a real, actual, honest TEXTOOL socket. found a few of them, used, at my local surplus store. note, this one was 16pin so I had to cut off the top 2 pins since the pcb did not have spare holes (that would have been nearly brilliant of the pcb designer to allow for 14 and also the slightly more common (imo) 16pin zif sockets. there's still room on the board for even longer sockets. the china fakes are 'genuine crap'I was going to buy new textool sockets ($16 or more, sigh) but found some used ones that were still in good shape.edit: 2nd photo with the tester on a charging stand. usb charging cord for stand is too dark to be seen in this photo. stand has adjustment knob on the back to let you slide the coil up and down. loosen, move coil until you get max output with the device, then tighten and its now aligned to that device, perfectly. here, the red light shows its charging.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2017, 02:04:22 am
content: That's the first Qi-compatible rechargeable version I'm aware of. Nicely done!

author: perieanuo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2017, 06:57:21 am
content: Here's my eggi know it's not even finished (still looking for a cheap glass or plexi to cover the display from inside box)cheap stuff like 5 euros for the boxthe back side has also a DB9 connector for firmware update,opposite gender regarding to testing DB9 conn so anybody can't reverse those tworeason:that is what I had in my secret closet

author: madires
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 05, 2017, 11:14:24 am
content: The 644/1284 dev board with an ILI9341/9342 display board. The input protection (SRV05-04 and TVS) and the relay for the SamplingADC's cap are missing.

author: linux-works
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 05, 2017, 03:04:34 pm
content: I just bought a 3d printer. would like to see how the 3d printed cases work out. the one that was posted on the .ru site, can anyone send me a link to the stl or gcode files?I'm referring to the m328 color version, knob on the left, zif on the right.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 05, 2017, 04:45:52 pm
content: This one?https://yadi.sk/d/yW8xa5NJgUo5z/M328Kit%2BTFTIf not, navigate up one level and there are other versions.

author: pepe10000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2017, 08:35:06 am
content: Hello, if it is the bitseeker comment, GM328B (AY-AT DIY Kit) there is not much variety to choose.For my taste the best are these two, I attach the files in case you need them and photos of the assembly that I am performing (they are not finished).They have some design flaws but they can be used.A greeting.P.S. Unzip with WinRar.

author: linux-works
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2017, 04:13:45 pm
content: thanks for the links. I will give both a try.I may still prefer the laser cut version, but since I have a new 3d printer, I want to get some experience using it and see what it can do.thanks guys.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2017, 07:03:35 pm
content: Sure thing. Looking forward to seeing what you come up with.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2017, 07:07:03 pm
content: Quote from: madires on May 05, 2017, 11:14:24 amI didn't know you had such a nice setup for this variation, madires. It looks better than just a dev board.

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 25, 2017, 04:29:42 pm
content: this is enclosure for board variant as shown in "5.jpg" which the kit can be bought from ebay.. (i'm not affiliate)http://www.ebay.com.my/itm/M328-LCD-12864-Transistor-Tester-DIY-Kit-Diode-Triode-Capacitance-LCR-ESR-Meter-/201481944845?hash=item2ee9427f0d:g:7tsAAOSw2GlXKYmx

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 25, 2017, 04:52:38 pm
content: I like it, Mechatrommer. The flip-open test clips and tilting bail are neat.

author: PointyOintment
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2017, 05:22:54 am
content: That test clip looks really convenient. I might have to make something like that. How did you get that terrible surface finish on the front of the case?

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2017, 10:45:45 am
content: Quote from: PointyOintment on May 27, 2017, 05:22:54 ambecause its not sticking to the bed well so there are few void spots. where it sticked, it brought some of the blue tape with it, i have to postprocess and sand it to get better finish result. i've not used my printer for some time.. and its abs, abs gives me bad result. whats not obvious is the warping effect. i can get better output if using pla, but i want to finish up my abs supply first.

author: linux-works
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2017, 06:53:09 pm
content: I'm a month into 3d printing (first machine, still learning). its not easy and it takes getting used to the brand of filament, your machine, slicer settings, so many things.I only print PLA, so far, and while its the 'easiest' thing to print, I still get warping from heat on some corners, on some larger items. on small items, its no problem.build-tak is helping. I had mixed luck with blue tape but it would bubble and lift under heat (not even heated bed) and its a hassle to keep replacing the tape. try build-tak stuck onto a piece of glass.

author: Lighthammer
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 12, 2017, 07:39:59 am
content: Made my case for M328 tester with color display.I used following components:- 18650 LiPo-Cell from broken power-bank (connector broken, cell ok) 2000mAh- Loader for Lipo with USB-connector- Step-up converter to 5V to power the tester- Step-up converter to 26V for Z-Diode test- The button on the left cuts power when pressed, if the MCU hangs.- The test-socket sits on a adaptor-board to lift it up, and the bottom row has 2221333 connection for different IR-decoder pinout.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2017, 02:12:38 pm
content: Quote from: aargee on March 21, 2017, 01:53:19 amMaybe I spent too much time helping graphic designers calibrate their displays and printers back when I did tech support, or maybe I'm just an intrinsic color nut, but to me, those are noticeably different shades of orange. (That said, I assume 3D printer filament comes in a couple of colors you have to choose from, and for not having the Agilent in front of you to compare, it is a close match.)

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2017, 04:43:04 pm
content: I have mine in the cardboard box that my Raspberry Pi came in. The hole for the display, test button, and ZIF socket is covered with a cardboard cover made from a frozen pizza box with a bit of velcro to hold it shut when not in use. I also use a rubber band to keep it shut. This works well. I have used cardboard - sometimes combined with copper flashing or tape, when shielding is required, to protect projects for a long time. If something isn't meant to go outdoors, and doesn't run hot or contain parts that are connected to line voltage, it works very well and its very easy to do. I save pieces of cardboard that are bright colors or have some interesting image on them so the boxes are colorful.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 13, 2017, 02:19:25 am
content: Nifty reuse, cdev. Post some photos, too.

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 13, 2017, 04:01:26 am
content: Added!

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 14, 2017, 12:20:36 am
content: Hehe, nice color bars.

author: mauroh
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2017, 12:46:30 pm
content: Hi, this is a fload of pictures with the last modificatione I made to the case of my tester to better fit my needs.Additions:1) External 12V connector2) DC/DC step-down from external 12V or VBat to 5V 2A to power the external bluetooth or servo motors or other external adapters without stress the little internal regulator3) power switch to cut off the external 5V when not needed. Now I can leave the bluetooth adapter or the servo motors connected and power it only when needed4) Connectors on the mini banana plug. Now I can lift the PCB without desolder the connecttions to the mini banana connectors5) Bluetooth adapter6) Servo motor standard connectorI really like the solution from Mechatrommer for the SMD components and on another thread I found an interesting zip socket for sor-23 components.I'm thinking to combine this to come up with a simple solution for quickly test the sot-23 transiostorsMauro

author: mauroh
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2017, 01:16:25 pm
content: I found another thread talking about the sot23 zif.Interesting ideas....https://www.eevblog.com/forum/projects/diy-sot23-zif-socket/

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2017, 05:41:19 pm
content: Lots of good ideas for SMD connections. I like the jig with the pogo pins and the simplicity of using a neodymium magnet for holding down an SOIC.

author: MosherIV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 21, 2017, 04:25:38 pm
content: HiI have time on my hands so I got round to boxing up my LCR-T4 meter

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 22, 2017, 12:03:06 am
content: Nice! I really need to finish the enclosure for mine. So many projects, so little time.

author: pepe10000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2017, 06:33:54 am
content: AY-AT DIY KIT (GM328B) multimeter.Big box printed in 3D:https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2070417ISP Connector.3.7V Lithium battery for a photo camera (recycled).Charger module + power supply (9.2v).LC filter (not necessary, but I like well filtered voltages).Low battery led made with a KA75330.LDO HT7550 changed by an MCP1702 5v.Reference voltage TL431 changed by an LM4040 2.5v.Battery cutout switch.Zener measurement up to 45v with DC-DC Step-UP manual switch.TVS protection for external voltage.Filter capacitors for the power lines of the processor and the reset.Socket ZIF supplemented.Copper sticker for discharge of capacitors (used in glassworks).Rubber stickers for the base (used as insulation in windows).Stickers for serigraphs printed on inkjet printer and improved with spray varnish.

author: pepe10000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2017, 09:02:33 am
content: AY-AT DIY KIT (GM328B) multimeter.Style box printed in 3D:http://3dtoday.ru/3d-models/mechanical-parts/body/box_tft_gm328_transistor_tester_/ISP Connector.3.7V Lithium battery of a mobile (recycled).Charger module + power supply (9.2v).LC filter (not necessary, but I like well filtered voltages).Low battery led made with a KA75330.LDO HT7550 changed by an MCP1702 5v.Reference voltage TL431 changed by an LM4040 2.5v.Battery cutout switch.Zener measurement up to 25v with DC-DC Step-UP manual switch.TVS protection for external voltage.Filter capacitors for the power lines of the processor and the reset.Socket ZIF supplemented.Copper sticker for discharge of capacitors (used in glassworks).Rubber stickers for the base (used as insulation in windows).Stickers for serigraphs printed on inkjet printer and improved with spray varnish.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 18, 2017, 02:19:48 am
content: Nice job, pepe. If you have the 3D files online, you can share links to them in your posts.

author: Calambres
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 18, 2017, 08:18:17 am
content: Another one from spainUsed a plastic box I had laying around.

author: pepe10000
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 18, 2017, 09:05:16 pm
content: Quote from: bitseeker on December 18, 2017, 02:19:48 amDone.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 18, 2017, 10:17:19 pm
content: Excellent!

author: TechieTX
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2018, 12:41:21 am
content: I don't have an artistic bone in my body, but someone needs to merge these two designs:(yeah, the screws are out of it 'cos I'm trying to get it running again, after sitting for 15 years in a box of unused 'stuff')

author: 001
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2018, 07:58:53 am
content: Quote from: TechieTX on April 29, 2018, 12:41:21 amnice idea

author: Messtechniker
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2018, 09:06:39 am
content: Attached some pics of the wooden box for my "Transistor Tester" rather "Component Tester". Items on both sides were used to flash the 328 since the firmware is updated so frequently. Lately I have been using the TL 866 instead.

author: 001
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2018, 09:50:30 am
content: Quote from: Messtechniker on September 22, 2018, 09:06:39 amIs it PC-connected?

author: Messtechniker
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2018, 02:48:04 pm
content: Quote from: 001 on September 22, 2018, 09:50:30 amYup.Screenshot of my proggy enclosed.

author: 001
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2018, 05:43:12 pm
content: awesome!how it works?

author: Messtechniker
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2018, 07:06:24 am
content: It works by simply taking, and then processing whatever the transistor tester spews out through its serial port. Since this output is very much dependent on the type of display and the firmware version used, I can at the moment not provide a program which will universally run in connection with any transistor tester. There are simply too many variants and different firmware versions around. Some even don't provide a serial output.Having SCPI-like commands as envisaged for future versions using a 644 of even larger micro will make my program more universal. So we will have to wait and see.

author: indman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2018, 08:53:33 am
content: Messtechniker, big thanks for the done work and remarkable programs for display and saving the results of measurements for UART.At me your programs for resistors, transistors bjt, Jfet, mosfet,opto perfectly work with Fish8840(ATMega328) tester. Did you do updates for these programs? Maybe all of you share the program for capacitors which was shown above?

author: madires
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2018, 09:38:30 am
content: Quote from: Messtechniker on October 03, 2018, 07:06:24 amPlease have a look at the remote command feature in 1.33m

author: Messtechniker
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2018, 01:07:10 pm
content: @ indmanPlease find - for size reasons -in your PM the latest version of my capacitance measurung program for the transistor tester. Note: it requires a more recent firmware version. These progs will not be updated since i am planning to follow the route madires just mentioned. This, hopefully, will make updates much easier for me.@ madiresThanks for the hint which I am planning to follow up.

author: Giox040
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 10, 2019, 05:28:18 pm
content: Hi!Attached some pics of my "AY-AT" ATmega328 "Component Tester", with ISP connector, Lythium battery, step-Up converter, USB charger, and Zener expansion.

author: vivaT
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2020, 01:39:41 pm
content: Here's a tweezer version of the transistor tester made for R/C and diodes. I modified a dc-dc charge board with protection for the battery and needed to change the firmware to BGR from RGB to get the tiny TFT ST7735 128x64 0.9" lcd to work with correct colours. Its pretty accurate using LT1004 and cherry picked 470k, 680 ohm resistors. The rotary switch works very well after i modified the values: Phases 2, Steps 15. It has outputs on the pcb for all three test points plus IR/ PWM and frequency counter for when i get round to adding those options. I kept the programming interface for the regular updates provided by madries on his M firmware. The 7-way LCD ribbon cable was made from silicone sleeve and coloured 0.1mm enameled wire. charging and serial comms are done via mini usb.

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2020, 06:23:22 pm
content: Wow, that is really cool! Nicely done.

author: jdev99
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2020, 05:10:43 pm
content: I remixed this case from egilhttps://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1580922, to use with the Hiland M644 and a dual 18650 battery holder.There is also a small switch on the back to switch the battery off.https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4584702

author: Bud
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2020, 07:10:43 pm
content: Quote from: Messtechniker on September 22, 2018, 09:06:39 amThis is the first time ever that i see the display mounted Inside the box and boards mounted Outside

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2020, 10:46:34 pm
content: Quote from: jdev99 on August 31, 2020, 05:10:43 pmVery nice. What kind of filament did you use?

author: doniceti
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 17, 2021, 12:50:29 pm
content: Hello guys, I am new to the forum, but I used a lot of useful information before registration. I decided it was my turn to help someone. I made a modification of the original Plexiglas case.

author: bateau020
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2021, 01:50:17 pm
content: Hiland M644, in a standard case, added a SMD device test board with ENIG coating, as I mainly do SMD. Got a spare SMD test board that I probably will do nothing with, so if anyone wants one, PM me.

author: nicolasCR
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 28, 2022, 06:10:38 am
content: very good contribution, thanks, I bought one of these gm328 and would like to make those modifications

author: xchg.ca
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2022, 02:01:12 pm
content: Here is my 2x18650 Mod for GM328Vid is here:https://youtu.be/1lj1IrBzrqU3D Printable parts are herehttps://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4803320

author: Substance
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 06, 2023, 06:55:32 pm
content: The component tester that I have built was created from a salvaged enclosure and two circuit boards. I thought it would be fun to have a mouse wheel, and so I mounted that on the rotary encoder shaft. Converting this box to a component tester, and making sure that all the mechanics would work as intended, was a pleasant part of the project. Next, I will create a ZIF socket adapter that plugs into the three inputs.

author: alex_D
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 07, 2023, 02:33:43 pm
content: Here's my new DIY setup, I'm still working on the case, but the component tester is working well and it's good to be able to enable all features of the M firmware and still only reach 78% full using a 644p.The display is a 2.4" ILI9341 and is connected with dupont leads so I can experiment with others displays, the ST7735 also works well, but notas nice as the ILI9341.The board is based on the open source hardware design, I have just moved some of the device footprints a bit closer to fit on a 100mmx80mm board. also added an extra pin for backlight, the board supports the 30v zener test but I have not yet added the components for that part.There are a couple of typos on the silk screen labelling, I wanted to fully label the board so it could be build without referrring to a diagram.

author: .RC.
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 07, 2023, 11:58:17 pm
content: Is the board your own design?

author: porter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2023, 07:19:05 pm
content: Quick and dirty with outlet box I happened to have on hand. Does the job. Looking at some the the postings, I think I will upgrade.

author: Altair8800
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2024, 12:09:40 am
content: For Reference: Our very own BillyO on his Uni-Byte Youtube channel just recently posted his 3 MODs of his T7 Transistor Tester1) Increase battery capacity2) Improve connectivity3) Make it more stable on the bench

author: alex_D
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 08, 2024, 11:08:08 pm
content: Improved my DIY setup from above, gerber files are on Github and below a preview of the layout if anyone cares to have a go at building it.Made some more improvements and adding the files to Github here;-https://github.com/AlexDavis777/Open-Source-Transistor-Tester

author: Per Hansson
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 13, 2024, 07:29:39 pm
content: That's super nice alex_D!Would you consider making it compatible with relay protection also?I've seen it mentioned by many that the SRV05 protection diodes are pretty sensitive and often short when they protect from a charged capacitor?Anyway great work!