Fnirsi -TC3 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: spanakop
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2023, 09:21:31 am
content: Whilst looking for a component tester, and I really couldn't be arsed to look through 342 pages of the form post, I came across thishttps://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005005444684287.html?algo_exp_id=e871120f-2f47-4bb0-a9c8-658f6c5987f8-11Fnirsi has released a new version of the their combi tool. It has a component tester, Oscilloscope and Signal generator all on the same package for around £40 including a 10x probe.I'm interested in the component tester side of things rather than the Oscilloscope tbh. I see the other additions as a bonus feature.has anyone had a play with this? They state the specs of the oscilloscope are upgraded from their last one.

author: tunk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2023, 11:56:39 am
content: There's a few reviews on youtube:https://youtu.be/eBPtYV6tjBshttps://youtu.be/JpISM7g9Ff4https://youtu.be/mAxUwG2US4U

author: .RC.
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2023, 12:15:42 am
content: If you do not need the oscilloscope function, why spend such a large sum for it.Fnirsi sell a component tester alone. It has a fake chip on it marked Atmel328, but it is not even a clone, it is a completely different chip, so you can not as of yet customise the firmware. However it is a reasonably accurate device, or mine is.https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32795518755.htmlPlenty of others out there as well.

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2023, 04:19:53 pm
content: I bought the TC3 expecting it to be a toy, that was maybe better than the TC1. It's a toy compared to a real bench scope, but the thing actually works.I used it today to test caps for the outside foil, and it actually worked. Results consistent with the SDS2504XP.The biggest downside of trying to use this as a scope + AWG (besides the obvious) is that the AWG only functions as a square wave generator (typical for probe compensation) when the DSO is active. You can't use it to send a sinewave to the DSO.

author: Veteran68
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2023, 04:27:26 pm
content: I have a TC3 as well. I think it strikes a good balance between the $7 component testers and the $50-$100 pocket scopes. Of course I'm not using it for serious bench measurements or signal generation, but as a portable tool for simple field work that I'm not going to lose much sleep over if it gets lost or destroyed, it's great.

author: slavoy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2023, 04:49:08 pm
content: I've tested the TC3 for a while. Overall, it's OK, with a clear menu and plenty of functions in one device, although their usefulness depends on the parameters we expect. The component tester made a mistake once, showing a P-MOSFET instead of a PNP transistor. As for measuring capacitor ESR, the results are not accurate and, in my opinion, not reliable. Apart from that, everything is fine. Some report that it's easy to damage them with overvoltage (especially the earlier TC2 version), so it's essential to be cautious and discharge capacitors before measurement. The same goes for the measurement socket's polarity - better not to make a mistake. The built quality is decent. The generator part is very limited and the scope has little above declared 500kHz bandwith. No isolation whatsoever, so be careful with high voltage measurements by the scope probe.

author: siealex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2023, 08:32:38 pm
content: QuoteDid it show "enhancement mode" or "depletion mode"? Some component testers confuse some types of BJTs (especially germanium) with JFETs or depletion mode MOSFETs.

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2023, 02:59:43 pm
content: You're 100% correct, it certainly has its limitations per its specs, but that's exspected. A limitation with the cap test I was doing is that it doesn't go below 10mV, so I couldn't use it for all the caps I was testing. But it was still nice to see it actually works well enough for its stated range.

author: picburner
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2023, 06:25:50 pm
content: Besides making mistakes with active components it also makes mistakes with passive components.In the picture you can see how a mosfet P is invented from a 4.7 uF tantalum capacitor.The funny thing is that it happens with particular capacitance values.Another user of this forum, in another tread, noticed the same effect with 10 uF ceramic capacitors.Capacitor value is 5.680µF if placed between terminals 1-2. If placed between 1-3 the bug also shows up with other values (5.412µF, 5.430µF).

author: slavoy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2023, 08:27:55 am
content: Interesting. Perhaps another firmware bug? The TC3 has the ability to update (one update has already been released), so it might be worth informing Fnirsi about this issue.

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2023, 03:00:48 pm
content: Quote from: slavoy on August 13, 2023, 08:27:55 amThat's cool, I didn't expect to see updates. They can be downloaded here through the firmware tab:http://www.fnirsi.com.cn/download/digitIt's all in Chinese, but pretty straight forward expect the apply button is just the right area of the dialog box, and not clearly a button.It's odd that I can't find a screen that shows the current system info.

author: siealex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2023, 11:22:55 pm
content: QuoteUsually these testers see a tantalum capacitor as a diode with the corresponding capacitance in the reverse direction.

author: slavoy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 14, 2023, 07:11:25 am
content: Quote from: siealex on August 11, 2023, 08:32:38 pmIt was KSR2004 PNP transistor shown as P-MOSFET in TC3. I compared it with the GM328A tester and it recognized the BJT correctly.I think the TC3 needs slightly better firmware. Inside, there's an ARM Cortex with USB support, so it has a lot of power. The TC-X and GM328A testers use simple 8-bit ATmega chips, yet they offer impressive capabilities, thanks to the well written code.I forgot about the built in Zener diode tester (32V max) - very handy.

author: picburner
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 15, 2023, 06:07:37 am
content: QuoteThe screen with the system info is the one in the picture.Press and hold "OK/Menu" for a while to get there.Unfortunately my firmware is the latest available.I hope the manufacturer fixes these bugs because overall, considering its category of price, the instrument isn't too bad.

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 15, 2023, 05:41:13 pm
content: Thanks! That's good to know. I think they'll fix the fixable bugs eventually. I turned off the logo in there, now it starts up faster lol.

author: LinuxHata
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2023, 10:22:12 am
content: I had this, it was making too many errors so I gave it to a fellow student.Very often it will measure single coil inductance of relatively high value (1mh and above) as an IGBT transistor

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2023, 03:38:30 pm
content: Quote from: LinuxHata on August 16, 2023, 10:22:12 amI consider it a toy, and toys are fun. 😉 But it's cool that it can actually do some stuff.I haven't found a spec sheet, I wonder what it claims it can accurately measure for inductance.

author: Aldo22
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2023, 04:56:48 pm
content: Quote from: KungFuJosh on August 16, 2023, 03:38:30 pm

author: axantas
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2023, 05:51:55 pm
content: I used to use the TC2, which had a strange interface, then got the TC3 a chance. I am doing a lot of old analog restoration stuff, sometimes just checking, whether one of the components are dead. Indeed it "identifies" components erroneously at first try, but knowing, what I am inserting, it is just "try it again" and it does its job. I double check every now and then parts like capatitors with a multimeter - getting identical results.So as an inexpensive all-in-all ting, I am quite satisfied with it.

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2023, 07:58:27 pm
content: Quote from: Aldo22 on August 16, 2023, 04:56:48 pmThanks! That spec sheet either isn't accurate, or there definitely needs to be some more firmware updates. I would guess both. 😉On my reference board I had no trouble testing 1mH, 10mH, 100mH (1mH is the max on the spec sheet??), but I couldn't test anything lower than 1mH. R and C were both fine for what's in spec, except I couldn't test 100pF.

author: siealex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2023, 08:40:24 pm
content: Today I received a new motherboard for TC3 and installed it into my TC2. In general it works properly, however, there are several strange bugs.1. Generator. The output frequency is exact only in Square and Pulse modes, in other modes (sine, triangle, sawtooth) it's way off, up to 2%, and changes only in large steps.2. Oscilloscope. On high voltage ranges (1 V/div and higher) in DC mode the zero line is off by 100..300 mV in a random direction (depending on the range), usually up. Can this be adjusted?3. Oscilloscope. Low time per division ranges (5 μs/div and less) have incorrect X scale. For example, a 500 kHz wave on the 2 μs/div range must be EXACTLY 1 large box wide, actually I see 14..15 waves per 12 boxes. A 100 kHz wave on the same range must be 5 boxes wide, actually it's 4 boxes (is it 2.5 μs/div???). The 10 μs/div range seems to work properly.4. Voltage. There is a calibration mode with two points: 5 V and 20 V. After calibrating (using AD584 for 5 V and a step-up converter for 20 V), it displays 5 V, 7.5 V and 10 V correctly (+/- 5 counts), but 2.5 V is 1% off (high). Why?

author: solidhit
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2023, 09:17:55 pm
content: I just received my TC3 today. The ESR meter is completely broken and always produces false results. I wonder, all those YouTube reviews and no one found the ESR meter doesn't work!

author: indman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2023, 05:38:22 am
content: solidhit, Don't trust Youtube reviews! Fnirsi DSO-TC2 and DSO-TC3 are toys in a beautiful case, nothing more! Isn't this clear?I can’t say anything good or bad about the operation of the oscilloscope, since this functionality with such funny parameters interests me little.It is of little use as a component identifier since the original code of the respected Markus Reshke and Karl-Heinz Kübbeler was transferred to the STM platform very poorly. Therefore, you cannot trust such a device to check components, and this is confirmed by many owners of these toys. And the resistance can be measured successfully and with greater accuracy with a conventional multimeter.Here is one of the few examples of measurements that I posted in an extensive topic '$20 LCR ESR Transistor checker project"https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/$20-lcr-esr-transistor-checker-project/msg4785317/#msg4785317https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/$20-lcr-esr-transistor-checker-project/msg4785317/#msg4786418

author: solidhit
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2023, 08:17:34 pm
content: Can anybody provide me with v0.2 of the firmware as I cannot find it on the official page? Just to verify the problem I have with the ESR meter has nothing to do with my present firmware version (v0.3).

author: kru.czekdb
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 04, 2024, 12:24:44 pm
content: Hello, I damaged my dso tc3. charged capacitor 😔 I replaced u6., it works but I don't want to calibrate. can anyone help?

author: botvink
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 23, 2024, 10:01:04 am
content: I made the mistake of buying one last year, the oscilloscope function was measuring 0.5V offset at idle and different voltages in normal measurements, I sent Fnirsi company a Whatsapp email message on every channel and waited for them to solve it with the firmware, they further corrupted the function of correcting a simple voltage offset with another clean voltage. It would be great if they added it or developed it themselves. After pages and pages of messages, I was left unresolved. The answer was that you bought this product from another Aliexpress seller, not from us. But I said the product is your product, but it would be more useful if I talked to the wall.I mean, it's a product with potential, but since they don't have any engineering development skills, I don't understand why they can't fix the problems of the actual product while spending so much budget on marketing.

author: slavoy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2024, 04:36:33 pm
content: FNIRSI policy will be like this: New cool looking TC-4 with minor updates after release, no care for older devicesIf it doesn't work from the start, you are on you own.

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 23, 2024, 07:50:53 pm
content: Cool opinion. Of course, it's still supported for now, and has a firmware download available on their website:https://www.fnirsi.com.cn/download/digitI don't expect a $50 toy to compete in support levels with $5000 scopes. Nobody should. 🤷

author: cgershon
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 05, 2024, 05:30:12 pm
content: You must change also U10 ...

author: cgershon
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 05, 2024, 05:34:04 pm
content: You must change also U10 ...

author: eevbstedt
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 20, 2024, 05:05:02 pm
content: Quote from: KungFuJosh on August 15, 2023, 05:41:13 pmHas anyone found a newer firmware other than v0.30 ?

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 20, 2024, 05:33:57 pm
content: Quote from: eevbstedt on April 20, 2024, 05:05:02 pmThat's still the latest version on their website. I don't know where else you would find firmware.

author: axantas
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 20, 2024, 08:31:29 pm
content: Ask Finirsi for assistance on their WhatsApp Grup. They are quite helpful.

author: MWBSYS
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 14, 2024, 03:21:52 pm
content: Can you tell me whether the repair was ultimately successful and what part U6 is?

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 14, 2024, 06:43:22 pm
content: FNIRSI got a report from me about bullshit results at testing germanium diodes, germanium transistors and some hfe comparations to the TC1 what was much better in accuracy.So I hope they have done a large update there.

author: tony359
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 02, 2024, 01:49:46 pm
content: I've got one today - and I am going to show it on my YT channel.Not having a proper LCR tester to compare it, I compared it with a very cheap component tester I've been using for years, bought "bare PCB" on Ebay. The ESR readings are completely different between the two so I started looking online for someone who might have done a comparison with a proper tool and as you said, I could not find any. But I found this thread and another one mentioning the same thing. Sigh.So not having a proper tool to compare it with, it's difficult to say. But doesn't look good.

author: Phil1977
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 02, 2024, 02:40:58 pm
content: ESR without further specification is as asking how fast a car accelerates and answering "8 seconds". 8 seconds for what? 0-100km/h, 0-60mi/h, quartermile, ...You may use these functions to compare components against each other with the same tester. But not really as an absolute measure that´s expected to be the same between different instruments.You can be quite happy if the capacity measures the same in a +/- 10% range.

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 02, 2024, 03:34:16 pm
content: If you want to know if the ESR measurement works, and you have no serious LCR to compare to, check the datasheets for each capacitor. If it matches every datasheet, it's probably okay. If it's not even close, then ignore the ESR claims on the device.

author: tony359
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 02, 2024, 10:03:28 pm
content: Quote from: Phil1977 on August 02, 2024, 02:40:58 pmOh yes I am not expecting the device to be super-accurate.But I tested some bad capacitors on my old tester and one read 60 Ohm ESR. The FNIRSI read 0.6Ohm. I mean, that's a 100 factor in thereQuote from: KungFuJosh on August 02, 2024, 03:34:16 pmOh excellent idea thanks. I normally use Panasonic caps - from Mouser/Digikey - so I should be able to do a good comparison.

author: watchmaker
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 03, 2024, 01:08:30 am
content: As my daughter sez, I am easily distracted by shiny new objects. So I saw this on "super sale" for $25 and thought WTH.on. I now have an inkling how he felt.Mainly, I am truly amazed at what is done today compared to the days of the Simpson 260, RCA VoltOhmyst and Dumont scopes. I wonder if most people truly understand how far we have come. Had a friend who qualified flying biplanes off the Langley and retired as a commander of a jet squadrOK, my Shannon Tweezers have nothing to fear (C and ESRwayof the TC3 is way off as others noted), nor are my scope and AWG threatened. It seems the ESR comes closest to the tweezers if the tweezers are set to 1KHz. But I would just use the tweezers for IDing caps anyway.The device ID and zener tester are useful, and the continuity tester is probably its best feature (near instantaneous). At least the voltmeter is within 5mV of my bench meters. Resistance is also off (5% low).The wave generator may be useful for someone just starting out, but I am not sure how. I suppose the single channel scope has some use.But, it will replace my old $12 device ID thingy and may well be worth the premium (double the $12). The lack of reverse polarity protection is an issue though.But for $50 or $100; that is not shiny new toy impulse pricing for me. I would continue to save my pennies for the Analog Discovery 2 or 3.

author: ZhuraYuk
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 14, 2024, 09:38:37 pm
content: There is a new "transistor tester" coming, LCR-P1

author: slavoy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 10:24:15 am
content: Quote from: ZhuraYuk on August 14, 2024, 09:38:37 pmAs I said in the previous postQuote from: slavoy on January 23, 2024, 04:36:33 pm

author: CharlotteSwiss
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 12:27:53 pm
content: I understand that it would be better to avoid this product Fnirsi? It is not even mentioned on their site. I would like to add one of these magic tweezers to my lab, but perhaps it would be better to look at a better brand.

author: watchmaker
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 02:34:10 pm
content: The consensus seems to be to use Shannon's Tweezers. Not as attractive as the early bird price, but still a decent value.I have the TC3 and it is about as "accurate" as any other magical tester. However, the continuity tester is pretty damned good; almost instantaneous. I checked with a resistor box and it will not alarm over 100 ohms. The nice thing is it displays the resistance when it does alarm (or not). So if it sounds and an R of 50 ohms is ok with you, then you know it is a "false" alarm.Be nice if that was adjustable, but for the price.....

author: CharlotteSwiss
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 02:44:59 pm
content: I saw that there would be Shannon, but the price is too high for an amateur... A middle ground would be fine. Even my multimeters indicate resistance (in addition to sound) in continuity tests. What I have a hard time understanding is why these tweezers should be better than a multimeter. I hope it's not because you can use them with one hand...

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 04:13:14 pm
content: Quote from: CharlotteSwiss on August 16, 2024, 02:44:59 pmThe Shannon price is usually around $118 to $130. That's cheap for what it is. Decent (but still not as good) tweezers are often around $300.

author: CharlotteSwiss
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 04:34:43 pm
content: Quote from: KungFuJosh on August 16, 2024, 04:13:14 pmDoes this mean that the Shannon would be the most sensible choice (without spending a fortune of course)?In the meantime I'll leave aside the finersi (and identical clones)

author: indman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 04:38:34 pm
content: Quote from: CharlotteSwiss on August 16, 2024, 04:34:43 pmIs it really important for you to have a device in the form of tweezers or are you considering similar RLC meters in a different housing?

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 04:57:37 pm
content: Quote from: CharlotteSwiss on August 16, 2024, 04:34:43 pmIt's excellent for what it is, and considering its limitations (size, freq range). I have other LCR meters, and the tweezers get used the most. I mostly turn on the bench LCR meter when I need extended range or extended size. YMMV.

author: slavoy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 05:12:46 pm
content: There is a fundamental difference between atesterand ameter.If you want to check whether a component is simply functional and in good condition, you buy atester. A tester doesn't need to be precise or advanced, but it’s good if it's versatile. There are plenty of these testers, and they are based on software by Karl-Heinz Kübbeler, which the Chinese have cloned and sell under names like LCR-TC1, TC2, TC7, etc. These are the best cheap devices and are even relatively accurate.Even if you need an RLCmeterfor tasks like making RF coils, such a tester will still come in handy, and it's very affordable. When it comes to tester functions, Fnirsi doesn't compare in terms of accuracy and reliability of measurement to this cheap pieces of art.Fnirsi is very well-made, looks pretty, and has powerful hardware. With good software, it would be an excellent choice. But unfortunately, such software isn’t available.I consider the Shannon tweezers to be ametersince they seem very accurate.If you are looking for a LCR meter, you have more options: Uni-t, Hantek, EastTester, CEM, DE5000 and some others. But none of them test transistors anyway, so go ahead and buy an LCR-Tx

author: indman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 05:38:09 pm
content: Quote from: slavoy on August 16, 2024, 05:12:46 pmYour statement is only true for the LCR-TC1, TC2, TC7 clones that were on sale before and which are based on the AVR ATmega.The clones of the LCR-Tx series, which are now sold by Chinese friends, are based in the same way as FNIRSI products on specific controllers and are only a parody in the form of a disposable toy and are not at all similar to the original German project.

author: Phil1977
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 05:48:20 pm
content: But the cheapest of these clones just use the architecture of the original Karl-Heinz Kübbeler design and you can often flash them with the open source software.The devices like the Fnirsi TC3 just implement (probably against all GPL rules) the open source software into a closed proprietary product. If fnirsi stops the support, no one can help you anymore.Regarding this aspect the cheaper clones are the better.

author: indman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 05:54:54 pm
content: Quote from: Phil1977 on August 16, 2024, 05:48:20 pmNot exactly, you're wrong. Chinese firmware for such clones is blocked for reading. If the controller burns out, the author's firmware can only be downloaded if you install a new Atmega and if the pinout on the PCB allows it.

author: CharlotteSwiss
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 10:31:25 pm
content: Thanks guys, maybe I didn't understand what the advantage of these tweezers is. If the advantage is only to use one hand, then I don't need them. I thought that these little tools were better for measuring SMD with low values. Better than a multimeter.I already have 4 multimeters and I also have the famous LCR T4 of which I attach the image.Maybe I misunderstood, I thought that these tweezers were more precise on the measured values ​​of my instrumentation.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2024, 11:05:01 pm
content: Quote from: CharlotteSwiss on August 16, 2024, 02:44:59 pmIf you do general repair ST42 is a very useful tool.Cap ESR and LED test capability are what I've found the most useful recently plus all the other things SMD tweezers can do of course.Nearly 2 decades of SDM tweezer use and couldn't be without them....far more useful than a DMM for measuring components.And don't think they limit you to testing only SMD components............

author: CharlotteSwiss
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2024, 12:58:26 am
content: Quote from: tautech on August 16, 2024, 11:05:01 pmI have always measured the ESR caps on my lcr T4. So with tweezers is it possible to measure it even with the component on the circuit? But the value expressed may not be too truthful, I imagine. Bye

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2024, 01:20:44 am
content: Quote from: CharlotteSwiss on August 17, 2024, 12:58:26 amWe each have our own ways of measuring what we need but I started my smart tweezers journey nearly 2 decades back after borrowing a benchtop LCR nulling bridge and shortly after also got into SMD.That I also couldn't measure unmarked SMD caps always annoyed me, armed with just a DMM so I took the plunge and spent big for me at that time (long before tautech days) on a top of the line brand of SMD smart tweezers which served me well until ST42 came along which are next level and some.ST42 has proven itself to be a many tools in one device and all I need for component measurement.QuoteExperience has taught me to be very wary of any in-circuit measurements and only when I can see the circuit is simple or there are no parallel paths will I trust such measurements.

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2024, 01:28:37 am
content: In circuit is always iffy. So are any ESR measurements from the TC1/2/3 etc devices.

author: Phil1977
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2024, 07:34:40 am
content: Quote from: indman on August 16, 2024, 05:54:54 pmI can't confirm this. I have two chinese clones that could be programmed with the open source firmware. They still have a brownout problem - that´s why I want to install a new MCU anyhow - but not too soon.

author: indman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2024, 10:04:35 am
content: Quote from: CharlotteSwiss on August 17, 2024, 12:58:26 amYou can test capacitors with a T4 even in a circuit. For this purpose, the author's firmware has a special mode C/ESR-in circuit, which reduces the measurement voltage on the test pins to 0.3V. Many owners of such clones even adapt special tweezers with protective diodes, so as not to damage the ports of the controller high voltage and it was more convenient to test the parts in the circuit. But, as you have correctly noted, the validity of such measurements in the circuit will be about 50/50, however, as with similar meters.In-circuit measurements presuppose a lot of experience in such cases and a good knowledge of the circuitry of those nodes on the board, which you check.Quote from: Phil1977 on August 17, 2024, 07:34:40 amWhat controller are your clones built on?

author: CharlotteSwiss
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2024, 12:13:55 pm
content: Thanks friends, of course I know that the measurements on the circuit are often wrong. In the last board I'm checking, more than half of the measurements do not match, but I have to say that for 90% I know very well that the components are good. I had never thought of checking the components on the circuit with my T4. In fact, two probes with a suitable connection to the slot would be enough. Obviously only circuits not under voltage (and discharged caps).

author: indman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2024, 12:25:41 pm
content: Quote from: CharlotteSwiss on August 17, 2024, 12:13:55 pmYes, you are right, but even experienced users sometimes have problems with in-circuit tests when they forget to discharge the capacitances or there is still a residual charge on them, which can easily damage the measuring ports of the device.If you want to buy a relatively inexpensive($40-60) i advise to you but complete universal RLC measurement bridge XJW01.This Chinese device can conduct in-circuit measurements, can be supplemented with convenient tweezers and Kelvin connectors, has a full-fledged 4-wire connection, has been tested by time and many users, has a high basic measurement accuracy of 0.3% and with proper calibration and adjustment can provide a small error of 0.1-0.2%.

author: CharlotteSwiss
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2024, 01:11:50 pm
content: Quote from: indman on August 17, 2024, 12:25:41 pmIn fact, it's better that I don't invent something with the T4. In my safety notes when studying it, I wrote to download the caps well so as not to burn the Atmega.For your advice, I write in the relevant topic (xjw01)

author: siealex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2024, 06:50:02 pm
content: A question for all users of DSO-TC3. Can you perform the following actions?1. Take an electrolytic capacitor (e. g. 100 μF) and test it on the component tester.2. Connect a low Ohm resistor (5..10 Ohm) in SERIES to the same capacitor and test again.Will the ESR difference correspond exactly (within ~10%) to the additional resistor?On my device:220 μF 63 V Samwha SD: 209.2 μF 0.08 Ohm.The same capacitor + 8.98 Ohm 0.5% resistor: 211.3 μF 1.2 Ohm (!!!). How on Earth?On an old ATmega based component tester:The same capacitor itself: 206.1 μF 0.19 Ohm.With the resistor: 208.0 μF 8.49 Ohm. Slightly low (the correct value should be around 9.1 Ohm), but still reasonably close to truth.The resistor itself displays 9.0 Ohm on BOTH TC3 and the old tester.W. T. F.

author: Phil1977
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2024, 07:14:08 pm
content: I can confirm it.100μF + 15 Ohm show ESR of 2.1 Ohm at the DSO-TC36.8 Ohm at a supercheap T7-tester16 Ohm at the "most original" AVR-tester I haveSeems to be better not to trust the ESR values of the TC3.

author: siealex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2024, 09:16:05 pm
content: QuoteHowever, the capacitance values are correct. How?

author: Phil1977
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2024, 12:45:57 pm
content: It seems the transistor tester results are to be taken with care in any case.A super simple 5.1kOhm resistor is recognized as a double diode in the DSO-TC3:And it´s not a fluke (pun intended), the TC3 repeatedly shows the same result - also with different pin connections.The €7,- "T7 Tester" with the same resistor:It seems FNIRSI just copied the transistor-tester code into it´s product with quite little care about how good it performs.

author: Aldo22
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2024, 12:58:19 pm
content: Quote from: Phil1977 on August 25, 2024, 12:45:57 pmHave you ever calibrated the thing?That can help.I have the DSO-TC2, but I am not aware of any such errors.

author: Phil1977
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2024, 01:28:55 pm
content: Quote from: Aldo22 on August 25, 2024, 12:58:19 pmYep. Didn't change a thing.I checked it with a variable resistor: Between 4kOhm and 6kOhm I get the "2 Diodes" error. Other resistors seem to be okay.Probably the TC3 just got too complex for FNIRSI. The transistor tester code itself is an absolute miracle that needed years of debugging and lots of iterations. Putting it into another "all-in-one-wonder" may just be too much.Just FYI, I have firmware V0.3

author: Aldo22
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2024, 02:34:14 pm
content: Quote from: Phil1977 on August 25, 2024, 01:28:55 pmHmm, now I have looked for a 5.1k resistor to check this.The measurement on my TC2 is frighteningly accurate.Is this an individual problem with your device?

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2024, 02:51:27 pm
content: I never use it for this purpose, but mine detected 1.2k and 8.2k fine. Maybe you should try reflashing the firmware?

author: Phil1977
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2024, 03:28:37 pm
content: Values <4kOhm and >6kOhm are correctly detected with my device too.@KungFuJosh: Can you try 5kOhm?I´ll just stay using a DMM for resistors.

author: madires
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2024, 03:30:06 pm
content: Quote from: Phil1977 on August 25, 2024, 01:28:55 pmIIRC, we had such an issue with the OSHW firmwares and a few odd testers a long time ago and fixed it by improving the filter for resistors in the diode detection function. My guess would be that someone didn't test that when porting the code (k-firmware in this case) to a different MCU.

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2024, 03:49:59 pm
content: Quote from: Phil1977 on August 25, 2024, 03:28:37 pmYes. I'll have to find one later though, that value is not in my bins. I'm sure I have one somewhere.Quote from: Phil1977 on August 25, 2024, 03:28:37 pmAs well you should. LCR or DMM is the right tool for testing resistors. Also a lot easier than clipping things into the TC3.

author: fredo_
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 26, 2024, 02:59:58 pm
content: Too lazy to post pictures, but my TC3 works perfectly with any resistor value between 4k and 6k.My firmware is V0.3.Tested with this resistor box :.

author: hud
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 27, 2024, 11:17:12 am
content: Quote from: siealex on August 21, 2023, 08:40:24 pmHow did you calibrate the voltmeter? I couldn't find the menu to calibrate 5V and 20V ?

author: TheDefpom
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 27, 2024, 10:14:27 pm
content: I basic video doing some tests for ESR measurements:🔴 A Surprising Result ? - FNIRSI DSO-TC3 ESR Measurement Testing - No.1273

author: CaptainBucko
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 04, 2024, 08:24:57 am
content: I am observing the follow in resistors between 20k and 40k:- 20.05kOhm resistor (OWON XDM1041) measuring 22.1kOhm (TC3)- 33.11kOhm resistor (OWON XDM1041) measuring 35.2kOhm (TC3)- 27.58kOhm resistor (OWON XDM1041) measuring 29.35kOhm (TC3)while- 684Ohm resistor (OWON XDM1041) measuring 690Ohm (TC3)- 474.9kOhm resistor (OWON XDM1041) measuring 480.4kOhm (TC3)

author: Georgdew
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 29, 2024, 08:27:28 pm
content: Hi TheDefpom.tell me if this is real.I bought a FNIRSI DSO-TC3 and it behaves nowhere near as well as in your video.I reported via email to (service@fnirsi.com) it's been 16 days and I haven't received any response. So much for some serious company...this is how the question I sent to the email read.FNIRSI DSO-TC3 (Broken)hello FNIRSI community.I recently bought this product and after a few uses, the problem I'm going to describe appeared.It's actually a Fnirsi DSO-TC3 component tester.As for the oscilloscope and the Signal Generator works great.I will show in the pictures what the problem is with measuring the component.PIC 1-In this first image I ran the component tester without inserting any components and it shows this..PIC 2-The second picture shows the Diode measurement.PIC 3-The following picture shows the measurement of a zener diode..PIC 4-The following figure shows the measurement of an NPN Transistor

author: madires
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2024, 08:35:56 pm
content: That's a hardware defect.

author: Georgdew
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 29, 2024, 08:41:17 pm
content: PIC 5-The following figure shows the measurement of a 100 uf 50V capacitorPIC 6-The following picture shows the measurement of a 220 uf 35V capacitorPIC 7-The following figure shows the measurement of a 47 uf 160V capacitorPIC 8-And in the last picture, the calibration does not work, after the requested connection, the probe just stands as in the picture, it does not complete the calibrationCan you tell me what is wrong with this device?or what component needs to be replaced?Thank you for your understanding...I know they will tell you that this product has its place even for that money.but I paid 55 EUR for it in my country and it's not a waste of money for me.I bought this product because it claims to work.turns out it does NOT work.Don't think I'm complaining to you, I'm just curious where the problem is?

author: Georgdew
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 29, 2024, 08:48:01 pm
content: Hi madires.Do you know what the hardware failure is?

author: madires
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2024, 08:57:51 pm
content: Typically it's a toasted MCU pin or a damaged input protection (if used), caused by checking a charged cap. Rarely it's a bad PCB or a solder bridge.

author: TheDefpom
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2024, 08:00:54 pm
content: Pic 7 (I think it was) you had the cap between pin 1 and pin 1, watch for that, try doing caps across pin 1 and 2 instead, OR pin 2 and 3 instead, to try to determine if it is a particular input which is faulty.I certainly isn't working as it should.I would say to take it apart and check for any bad solder joints, solder splashes etc which might be shorting out one of the inputs, dont forget to check ALL pins of the socket, and take a close look at the MCU pins too, it could easily be a bridge somewhere causing your issue.At the very least the unit should be good for transistors, diodes and capacitance, ESR is no good on it.

author: Georgdew
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 01, 2024, 07:53:17 pm
content: Hello.Sorry for the late reply..In Figure 7, as you can see, I intentionally connected POINTS 1 and 1, to demonstrate that the reading does not change.As for the capacitors I used in the measurement, they were new.so the capacitors were not charged (only if they were not charged from ETRA. :-)I opened the device (Fnirsi-TC3) and made measurements, so that I did not come across any bridges (short circuits).As for the MCU, I couldn't find the datasheet because the so-called Fnirsi company removed the laser tag from the micro controller.All large companies that manufacture electronic devices and that of top quality do not remove the markings from the components.To me, Fnirsi products seem to work like (DIY).This is the only and last toy I bought from them.

author: indman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2024, 08:09:06 pm
content: Georgdew, in your recent photos I see very unpleasant traces of Chinese flux near the ZIF connector.I advise you to first rinse and clean these traces very carefully and thoroughly. This is important for the correct operation of the device. After washing off the traces, you should dry the device and after a while turn it on again and repeat the tests of the parts.Active flux could also penetrate into the contacts of the ZIF panel itself, so it is very likely that you will have to temporarily remove this connector and wash this area thoroughly as well.

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2024, 08:37:14 pm
content: The easiest way to fix that is to order a new one, and return the defective one.

author: indman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2024, 08:46:33 pm
content: Quote from: KungFuJosh on November 01, 2024, 08:37:14 pmThis is indeed the simplest method, but it is not always possible for several reasons.In any case, it was necessary to immediately open a dispute with the seller regarding this fault.

author: hve
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2024, 05:51:25 pm
content: Quote from: kru.czekdb on January 04, 2024, 12:24:44 pmInteresting this unmarked chip.Looking at the foto the processor seems like a LQFP100 package...My bet is one of these ultra low cost WCH mcu's...Looking at the mcu selection with LQFP100 we have two candidates: CH32V303 or a CH32V307Looking at the datasheet the pins seem to match up:https://www.wch-ic.com/downloads/file/325.htmlsee datasheet CH32V307DS0.PDFPins 12 13 are connected to the XTAL...Pin 72 SWDIO is connected to the pin header on the right...The 307 has an extra a digital video interface and a 1000Mbit ethernet so I would guess its a CH32V303

author: UniSoft
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 29, 2024, 08:21:26 am
content: I drew the schematic of the device.I did it without removing the components from the PCB, so errors are possible.PS. If you will see any errors, please let me know, I can re-check.

author: indman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 29, 2024, 12:06:25 pm
content: Quote from: UniSoft on November 29, 2024, 08:21:26 amYou did a great job!So far I have only noticed this place, shown in the screenshot

author: UniSoft
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 29, 2024, 05:11:25 pm
content: Quote from: indman on November 29, 2024, 12:06:25 pmThanks,Also, I forgot to draw the fuse F1 (PPTC)Updated schematics, attached...

author: indman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 29, 2024, 05:33:27 pm
content: Sorry, I forgot to add, I thought that you yourself would guess to add GND pin2

author: UniSoft
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 01, 2024, 11:48:42 am
content: Quote from: indman on November 29, 2024, 05:33:27 pmUpdated...I am more focused on the firmware.PS: If anyone have any questions about firmware feel free to ask.

author: hve
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 06, 2024, 10:48:49 pm
content: Quote from: UniSoft on November 29, 2024, 05:11:25 pmWow impressive! So its a Arm cortex M4F thingy, with 32 bits floating point unit, and it is even cheaper than the CH32V303 I thought initially...

author: RAPo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2025, 01:44:48 pm
content: Fnirsi has updated the TC-3, it is now aTC-4.Most important acclaimed 10MHz oscilloscope 13 max 50kHz waveform outputs.

author: KungFuJosh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2025, 02:42:01 pm
content: That is exactly what they do. Instead of updating the firmware and improving the previous model at all, it's time to make a new version in a new case design. I'm shocked.

author: tunk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2025, 02:42:44 pm
content: Quote from: RAPo on January 24, 2025, 01:44:48 pmMaybe this should be put in a new, separate thread?US$65 seems a bit too high.

author: RAPo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2025, 03:00:19 pm
content: Done.Quote from: tunk on January 24, 2025, 02:42:44 pm

author: siealex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 25, 2025, 12:36:40 am
content: My TC3 cannot recognize a Darlington pair made of two S9014 transistors (beta approx. 50000..60000), it displays "thyristor". An old ATmega328 based transistor tester detects this pair flawlessly.

author: indman
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 25, 2025, 06:36:31 am
content: Quote from: siealex on May 25, 2025, 12:36:40 amPay this complaint to Sportloto, maybe they will help there.

author: phuong tran
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 02, 2025, 02:19:42 am
content: Thank you. Thanks to your schematic I was able to repair my DSO-TC3, which was due to a short circuit in the U6: SRV05-4.