LCR-TC1 Multi-function Tester
Features
The LCR-TC1 is a versatile multi-function tester featuring:
- A 160x128 TFT graphic display for clear measurement results.
- An IR receiver window for decoding infrared signals.
- A multi-function key for operation.
- Dedicated test areas for transistors and Zener diodes.
- A Micro USB charging interface.
- A charge indicator LED.
The device is powered by a built-in rechargeable Li-ion battery.
Performance Parameters
| Component Type | Range | Parameter Description |
|---|---|---|
| BJT | - | hFE (DC Current Gain), Ube (Base-Emitter Voltage), Ic (Collector Current), Iceo (Collector Cut-off Current (IB=0)), Ices (Collector short Current), Uf (Forward Voltage of protecting diode) |
| Diode | Forward voltage <4.50V | Forward voltage drop, junction capacitance, reverse leakage current |
| Double Diode | 0.01-4.50V (Transistor Test Area) | Forward voltage |
| Zener Diode | 0.01-20V (Zener diode test area) | Forward voltage drop, reverse breakdown voltage |
| JFET | - | Reverse breakdown voltage |
| MOSFET | - | Cg (Gate Capacitance), Id (Drain Current) at Vgs (Gate to Source Threshold Voltage), Uf (Forward Voltage of protecting diode) |
| IGBT | - | Drain current Id under Vgs, protection diode forward voltage drop Uf |
| MOSFET | - | Turn-on voltage Vt, gate capacitance Cg, drain resistance Rds, protection diode forward voltage drop Uf |
| Thyristor | - | Gate turn-on voltage |
| Triac | Gate trigger current <6mA | - |
| Capacitor | 25pF-100mF | Capacitance Value, Equivalent Series Resistance ESR, Vloss |
| Resistor | 0.01Ω-50MΩ | Resistance |
| Inductor | 0.01mH-20H | Inductance, DC Resistance |
| Battery | 0.1-4.5V | Voltage value, battery polarity |
Key Functions
Transistor Tester
The tester automatically detects the following components:
- NPN and PNP bipolar transistors.
- N-channel and P-channel MOSFETs.
- JFETs.
- Diodes (including double diodes).
- N and P-IGBTs.
- Resistors.
- Inductors.
- Capacitors.
- Thyristors.
- Triacs.
- Batteries (0.1-4.5V).
- Zener diodes (0.01-20V).
After placing a component in the appropriate test area and pressing the multi-function key, the tester performs automatic measurement. The results are displayed graphically, showing pin assignments (e.g., B, C, E for transistors; D, G, S for FETs/MOSFETs; K, A for diodes/thyristors) and key parameters. For example:
- BJT (NPN/PNP): Displays hFE, Ic, Ube, and other parameters.
- Diode: Shows forward voltage (Uf) and potentially junction capacitance.
- Capacitor: Displays capacitance value, ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance), and Vloss.
- MOSFET: Shows gate capacitance (Cg), threshold voltage (Vt), and drain resistance (Rds).
The tester also performs a self-test with automatic calibration.
IR Decoder
The tester can decode infrared signals. After component testing, point an infrared remote control at the "IR" test hole and press a button. The tester displays the user code and data code upon successful decoding, along with the corresponding infrared waveform. This function supports Hitachi IR coding format.
Automatic Calibration
To perform automatic calibration, short-circuit the three test sockets and briefly press the multi-function button. The tester will calibrate itself. During calibration, no other operations are required except to disconnect the short wire when prompted.
Battery Voltage Measurement
Before each component measurement, the built-in lithium battery voltage is detected and displayed. If the battery voltage drops below 3.1V, the tester will shut down automatically. It is recommended to charge the battery at this time.
Battery Charging
The charging interface is a standard Micro USB. Use an external 5V power supply or USB power supply for charging. The charging indicator LED is red during charging and turns green when charging is complete.
Operation
Power On
To turn on the tester, short press the multi-function key when it is in the power-off state. The tester will automatically start measuring.
Shutdown
The tester automatically shuts down after a set timeout period or upon completion of component testing or infrared decoding. The automatic shutdown time is typically 30 seconds. Standby power consumption after shutdown is 0 μA.
Important Warnings and Notes
[warning] ⚠️ Warning: Built-in Li-ion Battery. It is strictly prohibited to immerse the tester in water or place it near a heat source!
[warning] ⚠️ Warning: For your personal safety, please strictly comply with the use of Li-ion Battery specifications and precautions!
[warning] ⚠️ Warning: Always be sure to DISCHARGE capacitors before connecting them to the tester! The tester may be damaged before you have switched it on!
[warning] ⚠️ Warning: We do not recommend using the tester to measure the battery! The battery voltage must be less than 4.5V, otherwise the tester may be damaged!
Note: This decoder only supports infrared encoding in Hitachi format. Other formats of infrared encoding are not supported.
Note: Do not put components in the Transistor test area, otherwise the Zener diode cannot be tested!
FAQ and Known Errors
FAQ
| Question | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Cannot power on | Lithium battery is low | Please charge until the light turns green |
| Inaccurate measurements | - | Please re-calibrate |
Known Errors and Unsolved Problems
- The current amplification factor of germanium transistors can be measured too high because of the high residual current. In this case, the basis emitter voltage will be very low.
- Capacity value in reverse direction for Power Schottky Diodes such as MBR3045PT cannot be measured if only one diode is connected. The reason is a too big residual current of this diode. Sometimes the measurement is possible by cooling down the device (with cooling spray for example).
- The diode function of a triac gate cannot be examined.
- The Source and Drain pins cannot be detected correctly with JFET's. The reason is the symmetrical structure of these semiconductors. You can notice this problem with the effect that the display shows the same layout with the same parameters if the Source and Drain pins are swapped.
- The output current of the tester is 6mA/voltage <5V. High-power IGBTs, thyristors, and Darlington tubes that require higher current/higher voltage drive may not be measured. Air core coils and power inductors cannot directly measure inductance. It is recommended to try series connection. For appropriate color ring inductance testing, capacitors below 20pF, it is recommended to test a 20pF capacitor.