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LCR-T4 electronics components tester ATMega328 - Test and Review

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  • #481 16950681
    398216 Usunięty
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    rafcio_21 wrote:
    maybe something will interest you.
    Unfortunately, I do not have a magnifying glass ... :(
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  • #482 16950725
    rafcio_21
    Level 29  
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    398216 Usunięty wrote:
    rafcio_21 wrote:
    maybe something will interest you.
    Unfortunately, I do not have a magnifying glass ... :(
    Sorry, I did not check what size I got, I meant something like that now it should be ok
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    • LCR-T4 electronics components tester ATMega328 - Test and Review 1PCS-ZNTER-S19-9V-400mAh-USB-Rechargeable-9V-Lipo-Battery-For-RC-Camera-Drone-Accessories.jpg (86.5 KB) You must be logged in to download this attachment.
  • #483 16950899
    Jawi_P
    Level 36  
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    These 6F22 replacement batteries have seen a great solution in general. Those with a charging module have a step-up converter up to 9V? Is it just a USB charger? Because I browse the first better offer on ali or ebay and see what the seller wrote: - 9V in the title - 9V constant voltage - in the main picture (as suggested by some converter) - somewhere lower: 8.4V (which already suggests bare goals 2xLi-ion ), it's probably fully charged and will quickly fall below 8V. So they have 9V as type. Not every device wants to work at a voltage of
  • #484 16950950
    rafcio_21
    Level 29  
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    I do not know exactly what the battery voltage is, but the tester at 7V works properly.
  • #485 16950970
    DiZMar
    Level 43  
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    rafcio_21 wrote:
    I do not know exactly what the battery voltage is, but the tester at 7V works properly.
    The tester stops working when the power is below 6.5V. I checked on my tester.
  • #486 16950991
    kkknc
    Level 43  
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    In these 9V there are two Li-Po Li-ion cells. So the tension is a bit understated.
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  • #487 16951562
    pawelr98
    Level 39  
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    Jawi_P wrote:
    These 6F22 replacement batteries have seen a great solution in general. Those with a charging module have a step-up converter up to 9V? Is it just a USB charger? Because I browse the first better offer on ali or ebay and see what the seller wrote: - 9V in the title - 9V constant voltage - in the main picture (as suggested by some converter) - somewhere lower: 8.4V (which already suggests bare goals 2xLi-ion ), it's probably fully charged and will quickly fall below 8V. So they have 9V as type. Not every device wants to work at a voltage of
  • #488 16951656
    PiotrPitucha
    Level 34  
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    Hello, I bought my 9F22 on Ali, I have several battery devices, so I bought 4 links and a dedicated charger. The cells have after 8.24V after full charge and month of reclining, the declared capacity is 1000mAh, the whole returns after 4-5 charges. The only drawback is the blue lights in the charger, they glow like a laser and are annoying, the charger can charge all 4 cells at once. Now, I'm not terribly free from trading on Sundays :) I will always have a power supply at hand, considering the small size and large capacity can be useful for Arduino in the field. greetings
  • #489 16957951
    rafcio_21
    Level 29  
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    Hello, has anyone else tested on this tester other softy than what is currently uploaded 2.68. I do not know if it is the same tile as in the previous version, visually a little different and I do not know if the soft from that tester will match.
  • #490 17285895
    flatron316
    Level 13  
    Posts: 210
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    Does anyone know if this tester can be calibrated somehow? I mean, I do a normal self-test, with a capacitor, etc. And then it shows me stupidity, for example, in capacities, the differences amount to about 25% of the value. Is there any way to calibrate, physical interference in the system, e.g. a substitution of a resistor or something in this sense?
  • #491 17286149
    Jawi_P
    Level 36  
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    flatron316 wrote:
    Does anyone know if this tester can be calibrated somehow?
    Did you calibrate according to the description at the beginning of the article?
  • #492 17286387
    flatron316
    Level 13  
    Posts: 210
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    I was calibrating according to the film from YT. But the description is compatible with it. Yes, I did it, and there are big mistakes in my opinion
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  • #493 17286549
    Anonymous
    Level 1  
  • #494 17286562
    Jawi_P
    Level 36  
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    And what capacitors capacitance are you measuring? Somewhere in the discussion came out that for extreme ranges the spread may be significant. I do not remember the details, you must search after posts.
  • #495 17286566
    MARCIN.SLASK
    Home appliances specialist
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    eurotips wrote:
    And you do not mistake the error of indications with the scatter of the parameters of the elements being measured? Because the capacity of 33nF at the declared 100nF is the last standard, even in the oscilloscope set for points.
    Yes, often less branded elements have considerable dispersions (capacitors). And when they work at higher temperatures, the parameters are already falling. Today, the Polish centrifuge at the end of the 70s and the electrolytic capacitor 10?F (rectangular and casing soldered at the edges) Measured by 2 meters and on each shows equally 10?F The fact that it is about 3 times larger than the current ones, but the capacitance parameters after 40 years is perfect.
  • #496 17286658
    flatron316
    Level 13  
    Posts: 210
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    Thanks for your interest and feedback. Tonight I will measure a few capacitors and write how much is on the housing and how much the meter shows. In the films showing the use of the tester, these values, we know, are not ideal but similar to those on the housings. These are not extreme values, those I measure.
  • #497 17291194
    flatron316
    Level 13  
    Posts: 210
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    Hello, I measured and eg with new unused capacitors shows: on a 1u case measurement of 965nF on a 1000uF housing measurement 930uF on a 470uF housing 485uF measurement You think it is in some tolerance or exchange this plate (at the seller) Regards
  • #498 17291208
    gumisie
    Level 43  
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    flatron316 wrote:
    I measured and, for example, with new unused capacitors, it shows: on a 1u housing, 965nF measurement on a 1000uF housing, 930uF measurement on a 470uF housing, 485uF measurement. As you can see it is in some tolerances
    And how do you think?, What the actual capacitance can have a capacitor with a tolerance of +/- 10%.
  • #499 17291211
    E8600
    Level 41  
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    It's ok is in tolerance. The measurement should be compared with a multimeter or other capacitance meter.
  • #500 17291251
    flatron316
    Level 13  
    Posts: 210
    Rate: 37
    As +/- 10% it fits. But he measured the films on YT with greater accuracy (closer measurements were to the values on the housings). I would have to look for capacitors with the same values as in the movie, but I think I really compare with the measurement from the multimeter. Thanks for explaining
  • #501 17291265
    gumisie
    Level 43  
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    flatron316 wrote:
    I would have to look for capacitors with the same values as in the movie
    I did not watch this movie (it's a waste of time). Buy test capacitors with a tolerance of +/- 0.5%. greetings
  • #502 17291306
    flatron316
    Level 13  
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    Yes, thanks
  • #503 17291602
    MARCIN.SLASK
    Home appliances specialist
    Posts: 11852
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    The standard tolerance of electrolytic capacitors is +/- 20%. MKP, tantals, ceramics is +/- 10% (but not also +/- 20%). +/- 5% and less only in special versions. There are no less electrolyte tolerances, eg +75 / -10% or +50 / -20%. The exact multi-layer THT (+/- 1%) will be accurate, but these are usually small values up to around 22n. Prices 50-100x as much as the tolerance of +/- 10-20%. Therefore, the elements have their typical values to cover the whole scale (range) with a tolerance of +/- 20%.
  • #504 17434588
    KMal
    Level 34  
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    Hello. Unfortunately, in the current batch of testers the display on the side of the tape (connection) is wider, which causes the display glass to protrude beyond the plate. The upper part of the casing was already in contact with the plate (the display tape pressed against the plexiglass). In this lot of testers it is not possible to fully assemble the housing. The "quick" can be folded without the upper part of the casing (ie plexiglass from the top of the display). Be careful not to break the display, especially if it protrudes beyond the plate. I'm writing all the time that it's about the current batch of testers, or maybe I've come across such a single piece. Let the current buyers confirm.
  • #505 17434614
    gulson
    System Administrator
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    Thanks, there really was a new provider who said it was the latest version and software. Fortunately, only 13 items were ordered. I apologize for the problems.
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  • #506 17434705
    KMal
    Level 34  
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    With regard to tolerance (upper discussion), these are: the two same capacitors 470?F and 1?F only exchanged in places. No comment. ************************************************** ****************** What to post above: The one on the left is the current delivery, clearly wider display (glass on the tape side). The software is the same as last year. Battery basket. LCR-T4 electronics components tester ATMega328 - Test and Review LCR-T4 electronics components tester ATMega328 - Test and Review
  • #507 17434714
    Jawi_P
    Level 36  
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    KMal wrote:
    As for the tolerances, these are: two same capacitors 470?F and 1?F exchanged only in places. No comment.
    All in all it comes out that they are measuring well. Repeat for a toy.
  • #508 17435384
    Anonymous
    Level 1  
  • #509 17435405
    KMal
    Level 34  
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    Novile wrote:
    Because on the left, you can read it anyway.
    You can not because the testers do not change their place. The place changes capacitors. In both photos on the left is the newest tester with Energizer battery.
  • #510 17435415
    Anonymous
    Level 1  
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Topic summary

✨ The LCR-T4 electronics components tester based on the ATMega328 microcontroller is a versatile, low-power device powered by a 9V battery, drawing 12-15mA during measurement and 20nA in sleep mode. It automatically detects component types and lead configurations, measuring parameters such as resistance, capacitance (up to 47,000µF), inductance, diode voltage drop, transistor type and pinout, and ESR. Calibration involves shorting the test leads and using a known capacitor above 100nF. The tester supports testing of discrete components including resistors, capacitors, diodes, bipolar and field-effect transistors, and thyristors, though it struggles with integrated LM series voltage regulators due to their complex internal structures. Accuracy is generally sufficient for amateur and workshop use, with some noted measurement deviations, especially in low resistance and inductance readings. The device features a white LCD display, with some users comparing it to yellow LCD variants and color display models with built-in batteries. The ZIF socket is a known weak point, prone to contact issues and limited to thin leads; users recommend alternative housings and socket modifications for durability. The ribbon cable connecting the display is fragile and non-replaceable separately, requiring careful handling. The tester is available as a DIY kit with open-source firmware and as ready-made units, purchasable from Chinese suppliers and local Polish sellers, with prices around $30 or 25-40 PLN depending on housing and shipping. Shipping damage to displays has been reported due to insufficient packaging, prompting suggestions for improved protection. Firmware variations exist, affecting features like contrast adjustment and component recognition. The device is highly regarded for its ease of use, broad functionality, and value for money, making it a popular gadget among electronics hobbyists. Community discussions include suggestions for further development, housing designs, and integration of the elektroda.pl logo for uniqueness.
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FAQ

TL;DR: LCR-T4 auto-tests 14 part types, draws only 12-15 mA per measurement, and “will be useful in every workshop” [Elektroda, TechEkspert, post #16556695] Accuracy stays within ±2 % for most resistors. Firmware flashing adds live-scan mode and Zener tests. Why it matters: you get multimeter-level insight from a €10 gadget.

Quick Facts

• Supply: 9 V battery; 12-15 mA active, 20 nA sleep [Elektroda, 16556695] • R range: 0.1 Ω – 50 MΩ, C range: 25 pF – 100 000 µF, L range: 0.01 mH – 20 H [Elektroda, 16556695] • Typical accuracy: ±1 % R, ±3 % C, ±5 % L (user tests) [Elektroda, 16556695] • ESR read-out for electrolytics ≥1 µF [Elektroda, post #16556695] • Open-source firmware: AVR-based, 40 V boost for Zener mode [Elektroda, 16666684]

1. Which components does the LCR-T4 recognise?

It auto-detects resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes (single & dual), LEDs, Zener diodes (≤30 V with updated firmware), BJTs, MOSFETs, JFETs, IGBTs (basic), thyristors, triacs, and voltage regulators [Elektroda, #16556695; #16666684].

2. How accurate are its measurements versus a quality multimeter?

User comparison showed 9.97 kΩ read as 10.18 kΩ (2 % high) and 100 µF read as 99.6 µF (0.4 % low) [Elektroda, 16556695] Inductance errors rise above 5 % near the 0.01 mH limit.

3. How do I calibrate the tester?

  1. Short pins 1-2-3 with low-resistance wire.
  2. Hold the single button until “Self-Test” appears.
  3. At 38 % remove jumper; at 82 % connect a >100 nF capacitor between 1-3 [Elektroda, 16556695]

4. What battery life can I expect?

A 550 mAh alkaline 6F22 supports roughly 30 000 tests (≈15 mA × 2 s each); users reported >2 years on one cell [Elektroda, bestler, post #16671201]

5. Why does my inductor show "resistor"?

The MCU flags coils below 0.01 mH or above 20 H as resistive. Bifilar wound or high-resistance windings can also be misread [Elektroda, 16708279]

6. Triac appears as NPN—faulty?

Not necessarily. High-gate-current triacs (e.g., KT207) may be detected as NPN when pin order flips. Confirm by testing both 180° rotations [Elektroda, 16585086]

7. What gains do I get from flashing new firmware?

Newest Git build adds: live-scan (continuous R/C/L), PWM & frequency generator, Zener/IR-LED test to 30 V, Polish UI, and logo support [Elektroda, 16666684]

8. How do I flash the AVR safely?

Use an ISP programmer, set fuses: LOW 0xE2, HIGH 0xD9, EXT 0xFC. Backup the factory hex first; then write the compiled .hex, verify, and power-cycle. Full guide in forum post #16666684.

9. Can I measure ESR in-circuit?

Yes for electrolytics ≥1 µF. Testers showed identical ESR values before and after desoldering PC-motherboard caps [Elektroda, Dydelmax, post #16669734]

10. What’s an edge-case the tester fails?

Charged capacitors can kill the input; one user cracked the LCD after a 50 V part was connected [Elektroda, 16579821] Always short large caps first.

11. How do I protect the ribbon display?

Stick 1 mm foam tape under the LCD and avoid flexing the gold ribbon. A clear acrylic case with 10 mm standoffs prevents pressure on the button [Elektroda, 16674114]

12. How do I assemble the acrylic enclosure?

Follow this 3-step: 1. Sandwich PCB between 10 mm spacers; 2. Insert LCD through front panel, secure with nuts; 3. Add rear plate and eight M3 screws [Elektroda, 16658664]

13. Why does the tester mis-show varicaps?

It measures junction capacitance at one bias only, so it logs them as ordinary diodes. A manual curve-tracer is needed for full C-V plots [Elektroda, 16689532]

14. Where can I buy or what’s the typical cost?

Ready-made LCR-T4 kits ship from AliExpress or eBay for €8–12; Polish stock adds ~40 % markup [Elektroda, 16567602] Shipping weight fits <2 cm letter rate.
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