Component Testing#

Go/no-go on parts. Real values vs. markings. R, C, L, diodes, transistors, ESR. When a part is suspect, these are the measurements that confirm or clear it.

  • Is this part dead or alive? — Quick go/no-go checks. Diode junctions, transistor beta, capacitor charge/discharge, inductor continuity. Catching the obviously blown parts first.
  • What’s the actual value? — Measuring R, C, and L with a meter or LCR bridge. Unmarked parts, faded markings, and confirming that what’s on the board matches what’s on the schematic.
  • Is it within tolerance? — Comparing measured value to rated value and tolerance band. Drift from aging, heat damage, or overstress.
  • What’s the ESR / leakage / gain? — Deeper characterization beyond nominal value. Electrolytic ESR, capacitor leakage current, transistor hFE, and other parameters that separate a marginal part from a good one.
Backward Is This Connection Intermittent? Is This Part Dead or Alive? Forward