MiniFAQ
Question:
There is now a very large selection of different tester models. Which clone should I buy?
Response:
1. There is a comparison table for the most popular clones. If funds allow, it is certainly worth choosing a
case model. If you plan to update the firmware after purchase, make sure that your choice of hardware
supports this feature. At the moment author's actual firmware with inclusion of all the additional functions
and options no longer fit into the memory ATMega328, need a processor with a large memory (ATMega644
and above).
Question:
How can I tell the difference between the firmware versions and the author of the software?
Response:
1.Absolutely ALL firmware (even the Chinese graphical LCR-T4) is based on the basic author's code by
Markus Frejek and further improved by 2 different people - Karl-Heinz Kubbeler and Markus Reschke.
Accordingly, software from Karl-Heinz is "marked" with a "K" after the version number, and the software
from Marcus by the letter "m". For example, 1.13k and 1.43m. A higher m-firmware number does not mean
that this firmware is more recent than 1.13k. Refer to the author's manuals for details.
2.Chinese "factory the firmware” is based on the same k-firmware and m-firmware, but with some
additional features and functions (e.g. GM328A) which have not yet been implemented or have been
partially implemented in the author's software. Very often in the chinese firmware in the pursuit of
beautiful images and graphics and because of the lack of memory is neutered important functionality, which
is needed for calibration and hardware troubleshooting.
Question:
I bought, I was given a tester(clone) ********. It does not turn on, does not work, does not respond to the
button (encoder), the display is not lit, etc. Where to dig?
Response:
1. Be sure to check the health of the power supply with a voltmeter (multimeter, battery tester), preferably
under load.
2. Carefully and accurately inspect the PCB and the display for mechanical damage (cracks, chips, broken
wires, etc.), unsoldered (cold soldered) parts, flux residue (p.a. acid) and just dirt.
3. Most popular tester clones have circuit diagrams, and the method of operation is described in detail
(chewed up) by the authors of the software in the manual (instructions). It does not matter what version of
firmware is installed on your device (factory, Chinese, Russian, etc.) - the circuitry of any tester is based on
the same basic measuring circuit!
Question:
I bought, I was given a tester(clone) ********. Do I need to update the firmware to a newer version?
Response:
No, you don't! Especially if you have little or no experience with AVRs and programmers.
If you are not satisfied with the operation of the factory firmware, ask a more experienced specialist, a
friend or a friend for help.
Question:
I bought, I was given a tester (clone) ********. It lies when measuring parts compared to my multimeter, LCR
meter,****** . Where to dig?
Response:
1. Don't expect miracles from this device (especially "out of the Chinese box") - metrological accuracy and
measurement stability. Don't forget that this is just a parts tester, not a highly specialized device! LCR
measurement is a BONUS feature for the tester! The authors managed to implement them quite successfully
in terms of simplified circuitry.
2. However, with the use of high-quality components (not Chinese fakes) and careful calibration, adjustment
can be achieved very good results, as confirmed by the extensive experience of many tester owners. You
may have to spend more money and effort to upgrade (upgrade) than the price of a clone. It's up to you.
