31-10-2016, 12:33 PM
(This post was last modified: 31-10-2016, 12:48 PM by Mike Watterson.)
Yes, the uTrace is great. For flexibility and cost saving I use 2mm patch cables instead of switches. I can use hooked leads to arbitrary or wire bases.
It can test parts you have no data on if you can figure connections.
I added a separate isolated LT supply for 0.6V to 4V as the built in system does only 5V to 20V LT (higher LT can use a bench PSU or 110V shaver transformer).
The software even works on an old Win2K laptop that I have "dedicated" to it. I have an AVO style muli-socket panel and all fitted in a cheap plastic outdoor equipment box.
I have also "unswitched" HT for Anode and Screen on the patch panel for magic eyes (I have patch cords with inline resistors).
I found it far more use than the AVO VCM163 which I had loan of for many months. The VCM163 is a very good tester, if you are testing a load of valves from a TV it might be faster. It also has leakage tests.
Because I use a patch panel, I can apply heater power and use my separate capacitor tester that has a 20uA meter to test leakage/shorts. Though leakage may show up in the uTracer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhNvdOW2zX4
Nick says
http://golbornevintageradio.co.uk/forum/...p?tid=4816&pid=51514#pid51514
My experience building it and some early sample results:
http://www.forum.radios-tv.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=5491
I've managed to test high voltage FETS to an extent, though with Enhancement mode you can't vary Vg. You can trace even quite low voltage depletion FETs.
Any kit tester will climb a lot in cost if you add a huge variety of valve bases.
It can test parts you have no data on if you can figure connections.
I added a separate isolated LT supply for 0.6V to 4V as the built in system does only 5V to 20V LT (higher LT can use a bench PSU or 110V shaver transformer).
The software even works on an old Win2K laptop that I have "dedicated" to it. I have an AVO style muli-socket panel and all fitted in a cheap plastic outdoor equipment box.
I have also "unswitched" HT for Anode and Screen on the patch panel for magic eyes (I have patch cords with inline resistors).
I found it far more use than the AVO VCM163 which I had loan of for many months. The VCM163 is a very good tester, if you are testing a load of valves from a TV it might be faster. It also has leakage tests.
Because I use a patch panel, I can apply heater power and use my separate capacitor tester that has a 20uA meter to test leakage/shorts. Though leakage may show up in the uTracer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhNvdOW2zX4
Nick says
http://golbornevintageradio.co.uk/forum/...p?tid=4816&pid=51514#pid51514
My experience building it and some early sample results:
http://www.forum.radios-tv.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=15&t=5491
I've managed to test high voltage FETS to an extent, though with Enhancement mode you can't vary Vg. You can trace even quite low voltage depletion FETs.
Any kit tester will climb a lot in cost if you add a huge variety of valve bases.
