Handheld Digital SMD Tester

This handheld digital SMD tester is a handy tools for quickly measuring surface mount component values. Unlike the old days of huge resistors, capacitors, and inductors that had plenty of space on their packages for markings, the grain-of-salt-size devices on modern day circuit boards defy identification once removed from their shipping containers. The added expense of laser marking makes doing so for every component highly impractical. If you have ever tried to use a standard set of multimeter probes to measure even a 1206 size resistor, then you know what a pain it can be, and then being sure that enough pressure is applied to the package contacts leaves you doubting the reading.

Fortunately, there are a few companies that are making these tweezer type multimeters that combines the process of securely grasping the device under test and applying the test probes. Even handier is a built-in LCD readout. At a price of less than $25, it is hard to argue against owning this MASTECH MS8910. This particular model does not measure inductance, but it does do resistance, capacitance, and diode junctions. Here are the specs:

• 3000 count LCD display/li>
• Full automatic measurement
• Auto scanning Resistance/Capacitance/Diode
• Function selection by one “FUNC”  Push Button
• Data Hold function
• Continuity Checking function
• Over Load Indication ( ‘OL')
• Low Battery Indication
• Power Supply: 3V Lithium Battery CR2032 (included)
• Auto Power OFF
• Size/Weight:  6.7” x 1.2” x 0.7” ~ 1.7oz

Posted on  April 30, 2015