The discussion revolves around identifying transistor configurations and determining their types, specifically focusing on practical methods for testing and evaluating transistors using multimeters. Participants share tips and resources related to transistor identification and measurement techniques.
Participants generally agree on the usefulness of multimeters for testing transistors, but there are differing opinions on the type of multimeter to use, particularly regarding auto-range functionality.
Some participants mention specific features of multimeters and their practical implications, but there is no consensus on the best approach for identifying transistors without data sheets.
This discussion may be useful for electronics enthusiasts, hobbyists, or students looking to identify and test transistors effectively using multimeters.
vk6kro said:Most digital multimeters have a transistor test function on them. You can use this to learn enough about a transistor to know when to use it.
If you don't already have a multimeter this is an example of what is available now:
http://www.harborfreight.com/7-function-digital-multimeter-92020.html
The little blue circle on that meter is the transistor testing socket. You insert the transistor in different positions until you get a sensible Hfe (current gain) figure on the display. This would be a number between 50 and 500, probably. Not bad for $5.
For $20 you can get better ones that measure temperature, frequency and capacitance as well as all the usual ranges.