GM328A Component Tester Review
After seeing one of these cheep component testers on Julian’s youtube Channel i decided to get one and here’s my short review.
Prices seem to range between £9.60 – £12 depend where you purchase it from.
or Ebay
Hardware
First of you will notice its very basic device, its just a PCB and doesn’t come with any enclosure of any sort and operated from just one button!
Power is supplied via a 9v pp3 battery which is monitored when using the device for low battery warnings ect.
There is a ZIF connector for easy connections to components and some PCB pads for just simply touching components on. Also there’s a 3pin PCB socket for custom test leads or maybe in circuit testing.
The Green back-lit graphical LCD is very clear and very easy to read. Unfortunately mine arrived all scratched but Ive just most likely been unlucky .
**UPDATE it was only a protective covering film that was damage and removing it to reveal a flawless display**
Operation
As mentioned earlier due to only having 1 button , this control everything from powering on to testing a component or selecting a menu option. It seems to be accurate enough for the average hobbyist
Transistor testing:
The b,e,c labels on diagram makes it easy for the pin-out.
Resistor measuring:
Capacitor measuring:
Other extra functions include a basic frequency generator , Rotary encoder tester , 10 bit PWM generator RC servos ?:
Frequency generator
Pros
- Loads of functions
- Good price
- Nice easy read display
- Portable size
Cons
- Only one button makes extra functions and menu navigation not always so easy
- No manufacture enclosure available to buy ( User 3d print versions are on net) needs a case really to contain the loose battery.
Conclusion
Overall i think this a good little tester and ideal for the hobbyist electronics tool box. I think i will design and 3d print a case at some point to contain the battery and protect everything.
In my opinion would give 4/5
My 3d printed case coming soon !
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