[R-390] Capacitor tester...Thanks!!

[rbethman]

John,

No question of coming to the right place!

Serial numbers are "less" important than the manufacturer, and the 
specific contract date.

Modules are very likely a grab bag of what was available at the time it 
went through either Depot, or the shop that worked on it.

Modules are VERY well known to have been swapped around to enable the 
radios to get back into use.

I've only seen two radios that had all the modules that were by the 
manufacturer stated on the dataplate on the front panel.

Testing by VOM, VTVM, ESR, and/or a capacitor tester are all valid methods.

It becomes a matter of what is available, and how one goes about doing 
what that particular person elects to do.

I actually use a mix.  My VTVM gets first use - IF the radio is up to 
applying power.  I had an up and functional '67 EAC.  That made things 
easier.  The second one that I obtained was one of the original '51 
contract Collins.  Since it was a "Blue-Striper", one of the St. Js 
survivors, powering it up was NOT an option.

Hence you'll get different views as to how you should proceed.

Miles, and Done make very valid points.  I'll second the "touch" to feel 
warmth.  Either a laser temp device, or a thermocouple that comes with a 
DVM is much preferred than putting one's finger into the midst of 
circuitry that may well bite one!

The voltages vary dependent on the particular circuit being examined.

So hang on for the ride!  You will NOT be a pest!

Everyone has to start somewhere.

Bob - N0DGN

On 3/6/2012 11:34 PM, John Saxon wrote:
> Wow!  Did I come to the right place!
>
> Thank you so much guys for the *very* helpful comments, a lot of good advice and a lot to think about.
>
> I really liked Bob's comment about taking an inventory of my radios.  I will do that.  I will record the manufacturer and serial number posted on the front panel, and see if I can determine the builder of the modules.
>
> Thanks again guys, and I will probably become a pest, real soon!
>
> 73 es ge
> John
> K5ENQ
>