"Wild_Bill" wrote in message
...
I bought a new Blue ESR meter kit from Anatek recently. The kit was
received very quickly, and assembly was easy. The kit is neatly packed, the
circuit board is high quality and clearly marked for correct component
placement.

Anatek created an online forum for discussion of their products, so, if
someone encounters problems after assembly of the kit, they can find
several solutions and/or get quick help
http://www.anatekcorp.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=3

Aside from proper component placement, improper soldering technique would
probably be the only issue that an inexperienced kit builder or DIY-type
would experience.
If one is not trying to rush thru the assembly, there aren't likely be any
problems at completion.

I've intended to get one of the Bob Parker ESR models for many years, but
I procrastinate. I heard of the Procrastinators of America about 40 years
ago but never got around to joining.

I had read possibly hundreds of positive comments about Bob's ESR meters
over the years, and new users continue to praise them.

I've used Sencore Z-Meters for lots of years, and the Sencore models are
reliable, and also offer many capacitor and inductor test-analyze
features/functions beyond ESR testing, but the Bob Parker ESR meter is
much more convenient to use for quickly checking caps on a board.
Before the Sencore units, I relied on a digital capacitance meter and a
leakage tester built from a magazine article in the 80s, scope and DMM.

The Sencore units are very sensitive to any resistance of the connections
for the test cable.. oxidation at the front panel BNC connector can
prevent the circuits from zeroing properly (fault condition).
The Sencore test cable is about a 3' length of RG-62 B/U which isn't as
easily handled as the simple test leads of the Blue ESR meter.
The Blue ESR Meter is agreeable to to simple test leads and different
attachments such as alligator clips or test probes.

Like many others who like to or need to investigate circuit faults, I'm
also delighted with the Blue ESR Meter.

--
Cheers,
WB
.............


I've used an original Bob Parker designed Dick Smith kit on a daily basis
for years, and have always found it a pleasure to use. When the "Blue" was
released by Anatek from Bob's design revisions, I built a kit and wrote a
review for an electronics trade magazine here in the UK. I too found it easy
to build, and I agree with you that any reasonably experienced electronics
enthusiast who can handle a soldering iron, would be able to build the kit
with a 99% chance of 'first time' success. As you have found, a fine
instrument to own and use, and a worthy successor to Bob's original design.

And no, I'm not connected to Bob (except as a friend on the 'net for some
years) or to John at Anatek, in any way !

Arfa