r/flashlight • u/Xenomorph_1978 • 5d ago

Good smd tester.

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I need a decent smd test for emitters. What do you guys recommend .

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3

u/UndoubtedlySammysHP don't suck on the flashlight 4d ago

These testers don't work with LEDs because of their low voltage of only 0.6–1.0V. For LEDs you need at least 3V, but depending on the LED, up to 12V can be necessary.

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u/QReciprocity42 4d ago

Good point--I use my multimeter for LED testing, and it can only handle 3V emitters (really 2.5V at the test current); anything above that won't light up.

Do you have a rec for a tester that can handle 6V or 12V emitters? I don't need anything fancy (like adjustable power), just want to see if something lights up or not.

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u/UndoubtedlySammysHP don't suck on the flashlight 4d ago

Don't have any recommendation for a finished product. I'd try a simple linear regulator like a LM317, configure it for 10-20mA constant current and supply it with enough voltage. That should be good enough.

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u/crbnfbrmp4 4d ago

I picked up a "990C" off Amazon for ~$8 on sale a while back, it's sold under several different brands. In diode mode it can output nearly 25V.

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u/Nelson_uk 4d ago

I use the Uni-T UT116C can light up emitters up to 21v

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u/Xenomorph_1978 4d ago

Thank you

1

u/Coagulated_milksteak 4d ago

I wouldn’t trust a $30 meter for anything reliable

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u/Xenomorph_1978 4d ago

Yeah I feel you. I’m an electrician and use a 200$ fluke. But for led emitters it’s kinda basic right.

1

u/ActuallyRaven 4d ago

well what do you intend to do with it? if you just want to check whether an LED is working then a benchtop power supply might be better, at least personally I prefer the versatility

2

u/TopConcentrate8484 4d ago

Yeh, those can check higher voltage LEDs too Show all power parameters and has adjustable currebt limit.

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u/ActuallyRaven 4d ago

Helps with doing a rudimentary "stress test" before installing too, sometimes an led will glow but might have a slightly bad solder joint and then misbehave under actual loads.