1.
How to test Resistors:
I. Remove power from the circuit containing the resistor. This can be done by
unplugging it from the mains or by removing the batteries if it is a portable device. Keep
in mind that some devices still can be charged with a potentially harmful voltage until
minutes after removing its power!
II. Isolate the resistor from the circuit. An attempt to measure a resistor that is still
connected to the circuit can yield an incorrect calculation, as part of the circuit might also
be measured.
III. Inspect the resistor. If the resistor shows signs of blackening or charring, it may be
damaged by excess current flow. A resistor showing blackening or charring should be
replaced and discarded.
IV. Read the resistor value visually. The resistor value will be printed on the resistor.
Smaller resistors may have their value indicated by color coded bands.
V. Prepare a digital multimeter (DMM) to measure the resistor. DMMs are available at
electronics parts and hobby stores.
VI. Measure the resistance. Connect the 2 leads of the DMM to the 2 legs of the resistor.
Resistors have no polarity, so it does not matter which DMM lead is connected to which
resistor leg.
VII. Determine the actual resistance of the resistor. Read the result shown on the
multimeter. In determining whether or not the resistor is within the allowable range for
that resistor, do not forget to take the resistor tolerance into account.
VIII. Reattach a resistor that gives an accurate reading. Reconnect it to the circuit by
pressing it back into place if you pulled it free with your fingers. If the solder joint had to
be melted and the resistor had to be disconnected using pliers, melt the solder with the
soldering iron and use the needle nose pliers to push the resistor back in to place.
IX. Replace a resistor that measures outside of the acceptable value range. Discard the
old resistor. Resistors are available in electronics parts stores and hobby stores. Note that
replacing the malfunctioning resistor will not necessarily fix the problem, if the resistor
fails again the source of the problem should be sought elsewhere in the circuit.
2. How to test Capacitor:
a) Test & Check a Capacitor By a Digital Multimeter
i. Make sure the capacitor is discharged.
ii. Set the meter on Ohm range (Set it at lease 1000Ohm = 1k).
iii. Connect the Meter leads to the Capacitor terminals.
iv. Digital meter will show some numbers for a second. Note the reading.
v. And then immediately it will return to the OL (Open Line). Every attempt of Step 2
will show the same result as was in step 4 and Step 5. It’s mean that Capacitor is in
Good Condition.
vi. If there is no Change, then Capacitor is dead.
b) Checking Capacitor By Multimeter in the capacitance Mode
Note: You can do this test with a multimeter if you have a Capacitance meter on
your multimeter. Also, this method is good for tiny capacitors.
i. Make sure the capacitor is fully discharged.
ii. Remove the capacitors from board or circuit.
[Link] Select “Capacitance” on your multimeter.
iv. Now connect the capacitor terminal to the multimeter leads.
v. If the reading is near to the actual value of the capacitor (i.e. the printed value
on the Capacitor container box).
vi. Then the capacitor is in good condition. (Note that the reading may be less than
the actual value of the capacitor (the printed value on the Capacitor container
box).
vii. If you read a significantly lower capacitance or none at all, then capacitor is
dead and you should change it.
3. How to test Inductor:
4. How to test Diode:
5. How to test transistor:
6. How to test FET:
7. How to test UJT:
8. How to test SCR:
9. How to test Diac:
10. How to test Triac:
11. How to test Transformer:
12. How to test Relay:
13. How to test LED: