Need a VI Curvetracer, simple and cheap

[Klaus Kragelund]

Hi

I need a curvetracer for lab use. Simple stuff like V/I
characteristics for small signal (<1A) MOSFETs and diodes and stuff.

Does anyone know of a cheap one that connects to a PC (via USB or
disc)?

I have looked at the Keitley and Agilent types, but the starting price
is about 20k USD for these types

Regards

Klaus

 

[Robert Baer]

Hi

I need a curvetracer for lab use. Simple stuff like V/I
characteristics for small signal (<1A) MOSFETs and diodes and stuff.

Does anyone know of a cheap one that connects to a PC (via USB or
disc)?

I have looked at the Keitley and Agilent types, but the starting price
is about 20k USD for these types

Regards

Klaus

You could make your own; a transformer with peak output voltage near
what you would use, maybe a swithchable diode for single polarity, and a
few resistors - one for current monitoring and the other for voltage
monitoring.
Use your scope for the display.
Add a variac if need adjustable voltage, other secondaries for
different voltage scales.
Cheap and dirty.

 

[DaveM]

You could make your own; a transformer with peak output voltage near what
you would use, maybe a swithchable diode for single polarity, and a few
resistors - one for current monitoring and the other for voltage monitoring.
Use your scope for the display.
Add a variac if need adjustable voltage, other secondaries for different
voltage scales.
Cheap and dirty.

Search for "curve tracer" on Ebay. Lots of options, some are dirt cheap
compared to the current crop of commercial models. I have a couple of the
Heathkit IT-1121 tracers in my shop right now that I bought on Ebay. Both
worked perfectly the first time I used them, and continue to work well.
The IT-1121 will sweep the DUT up to 200V, and will test both BJT and FET units.
Got them both for under $30 each.

Cheers!!!
--
Dave M
MasonDG44 at comcast dot net (Just substitute the appropriate characters in the
address)

Life is like a roll of toilet paper; the closer to the end, the faster it goes.

 

[Fred Bartoli]

Klaus Kragelund a écrit :

Hi

I need a curvetracer for lab use. Simple stuff like V/I
characteristics for small signal (<1A) MOSFETs and diodes and stuff.

Does anyone know of a cheap one that connects to a PC (via USB or
disc)?

I have looked at the Keitley and Agilent types, but the starting price
is about 20k USD for these types

Have a look at ebay. Tek 576-577
Usually sales for less than USD500.