Troubleshooting SCR Panels Made Easy

…with the Handyman Component Tester

The Handyman Component Tester (FSIP Model 269) represents a giant step forward in portable test equipment. It works in conjunction with your present voltmeter and greatly enhances testing capabilities. The Handyman enables you to test SCRs (silicon controlled rectifiers), diodes, capacitors, transistors, contactor drivers, snubbers, suppressors and more with a level of confidence never before possible with a voltmeter alone. How many times have you seen a component test OK with a voltmeter alone but found that it breaks down when full voltage is applied?

The Handyman is quite different from other testers in that it applies 200 volts to SCRs and diodes for evaluating blocking and reverse leakage. Capacitors can also be tested at or near their actual operating voltage. Numerous other components can be completely tested under realistic conditions where voltmeter testing alone would provide only marginal or inconclusive information. SCR firing and holding current tests along with diode forward conduction and simple continuity testing are all routing for the Handyman. For added convenience, an audible as well as a visual indication is provided for continuity tests. This enables the operator to devote full attention to circuit probing without the need for visual contact with the Handyman. It also tests its own battery and internal circuitry. The peak reading function allows you to use your voltmeter to measure the peak voltage developed across commutating capacitors on all SCR controls.

The Handyman Tester requires minimal operator judgment or experience. A calibrated leakage detector tells you, by means of a front panel indication, when a component is defective without the use of a voltmeter. The voltmeter is optional on most tests, if additional information is desired. By eliminating guesswork, defective components are spotted, and good components are saved instead of being needlessly discarded because they are suspect.

Occasionally, an SCR will fail under load after it is hot due to thermally induced stresses or marginal turn-off time condition. Since these types of defects do not show up until the SCR has been operating at full load for several minutes or hours. The Handyman is not capable of detecting them. Part substitution is sometimes the only way of isolating thermally induced intermittent defects.

The Handyman is furnished complete with three high quality test leads, insulated test clips, plastic instruction card and operators’ manual. The Handyman is powered by eight standard “C” cells, because of possible shelf depletion batteries are not included.

Need a quote? Contact FSIP now!