How to Actually Improve Accuracy of the TC1 Multi-Function Tester with Calibration Tips

I was having a hard time improving the accuracy of my new TC1 Multi-Function tester. I managed to get much better readings once I ditched the included bent-metal calibration jumper and used normal wires.

Hopefully this helps you to use and calibrate your component tester. If it helps you out, please subscribe, or let me know!

--------
SparkYo is the world's best miniature YouTube content creating persona. He restores whatever he wants, whenever he wants (or breaks it) and gets done quick. He's a grand guy that loves 8-bit. He has passion and drive for super mario. Mod a speedy new 4k SparkYo video directly into your twitch home to calibrate your convenience.
--------
❖ Contacts
Twitter : @SparkyoChan
----------
#ElectronicsCreators #tc1

[SparkY]

Thank you everyone for watching! If you would like, please share, explore other videos on my channel, or subscribe!

[LeviBulger]

What you need to do is wipe down the 3 pin thingy (or the probes) with alcohol to get rid of any oil residue it may still have from being fabbed. Just as that helps with test lead accuracy, it helps this thing calibrate. I almost gave up on these things until I tried that and it immediately made a difference of about 15% more accurate.

[davebing]

If you leave the test strip unbent, you will find that the spacing is correct to plug into every other pin (ie 1 - 3 - 2)

[GreyWolfUA]

Thank you fur the recommendation to repeat self-calibration over 20 times, that worked!

[videolabguy]

My unit came with no instructions. I was totally unaware of this calibration step. Thanks!

[TheCheesyRice]

I don't think you need to bend the self test probe just to fit it in the first 1-2-3 ports. The way I do it is to put the #1 pin in the first #2 port and then use the 1 & 3 ports directly to the right. The spacing is perfect doing it that way. Mine calibrates fine and seems to be measuring with acceptable accuracy (for a cheap tool).

[generalawareness]

Mine is on the way, and the first thing I saw was that pin header nonsense and I knew to ditch it. Make what you showed with a small jumper between the three pins is the best way.

[poormanselectronicsbench]

I replaced the 3 hook-probe leads with a slightly heavier and longer version of them, and I haven't had any issues with accuracy, but I do always calibrate it with those same leads. Its definitely a quick and handy low priced tool for general ID and test of most components.

[pault]

I suspect the resistance or capacitance of the leads could affect the calibration. Maybe solder the 3-prong connector instead? Perhaps too calibrate with it powered by USB or not powered by USB and stay with that. Also use with the same battery supply voltage.
The unit is really versatile at the expense of being accurate. Even so I am pleased with the results of this unit.

[paradiselost]

lol, i only found out about self test when i threw in a stuffed FET. wtf? lets try that again...

then i started getting really awesome diode reverse voltages like -43522267mV...

actually, at the moment im wondering about the zener side of it...

[jasonhudgins]

How small of a capacitor will measure? Will measure 1 pF?

[GO-mgft]

This video really helps as I had reference capacitor with fixed value but after this calibration suggestion it works accurate as can be.

[surrealchemist]

I had no idea what the heck that piece of metal was. I have been using mine and the stuff I am testing has been within tolerance so I assume it was already pretty close.

[RetroJack]

That plastic on there was really aggravating my OCD! 😋

[myyoutubeprofile-cu]

That bent metal is called a terminal crimp

[davidbolha]

But what is the IR port on the device for ? 🤔😕

[bobtrejo]

I was thinking about getting back into building pedals again, and thought this could be a useful tool. Thanks for the calibration tip. I am curious, though, about the accessory that you have on the multimeter, essentially allowing you to plug components into it without using the probes. Did that come with your multimeter, or was it an after-market acquisition? I've tried searching for something like that, and I'm coming up empty.

[johnlucier]

The meters are not dead on for caps. There is a 10 or 20 percent leeway. No capacitor is exactly as 8t reads in other words..

[chickenfoundation]

Just got a t7-h and it doesn’t go into self test mode