Trouble reading inductance of copper coil using Extech LCR Meter 380193

[C3Theo]

I'm having trouble measuring the inductance on all the copper coils I've made using an LCR meter. I thought at first that it was because I was measuring the coils without applying current to the inductor, but this is a passive LCR meter and the manual states that all DUT's should be powered down before testing. I believe there's something wrong with my coils, because I've tested several commercial antennas and get a reading. I've tried several handmade coils now and can't get a reading out of any of them, and I'm not sure how else to troubleshoot this. I have an Oscillocope and function generator, but I'd like to use the LCR meter since I've already purchased it.

[cyr]

Maybe a silly question, but are you sure you are getting a good connection to the wire? Stripping insulation like that can be tricky... Hard to tell from the picture.

[C3Theo]

Here's pics of the meter picking up a reading with commercial antennas

[cncjerry]

you scraped or burned the insulation off the magnet wire, right?  I assume you get conductivity with an ohm meter?

[Rupunzell]

There will be significant error due to the long test leads connecting to the coil under test.
Put the test coil directly at the LCR meter with the shortest connection possible.


Bernice

Here's pics of the meter picking up a reading with commercial antennas

[C3Theo]

That was the problem. I didn't get all the enamel off when I scraped it with an exacto knife. Used soldering iron and now it works. I'll shorten the test leads as well. Thanks!