Escort ELC-131D LCR meter for in circuit ESR test

[a1976888]

Hi,
I'm looking for a cheap meter to test capacitor ESR in circuit.
I found a cheap old Escort ELC-131D LCR meter.
Would it be good for my needs?
Thanks!

[HiTech]

You actually have it or you found a used one to buy? Used on eBay I think they sell for way too high for what they are. Realize that the Escort has only two selectable test freqs, 1KHz being the highest.... so caps for switching supplies and high freq. amps will likely show inaccurate readings.  Look for a used Peak Atlas or an Applent.

[Lightages]

The ELC-131D has a test out voltage of around 0.9V. It is not suitable for in circuit testing of capacitors.

Edit: Actually mine goes just over 1V

[a1976888]

Thanks for yours answers!
I will look for something else then. Probably a used der-ee-de-5000 or the really cheap $20 LCR ESR Transistor checker.
I think that Peak Atlas or an Applent are way too expensive for me.

[e4ch]

(replying to this old thread in case someone reads about this LCR meter) What did you finally end up with?

I own one of these (Escort ELC-131D LCR meter) and I am very happy with it. Price in 1995 was around $450, so if you get it cheap and in perfect working condition, I would buy it. It's quite accurate. Yes, only two frequencies (120Hz and 1kHz), but that's enough for most cases. And I would not recommend measuring in-circuit anyway, if you want accurate results. In-circuit measurements are only for quick-testing if you look at a component that looks broken, but don't want to desolder it for a first test. If measurements are off, you have to desolder it anyway to verify that it's indeed broken.

[yustech]

I bought one USD25(used) without knowing the details. Its in great shape. Now I feel more happier after reading e4ch review. Thank you.