AX-503 and AX-507B SMD testers

Specificity of SMD circuit measurements

Due to constant miniaturization of electronic components, through-hole (THT) mount technology used for electronic circuits is more and more often replaced with surface (SMD) mount technology. Therefore, problems connected with testing, measuring, and servicing of PCBs with SMD components arise more frequently. This is due to the fact that soldering pads in SMD packages are extremely small (even less than 1mm2). Performing tests with the use of classic measurement probes supplied with multimeters is very onerous and time consuming.

Two models of AXIOMET testers

We have a perfect solution to solve this problem: AX-503 and AX-507B testers. Both these devices have the same structure but they have different functionalities.

AX-507B is characterized by a relatively higher measurement accuracy and it allows to check continuity of a connection, resistance of which is lower than 30Ω. The device is equipped with a precise tweezer that is integrated into a casing of a very light digital tester. Structure of the measurement probe improves work ergonomics. A display (also built-in into the casing) stays within the user’s field of vision while applying the probe to particular elements. It is very important because while looking at a display that is located away from the workplace, electrical contact between the probe and the element can be easily lost. Frequently, tiny SMD components slip out of classic measurement probes. Moreover, tweezer probe ensures easy and very stable electrical contact between the element under test and the device.

AX-507B tester is equipped with additional functionality that enhances work ergonomics. This model has got AUTOSCAN function which detects components being measured and automatically switches to the appropriate mode.

The specific characteristics of AXIOMET AX-503 and AX-507B testers as well as their ergonomics prove to be especially useful while measuring resistance of resistors and capacitance of capacitors in 0805, 0603, 0402, and smaller casings (because of their small size and dimensions of signs that describe particular elements.) In case of SMD capacitors, even elements in bigger casings (such as 1206 and 1210) do not include capacity information, what forces us to make measurement in order to determine the appropriate capacitance value.

Spacing between the tips of the tweezers is also appropriate for testing resistance of low power THT resistors as well as testing most capacitors in THT casings.

Testers from AXIOMET are also equipped with appropriate equipment to perform semiconductor joint tests, and the 507B model allows to perform a continuity test. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently test SMD/THT semiconductor elements directly on PCBs or to perform continuity test of PCBs with a high density of SMD components.

To sum up, AXIOMET 503 and 507B devices are recommended first of all to those who deal with SMD components during prototyping or servicing works. Taking into account the fact that there is a trend of moving away from THT mount technology, we can expect that testers equipped with a tweezer probe will become standard workshop and laboratory equipment in the nearest future.