Identifying Unknowns in a circuit

[katier885]

When using an analog voltmeter how do you identify the difference between resistors, capacitors, and inductors?

 

[berkeman]

Do you mean loose components, or after the parts are soldered into a circuit board? The second case is much harder (quiz quesion -- why?).

What functions are available on your analog voltmeter? Do you have any other equipment at your disposal for this? What are your initial thoughts on how to answer the question?

 

[kyle8921]

When using an analog voltmeter to identify unknown components in a circuit, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, it is important to understand the basic properties and functions of resistors, capacitors, and inductors. Resistors are used to limit the flow of current in a circuit, while capacitors store electrical charge and inductors store magnetic energy.

To identify a resistor, you can use the voltmeter to measure the resistance of the component. This can be done by placing the voltmeter in parallel with the resistor and reading the voltage drop across it. The higher the resistance, the larger the voltage drop will be.

For capacitors, you can use the voltmeter to measure the capacitance of the component. This can be done by placing the voltmeter in parallel with the capacitor and measuring the voltage across it. The larger the capacitance, the slower the voltage will change over time.

Lastly, to identify an inductor, you can use the voltmeter to measure the inductance of the component. This can be done by placing the voltmeter in series with the inductor and measuring the voltage drop across it. The higher the inductance, the larger the voltage drop will be.

It is important to note that these measurements may not be completely accurate with an analog voltmeter, as they are typically less precise than digital voltmeters. However, they can still provide a general idea of the component's properties and help in identifying unknowns in a circuit. Additionally, it is always recommended to use multiple methods of identification, such as visual inspection and component markings, to ensure accuracy.