Hence, VQ in volts equals the inductor’s Q. This simple analysis assumes that the
range of CV is adequate to resonate with L.
If resonance is not
possible within the working range of CV, then, depending on whether we are dealing with an inductor at the lower end of the range (90nH) or one at the upper end of the
range (130 mH), we can add a known, standard series inductance in series with the
unknown inductor, or a known, standard capacitor in parallel with CV, respectively.
The
Boonton Model 260A Q-meter allows measurement of inductances 45 mH to 3%, and
Qs to 5%.