Measurement :
The M3 Digital LCR meter defaults to Auto-detect, Auto-model operation at power up with a test frequency of
1kHz. When a capacitor, inductor, or resistor is properly connected to the test clips, the device will be
recognized automatically, within limitations as defined below. To measure a device, connect the HD and HS
clips to one lead of the DUT and connect the LD and LS clips to the other device lead. Do not hold the clip
leads while the DUT is being measured. The LCR meter will automatically select the correct Range for the
detected device as well as the most appropriate Model (series or parallel). Pressing the L/C/R/Z key will
manually step through the measured major and minor parameters for the DUT. Pressing the Model key will
manually switch between Series and Parallel equivalent circuits. To return to the Auto detection mode, press the
L/C/R/Z key for two seconds or more. To return to the Auto-Model mode, press and hold the Model key for two
seconds or longer.
Temperature can have a large impact on the DUT impedance. Usually, capacitors have large temperature
coefficients except for ceramic COG capacitors, which can exhibit only a 0.003%/°C variation. Inductors,
especially those with non-air cores, may vary largely with temperature. Ambient and DUT temperature drifts
may introduce error into the measurement. Control ambient temperature changes to reduce errors.
Capacitors :
Capacitors are measured in Farads. The basic construction of a capacitor is a dielectric material between two
electrodes. The many different types of capacitors available are classed according to their dielectric types. The
figure below shows the range of generic capacitance values for standard types.