Hi all,
I am wondering what your preferred part is for implementing "test points" on a PCB? I am thinking about the single hole thingies that you can hook up your DMM clamp to.
I do know that many people just make a ring with a cut off component leg (like from a resistor) but would be interested in a commercial product that you like to use.
Thanks,
Max
I am wondering what your preferred part is for implementing "test points" on a PCB? I am thinking about the single hole thingies that you can hook up your DMM clamp to.
I do know that many people just make a ring with a cut off component leg (like from a resistor) but would be interested in a commercial product that you like to use.
Thanks,
Max
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I use these: RS PRO 1.32mm Black Terminal Post | RS Components . They have em in a range of colours too.
The general category is here: Terminal Posts | Banana Plug Sockets | RS Components
The general category is here: Terminal Posts | Banana Plug Sockets | RS Components
Thank you, I only came across the plastic type (much cheaper that said) but the item in your link with the glass bead I do like very much !
Hi Max,
I use similar things, then there are turret type test points (more expensive). For quick prototypes I will often make a wire loop from component leads. I store a supply of cut leads as they are very handy to have.
If you plan your board, just make two holes and use a wire "U" shape. Works very well and doesn't bend and twist when you are connected. Much easier to hang a scope probe on too. The same holds true for the turret types, but I use those only for good boards that will be in service for years.
-Chris
I use similar things, then there are turret type test points (more expensive). For quick prototypes I will often make a wire loop from component leads. I store a supply of cut leads as they are very handy to have.
If you plan your board, just make two holes and use a wire "U" shape. Works very well and doesn't bend and twist when you are connected. Much easier to hang a scope probe on too. The same holds true for the turret types, but I use those only for good boards that will be in service for years.
-Chris
Keystone 500x Series Miniature Test Points
5000 (red)
5001 (black)
5002 (white)
5003 (orange)
5004 (yellow)
These are widely available from many distributors.
5000 (red)
5001 (black)
5002 (white)
5003 (orange)
5004 (yellow)
These are widely available from many distributors.
You can simply stick a solid-core wire (0.6mm diameter) into a via (unless using very small vias). Then all you need to do is ensure there's a via in each signal of interest. Normally the weight of the croc-clips on the multimeter, or of the 'scope probe is enough to keep the contact reliable in the via as solid core wire is stiff enough to press against the via edges nicely.
Thanks Mark for that input, I'll think of that when designing my own boards in the future.
In this particular case I have a commercial PCB and would like to give a nice touch in fitting "proper" test points so just it looks neat... I know nobody will ever see it, but I know it's there 😉
In this particular case I have a commercial PCB and would like to give a nice touch in fitting "proper" test points so just it looks neat... I know nobody will ever see it, but I know it's there 😉
For signals, I use 0.1" pin headers, one signal, one ground. This goes to a matching female connector with 50R MELF resistor in series, at the end of a coax, then scope or whatever instrument like soundcard.
If there is no space for holes, then two SMD test points 0.1" apart work fine to solder a header.
If there is no space for holes, then two SMD test points 0.1" apart work fine to solder a header.