Signal tracer power indicator.

I don't know if any of you remember my experience trying to replace my Micronta tester.  I tried building one and then spent $160 for one.  Then I found an exact replacement for $45.




The problem is that I keep forgetting to turn it off.  Since I only use Duracell batteries that can be expensive.  So, I'm going to mount a red LED on the front as an indicator.  I had done this on my old tester. I'll probably make a video of it.  I'm trying to figure out where to mount it.  Mounting it on the top will destroy the logo and look silly.  I'm thinking to the right of the control.

Sounds like a good place, But I would suggest getting one that flashes, less battery consumption and more of a attention getter.

Resistance is Futile wrote:Sounds like a good place, But I would suggest getting one that flashes, less battery consumption and more of a attention getter.

That's a good suggestion, but I think that it would be kind of distracting while I'm using it.

I used to buy Duracell's also until they started to leak. I switched to Energizer Lithium's and have had no more leaks. They last longer also, at least for me.

I only use Duracell. They've been good for me.

terrydec wrote:I only use Duracell.  They've been good for me.

You've had a different and better outcome than me.  Duracell and Costco alkalines have ruined more devices than I care to remember.  So now, I either use Energizer alkalines (supposedly "leak proof" and so far, so good) or lithiums.

https://www.energizer.com/about-batteries/no-leaks-guarantee

On the power indicator light idea, I had a similar situation on a Heathkit IT-5211 signal tracer since I do not have a power supply unit for it so I only use it in the battery mode.  It's a lot bigger unit than the Radio Shack signal tracer, so the LED panel lamp fit right in and looks nice.  I used green, looks and works great.  Haven't forgotten to turn it off once since installing the light!

I agree with Energizer over Duracell. There have been so many of the Duracell batteries leaking in my equipment that I would rather purchase a product that does not last as long over one that will destroy my things.

CrystalRadioMan wrote:I agree with Energizer over Duracell. There have been so many of the Duracell batteries leaking in my equipment that I would rather purchase a product that does not last as long over one that will destroy my things.

The last batch of Energizers that I bought said, "Now Longer Lasting Thanks to New Improvements."  We'll see, but if true, that's great.

It says on the Energizer website that they have a leak proof guarantee in that if they leak they will replace your device if damaged. It doesn't get any better than that! I have a camera that takes AA batteries. When i first got it, i tried Duracell's and was only able to take 15 pictures with a set. I then tried Energizer lithium's and was able to take close to 40 pictures on one set of batteries. I've been sold ever since. But like most things it's a matter of preference.