Basic Electronic Project Kit Fault Finding Guide

Electronic Kit Basic Fault Finding Guide
If you have built a kit and found it does not work first time please don't despair. Getting a dead board working is a very rewarding experience. Not only do you get the satisfaction of it working but you will actually learn a good deal more about electronics on the way. Normally some basic fault finding efforts will help locate the problem but where do you start? Right here is the answer! In addition to reading the guide below we suggest you obtain a great little book called "How to Test Almost Anything Electronic" by Delton T. Horn. We are sure you will find it to be a very worthwhile investment. You can buy it on Amazon by clicking here.
Basic Fault Finding Guide
Here are some simple fault finding techniques that you can try before sending in a kit for repair under our Get You Going Service. We suggest that you thoroughly recheck the circuit again using the sequence detailed below. Check that all components are in the correct position and orientation. Check that there are no short circuits (excessively high current drain on the power supply may indicate shorts). Examine the PCB for solder splashes across pads/tracks and stray component leads/wires. Carry out some basic electrical tests to ensure power is reaching all parts of the circuit. Check all components are functioning correctly. Has overheating during soldering damaged any components? IC's and transistors are particularly susceptible. Remove and test suspect components using appropriate test equipment. Alternatively, substitute dubious components with tried and tested ones. Make a thorough check of circuit voltages/currents/signals using appropriate test equipment. Where kits are connected to other equipment check for compatibility problems by testing on alternative equipment. By adopting a systematic approach to fault finding you will eventually discover where the problem lies. If you wish to learn more about the design and testing of electronic circuits we recommend that you explore the extensive range of books and magazines that are available on the subject. Please note that we are unable to provide specific help or advice on design modifications or adaptations of project kits for individual customer applications. We wish you good luck with getting your project up and running soon. If you are still unable to locate the fault after carrying out the above tests we suggest you return the kit to us under our Get-You-Going service detailed below.
Get-You-Going Service
In view of the fact that we have no control over the assembly and operation of these devices we are unable to offer refunds on kits once assembly has been started. You will find that this policy is standard practice amongst retailers of electronic project kits. Instead, we operate a Get You Going Service.

Electronic Kit Basic Fault Finding Guide

Basic Fault Finding Guide

Get-You-Going Service