Test with a multimeter

Tantalum

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Now: Measure the capacitance (red +)

CircuVanta 6000 counts · auto range DCAUTO•)))HOLDFUSE− HOLD LIGHT OFFV⎓V~Ω•)))FmA⎓ mA400 mACOMVΩ Plus (+) 1 + Minus (−) 2 −
Pin 1: Plus (+) (+) Pin 2: Minus (−) (−)

Red probe Not connectedBlack probe Not connected

Hold the probe and drag it to the tip of a leg. Tapping works too: first pick the probe, then the leg.

Set the range to F (capacitance).

Measure step by step

A tantalum capacitor has a + end: red probe to the + leg (the marked leg on a drop type, the striped end on SMD), black probe to the − leg. A tantalum easily becomes a short circuit from reverse voltage and excess current.

A capacitor stores energy. Before measuring, cut the power and discharge the capacitor through a resistor; do not short-circuit its pins with a screwdriver.

  1. 1Measure the capacitance (red +)
  2. 2Watch it charge on the Ω range