ABI Electronics · Linear IC Testers
LinearMaster Compact Pro
Handheld out-of-circuit functional tester for linear (analog) ICs that gives a quick good/bad verdict.
LinearMaster Compact Professional is a handheld out-of-circuit functional tester for analog ICs. A ZIF socket accepts linear devices with up to 16 pins. A large built-in device library, an unknown-device search and per-pin diagnostics let repair engineers and labs decide whether an IC has failed without depending on the board it came from. Over USB, the optional CompactLink software extends the library and builds special functional tests.
Overview
ABI Electronics LinearMaster Compact Professional is a handheld tester built specifically for analog (linear) integrated circuits removed from the board. The engineer plugs the device straight into the ZIF socket, so nothing needs to stay on the PCB during the test. Devices up to 16 pins are supported, and optional SOIC and PLCC adapters extend package coverage. The built-in library provides complete functional tests, and the unknown-device search helps identify ICs with unclear markings or uncertain origin. Per-pin diagnostic information and a conditional loop test mode make it well suited to tracking intermittent faults, and a self-diagnosis function confirms the tester itself is measuring correctly. Over USB, the optional CompactLink software lets users add their own devices to the library and create functional tests for special applications.
Key specifications
| Test type | Out-of-circuit analog / linear IC functional test |
|---|---|
| Maximum pin count | 16 pins (through the ZIF socket) |
| Socket type | ZIF socket; optional SOIC and PLCC adapters |
| Power | Battery operated, 4x AA/LR6; optional mains adapter (battery eliminator) |
| Computer interface | USB |
| Optional software | CompactLink (PC based, extends the library and builds functional tests) |
| Standard accessories | LinearMaster Compact Professional unit, 4x AA/LR6 batteries, operator's manual |
| Manufacturer | ABI Electronics Ltd |
Features
Out-of-circuit analog IC test
Plug a linear IC of up to 16 pins into the ZIF socket and get a good/bad verdict quickly, with nothing left on the board.
Unknown device search
The built-in search compares the part against the library to identify ICs with unclear markings or uncertain origin.
Per-pin diagnostics
Diagnostic information is reported for each pin, so the fault can be located precisely.
Conditional loop test
A loop test mode repeats the test, which suits intermittent faults that are hard to reproduce.
USB link and CompactLink
Connect to a PC over USB; with the optional CompactLink software you can add devices and build special functional tests.
Self-diagnosis
A built-in self-diagnosis routine confirms the tester itself is working and the measurements can be trusted.
Typical applications
Repair diagnosis
Fast screening of analog ICs during board repair
The repair technician removes a suspect linear IC, such as an op amp, comparator or regulator, and plugs it into the ZIF socket of LinearMaster Compact Pro for an out-of-circuit functional test. The verdict comes in seconds, so good parts are not replaced by guesswork. For intermittent failures, loop test mode keeps the device under stress to catch faults triggered by warming or vibration.
Incoming inspection
Identifying and verifying unmarked and remarked ICs
When purchasing or stores staff receive analog ICs with no marking or a suspected remark, the automatic identification on LinearMaster Compact Pro scans the built-in library and lists the matching type and compatible substitutes. That stops counterfeit or downgraded parts reaching production and meets the incoming quality requirements of aerospace, defense and industrial suppliers.
R&D verification
Building custom test procedures for special analog devices
Development engineers connect the tester to a PC over USB and use ABI CompactLink to write custom functional test scripts for new or non-standard linear ICs and extend the local device library. Once the test parameters are settled, the script is downloaded to the tester for production or field staff to run repeatedly, carrying the check from prototype through to volume QA.
Options and configuration
Tick the options you need. We compile the configuration into a list and carry it into the quote request form.
Standard equipment (included)
Hardware options
Software options
Downloads
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