Introduction to the Hiland M8 LC Meter Clone with ATMEGA8

The Hiland M8 LC Meter Clone with ATMEGA8 is a versatile and powerful tool for measuring inductance and capacitance. This device is a clone of the popular Hiland M8 LC Meter, but with the added advantage of using the ATMEGA8 microcontroller. In this article, we will provide an introduction to this LC meter clone and discuss its features and benefits.

The Hiland M8 LC Meter Clone with ATMEGA8 is designed to accurately measure inductance and capacitance values. It is equipped with a high-resolution display that provides clear and precise readings. The device is also capable of measuring a wide range of values, making it suitable for a variety of applications.

One of the key features of this LC meter clone is its use of the ATMEGA8 microcontroller. The ATMEGA8 is a powerful and versatile microcontroller that allows for precise and accurate measurements. It also provides the LC meter with the ability to store and recall measurement data, making it convenient for users who need to keep track of multiple readings.

The LC meter clone is also equipped with a user-friendly interface, making it easy to operate. It features a simple menu system that allows users to navigate through different functions and settings. The device also has a built-in calibration feature, which ensures accurate measurements by compensating for any variations in the components used.

In addition to its measurement capabilities, the Hiland M8 LC Meter Clone with ATMEGA8 also offers a range of additional features. It has a built-in frequency generator, which allows users to test the frequency response of their components. The device also has a component tester, which can be used to identify and test various electronic components.

The LC meter clone is powered by a 9V battery, making it portable and convenient to use. It also has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around and use in different locations. The device is also compatible with a range of accessories, such as test leads and probes, which further enhance its versatility.

Overall, the Hiland M8 LC Meter Clone with ATMEGA8 is a powerful and versatile tool for measuring inductance and capacitance. Its use of the ATMEGA8 microcontroller ensures accurate and precise measurements, while its user-friendly interface and additional features make it convenient and easy to use. Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional, this LC meter clone is a valuable addition to your toolkit.

Step-by-Step Guide on Building the Hiland M8 LC Meter Clone with ATMEGA8

The Hiland M8 LC Meter is a popular tool used by electronics enthusiasts to measure inductance and capacitance values. However, purchasing the original Hiland M8 LC Meter can be quite expensive. Luckily, there is an alternative—building a clone of the Hiland M8 LC Meter using the ATMEGA8 microcontroller.

Building your own Hiland M8 LC Meter clone can be a rewarding and cost-effective project. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of building your own Hiland M8 LC Meter clone with the ATMEGA8 microcontroller.

First, let’s gather all the necessary components. You will need an ATMEGA8 microcontroller, a 16×2 LCD display, a rotary encoder, a few capacitors and resistors, and some jumper wires. Additionally, you will need a breadboard and a soldering iron for the assembly.

Once you have all the components ready, it’s time to start building the circuit. Begin by connecting the ATMEGA8 microcontroller to the breadboard. Make sure to connect the power and ground pins correctly. Next, connect the LCD display to the breadboard and wire it to the microcontroller. The LCD display will serve as the user interface for the LC Meter.

Now, it’s time to connect the rotary encoder. The rotary encoder will be used to navigate through the LC Meter’s menu and select different options. Connect the rotary encoder to the breadboard and wire it to the microcontroller. Make sure to connect the encoder’s pins to the correct pins on the microcontroller.

Next, connect the capacitors and resistors to the breadboard. These components are essential for measuring the inductance and capacitance values accurately. Follow the schematic diagram provided with the Hiland M8 LC Meter clone to ensure the correct placement of these components.

Once all the components are connected, it’s time to program the ATMEGA8 microcontroller. You will need an AVR programmer and the necessary software to upload the firmware to the microcontroller. The firmware for the Hiland M8 LC Meter clone can be found online. Download the firmware and upload it to the microcontroller using the AVR programmer.

After programming the microcontroller, power up the circuit and test the functionality of the LC Meter. Use the rotary encoder to navigate through the menu and select different options. The LCD display should show the measured inductance and capacitance values accurately.

If everything is working correctly, you can now proceed to the final step – assembling the circuit on a PCB. Transfer the circuit from the breadboard to a PCB using a soldering iron. Make sure to follow the layout provided in the Hiland M8 LC Meter clone schematic.

Once the circuit is assembled on the PCB, double-check all the connections and components. Make sure there are no soldering errors or loose connections. Finally, power up the LC Meter and test its functionality one last time.

Congratulations! You have successfully built your own Hiland M8 LC Meter clone with the ATMEGA8 microcontroller. This DIY project not only saves you money but also gives you a deeper understanding of the inner workings of the LC Meter. Enjoy using your homemade LC Meter for all your electronics projects!

Features of LC CE Meter Hiland M8 clone:

• Inductance measurement range: 0.1μH to 2H
• Capacitance measurement range: 1pF to 2.5μF
• Electrolytic capacitor measurement range: 0.1μF to 30,000μF
•  Range for ceramic polyester capacitors (Cx): 1pF to 2.5µF
• Range for electrolytic capacitors (CEx): 0.1µF to 30,000µF (30mF)
• Automatic zero adjustment
• Ideal for electronics enthusiasts, students, hobbyists, maintenance technicians, designers, etc.
•  LCD display 1602
•  Uses Atmel Atmega8 or Atmega328 microcontroller

After assembling the LC CE meter:

1. Power the board with a voltage of 7 to 18VDC.
2. Adjust the 10K trimmer potentiometer until you have the best contrast on the display.
3. Adjust the voltage to 3.16V em test point at by acting on the 5K trimmer potentiometer.
4. Press the S1 button to choose the function, each press activates a function:
   1. TestC CX (Cx) – Measurement of non-polarized capacitors.
   2. TestL Lx (Lx) – Measurement of inductors. TestCE CEx (C1) – Measurement of electrolytic capacitors up to 1000μF.
   3. TestCE CEx (C2) – Measurement of electrolytic capacitors up to 30,000μF.

Capacitor Testing

When testing capacitors, always discharge them before the test. By touching both pins, this applies to electrolytic and dry capacitors. This procedure prevents shocks and damage to the microcontroller.

Troubleshooting Tips for the Hiland M8 LC Meter Clone with ATMEGA8

The Hiland M8 LC Meter Clone with ATMEGA8 is a popular device among electronics enthusiasts for measuring inductance and capacitance. However, like any electronic device, it may encounter some issues that require troubleshooting. In this article, we will discuss some common troubleshooting tips for the Hiland M8 LC Meter Clone with ATMEGA8.

One common issue that users may encounter is inaccurate readings. If you notice that the readings on your LC meter are consistently off, there are a few things you can check. First, ensure that the components you are measuring are properly connected to the LC meter. Loose connections can result in inaccurate readings. Additionally, make sure that the components are within the measurement range of the LC meter. If you are trying to measure a component that is outside the specified range, the readings may not be accurate.

Another potential issue is a malfunctioning LCD display. If you are experiencing problems with the display, such as missing segments or flickering, it could be due to a loose connection or a faulty LCD module. Check the connections between the LCD module and the ATMEGA8 microcontroller, ensuring that they are secure. If the connections are fine, you may need to replace the LCD module.

If your LC meter is not powering on at all, there could be a problem with the power supply. Check the connections between the power source and the LC meter, ensuring that they are properly connected. If the connections are secure, try using a different power source to see if the issue persists. If the LC meter still does not power on, there may be a problem with the ATMEGA8 microcontroller or other internal components, and you may need to seek professional help or consider replacing the device.

In some cases, the issue may lie with the firmware of the ATMEGA8 microcontroller. If you are experiencing unusual behavior or error messages, it could be due to a software issue. Try reprogramming the microcontroller with the latest firmware version provided by the manufacturer. This can often resolve software-related issues and restore the proper functionality of the LC meter.

Lastly, if you have exhausted all troubleshooting options and are still experiencing issues with your Hiland M8 LC Meter Clone with ATMEGA8, it may be helpful to consult the user manual or reach out to the manufacturer for further assistance. They may be able to provide specific troubleshooting steps or offer a solution to your problem.

In conclusion, the Hiland M8 LC Meter Clone with ATMEGA8 is a versatile device for measuring inductance and capacitance. However, like any electronic device, it may encounter issues that require troubleshooting. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can address common issues such as inaccurate readings, malfunctioning LCD displays, power supply problems, firmware issues, and more. Remember to consult the user manual or contact the manufacturer for further assistance if needed.

BOM for LC CE meter

Files download

Printed Circuit Board Gerber (PCB)

Source code

Atmega8 Firmware

Atmega328 Firmware

Source: https://oshwlab.com/wegi1/hiland-m8-diy-lc-ce-meter