@larry_n7luf On Mouser you can find 2N5962, the THT version of MMBT5962. It’s a bit of a struggle to bend the terminals to fit SMD traces but it works. Cheers, Daniel
Hi there,
I would like to share my experience with building this device. I personally built it in 2021 and I built one of the older versions, which was entirely through hole. I had no experience with SMD and was too afraight of it. Yet the device works perfectly and I use it quiet often. So if anybody here is not experienced with SMD and does not feel like trying it (as I did back then), you can certainly built the THT version of the forecasting capacitor tester and have a more then usable device. (also basically all the components vere pretty easy to get hands on, even here in europe)
Also I noticed some conversetaions here about project boxes. I mentioned in my “Ultraprobe” post, that the Hammond boxes are pricey for my, so I usually find alternative solutions. For the capacitor tester I used a piece of a thick-walled aluminium profile I had on hand, that I only closed with aluminium caps. Also during the built, I drilled holes for the bar graph LEDs too big. I did not feel like throwing the whole piece of aluminium profile away however, so I used a piece of brass to make a cover for my fail 😀 and in the end decided to polish this brass cover. I think it turned out fine. [img] 
[/img]
So maybe some inspiraion for others, when it comes to alternatice solutions. 😀
@honzam I to was afraid of SMD and held me back for many years, but I now feel it is so much easier and ever soldered a 0402 SMD.
I got a practice board years age and did not want to even mess it up.
I gave in and said myself why not or toss the board.
To my surprised, the very first 1206 SMD really looked great and checked with my meter and all was good, I just sat there looking at it trying to come up why I waited so long.
Then after a few 1206 smd’s, why not give the 0402 smd a try.
Yes my hands were shaking, but I did it.
Now at almost 80 years of age, I am kicking myself for not trying and my eyes are now gone too.
Your box look great!
Larry – N7LUF
I agree that it’s getting harder to find some parts. But I have yet to try Aliexpress!
Just been using Digi and Mouser for most non-tube-y stuff. Thanks, @Ryan_W1RMD, I will have to give them a try.
@calambres nice build. Wondering if you’d be happy to share how to implement the variable voltage on the tester?
I recall Paul mentioning modifying the circuit somehow but it’s a bit above my pay grade. I’m a member on Patreon if it’s easier to post there.
Matt
It is documented in Paul’s videos in Patreon.
Basicaly it is done by paralleling a zener diode with the 1nF capacitor (or 10nF depending on the schematic version) that is located between the 4K7 resistor and ground, anode to ground of course. I implemented a 1P5T rotary switch with 4 zeners (5.1V, 10V, 16V, 25V… select your faves) leaving the last throw unconnected for the default 27V. Easy peasy…
@calambres I am going to need to watch the video again to find out the need for different zeners.
If I remember he went fast when he talked about it.
Could you explain, thank you
Larry – N7LUF