1. Can the SIFT detector be used to test in circuit capacitors (I have a bunch in the old Yaesu FT 101EE)? If not, can I unsolder one leg and test the capacitor while the other leg is still tied to the board?
2. Can I use IN34A Axial for TV FM AM Radio Detection I have laying around that I used on an RF probe build instead of the recommended 1N5711 that’s currently on backorder though MOUSER?
We enjoyed our first circuit build and looking to build more!
1. I don’t think it’s a good idea since the SIFT circuit is overly sensitive (by design) and I predict that you’ll most likely get mixed or inconclusive results perhaps “garbage result! It wouldn’t work well…I highly doubt it would.
2. In my opinion it should In theory” work but….you have to take into account the following: 1N5711 is a (silicone) Schottky and therefore has a very low forward voltage (usually the average is 0.2-0.3V) but as for 1N34 being basically (a generic Germanium detection diode) it could be all over the place and chances are it could be up to 1V (as per Data Sheet) but if you say you have a bunch of them you could simply (with a digital tester) hand pick the ones that have the lowest possible forward voltage. Is worth a try.
The higher the forward on the detector diode, the more IF drive you need to get through for detection. There are a few options available on there right now in stock (US), they may not be the exact package style you want but it could be overcome if needed. A few SMT and a through hole version shows first. Always worth the experiment though!
Radios + Tubes + Scopes + Cars= Nothing better!