Design and Implementation of a Low-Cost, Locally Fabricated Digital Rlc Device for Real-Time Waveform Analysis Using Oscilloscope Technology

This project focuses on the design and implementation of a low-cost, locally fabricated digital RLC meter, integrated with oscilloscope technology for real-time waveform analysis. The primary aim was to come up with a cheap and reliable alternative to expensive commercial devices, particularly for resource-scarce settings. Founded on locally available components and microcontroller-based circuitry, the system offers accurate measurements of resistance (R), inductance (L), and capacitance (C), in addition to enabling complex waveform monitoring. The results indicate that the developed RLC meter measures the same degree of accuracy as commercial meters, with a deviation of less than 2% for capacitance and inductance and less than 1% for resistance. Combination with oscilloscopes enhances the system usefulness by allowing users to display phase relationships, resonance, and frequency response of electrical circuits in real time. In this regard, this feature makes the equipment appropriate for industrial, research, and educational applications. The device is compact, portable, and simple to operate, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals, even those with no technical expertise. Its low price, at around 60% lower than the production cost of commercial devices, also makes it an appealing choice in regions where access to advanced electronic equipment is limited. However, limitations such as a narrow range of measurement for inductance and capacitance and low sensitivity to ambient conditions were discovered. It is feasible to eliminate these limitations in future versions by optimizing the circuit design and adding temperature compensation. In conclusion, the low-cost digital RLC meter achieves its objectives of affordability, accuracy, and accessibility, providing a good tool for circuit parameter measurement and waveform analysis. This work contributes to the development of locally designed electronic instruments, promoting technological self-reliance in underserved regions. System upgrade plans in the future will seek to expand its measurement range, improve ruggedness, and incorporate additional features, such as advanced data logging and wireless connectivity, to further boost its applicability.