Driver testing/break in

[bean438]

Just wondering what I need to test/break in drivers, and check for air leaks.

Next build is the THT and I will start stocking up on what I need.

I have a cheapo multimeter, and a stereo receiver and ipod. I have read some guys are using an ipod run through an amp, with multimeter to set voltage.

What are the other options? Are there all in one units (i.e tone generator/multi etc)

I could use the THT amp (yet to be purchased) but I would also need a pre amp to plug the ipod into. This is why I am asking if there is a simple solution.

[Tom Smit]

Tone generator -Sigjenny or Audacity (down load)....create an hour long loop and run for 24 hours total
30 hz at 10 volts ...just turn up amp with meter leads on speaker hookups
driver in open air/outside of cab, so that noise level is minimal

[bean438]

Thanks Tom. If you dont mind a few more questions?

Should I run the tone from Audacity? I exported to itunes, and now have an hour tone on my ipod. Can I test via ipod/stereo receiver?

As for the multi meter, i have never used mine. It doesnt have alligator clips, just 2 probes. Good enough, or should I get clips?

Where do I turn the dial for the proper measurement? And which "red" do I plug the cable into, 10A, or V?

My multi:

http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/3060/multiw.jpg

[Frederic Gelinas]

Whatever you have on hand that will produce enough power will do. Home theater receiver is fine. Make sure your iPos will play the track in loop.

No need to get aligator clips. Just adjust the volume to get around 10V and your set. No need to keep the multimeter clipped there.

You would plug the black wire in the center and the red into the right one (for the Voltage (V) reading). Turn the selector to 200V AC scale (2nd clockwise from the off position).

[bean438]

You guys are awesome!

Since I am a complete idiot with multi meters, is there any good info out there? A good primer? The instructions are vague.

Is it a good idea to get a brickwall limiter for the THT?

Or could I send a 30hz tone and rsise the amp volume until it hits (38 volts if I recall) the max voltage?

[bean438]

For fun I played the 30 hz tone through my home stereo receiver. I got it up to 15.8 volts and the amp was in it's yellow zone.

The 8 inch woofer (ported cab) was vibrating pretty good.

So obviously each driver can be fed different amounts of voltage, depending on if they are free standing or enclosed. Where would one find out maximum voltage for various drivers?