hi jay, well, thanks to dannyf, the problem is solved. it seems my 78 year all eyes (good excuse as any) let me down. it cleary shows r11 in the bridge circuit should be 1.5k, not 15k. the esr meter works perfectly. so, thanks are in order. jay, thanks so much for taking the time to help. to all who contributed, thanks again. I'am so happy!!!!!