A resistor (having a resistance of Rs) is connected in series with an inductor whose inductance and/or resistance is desired to be determined. An alternating voltage (such as a sinusoidal voltage) is applied across the series-connected resistor and inductor, wherein the alternating voltage has a frequency ω, a unique maximum or minimum value Vm, an average value and a unique crossover of the average value. The voltage Vr is measured across the resistor when the alternating voltage is at its maximum or minimum value. The voltage Vl is measured across the resistor when the alternating voltage is at its average value. The resistance RL of the inductor is calculated from an equation in which RL is a function of Vm, Vr , Rs and Vl. The inductance L of the inductor is calculated from an equation in which L is a function of Vl, Rl, Rs, Vr and ω.