hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Jewell Electrodynamic Wattmeter Disassembly - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JackOfVA
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 03, 2012, 11:23:34 pm
content: Before digital AC mains wattmeters, there were electrodynamic wattmeters.Unlike a typical d'Arsonval meter with a permanent magnet and a moving coil, electrodynamic wattmeters operate with two coils and no permanent magnet. One coil is fixed and the second is coupled to the meter pointer and is free to rotate. One coil is powered from the AC mains voltage and the second carries a sample of the current. The net magnetic force against the retaining spring is proportional to voltage x current, or watts. This arrangement compensates for power factor and thus reads true power, not volt-amperes.I've had an old wattmeter in the junk box for years - it was acquired at a ham radio swap and shop for a few dollars - but it was not in good shape. The pointer would stick and it was in generally poor shape. It's now disassembled into a pile of parts in the trash bin, as illustrated in the photos below.The meter also has two resistors, 4.37K and 411 ohms and a 0.25uF capacitor and a current transformer.The meter is a marvel of mechanical construction, particularly the fixed and rotating coils.
No ball mouse sensor naked......... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2012, 05:37:40 pm
content: In line with the slogan of the blog, I was tired of a generic wireless mouse, and, as it was not working well ( refused to scroll properly and was very jumpy even right next to the receiver with new batteries) and the associated keyboard was "retired" due to the user having an accident involving a cup of coffee ( not me, I will add) and needing replacement with a new combo pack from M$. I took the mouse apart and always wanted to see how the sensor looks, so here it is.

author: PA0PBZ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2012, 06:35:34 pm
content: Ah, the naked mouse sensor topic! Here's my contribution, a no name wireless that died.

author: muvideo
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2012, 07:42:20 pm
content: Nice, is the matrix the "eye" (cmos array I suppose) ?

author: PA0PBZ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2012, 07:51:27 pm
content: Yeah I guess so. looks the same as yours. Surprised me that there is a lot of logic in there apart from the sensor. And it also surprised me how dirty these things get just sitting on the workbench for a month

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2012, 08:03:31 pm
content: Normally the logic inside is the only thing in the whole unit, doing everything including the USB connection. My one has a bigger daughter board with the power supply ( an inverter to derive a higher voltage most likely for the radio transmitter) and a one chip transmitter, and 2 13mHz or so crystals. The mouse board itself has the one DIL package, a few resistors and a LED for illuminating the mouse pad. Add a 13.43MHz resonator and a current limiting resistor for the diode ( leaded) and the IR scroll emitter and dual photodiode, and the 3 switches and that is it.Amazing how much dust this thing collects.

author: PA0PBZ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2012, 08:18:34 pm
content: This one is wireless, so no USB connection, but apart from the sensor a real microprocessor which I've never seen before, a MDT2010ES.http://html.alldatasheet.com/html-pdf/127379/ETC1/MDT2010/96/1/MDT2010.htmlProbably something in the sub $1 price range, used to read the keys and the scroll wheel.The transmitter looks build using 2 transistors, with 2 27MHz crystals switchable to select the channel.
Tektronics TCP2020 Current Probe circuit? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JimHorn
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 09:25:29 pm
content: We just found the probe end and cable for a Tektronics TCP2020 current probe (20 A DC and AC to 50MHz) here - with the oscilloscope end cut off (SOB!!!). I hate to see a fine US$1700 piece of test gear so violated. So, of course, I checked to see if Tek has a service manual and scematic available, but for naught.Does anyone here have access to that or pointers? I would really like to get that probe working again, if it's possible. If nothing else, it would make a fine tool for home use.Many thanks!Jim Horn, WB9SYN, Hood River, Oregon USA

author: JackOfVA
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 02, 2012, 11:06:32 pm
content: Can't help you with the circuit, but I recently inquired about the repair cost for my TCP202 current probe. Tektronix quotes a flat-rate $950 for repair and calibration, and the work is done in their German facility.In my case, the TCP202 would not zero after degausing. Turned out to require adjusting the coarse zero pot located on the jaw end of the probe and a bit of tweaking now has the fine zero adjust pot on the oscilloscope end of the probe centered nicely.

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 03, 2012, 06:31:34 pm
content: This is not going to be a simple passive L/R/C termination circuit. You might try interfacing it with an AM503*/AM5003 amplifier designed for the older P6302/A6302/P6303/A6303 probes. I believe the probe head is essentially identical (apart from a different connector), so the only differences might be in the resistor configuration on the PCB in the probe head. The service manuals for these amplifiers would probably be the only place to look for the theory of operation, don't count on finding any useful technical details about the internals of recent products.You might also look for probes with a dead head. These are fairly fragile and can easily crack/stretch if dropped, so I wouldn't be surprised if there are a fair number of broken probe heads.
Can Anyone Identify this Optical Sensor? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Pak_Engineer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2012, 08:53:51 am
content: Hi guys, I am in dire need of help from community in identifying the optical sensor (pic attached). It is a DIP8 package and there is nothing written/embedded on its case. Apparently it is an ambient light sensor array or photo diode array. Hell, it could even be color sensor. I need to know the make and model of this sensor. Please help!! Any educated guess would also be appreciated.

author: Short Circuit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2012, 10:35:15 am
content: Looks like a linear CCD array, something like this;http://www.ams.com/eng/Products/Light-Sensors/Linear-Sensor-Array/TSL1401CLAren't there any markings on the bottom of the package either?

author: Pak_Engineer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2012, 10:43:24 am
content: Thank you for your help.I've looked into it and the TSL1401CL seems the be the replacement for TSL1401R which has remarkable resemblance to the one in picture. I'll dig AMS site thoroughly now. The sensors are in working condition on a multilayer board so don't want to get in with a soldering iron just yet.Cheers!!
Fluke 87 Range Switch  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JimHorn
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 09:21:32 pm
content: My much used and appreciated Fluke 87's range switch has a problem. Specificially, the processor doesn't see the correct position of the switch, so the function shown on the display doesn't match the function selected by the switch.The way the processor knows the switch position is via a potentiometer. The voltages sent to the processor by the range switch pot are correct, measured at the processor pin. However, using the switch test function shows that the voltage is too low, corresponding to the errant functionality.Further, it worked fine for 18 years, went bad for about 2 years, worked for a year and is bad again.Any suggestions by anyone who has succeeded in dealing with this? My Agilent U1242A DMM is filling in but I miss use of the '87 and would like to get it working again. Needless to say, Fluke can't help, only offering to sell me a new 87V for a small discount.I'd hate to throw away a US$400 DMM because of a bad solder joint / SMD resistor / or what have you.Many thanks!Jim Horn, WB9SYN, Hood River, Oregon USA

author: FenderBender
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 02, 2012, 09:22:42 pm
content: Is it really a potentiometer...hmmph...unique.Care to share any pictures just for reference? Never seen the insides of one. Perhaps that might help in troubleshooting?
NIVISAruntime.msi - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Fluxed Matter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 05:26:43 am
content: Hi,Where can I get this file? Or let me rephrase that, where can I get a safe copy of this file?Thank you for the help.Fluxed

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 05:36:57 am
content: What is it for?

author: notsob
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 05:44:08 am
content: It's required by RIGOL's Ultrascope software

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 05:49:58 am
content: Have you tried the National Instruments web site?Maybe you need to use the "visa512full_downloader.exe" file to install the VISA drivers?

author: aghp
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 05:56:09 am
content: http://www.ni.com/visa/this is good starting point.

author: Fluxed Matter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 06:22:14 am
content: Quote from: notsob on August 01, 2012, 05:44:08 amBingo. notsob is right. National instruments requires you to register to download it. That to much of a hassle.

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 06:41:05 am
content: If it's too much of a hassle to register so you get access to the free software they offer, I'm not sure what to say?

author: Fluxed Matter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 05:32:37 pm
content: Instead of me registering with another company I think Rigol should supply the software, if their software is so dependent another company's software. Just my thoughts.

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 05:36:24 pm
content: Rigol does supply it. It is packed in various of Rigol's software packages. And last time I looked Rigol was offering it as a separate download.Tempest in a teapot ...

author: Fluxed Matter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 08:09:40 pm
content: Thanks, maybe I missed it when I was checking the CD that came with the scope. I will check again. I was just on the Rigol website and I did not see anything for software downloads, but it was the Rigol NA website and not their main website. I guess I will be checking that one out next.Fluxed

author: Fluxed Matter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 11:13:17 pm
content: Well I went home at lunch and I check the CD that came with scope and file is not include on it, but I was able to download the software from main website and extract it from the rar file.Does anyone know what the Ultra Sigma software they have on their site is used for?Fluxed

author: Gunb
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 02, 2012, 03:23:47 pm
content: Quote from: Fluxed Matter on August 01, 2012, 11:13:17 pmYou can use it for communicating with the devices, i.e., sending commands that you can find in the manuals or app. notes.Gunb
Teardown of an EPROM/EEPROM/Micro/PLD programmer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: slburris
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 06:19:55 pm
content: For your amusement, I took apart my Modular Circuit TechnologyMOD-LPP programmer. I purchased this from Jameco years ago.It's just a relabled ChipMAX from EEtools:http://eetools.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=product.display&product_id=304First up, the outside. This unit takes DIP chips from 8 pins to 40 pinsand runs off the parallel port, remember those?

author: slburris
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 06:24:41 pm
content: Overall view of the insides.We've got a small Xilinx FPGA, a 5202, ancient by today's standards.And an assortment of switching power supply circuits, driver chips,and lots of relays.

author: slburris
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 06:32:03 pm
content: And the upclose photos.
REVIEW - Agilent U1163A SMT Grabbers - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 24, 2012, 01:10:32 am
content: I also bought a set of Agilent U1163A SMT Grabbers today fromTRIO SmartCal.These are nice as they have flexible leads that accept the typical 4mm shrouded test plug. This means you don't have the added weight and length of the test plug hanging off the grabber. It also means you can disconnect your meter leads from the DUT (to make another measurement) while leaving the actual grabbers in place.They are rated for 300V and 3A although I doubt I'd really use them for an real amount of current measurement. The grabber tips are fairly small and will clip onto through hole component legs as well as coarser SMD pins.The verdict? A good price ($11 + GST for the pair) and a handy addition to the workbench.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 24, 2012, 01:38:37 am
content: yep. those are great. agilet also has a different grabber style and a log skinny probe that slides over the standard testprobe top.ideal to prod around on hard to reach points.
HMO1022 'dots' does not mean 'only captured samples' ?! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: KedasProbe
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2012, 06:16:27 pm
content: If you look at the manual then you read:QuoteBut if you look at the screen-shot below you will see that12 linear steps are added between each captured sampleon 2GSa. (view 24GSa)If you now think interpolating is on although you disabled it, think again and look at the second screen-shot with linear interpolating dots on.So is this a known behaviour, is there an other way to make sure that I only see the samples?

author: 0xdeadbeef
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 21, 2012, 10:12:29 am
content: Did you select "Sample-Hold" in the "Interpolation" menu?

author: KedasProbe
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 21, 2012, 07:14:33 pm
content: Yes, that solves it, thanks (I should have checked that)I thought that I did put it on sample and hold but while playing with it I must have forgotten to put it back.I also see having the digital filter (acquire) activated also adds the interpolation again, this makes sense since you see the output of the filter (not the samples)
2mm to 2.54 (0.1") pitch converters? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: e100
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 21, 2012, 02:42:15 am
content: Does anyone know of a source of 20 pin 2mm to 0.1" pitch adaptors. This isn't for an Xbee, it's for a GLCD display with all the pins in a single row.Mike

author: digsys
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 21, 2012, 03:17:31 am
content: The only ones I've got are the DIL version .. used for IDE 3.5" <> 2.5" conversion.I also have ribbon cables with 0.1" to 2mm conversion, but again DIL. Whenever I needed SIL,I made a small adapter PCB, maybe you could do something similar?If you can use DIL PCB converter, I can send you what you need by letter mil. FOC

author: e100
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 21, 2012, 08:11:18 am
content: After a bit more searching I found a 20 way converter pcb fromhttp://www.proto-advantage.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3800084and 5 way converter fromhttp://pcpartsandcables.com//index.php?cPath=34Not sure if this is side by side stackable to give 20 pins.Mike

author: notsob
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 21, 2012, 08:54:31 am
content: yeah getting 2mm pitch stuff in Australia is difficult, there is some very limited stuff with RS & Farnell but massively overpriced. If you were in the UK this mob [http://www.toby.co.uk/index.aspx] seem to have a good range, BUT the only delivery option they seem to have for Australia is a Very expensive courier type company air delivery service], I once emailed them re a "royal mail" snailmail option [ ala thebookdepository ], they chose not to respond, "great" customer service.

author: digsys
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 21, 2012, 11:21:22 am
content: QuoteI've dealt with this crowd for ages, they have an awesome range of connectors, especially 2mm. They have warehousesin Australia and a huge on-line catalogue. They'll even do samples and small quantities, good prices as well.www.samtec.com
A great product to save energy - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: KTP
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2012, 12:23:41 am
content: Love it!

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 21, 2012, 12:46:10 am
content: I was expecting another energy-for-free hoax but luckily it isn't. Its a nice teaser though for unsuspecting people. Too bad its sold out.

author: Mint.
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 21, 2012, 02:23:06 am
content: Yeah I've seen this before, nothing new
Thermal Camera teardown - Insight Starsight  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: tesla500
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 19, 2012, 03:11:44 pm
content: Inspired by Mike's thermal camera teardown, I got a hold of a circa 1991 Insight Starsight thermal image camera. Very different tech from Mike's unit, this uses a Pyroelectric Vidicon tube. The construction also has incredible levels of bodgyness for a $35k (in 1991) camera!

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 19, 2012, 05:21:56 pm
content: Very good work!If you ever decide to upgrade you will at have a good lens from this one.

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2012, 08:27:42 pm
content: Any idea how that circular mask generator works?

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2012, 08:56:32 pm
content: It basically works by shading the pyroelectric sensor. It is timed so as to cover a line just after it is scanned, so that it is then starting from a discharged state ( the scanning discharges the accumulated charge on a vidicon, thus the high impedance amp input needed) for a half frame to stabilise then it is exposed to the incoming IR radiation to generate a signal proportional to the temperature difference between the incoming radiation and the target temperature ( thus a temp sensor on the front to measure the frame temp so to compensate this in the analogue system) as it is exposed for a half frame time. If you looked at the vidicon during it being turned by hand you can see that the shape actually exposes a straight line that moves down the sensor front in line with the 50 Hz vertical scan. This provides the changing IR signal that the vidicon responds to, as seen when it was powered without an operating shutter, where it only gave an image with the camera or the target moving.

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2012, 09:10:15 pm
content: I mean the circular mask circuitry identified on the PCB, not the motorized shutter.Presumably the vidicon is overscanned to maximise the active area, and the mask generator blanks the overscanned part of the raster during the overscan to produce the circular image.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2012, 09:15:39 pm
content: That is easy enough, you just make a sine and cosine from the 2 ramp signals, and use a comparator to gate the video signal to the output stage. Most likely done with a diode stepwise approximation as the ramps are a nice waveform, so you will need a few linearity pots to get a decent circle.
Of course it doesn't work!!! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: AlphZeta
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 17, 2012, 11:34:36 pm
content: So I bought a couple of cheap webcams from Amazon (less than 4 dollars each). The image quality is quite impressive for the price I paid. But, the button on the webcam does not seem to work. So I took it apart and here's what I found (more pictures can be found on my site:http://www.kerrywong.com/2012/07/16/inoperative-by-design/):Of course it won't work! The button is not even connected!

author: olsenn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 18, 2012, 12:35:38 am
content: That doesn't look like a button... I think that's an electret; the microphone.

author: olsenn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 18, 2012, 12:37:00 am
content: My mistake, I didn't see the little push button on your desk to the side.

author: AlphZeta
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 18, 2012, 12:58:35 am
content: No problem, if you look at the other pictures you will see that the button is actually just placed in there without attaching to anything...

author: GEuser
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 18, 2012, 05:02:39 am
content: LOL at the button! , good find .On a side-note , do you know what the video output is of these things , is it digital or analogue as i'm thinking of a hopefully cheap project TIA .

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 18, 2012, 05:27:40 am
content: Possibly those two unsoldered holes at the top of the pcb have something to do with this...?

author: digsys
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 18, 2012, 06:19:59 am
content: QuoteDefinitely Analogue. Waaaaay to simple, too few wires etc etc

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 18, 2012, 09:57:31 am
content: Quote from: digsys on July 18, 2012, 06:19:59 amReally depends.it's USB so it's pointless using a DAC

author: amyk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 18, 2012, 10:52:29 am
content: Quote from: 8086 on July 18, 2012, 05:27:40 amI was thinking this too. Maybe these were so cheap because they didn't pass QA, and some mistake on the assembly line meant a batch of them had the button not connected. According to the reviews, some of them have a working button, and not for others, some DOAs too, also I saw a VID:PID mentioned that is different from both of yours, so it seems random what you get. But at a fraction of the price of more well-known brands, you could just buy a few more.Quote from: GEuserVideo output is via USB, so it's digital. The sensor itself will almost certainly be digital too, look at some of OmniVision's VGA sensors for example. Raw RGB and CCIR656 are common.Some example datasheets to peruse:http://mxhaard.free.fr/spca50x/Doc/Omnivision/ov9620_v2.0.pdfhttp://www.surveyor.com/blackfin/OV9655-datasheet.pdf
Agilent U1253B Teardown - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Frangible
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2012, 04:41:46 am
content: Following Dave's lead, when I received this U1253B I had to do a teardown. And yes, it still works now that I put it back together.This is a 4.5 digit multimeter with an OLED display. At first glance it appears to be a really nice meter, and the OLED display is much more visible than the LCDs on the Fluke 179 meters we use around the lab where I work. There's plenty to work with here, as the meter is equipped with a nice assortment of features, including a novel way of charging the included NiMH battery.First, the meter in all its OLED glory:The battery:The case split into two. I liked that the piezo beeper is connected to its driver with springs, avoiding annoying wires.The top boards. This is where you would stop if you were replacing one of the two fuses. Since I want to see more, I didn't stop here.Nice chunky fuse clips and good quality jacks really warm my heart.Here's the board stack - I count four in total. Inter-connections are with 0.100 inch center pins and sockets. Old school, but very serviceable.And there's more of them on the other side:

author: Frangible
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2012, 05:01:42 am
content: Continuing, the bottom board sans top board. The rotor contains contacts on both sides.I'm guessing that the small shielded module is the ADC.The components used in this meter are all standard parts. TI, ON Semi, Analog Devices, Linear Technologies and Maxim are all featured here.The power conversion circuits look nicely laid out and quite robust.The CPU is an NEC part. A D780547. Interestingly, the part is old enough to predate the NEC/Renesas merger in 2010.The rear of the OLED display unit - it's a nice layout.All torn down and spread out on the bench:

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2012, 03:08:34 pm
content: Great job, photos cover all the bases. Its clearly well made. I have a 1252a, now discontinued, they look very similar inside.Just keep an eye out for the NiMH charger, I tore mine down but haven't had a chance to post. Its fairly well designed but sloppily made. It died on me after 8 months but its fairly easy to substitute.

author: Greate
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2012, 03:14:06 pm
content: Interesting! If meters like this fails, is it worth or practical repairing it by yourself?Sent from my A100 using Tapatalk

author: Frangible
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 17, 2012, 09:45:55 pm
content: Here is a link to a video I did with my boss using the U1253B - it's getting to be quite useful around the lab these days.
Video Teardown and Operation of an Advantest TQ8325 Wavelength Meter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Hugoneus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2012, 02:51:40 am
content: In this episode Shahriar presents the teardown of an Advantest TQ8325 Wavelength Meter. The principle operation of the instrument is explained along with a close up of the free space optics in operation. To verify the functionality of the unit, an infrared laser module is used as a CW coherent source. The impact of the laser diode’s temperature variation on the output wavelength is measured using the wavelength meter.Direct Link:http://thesignalpath.com/blogs/2012/07/16/teardown-and-operation-of-an-advantest-tq8325-wavelength-meter/More videos:http://www.TheSignalPath.com

author: chrome
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2012, 05:24:57 pm
content: In this post chrome thinks it's weird to talk about yourself in first person.

author: Stephen Hill
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2012, 05:56:56 pm
content: Quote from: chrome on July 16, 2012, 05:24:57 pmI think this has run it's course now...

author: Hugoneus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2012, 08:21:58 pm
content: Quote from: chrome on July 16, 2012, 05:24:57 pmPerhaps you should concentrate on the content of the videos. After all, this is why you are here."The Signal Path" has multiple contributors. Although I have been posting videos so far, there will be others in the future. As a result, all the video descriptions refer to the name of the person who made the video. I simply copy and paste the description here. I hope this puts this non-issue to rest.

author: PA0PBZ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2012, 08:59:48 pm
content: I too think it's a bit weird, but apart from that the video was very interesting!
Tektronix P6113B scope probes o.O - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 03:22:42 pm
content: http://www.ebay.com.sg/itm/QTY-2-TEKTRONIX-P6113B-100MHZ-10X-300V-OSCILLOSCOPE-PROBE-2-NOS-/150850760660?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item231f67efd4#ht_2715wt_905Hey, tekfan, have you used these probes before?(PS: Before asking anything, i have gone down on site to buy my lab PSU so i don't need to pay the crappy shipping fee)As well as anyone, ever used these probes before? They look like a big worthy money to pay 25$ for a tektronix probe

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 05:37:29 pm
content: Its probably a clone. I've used the real ones and the ground lead is likely to break off. I regard probes to be consumables so I don't spend much on a probe anyway.

author: tekfan
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 08:08:39 pm
content: I don't really have that many scope probes. 3 old Tek probes from the 70's, 2 100x probes for weird circuits and 2 cheap chinese ones.I find that the ground lead is much easier to fix on the older probes since there is just a heatshrink tube around the clip that connects to the probe. The newer ones are molded in plastic so it's almost impossible to solder the wire if it breaks.Nctnico is right. You will eventually either break the hook tip or after a few years there will be a break in the coax.The ones on ebay actually look like they have the older style clip so the probes are probably original Tek.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2012, 01:15:29 pm
content: Googling yields no infoWell i think i might as well buy two UNi-T cheapie probes
ATTEN $4.8 digital multimeter, why so cheap? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bobpitt
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 14, 2012, 02:20:33 pm
content: I'm looking for 2nd multimeter for my workbench. I found ATTEN ATW830L here are prices from three stores.$4.8 on storeinfinity$14 on ebay$18 on dxWhy so cheap on storeinfinity ?

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2012, 02:43:57 pm
content: Even the ut33b is similarly priced ...clicking on it leads to the front page

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2012, 05:46:56 pm
content: Quote from: bobpitt on July 14, 2012, 02:20:33 pmClick add to cart, then check shipping price and see if it still a good deal or not. For Canada, it is slightly cheaper vs ebay depending on exchange rate.Personally, I would never spend $12.70 USD on any 830 type of dmm.

author: StubbornGreek
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2012, 07:08:12 pm
content: Something this cheap will cost you a lot more in the long run. What are correct measurements worth to you? What are incorrect measurements worth?

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 14, 2012, 07:55:56 pm
content: I thought aten was a minor brand, why the surprise ?

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 03:41:12 am
content: Quote from: StubbornGreek on July 14, 2012, 07:08:12 pmWhy so serious? Obviously he isn't going to buy it neither am i but the point of him starting the thread is because he is asking why the price difference is by so much?Because storeinfinity doesn't include shipping it is sure cheap, just remember to order more items together

author: StubbornGreek
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 05:04:54 am
content: Quote from: DaveXRT on July 15, 2012, 03:41:12 amI didn't think you were going to get one but the op did say he was looking for another meter, no?

author: george graves
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 05:11:10 am
content: Quote from: StubbornGreek on July 14, 2012, 07:08:12 pmHe said it was for a second meter. Lighten up a bit.

author: StubbornGreek
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 05:38:13 am
content: Quote from: george graves on July 15, 2012, 05:11:10 amSecondary meters don't need to be accurate?

author: Salas
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 07:09:59 am
content: Quote from: bobpitt on July 14, 2012, 02:20:33 pmBecause they clear stock?

author: metalphreak
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 07:49:21 am
content: storeinfinity don't include the shipping costs in their price like DX does. Shipping to Australia is $7.90 + $4.80 = $12.70. That's not far off the other places selling price.

author: bobpitt
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 08:53:02 am
content: For storeinfinity, $4.8 + $6 shipping cost to Thailand, not bad.
AMPROBE AM-270, does anybody own this meter? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: zaoka
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 03:50:14 am
content: I would love to see how well its made inside.Thanks

author: FenderBender
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2012, 03:54:37 am
content: Just use google my friend. I did a teardown of it a few months ago.https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1CHFX_enUS485US485&sugexp=chrome,mod=14&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&q=amprobe+am-270+teardown.First google result.Here's the link:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/product-reviews-photos-and-discussion/teardown-amprobe-am-270-digital-multimeter/
REVIEW - Genrad 1432K Decade Resistor - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JuiceKing
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 08:44:11 pm
content: Picked up this shoebox-sized resistance box at the MIT Flea Market today for $40. The guy who sold it to me had a 5-decade version as well (at $50--it's $10/decade, you see) but I went for this one since I felt OK gambling $40 and it was in better shape over all. In fact, it looks close to new.A search on-line turned up documentation dated 1954. Today, IET/Genrad carries a model 1433, so it looks like this model could have been in production a long, long time.A peek inside turned up custom wound resistances, with the 1-, 10-, and 100-ohm steps made from "Ayrton-Perry" wound on molded phenolic forms and the 0.1-ohm steps made from "bifilar" wound with ribbon. The 0.1 steps are rated at 0.25W and +/- 0.5% accuracy; the 1-ohm steps at 0.6W with +/- 0.15% accuracy and the 10- and 100-ohm steps are also 0.6W and have 0.05% accuracy. There was no tale-tale smell of overloaded resistors and the switch contacts looked clean and well-lubricated, so it seems the seller's promises were all true. And, it tests out spot-on with my Fluke 87V ohmmeter, but since its accuracy exceeds that of the meter, I can't really judge if it's really in calibration. Not sure how in the world you would adjust it if it weren't!Even if somewhat limited in its range and certainly much bigger and heavier than the new IET resistance boxes, this turned out to be a great find and bargain.
Elektronika MK51 calculator - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 02:06:01 am
content: Knowing how Dave likes calculators,I just posted a teardown of an old Soviet scientific calculator called MK 51http://kuzyatech.com/elektronika-mk51-calculator-teardownI think I maybe got six months of usable life out of it before the screws had to come out and debugging/fixing started. No lemon laws in the good old USSRAccording to wiki, this was a clone of Casio fx2500. Anybody got pictures of what the insides of that one look like? It'd be interesting to compare.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 05:18:17 am
content: wow. long time since i've seen a hockeypuck package .. ( that leadframe thingie with the black plastic puck in it ).Fujitsu had those for a while.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 05:51:49 am
content: 100R resistor in power line says there is a latch up problem with the chip, might have been fixed if there was a later revision, but the original must have randomly locked up on power on. Not a problem power wise, i would guess power consumption is under 1mA in operation.

author: G7PSK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 09:49:46 am
content: I had a very similar looking Casio but it is long gone now, It was a battery killer and the on off switch was dodgy so maybe they cloned the Casio switch as well.

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 01:42:55 pm
content: They must've faithfully cloned all the bugs as wellI just remember constant reboots, flaky display connections and keypad. But I think it was around $3 when I bought it.While researching what happened with Elektronika brand, found this thing on ebay:http://r.ebay.com/8R6ryeELEKTRONIKA 1(B6.03 LED watch), that's crazy money for a watch!
AXIOMET AX-178 - Digital multimeter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: speedovic
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 14, 2012, 10:06:55 am
content: Guys I need some advice.I am looking for a multimeter which can do a lot for less $ and for a long time. I watched so many videos of EEVblog reviews but I am still not decided which multimeter I am going to purchase. Well Flkuke (FLK-87V) and other Agilent so far they score the best but they are very pricy.But I am not looking for a very cheap product. (budget: 250 euro max)So(never give up) I kept searching the net and I come this one across ==> AXIOMET AX-178http://www.tme.eu/en/details/ax-178/portable-digital-multimeters/axiomet/#My questions:1) did anyone have any experience with AXIOMET? and are you satisfied?2) is there any reviews of their products (i couldn't find any)?3) just from the AX-178 specifications (plz see the link), not from the inside because we can't open it, in which range against fluke could be rated? Just an indication please.Thanks in advance for your answers and help.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2012, 12:11:32 pm
content: Have you considered a Mastech MS8218? Which is the original model of the one you linkedIt uses the big HRC fuses ...Or also an UT61E

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2012, 05:05:34 pm
content: This Axiomet is just a rebadged Shanghai Yihua V&A meter. Maybe a V&A V38http://www.mastech.com.cn/html/en/products-va38.htm. Lets just say V&A is not known for quality products.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2012, 05:27:09 pm
content: Quote from: Bored@Work on July 14, 2012, 05:05:34 pmFunny how many clones there of the MS8218First it was V&A ( Somebody wouldn't believe me that V&A isn't mastech ) with the V38Then it was Yehai YH187 ( Might be the ones for mastech who knows? )

author: speedovic
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 14, 2012, 08:05:24 pm
content: Man you get really right chapeau.Well when I put the VA38 and this AX-178, they look 100% the same with one except the logo on the left side one shows AXIOMET and the other one shows V&A.This is really innovation they just change names and type of product(Any way now I am back to where I was at first ... any good recommendation.Thanks a million for your suggestion I appreciate that.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2012, 03:38:09 am
content: Go with the original : MS8218
Solartron 7150plus Digital Multimeter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bdivi
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 13, 2012, 10:44:56 am
content: Hello everyone,I have had the Solartron 7150plus for a couple of years. These devices have been making their way to ebay in quantities from some military reserves. Some reports on failing mains filters but otherwise very reliable and stable measurement gear.The voltage reference is the trustworthy 1N829A, with a couple of Caddock resistor dividers and Coto precision relays at the front end.

author: chrome
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 13, 2012, 04:56:52 pm
content: I have the regular model (7150) it was made in '84 and I had it calibrated at work a few months back (using a Fluke 8508A and a Wavetek 9100), the meter is still well within it's 90days specs which I find rather impressive for a 28y old device.Can't say I'm too happy about the connectors though but then again I guess shielded banana cables weren't a thing back then?Bought it for 60€ (including shipping from holland).
Atten ATF40D Function Gen - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: metalphreak
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2012, 03:25:28 pm
content: http://www.goodluckbuy.com/atten-dds-waveform-digital-function-signal-generator-40mhz-atf40d-tester.htmlAnyone used the Atten models before? Seems to be pretty decent for the price. Possibly re-badged?Also available from precisegauge who I bought my Vantek PSU from:http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=271006434729#ht_2970wt_1163Can't seem to find any reviews or user experiences about it on the net. I guess someone has to be first...Oh wow, just found the ATF20B thread, where the USB and RS232 ports aren't even connected ("optional"). Might have to rethink this.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2012, 09:23:16 pm
content: I'd go for the Siglent SDG1000 series (for instance SDG1020).

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2012, 11:24:28 pm
content: I'd avoid anything made by Atten or Siglent. There are enough reviews on eevblog to be very concerned with their quality and design, across so many types of devices. Things may change, but why risk it, there are other low cost MTE gear out there.When I hear that name, I think, pay ATTENtion, because there is always something subtlety wrong with their gear.
Hakko Clones? CSI STATION 3DLF and Precision Gold (A55KJ) Maplin - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Milton
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 10, 2012, 12:00:56 pm
content: are these stations Hakko clones and can you use the 900M tips.CSI Station60W 60 Watt Temp. Controlled Soldering Iron Stationhttp://www.circuitspecialists.eu/csi-station60w-60-watt-temp-controlled-soldering-iron-station-p-266.htmlCSI Deluxe 60W Digital Soldering Iron Station (CSI STATION 3DLF)http://www.circuitspecialists.eu/csi-deluxe-60w-digital-soldering-iron-station-csi-station3dlf-p-242.htmlPrecision Gold (A55KJ) Maplinhttp://www.maplin.co.uk/60w-professional-lcd-solder-station-with-esd-protection-511927the CSI STATION 3DLF and Precision Gold (A55KJ) Maplin look identical.thanks

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 10, 2012, 06:12:10 pm
content: Hakko clones? Umad?They're just the AT938D designs from Atten! The digital ones, go look up on atten's site!

author: Milton
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 10, 2012, 07:07:19 pm
content: which would you recommend between those three andHuakko 936looking to spend around £45

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2012, 01:36:48 am
content: Quote from: Milton on July 10, 2012, 07:07:19 pmAvoid the huakko, get the CSI 3DLF
Teardown - old dodgy satellite receivers! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: hun_yeti
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 03, 2012, 11:08:24 pm
content: I got a few old satellite receivers from a friend,to use them as parts, as they have no value anymore and some of them where very "interesting" (at least to me).The first one was interesting because it was the biggest, it had a huge PCB, the micro-controller was on another PCB above the main one( those nice wires...), but half of that huge PCB was completely empty...I know, that might be because they had more expensive models with more function and it was maybe cheaper for them to use the same board, box.It was also the first time for me to see those vertical PCB pieces, at the SMPS and at the empty area, the are totally empty, so maybe for physical isolation?The second box was strange, it had plastic straps visible on the bottom.when i opened the box, it was chaotic, all those wires across the boardThan i looked at the power supply, at first glance, it seemed that it has nice, individual mains transformers that i can easily use.Notice, the plastic straps... interesting solution i have to say...But my happiness ended soon, as i looked more closely at those boardsAs i started to suspect that these are individual switching supplies, or something like that.The two smaller board are identical, exept the color of the caps and one of them have a 5 volt regulator on it (?)those dip 8 chips are opto couplers, the to-92 is a TL431 regulator, on the bigger board, the heatsinked to-220 devices are an N channel mostfet and a low drop rectifier.on the back side the smaller devices have an opamp and a diode in an SMD high power packed (don't know the exact name) and a few diodes resistors, capacitors and a 4 pin device i could not identify (probably an opto coupler)The bigger one has an opto coupler instead of a diode,and it has an unmarked transistor (i guess).I'm not really big on PSU-s but it seemed very unusual to me.I hope you enjoyed this post and please share your thoughts!

author: Short Circuit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 03, 2012, 11:29:23 pm
content: First box is probably an analog only device, with all the unpopulated stuff for pay-tv decoders. Notice the smartcard socket location in the upper right of the pcb?Second one... Well, it clearly is from a time when electronics were valued quite a lot higher than nowadaysLots of effort for fixing a defective power supply.

author: Fallingwater
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 09, 2012, 01:49:39 pm
content: The second one seems to have been subject to some ghetto repairs. I mean, it's obviously bodge-happy from stock, but I don't think the factory would use a screw connector in place of a simple solder joint (or, y'know, just a longer wire).

author: Chasm
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 09, 2012, 03:11:16 pm
content: The second one definetly has some after market modifications. I'd say replacing the original SMPS with what you see.
REVIEW - Ideal 61-025 VoltAware - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 24, 2012, 12:57:17 am
content: I bought an Ideal 61-025 VoltAware voltage detector pen/stick fromTRIO Smartcaltoday.This simple device is rated to detect in the 40Vac to 1000Vac range. The LED in the tip changes from steady green to flashing red upon detection of voltage.It also has a beeper that sounds in unison with the red LED. The beeper function can be toggled on/off by pressing the small button on the tip, but defaults to on each time it's powered up.The detection tip has a blade shape to it so you can stick it into power points, etc. Batteries were supplied with the unit.About the only thing that is slightly annoying is the 3 position twist action. It goes from OFF to ON positions at the extremes, but has a battery removal position in the middle. This means if you twist it just one click from ON or OFF, the case starts to separate a little. It's only a minor niggle and as long as you twist it fully CW or CCW while holding both halves there's no real issue.I gave it a quick test and it seems to work well. There is a knack for using on multi-core cables where the active wire may be masked by the neutral and earth. As long as you don't just point the tip at one spot on the cable it always seems to find the AC. Moving it along/around the cable under test is a must.So, overall I'm happy with the unit. A good addition to the service van tool kit.

author: T4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 24, 2012, 08:03:57 am
content: Did you test the 40VAC claims with a variac?

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 24, 2012, 08:47:35 am
content: No, but I could do that tomorrow. I'll see at what voltage the detection drops out.

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 25, 2012, 12:25:25 am
content: OK, I've just tested the probe with a variac over a 0 to 275Vac range.It will detect 40Vac but only if the probe is pretty much up against the bare conductor (no insulation).The detection of 110Vac was somewhat hit and miss with a standard double insulated 3 core mains cable.At 200Vac + detection seems very reliable even on thicker cable insulation. I hope that helps.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 25, 2012, 04:51:25 am
content: Seems to have the same sensitivity as the stud finder I bought.
UV LED exposition box - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: hlavac
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 07, 2012, 08:06:41 pm
content: Check this outIn the second photo there is a fluorescent marker pen lying in the UV shinePower: 18W

author: OndraSter
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 07, 2012, 08:10:42 pm
content: Kudos for Merkur!