Old Function Gens - Wavetek 116 vs Krohn-Hite 5200 - which one? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: toli
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 07:38:14 am
content: Hi Guys,I've been looking for a basic function generator for some time now. I only need couple of MH'z, and sine + square wave output.A local shop has the Wavetek 116 (1MHz) and the Krohn-Hite 5200 (3MHz) both for about 50$.The question is, which one of the 2 should I take? Or perhaps I should just buy one of these "toys" from eBay/get a very cheap new function gen (although I'm afraid this might cost a bit too much at the moment).Any thoughts will be appreciated.

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 08:47:55 am
content: Are both sweep capable? If yes go for the higher frequency.Alexander.

author: toli
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 08:56:36 am
content: I don't know actually, as I didn't find any significant information on the KH 5200. The Wavetek 116 manual can be found on google quite easilyhere.

author: GK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 09:51:50 am
content: ~$100 gets you both; still cheaper than a single new unit on ebay.With two units you'd be able to experiment with hetrodyning and measuring IMD of audio amplifiers and SSB radio transmitters, just for a start

author: toli
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 09:54:26 am
content: I'm aware of that, but that's really not what I need this for. At work/school I have lots of more sophisticated stuff I can play with if I'd like. and there's no shortage of test gear over thereI need just one for my own projects which I don't like to carry to work every time.Does anyone have experience with any of these units?

author: GK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 10:34:19 am
content: There is a big picture of the 5200 front panel here:http://www.antiqueradios.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=197523No need for a specification sheet - all of it functions can be deduced from the control legends. To answer a previous question, yes, it is sweep capable.Keep in mind these are very old units (=>40 years). If that local shop isn't selling the KH-5200 with its service manual, and you can't find one on line for free download or for a modest fee, then that would probably be a good reason to opt for the Wavetek instead. Stuff this old often requires maintenence to keep going.

author: toli
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 10:39:58 am
content: I don't see the Wavetek being able to sweep, unless I use the VCG input which would probably allow it (although I've never used a unit with the VCG input). I do like the Wavetek being able to limit the number of cycles to 1/2/4/8/..., it's a nice option to have.The point you raise about the servicing of these unit make a lot of sense. I guess I'll go for the Wavetek mainly because of this.

author: toli
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 01:21:35 pm
content: One more option is now available. Its more expensive (~75$). Its the "Exact 126C". From the very limited info I found online it should have sweep option and a 3MHz BW.I found this picture on Google but it doesn't show much:http://www.flickr.com/photos/jerryfi_99/2665650755/#http://ragelse.com/i/B2w1bQAnyone familiar with this model or can find anymore info about it?Edit:According tothisit should go up to 5MHz, but most of the other web-sites I could find only state 3MHz. Unfortunately I have to drive over there to see it, so I'd like to find out what I can before spending a couple of hours on the road.

author: BeatleFred
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 09, 2012, 07:00:16 am
content: How about an HP-3312a? (available on Ebay)

author: toli
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2012, 11:28:14 am
content: A. its more expensive (although has higher BW as well - so its ok).B. Shipping to Israel + tax + a 220V->110V transformer will set me back about 100$ more.