hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Can you use low impedance volt measurement to discharge capacitors - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Skippy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 11, 2013, 01:34:18 pm
content: Just watched Dave's Agilent multimeter review. I see it's got a low impedance volt measurement input.Could you use it to discharge filter capacitors in power supplies? So, you've got 300V in your cap, you attach the probes, it's got 10k impedance across it, and you can watch the power drain out? Or would your multimeter melt? Or am I a numpty in some other way?

author: Excavatoree
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 11, 2013, 01:36:10 pm
content: In SOME cases, you might get away with it, but honestly, why risk an expensive meter when a cheap resistor (chosen correctly) is the best way to do it?

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 11, 2013, 03:03:13 pm
content: The low impedance mode is not very resistive at high voltages. The Agilent U1272/1273A, for example, is specified as having a 2 kohm input impedance in lowZ mode on the 1000 V range. 1000 V across 2 kohm would dissipate 500 W, not going to happen. So there is something like a PTC in series that goes up in resistance as the current through it increases. It is designed to discharge the stray capacitance of wiring, I would not rely on it dissipating the energy from a large cap. It might very well go high resistance and stop discharging the cap.

author: ddavidebor
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 11, 2013, 03:38:46 pm
content: Quote from: Excavatoree on April 11, 2013, 01:36:10 pm+1
which scopt to buy? rigol ds2202 or the ds2072... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Aido4ever
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 09, 2013, 09:09:05 pm
content: I've ordered the ds2202 and i have the chance to change the order ..I saw most of you bought the 70mhz version. is there a hack in the horizon?i got the ds2202 for a bit above 1300 euro...thank you for your kind help.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 09, 2013, 09:53:01 pm
content: AFAIK no one is close to a cracking a hack for this yet.

author: Hydrawerk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 09, 2013, 10:53:47 pm
content: Send a message toDriegforum member. He knows all about Rigol products.

author: DrGeoff
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 10, 2013, 12:02:18 am
content: Is the bandwidth the only difference between the three models? Looks like a neat scope.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 10, 2013, 12:16:17 am
content: Quote from: DrGeoff on April 10, 2013, 12:02:18 amYes.

author: marmad
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 10, 2013, 12:19:23 am
content: Quote from: DrGeoff on April 10, 2013, 12:02:18 amThe DS2202 has a 2ns horizontal timebase setting and 100MHz bandwidth limiter which the two lower models don't have. But all of the differences are just in firmware.

author: Aido4ever
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 10, 2013, 12:31:38 am
content: Quote from: Hydrawerk on April 09, 2013, 10:53:47 pmthanks dave.So you say not to raise my hopes and wait for a crack. if i want a 200mhz scope , just pay the bill. am i right?I understand that this time rigol made it harder to crack this time, is that correct?

author: marmad
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 10, 2013, 12:50:44 am
content: Quote from: Aido4ever on April 10, 2013, 12:31:38 amMy advice would be that if you need a 200MHz DSO now, get it. If the extra BW is something you'd like to have at some point in the future, it might be worth the gamble to wait.QuoteI couldn't honestly say if it's harder or not - but I don't know if any owner is actually working on it.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 10, 2013, 12:52:59 am
content: Quote from: Aido4ever on April 10, 2013, 12:31:38 amYep, and probably yep.
looking for isotech ips2250 schematic aka bk precision 165xA  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Strada916
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2013, 02:16:30 am
content: Just wanted to ask if anyone has a schematic as per topic. purchased this unit from eBay and it was working until I did some testing lol. With a shorted output I was flicking the power on and off and it suddenly stopped working. tested it all out and found the primary winding has burnt out. Or atleast a thermal fuse inside the tranformer has gone. So was thinking I could replace the transformer. Thanks in advance. Nick.

author: Strada916
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2013, 04:36:26 am
content: No-one has a schematic for this at all? Hmmmm Can only try. Contacted BK as well no reply just yet.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2013, 06:28:48 pm
content: As it is sold by RS just ask them, or look on the website for it.

author: ddavidebor
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2013, 08:43:19 pm
content: it's a damn power supply.power supply throubleshooting is made with nose.sniff inside, you'll find the problem!

author: Strada916
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2013, 09:06:06 pm
content: I'll have to follow up with RS. Thanks.Yes i have sniffed it out. And i have checked with a mega. The primary of the transformer has gone. Grazie ddavidebor.

author: ddavidebor
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2013, 10:13:35 pm
content: Keep calm and eat pizza.The primary are sometimes accessible to rewire

author: Strada916
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 09, 2013, 09:58:07 am
content: I have found a schematic, 50 bucks mind you. Oh well. Now to see if i can substitute an other transformer. Well i still need to get the schematics via snail mail.Davide Grazie. I'll take your advise as i like pizza.
DS2072: stopping the RTC clock to keep trial options? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Kaptein QK
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2013, 12:47:47 pm
content: Anybody tried to stop the RTC in this scope to avoid the trial options to run out?

author: Wim13
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2013, 04:39:16 pm
content: Does not make sense, as the clock is used for other things too.And once started the options counter counts something else.Even puting the clock back in time makes no sense.But getting the trail options back is very easy, nothing difficult:Using the Self-cal let the trail options disappear, but will also bring them back when expired.Read the very big blogs about the Rigols DS2000.https://www.eevblog.com/forum/projects/software-tips-and-tricks-for-rigol-ds200040006000-ultravision-dsos/orhttps://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/first-impressions-and-review-of-the-rigol-ds2072-ds2000-series-dso/

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2013, 05:19:58 pm
content: Quote from: Wim13 on April 08, 2013, 04:39:16 pmProbably nothing of any importance- who cares if your scope doesn't know what time it is?

author: Wim13
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2013, 06:20:40 pm
content: Quote from: mikeselectricstuff on April 08, 2013, 05:19:58 pmTime does not exist anyway..uncertainty principle of Wim13, time does not exist, because you cant measure its speed,nor its absolute position.And why should Rigol build in a RTC clock if it has no use..,? Anyone an idea

author: Galaxyrise
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2013, 08:34:35 pm
content: I love having the clock on the scope, it has been very nice for me.

author: Majorstrain
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 09, 2013, 04:21:16 am
content: I imagine if it spat the dummy at not having an RTC you could program a PIC micro to replace the RTC and set any date time you wanted as a permanent D/T reply.Phil

author: Kaptein QK
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 09, 2013, 08:02:44 am
content: I was thinking of stopping the 32kHz oscillator.I do not think a 32kHz oscillator is used for anything else but keeping time in a oscilloscope!

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 09, 2013, 08:39:44 am
content: Quote from: Wim13 on April 08, 2013, 06:20:40 pmIt's useful for the options expiryIt also has a clock on the screen, useful for screen dumps etc.
Mini Blade Fuse (Current) Adapter For DMM - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2013, 11:37:23 am
content: I'm looking for a mini blade fuse adapter to measure current. Amazon have it at a reasonable price but:Quotehttp://www.amazon.com/301M-Fuse-Buddy-Mini-Adapter/dp/B0012SCX5OThere are a couple on eBay but with ridiculous shipping prices. I already have a standard blade adapter, just need the mini one now.

author: Jon Chandler
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2013, 03:11:00 pm
content: Wow, that's a handy device to have in the toolkit.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2013, 11:04:35 pm
content: Perhaps DIY one out of some un-etched PCB material and an old/inexpensive set of test probes or leads (could either etch it, or score & scrape unnecessary copper foil with an x-acto blade).

author: notsob
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2013, 11:49:32 pm
content: David this may be suitable AND available in OZhttp://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=WT5340yeah - oos - but a starting placeCheersPeter

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2013, 12:03:49 am
content: Just checked Electus and they say out of stock as well. Will email them to see if it's still a current item.

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 09, 2013, 04:30:40 am
content: Rely from Electus (Jaycar):Quote
Newbie looking for an oscilloscope... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: mightymaxUK
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 07, 2013, 10:34:16 pm
content: Hi all,I'm looking to buy an oscilloscope but not sure what I NEED exactly. I'm at the basic electronics hobby level working with stepper motors, driver control using the PIC18 microcontrollers and eventually the PIC32's. Something to cater for the PIC18/32's, motor coils, driver PWM and debugging SPI/I2C protocols would be great...Any input would be appreciated.Many thanks.Matt.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 07, 2013, 10:41:41 pm
content: How much can you spend?See my latest video.

author: Hydrawerk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 07, 2013, 10:51:17 pm
content: See these threads:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/first-scope-lost-in-the-reviews/https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/gds-2000a-new-economic-oscilloscope-by-gw-instek-comes-to-market/Each scope is good for something else. If you want the record function, real 0,5mV/div, hi-res mode and long memory (without mark or search function) and you will hardly ever use the XY mode, consider the Rigol DS2000, for example.The DSOX2000 scope is better for hunting random glitches, but not many people actually need it.

author: mightymaxUK
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 07, 2013, 11:50:24 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on April 07, 2013, 10:41:41 pmI don't want to spend more than £1000. I'll check your video. Thank you.Quote from: Hydrawerk on April 07, 2013, 10:51:17 pmThanks for the link.Matt.

author: mightymaxUK
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 09, 2013, 02:15:52 am
content: How do the USB PC based Picotech PicoScopes compare to portable scopes in general? Seems like very little hardware in the PicoScopes with a big price tag?Many thanks.Matt.
Ebay score- a vintage Hioki 3200-50 DMM! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 07, 2013, 08:51:06 pm
content: This beauty was $15 on ebay with no other bidders- I'd say a nice score.500 hours of claimed battery life on two AAs and some pretty interesting featureshttp://kuzyatech.com/vintage-dmm-hioki-3200-50

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 07, 2013, 09:00:52 pm
content: 20uA range is very unusual.

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 07, 2013, 09:08:26 pm
content: They advertised it as the only in its class with 10nA resolution on that range. Can't confirm that it's working on this one yet. If I switch from 200uA to 20uA range, readings get funky (or it's the effect of the shunt resistance on my cap leakage aka uA current source).
Weird power-up problem Handykit 202E oscilloscope - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Retep
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2013, 03:32:05 pm
content: I've got a Handykit 202E oscilloscope, a very basic, unpretentious, no-frills, 20MHz 2 channel scope from the early nineties. Though it is functionality wise very limited compared to those newfangled digital scopes, it has served me well. That is until this morning. Now I could try to describe what I see when I power it up, but my English is not that good, and as they say a picture is worth more than a thousand words. So I put a little clip on youtube:.Does anyone have a clue how to fix this?

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2013, 12:28:35 am
content: Early nineties? I got mine in 1988! Mine got bad switches which caused unstable traces. Otherwise you can check the electrolytics on the PSU / CRT board.Here is the manual with full schematics:http://mypdfmanuals.com/dref/2181374

author: Balaur
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 02, 2013, 05:30:10 am
content: Hey, it's already the 2nd of April in Europe. Too late!

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2013, 05:33:39 am
content: Quote from: nctnico on April 02, 2013, 12:28:35 amWatch the video.

author: Retep
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2013, 09:09:21 pm
content: This probably explains it:

author: Hydrawerk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2013, 09:19:40 pm
content: Cool joke, I must say.

author: paulvos
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 06, 2013, 08:35:12 pm
content: Hahaha.
Fluke 2635A Hydra Data Bucket - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: deisenberg
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2013, 09:17:17 pm
content: Hope this is the right section to ask, but what would be a reasonable price to ask for a Fluke 2635A Hydra Data Bucket? Ebay has the same unit for $3900, but that seems a little out of the part for a unit at least 7 years old.Thanks!
Question about buying a new function generator - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: leyden jar
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 06, 2013, 05:04:06 pm
content: I am going to buy a new function generator in the near future and I wanted some advice on what to get.I already have a BK 3020 that has served me well for the basic things I've done up to now.The reason I feel I need a new function generator is because I will be beginning third year EE next January and I will finally be taking EE courses like circuit analysis, circuits 1, signals and systems, e.t.c.What should I be looking for in a signal generator for modern electronics education labwork at home?Is there anything recommended < $200 U.S. ?
Service concerns for Tek 2246 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: krish2487
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2013, 07:29:55 am
content: Hello Folks,I ve recently acquired a Tek 2246 scope off flea bay for pretty cheap.For what I paid for it, it was a pretty good deal. I have opened the scope to clean it up and to perform a generalcheckup of the instrument.The lithium battery underneath the top board reads 3.4 V.This unit was last calibrated in 2011 and its manufacturing year was 1987.While admiring the engineering of tek I noticed a couple of socketed windowed EPROMS on the top board.I was wondering , if it makes prudent sense to just back up the firmware from the EPROMS in case of an emergency.The scope is a bit off calibration in the horizontal section. The test 1 Khz signal did not correspond to the horizontal divisions andthe time base setting.I ll perform the service sometime this weekend.Thanks in advance.

author: grumpydoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2013, 08:32:18 am
content: QuoteIf it was calibrated in 2011 I would be more suspicious that the 1kHz was not quite 1kHz - the frequency of the test output is not usually accurate, it just has to have reasonably clean edges for the probe adjustment.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2013, 01:32:12 pm
content: Making a backup of EPROMs is always a good idea but chances are someone else already did that so you can download the images. Do check the firmware version though.

author: krish2487
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2013, 04:12:36 pm
content: @grumpydocThanks. It did not strike me that the 1 Khz reference is out.Will definitely check it out.@nctnicoThank you..I ll keep posting the updates when I get around to actually servicing it this weekend.

author: grumpydoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2013, 04:24:14 pm
content: QuoteThe spec appears to be 1kHz ± 10%, 0.5V ± 2%.As I said frequency accuracy isn't generally a feature of scope "calibration" outputs. They're not there to calibrate the 'scope but so that the user can adjust the compensation trimmer on an x10 probe and they only need to be "in the ballpark" for that.
Rigol ds1052e screen brightness stuck at a high level - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: plantgrower
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2013, 07:45:27 pm
content: I just bought a Rigol ds1052e second hand on ebay as that is all I can afford. The only apparent problem with it is that the screen brightness does not adjust at all. It seems to be at a high level of brightness possibly 100% ?The firmware is 2.04 how do I go about troubleshooting this problem? I have searched for similar and have only seen problems where the backlight was intermittent.

author: MasterOfNone
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2013, 09:13:39 pm
content: I haven’t had this problem and I don’t know how to fix it, but when you say the brightness doesn’t adjust, does this mean the Multifunction knob still works and can be used to control the cursors etc?When you try to adjust the brightness apart from the brightness actually changing a brightness percentage value should also change. Does the value actually change?You should be able to adjust the Brightness from the Ultrascope software and the scope should remember the value set. Have you tried using the software to adjust the brightness?

author: plantgrower
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2013, 01:18:02 am
content: Quote from: MasterOfNone on April 03, 2013, 09:13:39 pmYes I can change the percent value and the knob seems to work.I will try the software next.

author: plantgrower
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2013, 07:13:53 pm
content: Now the multifunction knob doesn't work. It must have been starting to fail.What is the best course of action now ? Cleaning ?I have seen several threads on here any help would be greatly appreciated.

author: ivan747
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2013, 09:26:30 pm
content: In this thread, Mechatrommer fixes his rotary encoders:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/reviews/rigol-ds1052e-annual-service-(knob-problem)/msg75048/#msg75048
Stanford Research test gear and possible use for the photon counter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: asgard
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 06, 2013, 06:30:33 am
content: Dave,I just saw your latest video regarding the unboxing of a Stanford Research multi-channel scaler/integrator.Yes the typical use is the measurement of excited photon energy states and decay to base state, typically using a 3cm diameter ruby disc as essentially a 500 nm laser. One other particular use for an instrument such as this, is in astronomy where a green laser is projected into the night sky, and the backscatter can determine the correction for an active mirror array, compensating for water vapor density in the atmosphere. A photomultiplier with a rotating aperture takes rapid successive measurements of the photon density due to the backscatter at the particular frequency of light. Once the data is collected the SRS device can use the math functions to plot an exponential decay curve to measure the location of the inflection points on the laser light energy decay function. Anyway, that's what is one possible use for a nerdly astro-geek such as myself could put the scaler.As to SRS instruments in general, I have fond memories of the two years practically glued to the SR360 function generator, as it produced a very stable and accurate sweep in both linear and logarithmic curves, since I was doing audiometric analysis of something called the Head-Related Transfer Function. That is basically the measurement of audio signals bouncing around your head when you have been fitted with a hearing aid device. I was working on advanced DSP on a new chipset that had a network of 24 or 40 independently clocked multi-processor arrays, all on a 1x1 mm die. The prototype device had a master clock of 800MHZ, but was intended to go to 1GHz. Anyway, the company funding died away and the project was cancelled. But I imagine you have been through that sort of mill before.J.R. Stoner
Elix M266 teardown - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: ResR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2013, 06:03:32 pm
content: This multimeter was given for work use from the employer. M266 manufactured by Elix (?) . It supposed to be in comply with IEC1010 but I seriously doubt it is. Okay the battery compartment is easy access at the back panel with only one screw with metal thread (only plus side), but first of all no fuse while being rated for 750VAC/1000VDC?The main fuse at my work place is 1kA (1000A) on 3 phase of 230/400V 50Hz. It evaporates my hand if it pops with those currents. Also it is bats--t slow and occasionally gets stuck without reading. I didn't get the pcb out because the split terminals (ugh) melted into plastic while it was soldered onto pcb and I didn't risk breaking it yet.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2013, 06:31:04 pm
content: I have the same ( or a clone cousin) that is remarkably similar. I only use it to check current on mains, never for actual voltage measurement itself, I have meters that are not going to evaporate when doing that. As a clamp meter it is not that bad, though you only really have 1 range, 200A. Continuity is poor, voltage is basically " might be not zero", and have never seen the "external unit" for high resistance checking. Hold does work, though if you leave it in hold long it will destroy the LCD, as this implements hold by stopping the ICL7106 COB clock, driving the LCD with DC which will kill it over time. It is a better than guess meter, but not really a mains rated unit.Drop test it off a ladder or off the side of a building onto concrete, or place on a railway line. Then say " Dunno, it just broke"I replaced it with an Iso Tech ICM-A9, a lot better, and me proof, as it only has one button, autoselecting between current, continuity and voltage.

author: ResR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2013, 07:55:44 pm
content: Quote from: SeanB on April 01, 2013, 06:31:04 pmLot's of good ideas to implementThanks._

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2013, 09:39:58 pm
content: Quote from: ResR on April 01, 2013, 07:55:44 pmIt may not matter. With it selling for less than $20 USD + free shipping, there are literally > 10,000 unit available on ebay (from one seller) so you may get a new replacement?http://www.ebay.com/itm/350589344031

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2013, 06:12:17 pm
content: Ohms range does not pass the mains test............, if you switch " accidentally" through those high resistance ranges with the probe in that otherwise unused hole it is actually connected direct to the 7106 COB input.
Extech MN47 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Medo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2013, 03:05:14 am
content: Did anyone try Extech MN47?How does it feel compared to EX330:Is continuity tester still fast?Are probes sharp?Can it measure LEDs (9V battery keeps my hope alive)?Since this will not be primary multimeter, other specs are not hugely important, but I don't want to get me something annoying (e.g. that it takes three seconds to detect continuity or it beeps at me on each rotary position).EX330 seems like a logical cheap but decent multimeter choice, especially because I would know exactly what I am getting. However, MN47 lures me with removal of NCV button (so you cannot press it by accident) and maybe LED testing functionality (because of 9V battery).PS: From specs alone I see that differences are quite minor (e.g. 1.2% DC accuracy vs 1.0% for EX330; a bit worse on capacitance, frequency and temperature measurement...).

author: ivan747
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2013, 03:22:55 am
content: At first glance, the MN47 has mV range, but apparently it is completely unprotected. The absolute maximum ratings say don't apply more than 400mV in the mV mode. Try meeting CAT III with that...Extech seems to be redundant in their product range. This means they are rebadging stuff. Another signs is that every multimeter series looks radically different from the other apart from the colors which are always the same.Generally, when I am comparing units with few reviews and opinions online I check both manuals. They have a good lot of the details you won't find elsewhere, like the 400mV limit I mentioned.
Manson SSP-7080 PSU - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: hammy
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 27, 2013, 12:01:11 pm
content: Some photos from this psu.

author: CUDA
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 01, 2013, 06:22:50 pm
content: Just found service menu by accidentWhen holding Review, press 16v5A button !Review button cycles menu, 27v and 36v button to change +/-seems like offset and span adjustments for voltage and current ?-CUDA
Necessary test equipment - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: smashedProton
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2013, 04:43:06 am
content: What different pieces of test gear (and leads, soldering, etc.) would you consider necessary for a hobbyist who has been into electronics long enoufh to master the use of scopes, power supplies and sig gens. Well... what I'm trying ti asj, is that would my time be better spent working for test gear, or to buy parts and things for projects.www.GarrettBaldwin.com

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2013, 05:00:04 am
content: Dude, cut down that double urls pointing to your blog will ya ? Your posts becoming to look like a spam.

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2013, 05:10:38 am
content: Quote from: smashedProton on March 31, 2013, 04:43:06 amWhatever you need. If you're working on a circuit and say "Damn, I'd really like to have $X to help me with this", then get $X. If you already have the essentials there's no need to go crazy with test equipment. Beyond scopes, power supplies and sig gens, most stuff has somewhat limited applications.Quote from: BravoV on March 31, 2013, 05:00:04 amThis.

author: smashedProton
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2013, 05:39:03 pm
content: I didnt realize that i was doing that... Thanks!
(no longer) Urgent: is Saelig an authorized distributor? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: ivan747
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2013, 05:39:17 pm
content: I ordered a Rigol from Saelig, but now I realize I am not sure if they are authorized distribuitors. Oscilloscopes ave very expensive and I definitely don't want one without the waranty. Rigol voids your warranty if you buy the scope via an non-authorized distribuitor. I have seen it mentioned on the internet by normal people that they are authorized but not a word from them or Rigol.I want an answer before monday in case I want to cancel my order.

author: Noize
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2013, 06:27:52 pm
content: Did you just get robbed if so, if you have any further trouble I will donate some cash. Don't worry about a Rigol warranty so much,

author: ivan747
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2013, 06:38:30 pm
content: I was thinking about starting a blog like this one in spanish, only then I could justify money donations, but thanks anyway

author: robrenz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2013, 06:41:28 pm
content: I bought my Rigol form them a couple of years ago. I had an issue with the knobs and IIRC Saelig sent me to Rigol US and they sent me replacement knobs. So Ithinkthay are official

author: ivan747
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2013, 11:41:27 pm
content: That sounds official enough.Not canceling my order.

author: hugo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2013, 12:10:57 am
content: On this page :http://www.rigolna.com/sales/you can see that Saelig is anapproved distributorfor United States ...

author: ivan747
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2013, 02:51:43 am
content: That settles it. Thanks and welcome to the forum!
For those who can't get enough of analog scopes... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: JoeyP
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2013, 09:32:21 pm
content: Screw all that waveform rate stuff. How about 7 independent displays in a single unit:http://www.ebay.com/itm/Multiple-Oscilloscope-Seven-Display-Unit-Dual-Channel-trigger-D7-200gh-CRT-/330895758700?_trksid=p2047675.m2109&_trkparms=aid%3D555003%26algo%3DPW.CAT%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D142%26meid%3D6616604955847860864%26pid%3D100010%26prg%3D1088%26rk%3D5%26sd%3D251253047544%26

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2013, 10:12:28 pm
content: Now we know what kind of tinkering projects US tax payer's dollars got spend onHow about stacking a couple of 2 or 4 channels scopes and connecting trigger out to trigger in?

author: JoeyP
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2013, 11:11:27 pm
content: Quote from: nctnico on March 30, 2013, 10:12:28 pmNo, you don't. Despite your cynicism, I see no evidence that US tax payers had anything to do with the development of that scope. It's a Vu-Data 1200B. A commercial off-the-shelf product which probably cost quite a bit less than 4 separate units, since it has a common power supply and chassis.
Rubidium (not the standard) and water - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: nixxon
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 05, 2013, 09:36:13 pm
content: Another interesting video from crazy professor Martyn "periodicvideos" Poliakoff on stuff from the periodic table. Now, Rubidium (& H2O):"We drop Rubidium into water - but with Phenolphthalein in the water to act as an indicator"

author: grumpydoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 05, 2013, 11:32:55 pm
content: That hairstyle is awesomely mad professor

author: akcoder
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2013, 03:38:39 am
content: Quote from: grumpydoc on March 05, 2013, 11:32:55 pmI've watched almost all thePeriodic Videos. Professor Poliakoff does a fantastic job of explaining what is going on in the reaction. I love them!-dan

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 08, 2013, 06:19:37 am
content: Ahh a topic close to my heart...being as I'm an inorganic synthetic chemist (specialty nanotechnology).A reagent I work with regularly: diethyl zinc. It's a lovely little pyrophric compound. I've caused a good number of small fires with it.The best being when I set my boss's solvent waste bottle on fire (nice rolling blue doughnut of flame). Combine that with the cadmium powder, selenium reagents, nasty volatile sulfur compounds (why do I work in this lab again?) and you have have a lovely fun work place that never gets dull.For those of you who enjoy chemical related stuff:Things I Won't Work WithIt's a subset of a chemistry blog by an organic medicinal chemist. His normal stuff isn't exactly my cup of tea, but the Things I Won't work with section is quite good for a laugh. There is no doubt the guy has an excellent sense of humor.Two of my favorite quotes:Hexanitro? Say what? I'd call for all the chemists who've ever worked with a hexanitro compound to raise their hands, but that might be assuming too much about the limb-to-chemist ratio.Hmm. Ranking my equipment in terms of its shrapneliferousness is not something that's ever occurred to me, I have to say. It's safe to assume that any procedure which involves considering which parts of the apparatus I'd prefer to have flying past me will not get much business in my lab

author: babysitter
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2013, 12:47:01 pm
content: Move to germany, ask Mr. Klapoetke in Munich. Regularly sets fire to and explodes stuff and assistents for science and fun.
Time Electronics 1051 Resistance Box Restoration - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Cones
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2013, 06:26:45 pm
content: Hi,I bought one of these Time Electronics resistance boxes from ebay last week. The new price is very expensive at over £400 or $900!! The ebay one was £41.It was in a pretty rough condition though. Probably been in a damp workshop for a couple of decades.The aluminium case was a bit dinged and the plastic coating on the inner steel frame was falling off just by looking at it.I stripped the old paint off with a knife and then polished it up a bit with some wet and dry paper to getrid of the worst of the rust.Then it was time to paint it with some matt finish spray paint.It could be better on the inside. I think there was some contamination of some sort on the metal as it did not cover evenly.The outside was a lot better.I saved the labels and used double sided tape to re-apply them.Terminal posts installed.Looks a lot better than before.

author: Cones
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2013, 06:34:35 pm
content: The remaining pictures are here :-http://s699.photobucket.com/user/cones_stuff/library/Time%20Electronics%201051%20Resistance%20BoxI should also mention that the actual resistance values of the box are still within specification as measured on three of my meters (Fluke 189, 289, HP3478A) so not a bad purchase for £41, and less work than trying to construct one from scratch.ThanksMark

author: kripton2035
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2013, 06:35:07 pm
content: very nice restoration !what is the real zero ohm resistance ?

author: Cones
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2013, 06:43:20 pm
content: Hi,I am measuring about 0.066 Ohms after zeroing out my Fluke 289's lead resistance.ThanksMark

author: codeboy2k
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2013, 06:58:48 pm
content: the .1 and .01 ranges are rather interesting, being made with what looks like single strands of resistance wire.The .01 range in particular has varying lengths and what looks like ferrite beads, but I would hazard a guess they are actually just spacers.

author: Cones
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2013, 07:03:16 pm
content: Yes, this is a better view of the low Ohms board on the back of the switch.

author: Cones
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2013, 07:05:08 pm
content: I suspect that big blob of solder on one of them is for trimming the resistance value?
Power Supply  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: aparlett
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 12:45:10 pm
content: Hey GuysLooking for a cheap power supply that has +/- output round $100 mark? nothing too high powered just to play around with precision op-amps.any suggestions will be a great help.thanks

author: eevblogfan
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 12:53:12 pm
content: heyWhy dont you use cheap ass 12~ 30V 9W or so wall wart and use voltage splitter creating virtual ground using Lm358 one pot and pair of NPN and PNP power transistors ? I don't have the schematic nowpleas some one give him the proper schemaall I can find now is that ( should be good anough as op amp baiasing supply )http://www.circuitstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/voltage-splitter-using-opamp.JPGCheers

author: IanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 12:56:28 pm
content: If you only need a few milliamps than back-to-back 9 V batteries will work fine.

author: aparlett
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 01:00:53 pm
content: Im going to uses two 9 volt batteries for now but would like to have a proper supply as im going to be suing it alot more in the future.

author: eevblogfan
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 01:21:57 pm
content: heySchema is the first photo and the final circuit I've built ( including Lm317 , but not really needed I think ><" )

author: aparlett
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2013, 05:34:37 am
content: thanks that looks pretty good to get me through until i can get a better supply

author: aparlett
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2013, 05:43:49 am
content: any suggestions as off the self ones i can start looking into as well or are they out of price range

author: eevblogfan
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2013, 09:16:43 am
content: I am afraid the "good " one ( e3630A) is out of range unless you can get it locally for that 100~120$ ( which I don't think you can , but give it A chance)I don't know any other +/- supply to recommend though I am absolutely sure there are few more out there
LCR  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: karderis
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 05:40:44 pm
content: Hello everybodyI am really interesting to invest some money for a good LCR meter. I own a Peak LCR which is nice but it has the problem to wait for 5 sec before you can get the result on your screen. Now in the case of SMD components in circuit that is loosing of time. As I 've noticed Agilent's LCR meter is promoted thouroughly but it seems that it's not the best choice or better say value for money. Does someone has a better LCR to propose me in this group of price (Agilent). Thanks

author: robrenz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 06:06:13 pm
content: I suggest the IET Labs DE-5000 It is around $335.00 I have had one for about 2 years and am very happy with its performance.Search the forum for "LCR" and you will find lots of other meters and opinions

author: karderis
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 06:12:31 pm
content: Thanks a lot robrenz!I 'll take it into consideration

author: smashedProton
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 06:41:19 pm
content: Why do electronics engineers use handheld tools? A lab lcr meter will be more useful ib my opinion. Are they more expensive?www.GarrettBaldwin.com

author: robrenz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 07:44:47 pm
content: IMO the accuracy of the better hand held LCR meters is more than sufficient for the vast majority of measurements needed in the average lab.Somemore expensive bench meters are not more accurate anyhow. How often do yourealyneed better than 0.3 to 1.0 % accuracy on capacitance or inductance?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 08:01:42 pm
content: what do you want to do with the lcr meter ?do you understand the problems involved in accurately measuring l/c for an application ?what are you designing that you need this kind of instrument ? are you a cap manufacturer , coil manufacturer ? or are you designing high efficiency switchers where you do need to know the behavior of the capacitor / inductor ?a lot of lcr meters are bought that are 'not fit for purpose'.i am working on a switch mode converter right now.... i can't even measure the capacitors behavior. the convertor runs at 1.2 MHz and my lcr meter cannot drive that far ( tops out at 100Khz ... ) so i need to trust the datasheets of the component manufacturer to pick the right part in terms of capaitance/bias influence , temperature influence and SRF...
PHILIPS PM3305 Dual Trace Oscilloscope  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Six
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 12:25:46 am
content: Hey guys,I've been a fan of the blog for a while but this is my first post so please be gentle!I've got an opportunity to pick up a Philips PM3305 35MHz Oscilloscope as my first unit. I was wondering if anyone knows about the brand and whether it would be a good starting point for my home lab. I've only really used the kit at university but want some decent kit for my home lab.I've tried searching Google but there doesn't seem to be much info out there. All I really know is that they were produced around the mid 80's.Cheers!Six

author: ddrl46
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 07:05:47 am
content: First result in google, manual and schematics:http://www.radiodatabase.nl/meetapparatuur/philips/PM3305/PM3305.pdf

author: Six
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 11:00:29 am
content: Yeah thanks for that... I did say that I'd searched Google. Did you read my post?What I was looking for was USER experience and whether it would be a good FIRST oscilloscope.

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 12:13:16 pm
content: If you can't be bothered to read the manual then you don't need an oscilloscope.

author: Six
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 12:32:46 pm
content: If you can't be arsed giving a decent answer you don't need a forum.

author: grumpydoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 01:34:54 pm
content: I don't think anyone who has read these forums for any length of time would accuse Bored@Work of suffering fools gladly but you really let yourself in for that reply.Your commentQuotecame across as extremely arrogant - I'm not surprised at B@W's reaction. I nearly replied in similar vein myself.The 'scope?Yes, if it works and you can get it cheaply, the digital part is of limited usefulness.

author: Six
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2013, 03:03:54 pm
content: Thank you Grumpy Doc..I did explain that it was my first post and to be gentle. I have read the manual but never having had experience of old scopes I was looking for a comment on it's usability and service potential. Being new to the forum I didn't expect a short reply telling me I don't need a scope.Okay I may have come across as being a bit arsey but to be fair I was open and asking for help. Everyone has to start somewhere hey.. remember the days when you were just starting out!No harm done anyway. Thank you for the reply and my apologies if I seemed a bit off after being linked to the manual.
Please help identify mystery material in SMD pre-heater - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: larry42
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2013, 11:40:17 pm
content: Tenma pre-heater. What is the stiff, but flexible and flakey material underneath the heater assembly? Some kind of mica thermal insulator or asbestos ;)?FWIW the earthing of the chassis was poorly done, with the knurled washer in the wrong place.

author: TerraHertz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 27, 2013, 12:45:24 am
content: Interesting. I've never seen that before either. Looks like some kind of cross between 'cowhide' (red or black plasticized cardboard, used as insulator), mica insulating sheet, and silicone based insulating sheet.Probably being used as a radiant heat shield between the bend in the hot air pipe and the case.Though I don't know why some fiberglass matting wouldn't have done the job.Could be useful stuff. I hope someone posts some name/source info.What do you mean "knurled washer in the wrong place"?A star washer?Was it between the ground wire lug and the sheet metal of the case? And you think it should be between the lug and the securing nut?If it's between the lug and the case, it's there to better puncture the oxide layer on the metal of the case.

author: larry42
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 27, 2013, 11:16:45 am
content: The material has a flakey, silvery texture.The star washer was between the screw and the lug. The chassis is painted. Not how I would design equipment...But still wonder what the heat shield material is, and whether it's a health hazard.Sent from my HTC One S using Tapatalk 2

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 27, 2013, 06:20:33 pm
content: Mica sheet, I buy it for use in repairing microwave ovens, it makes a great replacement cover for the units, and is cheap. Cuts with scissors, but is rather brittle.
Hantek 5200A Software - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: ctripps
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 27, 2013, 12:57:23 pm
content: I recently purchased ()March 2013) a Hantek 5200A and have been very pleased with its performance. Since most of my work is analog less than 30MHz the 200MHz b/w was more than adequate.I have the latest software but noticed when the FFT function is chosen the trace appears on the same window as the scope trace.I viewed a Hantek 5200A review video at:The FFT is displayed in a separate window. I know this review is dated 2010 and was likely an older revision of the software.I have exhausted my search for any option to view the FFT trace in a separate window. Is there a way to obtain the earlier version of the software? I can't locate it on the Hantek website.Thanks.Andy
multimeter upgrade - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: peterthenovice
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2013, 09:11:43 pm
content: can you add a fuse in a multimeter on the 10 a line

author: 4to20Milliamps
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2013, 10:30:42 pm
content: No.Are you trying to measure a higher current?use one of these:http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/ecatalog/N-1z0dwmz

author: amspire
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2013, 01:10:58 am
content: Quote from: peterthenovice on April 03, 2013, 09:11:43 pmDecent multimeters have a fuse on the 10A or 20A current input.If you have a multimeter without a fuse, I would just buy a new multimeter. Most half decent multimeters from $30 upwards should have a fuse.If you only need the fuse for low voltages, any of the cheap multimeters would be fine.If you need fuses with full CAT III or CAT IV rating for 300V to 1000V, you probably should be looking at paying a bit more for a quality brand.

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2013, 01:15:13 am
content: It's always impressed me that the fuse they leave out is the one for the higher energy range. I understand that it's the more expensive one, but it's also the one that gets used around mains.I have a cheapo meter where they didn't even put arealfuse on the low current range - it's a damn polyswitch. Stick mains up that and see how long it blocks current...

author: M. András
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2013, 07:59:52 am
content: during zero crossing?

author: Neilm
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2013, 06:33:18 pm
content: Quote from: c4757p on April 04, 2013, 01:15:13 amThey leave it out as fuses have quite a large (and very variable) resistance. Given this, they find that the cheap fuse is so poor it adds significantly to the voltage burden of the meter as they are also using quite a large value resistor to measure the current.Decent fuses cost money. Meter is cheap.Many moons ago I did do a test with a cheap meter in current measuring mode connecting across a 600V supply. I can't remember how many kA the supply was but the resulting explosion was impressive.Neil