hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Rigol DSA815 Firmware 00.01.08 - License - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: jstarr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2014, 11:13:25 pm
content: I searched extensively but could not find any info whether to install the keygen license codes into version 00.01.08 or do i have to go back first to 00.01.07?thanksjohn

author: KD0RC
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2014, 12:02:04 am
content: Hi John, mine shipped with 1.07. I immediatly upgraded to 1.08 and later added the licenses. So I don't think you need to downgrade first.Len
TH2822c ?   AT826      - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: lovelarrr
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 14, 2014, 09:28:52 am
content: Hi, I want to buy a HANDHELD LCR METER .TH2822c ?AT826 Who's the best precision and stability.Who tested the use of contrastAPPA 703 and AT826 The two internal PCB simple maybe accuracy than TH2822/AT826.I'm sorry I speak English translation by Google
HP-54520C Oscilloscope - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: chebam
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 13, 2014, 03:05:35 pm
content: Hi every one6 month ago i bought a not working HP-54520C oscilloscope.since then i am looking for the schematics of this Oscilloscope.i will be more than grateful if one of you can help me find the schematics for HP-54520CThanks Dror

author: wn1fju
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2014, 05:36:59 pm
content: I suppose you could call Agilent and see if they ever published schematics. By the early 1990's, HP's service manuals had degenerated into simply a set of procedures to identify malfunctioning boards (which were then exchanged for working ones). It may be the case that you are permanently out of luck.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2014, 06:03:25 pm
content: never released.there is a clip for the older machines

author: Hydrawerk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2014, 06:44:33 pm
content: http://www.home.agilent.com/en/pd-1000001419%3Aepsg%3Apro-pn-54520C/2-channel-1-gsa-s-color-digitizing-oscilloscope-obsolete

author: chebam
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 13, 2014, 08:05:35 pm
content: thanks guysunfortunately i understand that i need to try to fix it without the schematics.so maybe some one knows about floppy drive issue in the HP-54520C ?it worked in the beginning and then it dead.i replaced it with a new one and still dead.i probed the motherboard connector of the Driver with a Logic Analyzer and it alive (as much as i understand)https://www.dropbox.com/s/w01js0lhiafvswt/Floppy%20Driver.jpgthanks again

author: poorchava
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2014, 10:35:49 am
content: Why do you need a floppy drive?What else doesn't work?In general the worst thing that can happen in any equipment like this is a failure of power supply, which kills everything connected to it. If it kills a custom chip, you're most likely screwed unless you can find that chip on ebay (for a hefty sum of money of course) and it doesn't happen to need calibration or (worse) doesn't hold any calibration data itself. Most off-the-shelf parts can be bought, or some compatible alternatives can be found.It seems like HP/Agilent/Happy-Lucky-Keysight-Technologies products contain less 'unobtanium' than Tektronix' do.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2014, 03:54:43 pm
content: most likely the power suppy is shot.change all caps there. sniff it. if it smells like cat pee : bingo ...that series is notorious for bad power suppplies
HMS 990 USB (osciloscope) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Electric flower
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2014, 06:42:32 pm
content: Hello folks.I have found this osciloscope for 15 € and i'm thinking to buy it.The thing is that this is itended to be used as a tool for Mercedes-Benz auto diagnostic, but im planing to use it as an osciloscope, i don't expect anything fancy but would it work as a one? I can't find on internet any specs of this thing.At this moment im 80% into buying it, might do teardown of it if time becomes my friend.Thanks for reading this and sorry for poor english.
Extend your HAMEG warranty to 3 years for free - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: owiecc
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2014, 09:41:02 pm
content: Hameg just announced an extended warranty scheme so if you just purchased something from them go and visithttp://warranty.hameg.com/to get an extra warranty year.Details can be found on theirblog."If your instrument was purchased between the 1st of May 2013 and the 30th of April 2014 then you can also register your device until the 31st of July 2014 for the free 3 years of Value Service."

author: nowlan
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2014, 10:06:37 pm
content: Hmm. Not to take the shine off, but I notice Agilent scopes say 5 year warranty, and 3 year on their other devices (dmm,psu).I mistakenly said European law was 3 years recently, but is only 2 years according to thispage.

author: owiecc
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2014, 07:25:58 am
content: Quote from: nowlan on May 12, 2014, 10:06:37 pmEU law gives you 2 year protection but if something happens in the second year you have to prove that the defect existed at the moment of buying. Manufacturer warranty (however long) is a voluntary thing.
Fluke 8060a stuck at power on self test.....(problem found) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: xwarp
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2014, 02:29:36 pm
content: Or somewhere in there.Was working fine yesterday and then this morning, BAM....turn it on and all lcd segments appear, and that is where it seems to be stuck.Going to tear into it and see what is going on.Too bad too because I had it all apart last week and had replaced all the electrolytic caps.Thoughts?Problem fixed.Turns out that the elastomeric strip between the LCD and the digital pcb assembly was the issue.

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2014, 10:28:48 pm
content: Thanks for sharing both the symptoms and the fix.

author: xwarp
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2014, 11:39:08 pm
content: Quote from: retiredcaps on May 12, 2014, 10:28:48 pmMy pleasure.To expand on this issue, I do recall when I tore the meter apart to recap and clean, the display assembly has the elastomeric strip in it, (ref MP14 in the manual).The strip is 2" long and had been somewhat flattened and distorted due to the shape of the assembly and pressure.I do recall rotating it so that the oblong side of it sat vertical between the lcd and the control board.Not a correct fix, but until some type of replacement for that piece can be found, the meter will probably have it's finicky days.

author: lowimpedance
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2014, 12:21:42 am
content: I have an 8062a that does get stuck at power on occasionally , but its not the elastomer strip, (that seems to be working okay). I suspect its the startup supply to the micro or U3, (ie Q1 and associated components), but since it is not a regular event I have not been able to track down the actual issue.Yes it has been cleaned and re-capped.
HP 8152A Optical Average Power Meter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: FaultlineAudio
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 12, 2014, 11:17:38 pm
content: This past weekend I picked up a HP8152A Optical Average Power Meter at a local electronics swap meet for $30.00 USD. I was thinking that I could use it to measure the output levels of laser diodes. It didn't included the probes and I was very surprised to find out that the probes (81525A) sell from $900.00 - $1600.00 used or Agilent sells a modern replacement (81526A) for a meager $16,000.00Does anyone have any ideas about how difficult it maybe to put together a homemade probe? I haven't found any technical information anywhere about the probes, I'm guessing that that are a high precision device.Any ideas?

author: krivx
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2014, 11:23:26 pm
content: From some limited experience with laser power meters, the sensors usually have quite a bit of calibration and correction data included. It would be very difficult to DIY without a working reference to compare with.
Rigol DS1000Z Tables - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2014, 04:54:13 am
content: I am not sure if these tables have been created for the Rigol DS1000Z series before, but saw marmad'sexcellent DS2000 series review, and thought I would do the same. It would be nice if someone could do one for wfrms/sec as I do not have a second scope or counter. All of these were performed on a hacked Rigol DS1074(1104)Z.I have only completed sample rate vs Time/Div+Mem Depth as well as Segments captured/memdepth. Note that 3 channels and 4 channels on is the same.On the segmented memory graph, Green indicated that the specified memory depth is only available through auto mode, while blue is manual+auto. NA signifies that it is not available for the specified number(s) of channels. Excel file attached. Colors may be screwed up due to conversion to 97-2003 (xls) for forum support.As always, feel free to point out any errors.

author: marmad
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2014, 05:16:34 pm
content: Quote from: echen1024 on May 11, 2014, 04:54:13 amNice!! Thanks for taking the time to chart the info; hopefully someone will do the same thing for the wfrm/s rates.BTW, I'm working on a new version of my Rigol Ultravision Utilities to handle all 4 channels of the DS1000Z (as well as DS4000s). Since I don't own either DSO, I'd appreciate any owners willing to be alpha/beta testers. The link for the current alpha (as well as some explanatory info)is here.

author: electronics man
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2014, 05:31:38 pm
content: I managed to get about 25,000wfms on My ds1000z
Replacement case for Fluke 77 meter? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: weirdal1968
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 28, 2014, 09:58:53 pm
content: Years ago I was lucky to find a pile of broken Fluke 73s and one 77 at a hamfest that just needed new fuses. Apparently somebody at a Motorola RF lab kept killing them. They have been reliable and durable meters and I should have bought every one the guy had.Early this year my trusty 77 jumped off a table onto a cement floor. The case around the LCD fragmented into a dozen pieces but the damn thing still works perfectly. I tried to glue it back together but the repair fell apart after it was left in a cold car overnight.Does Fluke (or anyone) sell replacement cases?

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2014, 10:53:38 pm
content: Quote from: weirdal1968 on April 28, 2014, 09:58:53 pmIt is listed on the Fluke site, but I don't know if anyone carries them other than finding them on ebay.http://www.fluke.com/fluke/inen/accessories/Cases-Holsters/C70Y.htm?PID=55840I'm an idiot and can't read. If it is the case, then do as suggested by lowimpedance.

author: lowimpedance
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2014, 11:31:20 pm
content: I assume its the actual case and not the holster you need?, if so the only source will be an old junker parts job as suggested, on ebay etc.It would have to be 'going real cheap' otherwise its not really practical for an old meter like this.good luck.

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2014, 11:40:09 pm
content: Quote from: lowimpedance on April 28, 2014, 11:31:20 pmAs I changed post#2 now due to lack of reading skills, Excavatoree, a member here, probably has lots of these cases lying around? PM him and he can probably sell you an used one.

author: lowimpedance
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2014, 11:46:59 pm
content: Ahh yes forgot about Excavatoree, a definite possibility.

author: weirdal1968
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 10, 2014, 06:33:24 pm
content: Thanks for the tip. It may be an old meter but she has served me well and I can trust it unlike a Harbor Freight DMM.
Scope add-on for Bunnie's Novena laptop board - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2014, 02:34:36 pm
content: This is an interesting approach for high-bandwidth scopes -abandon standard probes and make a low-ish cost active probe.Needs some ergonomics work on the cable & cooling, but looks promising.http://www.bunniestudios.com/blog/?p=3957

author: lpc32
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2014, 02:48:54 am
content: The future: open hardware+source GHz oscilloscopes?

author: Marco
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2014, 02:52:09 am
content: That ADC is a little too rich for my blood ...Someone do one with HMCAD1511 for the Parallella board.

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2014, 02:55:35 am
content: I was wondering what would happen someone outside of the test equipment realm decided to produce hardware for that realm. Turns out that the standard players aren't doing a lot of innovating at all. *yawn* what a shocker...

author: Shock
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2014, 03:01:52 am
content: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/which-%28old%29-logic-analyser/msg433258/#msg433258
Used Tektronix scopes  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: ejwan
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 06, 2014, 07:19:36 pm
content: I'm on a bit of a budget and just getting started. I found two older scopes locally, a 2245a and a TDS430a for about $200. I know these are different beasts, but they both work well and are descent looking. For just general learning and mostly digital work would I have any preferences? I one more servicable?

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 06, 2014, 10:20:32 pm
content: If I understand correctly the TDS series has many unobtainium parts. The 2245 might be easier to repair if it is necessary. I hope others chime in on this if I am not correct.

author: ejwan
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 09, 2014, 06:45:44 pm
content: Thanks! I got the 2245. I'll get a digital at the wants/needs crossover point.
What is your opinion on EZ Digital/LG Precision multimeters - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: jassuncao
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 09, 2014, 08:27:21 am
content: Hello all,I found a bunch of EZ Digital/LG Precision/Goldstar multimeters in a local auction site for a reasonable price (from 25 euros to 35 euros). From the pictures they look brand new.After some digging I found the manuals online and the specs are reasonable but I couldn't find any information about their build quality or reliability.Does anyone here have any opinion on this brand?Thanks in advance.Regards,
Keithley 2110 Display - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Chipguy
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 10, 2014, 10:01:16 am
content: This is what the Keithley 2110 looks like:And this is what it SHOULD look like:Why didn't they put some more effort into the display designCheers,Chip

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2014, 06:35:36 pm
content: My guess is that once again it's a rebadge. The Keithley 2100 was just a rebadged Array M3600A

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2014, 06:43:58 pm
content: Quote from: Chipguy on May 10, 2014, 10:01:16 amReally looks bad. I would trade two digits for better display ;-)

author: TiN
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2014, 07:45:55 pm
content: As already mentioned, it's rebadged OEM.Genuine keithley units have nice VFD most of time, and they cost another money.

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2014, 07:55:56 pm
content: Picotest gets their stuff from the same OEM

author: rdl
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2014, 08:23:59 pm
content: What a waste of front panel space.
Who to call for Wavetek generator support? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: xwarp
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2014, 02:44:44 am
content: I've got an old 1050a sweep generator and finding info on it has been less than fruitful and I'm not interested in paying the outrageous amount for a crappy scanned copy of a manual that I don't know is even complete on fleebay.Any ideas on who to call?

author: casinada
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 08, 2014, 06:32:32 am
content: Wavetek is long gone. There is no support for their products, just some ex employees or Equipment enthusiasts around the world.I have a Wavetek 29 and a Wavetek 395 and no support for them. I think the company that ended up with look alike instruments and menus is TTI
Free webinar from element14: So you think you know Oscilloscopes? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: element14
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 07, 2014, 02:12:18 am
content: Hi Guys.We're pleased to bring you a new webinar on element14:So you think you know Oscilloscopes?It's presented by Dave Gutshall from Tektronix. In the span of 20 minutes, Dave will give you an overview of how oscilloscopes were invented, how they've evolved over the years, and show you what the latest generation of scopes is now capable of doing. After Dave's presentation, he'll take any questions you might have about oscilloscopes.So, details:Date: May 14Time: 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM Central Standard TimeCost: You're joking, right?FREE!You can sign up for it on element14:http://www.element14.com/community/events/4046Thanks, and I hope you enjoy it!Cheers,Sagar

author: XOIIO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 07, 2014, 02:51:27 am
content: Whoa, something listed in central time? neatI'm guessing it's a video stream of some sort? Would you be opposed to someone recording it and possibly putting it on youtube or a file sharing site for those who can not watch it in time?

author: element14
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 07, 2014, 03:21:41 am
content: It's a Webex presentation. We usually have the recorded video available within a week or so after the webinar takes place. I'll post a link to the video here once it's ready.In the meantime, I hope you can join us as it's always cool to have live q+a!Sagar

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 07, 2014, 05:10:15 am
content: Nice! I will be in class at the time given though. I will wait for the video to show it to my students!Alexander.
Tek MDO3000 Spectrum Analyzer versus Rigol DSA815TG - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: jstarr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2014, 01:11:04 pm
content: I was thinking of upgrading my Agilent MSOX 2024A scope to a 350Mhz or higher model. I could sell my Rigol DSA 815TG and the MSOX2024A and use the combined funds to buy a Tektronix MDO3000 Series. I lose all of the protocol analyzer options I have now in the Agilent but I figure the Tek MDO3000 Series spectrum analyzer should be much better than the Rigol..... or not?? Has anyone evaluated the Tek MDO3000 SA yet?Any advice appreciated.john

author: Hydrawerk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2014, 02:40:18 pm
content: MDO3000 has no tracking generator and no demodulation...

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 09, 2014, 02:42:30 pm
content: Quote from: Hydrawerk on May 09, 2014, 02:40:18 pmYes, apart form those, performance-wise, Tek told me that the MDO3000 was supposed to be competitive with the higher model Rigol 1000 series. But I have not investigated this myself.The Tek will certainly have that super wide capture bandwidth.

author: G0HZU
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2014, 01:29:29 pm
content: QuoteA lot depends on what you want to do with the analyser. The MDO is effectively a high sample rate 8bit ADC +DSP with a 3GHz capture range.The Rigol uses something like a 14bit ADC with a few MHz of bandwidth at the final IF. So it also has a multiple conversion up/downconverter section ahead of the ADC.So these instruments will have a very different set of limitations to their performance. For general RF research and design work I would find the MDO to be a very interesting bit of kit because of the uniquely wide capture range it offers. But it could never be the only spectrum analyser I own.Both the MDO and the Rigol have poor phase noise and both will have very limited spurious free dynamic range. I would expect that a skilled user of the Rigol will be able to dodge the DR issues more successfully than they would if they used the MDO. This is partly because I'd expect the MDO to have a lot of spurious responses onscreen even if you just fed it a single cw tone. There isn't much you can do about this and this is one area I'd expect even a cheapy analyser like the Rigol to easily outperform the MDO. But it depends if seeing lots of -65dBc (typical) spurious signals is an issue to you?
Fluke 362, any experiences? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Dago
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 07:47:07 am
content: I'd have some need for an AC/DC clamp meter and I ran in to Fluke 362 (true RMS) on eBay for like 80€:http://www.fluke.com/fluke/tten/electrical-testers/Clamp-Meters/Fluke-362.htm?PID=74568I guess it's a model for the asian market like the Fluke multimeters on eBay (which I hear are just fine). Does anyone have any experience with it? A peak hold would be nice to have but I guess I can live without it...There also seems to be a more expensive Fluke 365 with a detachable jaw (and a light) but I couldn't fin any information if the specifications are any different. Every place just mentions the temperature/humidity/altitude ranges for it

author: Dago
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2014, 11:30:29 am
content: Seems like nobody has one of these so I just ordered one off eBay. I'll try to do a small review of it when I get it.
What are the best products to use to sniff/analyze USB and PCIe communication - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: matrixofdynamism
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 07:14:59 pm
content: People that do USB and PCIe design will need to look at what is happening on the differential signal line. This can help in understanding how the design is working and debugging it and also potentially to learn how these things work.My question is that what are the best products that can be used to sniff these two protocols and can be used in a project desinging USB or PCIe device? I am sure there are plenty out in the market. Are there any that you would recommend?I am talking about hardware solution here, more like what we refer to as protocol analyzers. Are software based protocol analyzers superior?

author: mdkendall
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 05, 2014, 01:28:57 am
content: For USB I have used the Total Phase Beaglehttp://www.totalphase.com/products/beagle-usb480/That link is for the original high-speed version, which is about $1300. They have some newer, more expensive versions that I haven't used. If you just need low- and full-speed there is also a cheaper version at about $450.The device, and the associated PC software, is reasonably good. It will show and decode high-level protocols as you would expect, and will also show the raw hardware events, including those associated with the initial device attach.

author: abyrvalg
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 05, 2014, 08:47:20 am
content: An alternative:http://ellisys.com/products/usbex200/index.phpWe have both Ex200s and Beagles here, Beagle produces inaccurate dumps sometimes (wrong byte values) - not a big issue if you just need a debug feedback from communication you are programming, but it is critical if you plan to extract and use dumped data later (i.e. in reverse engineering).Software based analyzers are not so good for hardware development - you can't see low level things like bus errors, ACKs/NAKs etc. An example: a control transfer doesn't work for some reason. With sw analyzer you'll just see something like "timeout error", but there can be many lower level details seen with hw analyzer: STALL after SETUP phase, DATA phase rejected, DATA accepted but no STATUS - all these are different failure points inside your device's firmware.
HP 8591E SA 75ohm convert to 50ohm - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: MetraCollector
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2014, 07:34:03 pm
content: Hello gentlemen,I have an offer in my sight - 75ohm HP 8591E spectrum analyzer. Offer says it is 8591E model with option 001, 004, 041, 130 and it has BNC connector on front panel labeled 1MHz - 1.8GHz 75ohm.Is it possible to convert it to 50ohm in some easy way ?Is it useful at all ?Thank you

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2014, 10:29:27 pm
content: 75 Ohm to 50 Ohm pad,then use a correction factor for absolute readings.

author: casinada
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2014, 12:05:10 am
content: Watch one of Alan's tutorials on Spectrum Analyzers, his Agilent E4411B has also a 75 Ohm input and he uses a 50 to 75 ohm feed thru adapter:

author: MetraCollector
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2014, 03:22:34 pm
content: Thank you. It was helpful.I won it.Calculated to dollars = 637$.I hope it works well.What should I test while taking over it from seller ?Moreover, I found in service manual it can be converted to 50ohm by replacing input 75ohm unit with coax + N connector. Is it possible ? Shall I do more modifications ?

author: MetraCollector
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2014, 07:03:04 pm
content: Unluckily, I was deceived.Seller told me that he found another buyer willing pay 500$ more.He is already reported to auction system.To european buyers - be cautious while buying at aukro/allegro.http://aukro.cz/spektralni-analyzer-hp-agilent-8591e-i4189177321.html
TDS7104/tds7404 help needed - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: acbern
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2014, 11:47:35 am
content: my tds7104 is failing, it does not power up (except by shorting the power-on jumper inside, but then it still would not boot). reason being, the intel nlx motherboard (same as on csa7404) does not leave reset. the voltages are ok, so I assume it is the nlx board itself.I got a NOS nlx board (these are standard boards from intel), obviously it has the incorrect firmware in its firmware hub (non-tektronix). I intend to replace the board in the tds, and jumper the ppc board into reset, to power it up.so here are my questions:-someone here said that doing so (powering a non-original nlx up with non-tektronix firmware loaded) may destroy the remaining boards. I would think, with them being reset, this should not be possible.-how do I reprogramm the correct firmware? the bin file should be on the disk as i heard somewhere, but what tool is needed to program it?any help is appreciated.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2014, 04:04:19 pm
content: The bios flasher is on the harddisk. I cant remebmer of it is in a hidden folder or not.There will be no damage to scope.Swap motherboard, boot into dos (f8 during startup , before windows gets a chance and select command prompt only , do a dir /? That should show hudden folders too.The binary and the flashtool are in that folder. Simp,l run the exectuable and it will flash.If your machine is a win2k based you will need to access the drive using a usb dongle , grab the files from the drive, create a bootable dos floppy and throw them on there, then boot scope from floppy.

author: acbern
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2014, 09:19:06 pm
content: thanks, that made me less nervous exchanging the board. unfortunatelly, the new baord remains in reset, indcating that the issue is elsewhere, not on the su810.maybe the ppc board is generating the reset. not sure this is possible though. need to dig into this further. with evrything dead (in reset), it is kind of hard to debug.any comments are wellcome.
Rigol 6000 Series Video - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Chipguy
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 03, 2014, 02:11:49 pm
content: Hi guys,Just realized again that the little things we take for granted on Daves videos are actually coming with some effort.I wanted to watch something about the Rigol 6000 Series scopes and found this:Well, interesting content but the audio is so unbearable that I had to quit watching it after around 2 minutes.I am not so desperate after the new bits of information in this vid that I want to put up with this.This video is made by a company who seem to sellthese scopes and obviously they don't have the gear to makegood quality videos (like Dave does).So next time you moan about something, think twice if it's really that badCheers,Chipguy

author: Neganur
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 03, 2014, 05:48:42 pm
content: on a side note: I wonder if that probe interface is a ripoff of Agilent's autoprobe system, and if they could possibly be used on Agilent scopes.The price seems similar

author: Chipguy
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 03, 2014, 08:33:37 pm
content: I think it is similar but not the same.They are carefully avoiding any trouble with other companies.
3458A schematic - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: quarks
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2014, 07:13:17 am
content: Hello all,does anyone know what the latest CLIP version is and where to get it?I read somewhere that Agilent will not sell it to endusers.Especially I am interested in schematic of A3 board 03458-66513 to compare it to the older version I have. If anyone can share this, would be great.thanksquarks

author: balu
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2014, 09:39:11 am
content: Hello Quarks,Maybe the following links will help.http://exodus.poly.edu/~kurt/manuals/manuals/HP%20Agilent/HP%203458A%20Assembly%20Level%20Repair.pdfhttp://www.e-bookspdf.org/download/hp-3458a-service-manual.htmlhttps://dev.xdevs.com/attachments/download/702/3458A%2520CLIP.pdfRegardsBalu

author: lewis
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2014, 11:00:53 am
content: It's also available athttp://www.schematicsunlimited.com/h/hp-agilent(no need to donate when you click through to the download page)

author: quarks
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2014, 04:09:34 pm
content: thanks a lot for your replies.Unfortunately there seems to be only the older schematic (which I already had), but especially the link to "~kurt/manuals" is great, because the link I knew was dead.byequarks
hitachi Scope v665a any good ?  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Flump
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2014, 01:52:01 pm
content: Hi AllI have the chance to get a Hitachi V665A 60Mhz OscilloscopeIt's in great condition and all works, no buttons missing etcbut cannot find much info about it on the net so wonderingif anyone has had one and what were there thoughts on it.

author: grumpydoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2014, 05:27:51 pm
content: You need more google-fuLook through the forum for the 1065 teardown I posted - that has links to the user and service manuals (which also cover the 665).

author: true
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2014, 12:08:31 am
content: To answer the question in short though: if you get it for a fair price, it's a great scopeTo answer the question in length: I won't here, search the forum (but do as grumpydoc said, search for 1065)

author: Flump
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2014, 01:27:03 am
content: ty, i wanted peoples opinion on the scope, not manuals or teardownswhich is why google was no help.Tru - yes i am getting it for good price and been able to test it before hand which is nice

author: grumpydoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2014, 07:26:35 am
content: QuoteAh, that wasn't clear in your opening post.Well the short version of what I think is that these are excellent 'scopes with a pin sharp CRT and which are very easy to use.

author: madshaman
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2014, 02:10:32 pm
content: I have a 1065, and it's a nice scope. I second grumpydoc in that the display is very sharp. Only complaint I have is that I prefer a knob for the time base, but that's really picking nits.

author: Flump
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2014, 11:55:51 pm
content: thanks guysfirst thing that struck me was how small it is,took a bit of time to workout why the V/pd wasreading 10 X high and this one has the chippedtop corners too, apart form that lovely condition.
BWD 603B minilab - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: notmetoo
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 30, 2014, 04:25:23 am
content: Hi folks,I have a vintage BWD 603B Minilab that someone prior to me has done a few "changes" to the function generator.I have managed to source the user/service manual for Issue 14 and 23 of this minilab, however it seems that my particular minilab is a version prior to Issue 14. Issue 14 issued a "new handbook and Improved circuit", and the circuit board layout, and schematics are quite different.The "adjusted" function generator produces only a square wave, as two ICs have been removed (LM3046 and MC1445L). The design is similar enough to the Issue 14, that I can assume the two missing IC's are the same as in the items later versions, but the other components that are missing/replaced are different (ie. I am missing several Transistors, and the numbering is different for the components, ie I don't have Q5, Q6 and Q9).I've identified the triangle wave signal, which is suppose to go to the triangle buffer, but here is where the circuits dramatically different as I can't identify the buffer. The transistors used in Issue 14 onwards aren't on this board. Similarly, the sine wave generation design is different, and so is the AM amplification circuit.To make it produce the square wave only, their are few tracks cut, a couple of component changes etc. and without a schematic, fixing this is going to be challenging.Does anyone have a copy of a minilab function generator schematic prior to issue 14? Or experience in repairing this version? The circuit board model number is 160/266E, version 14 onwards use 160/266H. Any help would be appreciatedThanks in advance

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2014, 07:32:58 am
content: Yeah, what is it with this fine Aussie made stuff, trying to get info for it is like trying to find rocking horse shit!I have a BWD 170 Wavemaker and have almost given up the chance of finding a manual for it.C'mon Aussies, dig deep, help us both out!

author: georges80
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2014, 03:11:34 pm
content: Can't help you, but my first scope in my late teens was a bwd509b which used up most of my saved allowance from many years - a few hundred dollars (that was a LOT back then!). 10MHz bandwidth seemed impressive in the mid 70's while growing up in the backwaters of Perthcheers,george.

author: notmetoo
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 02, 2014, 10:28:38 am
content: Slowly, bit by bit, I decipher it.Using the issue 23 version of the BWD 603Band two bright torches that shine through the board, I am slowly drawing a schematic. Only challenge is that it has been more modified than I thought.However, with Issue 23, I am filling in the gaps, and adding more of the newer design into it. I now have managed to get the triangle wave in with a home designed buffer circuit that was missing. No idea how it originally worked without one. I now have just have to calculate the correct resistor values to bias the output voltage so it doesn't clip.It would be easier if someone could send me a schematic though.
8165A compatible with 339a and 3585A - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: gwal
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 01, 2014, 04:50:42 pm
content: I have purchased an HP 8165A. It has been calibrated and all functions should work proberly. Both my 339a and 3565A don't like it. The 339A shows it's distorted at 1% and the 8165A shows multible harmonics. A 1kc signal gets repeated at 2k, 3k, 4k etc. Can someone explain what is happening? I'm guessing I have a compatibility issue or the 8165A has problems. Thanks for any ensight.

author: wn1fju
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2014, 05:21:46 pm
content: Remember that the HP 8165A is more of a "function generator" than a pure sinewave generator. Distortion of 1% (< 5 MHz) is, I believe, the HP spec for this unit. A decent spectrum analyzer will definitely pick up the harmonics of your fundamental, perhaps only about 40 dB down. I am assuming, of course, you have the 8165A set to sinewave, not to triangle or pulse (both of which will give you LOTS of harmonics by design). And assuming you have the output properly terminated, I doubt the problem resides with your 339A or 3565A. You might try a calibration even though you say the piece already is. When I received a used HP 8165A a while ago, it was borderline dysfunctional. I was convinced there were major problems with the unit, but it turned out only to require a thorough calibration. In fact, the unit was the most maladjusted piece I ever worked on. The cal procedure is a bit tedious, but well worth it. You probably can drive the harmonic distortion down a little more than you currently have.

author: MadTux
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2014, 09:40:32 pm
content: That's because the HP8165A is a function generator instead of a synthesized signal generator. Synthesized signal generators use a YIG oscillator or a something similar VCO to produce a nice sinewave output.HP8165A (like the damn HP8116 that has these stupid ASICs that fail all the time) uses a waveshaper to make a sinewavish function out of a triangle waveform. The better the unit is calibrated, the less THD is there and the more the output looks like a sinewave.Both methods have their drawbacks and advantages. The synthesized signal generators have a nice sine output, but are more or less useless as a general purpose function generator, because only sine output and no way of synchronizing two of them together with a defined phase shift., e.g. to drive an asynchronous electric motor.The 8165A can be triggered by an external source and is thereby able to generate two variable frequency sinewavish outputs with a defined phase shift. A nearly impossible task to do without DSS or waveshaper.
Info on a Wavetek 1050a sweep generator - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: xwarp
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2014, 02:25:07 am
content: I picked up a Wavetek 1050a sweep generator in trade a while back and now want to figure out it's condition.I can't seem to locate a manual of any sort and there is a label on the front denoting that the attenuator is bad.Without a manual, I am pretty much in the dark.If anyone could help, it would be greatly appreciated.
$25 Sanwa CD800a Teardown&Review - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: han
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2014, 01:39:42 pm
content: For you out there who still use 830 DMM, maybe you can consider this...I have fluke 87 for work , but i being to miserly to my self i only have $5 830-ish DMMSo finaly i buySanwa CD800a, and want to share the joy.Pros:1. Use 2xAA battery2. 500h Battery life (7mw power comsumption)3. CHEAP!!4. Quite save (you can argue it) it have PTC and 1.5KA fast acting fuse5. Have mA (Fluke 114 who i wish i won from Dave didn't have it)6. Seems the lcd and switch contact gold plated7. Gold Plated Probe7. Nicely designed Casing8. Hack-able to RS-232 outputCons:1. Not True RMS2. probe not standard (didn't have standard banana plug)3. No 10A Current measurement4. Not so accurate5. Diode test only 1.5V6. I didn't find any CAT rated

author: nowlan
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2014, 02:10:53 pm
content: Perhaps a link to manufacturer'swebpage?3-3 / 4 digits 4000 count?0.7% best accuracy?Capacitance measurement? Not suitable for measurement of condensers with large leak current.?Frequency measurement (AC sine wave only)?Data hold / Range hold?Relative value?Auto power off (30min.) (cancelable)?Low power ohm (input voltage 0.4V) at continuity range?Solid & protective body cover that can also be used as a tilt stand?Chip holder behind the body coverDisplay : numeral display 4000Sampling rate : 2 times / sec.AC frequency bandwidth : 40?400Hz

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2014, 06:17:59 pm
content: Thanks for sharing pictures of the insides.The lowest price I have seen on ebay is $40 USD + $4 USD s/h (to Canada) from a Canadian seller.
HP 3478a GPIB Number of Digits? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: CaptnYellowShirt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 03:28:16 pm
content: The HP 3478a DMM is a 5-1/2 digit instrument. But does anyone know how many digits you get out when reading though the GPIB interface?

author: Wim13
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 04:43:59 pm
content: is the same as on the display , what you select, 3 ,4 or 5 digits.

author: CaptnYellowShirt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 06:32:42 pm
content: I ask because I think its big brother (HP 3457a) exports 8 digits onto the GPIB regardless.

author: Wim13
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 07:37:38 pm
content: No, the 3457a, gives 7 digits on the GPIB, regardless of the display,but you can get an extra 8 digit from an other register and add it to the 7 digitsyou already read before. So then you get 8 digits.

author: CaptnYellowShirt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 08:50:18 pm
content: Here's a direct read from the HP 3457a's measurement registry over the GPIB:Quote8 digits. Couldn't tell you if the last digit changes ever, but its there.

author: Wim13
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2014, 06:27:41 am
content: Quote from: CaptnYellowShirt on April 29, 2014, 08:50:18 pmNo the 8 digit is always zero, you have to query the HIRES location.the RMATH HIRES command , gives you the extra 8 digit.See example from the manual below

author: CaptnYellowShirt
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2014, 02:27:13 pm
content: Gotya. Thanks for the info.So back to the initial topic. The HP 3478a gives a max of 5.5.Thanks again.
FlukeView Forms alternative? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Nevereven
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 02:26:36 am
content: I just got a USB cable for my Fluke 189 II and upgraded it with the latest 289 firmware (as per Fluke's advice). I'd really like to get saved data off of the meter, and don't want to spend $200 for a FlukeView forms software package I won't use 90% of. I'm not opposed to writing my own if it doesn't look to onerous.In my searching, I've found some cryptic comments on this board alluding to reverse engineering Fluke's unpublished DMM commands.I've also foundhttp://sigrok.org/wiki/Main_Page, which isn't really what I'm looking for. I scanned the source code and it doesn't seem to deal with stored data.Can anyone point me to a possible solution?Thanks!

author: TiN
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 05:05:02 am
content: Did you tryfree version?

author: Nevereven
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 10:47:01 am
content: From the description of the free version it sounds like you can view downloaded data, but can't actually download data from your own meter. Am I wrong in this interpretation?

author: TiN
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 11:08:51 am
content: I believe you wrong. I can read and download data from my Fluke thermometers with linked software without any limitations.

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 01:33:55 pm
content: Quote from: TiN on April 29, 2014, 11:08:51 amThe one you're using now at your pc and hosted at your web site is known as popularly called "warez"version.

author: Nevereven
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 11:42:37 pm
content: I installed the Free FlukeView software you can download from the Fluke website and the first window that pops up says it is "identical to the commercial version except that it cannot communicate with meters. Meters connected to the PC will not be recognized by this version".

author: retrolefty
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 11:51:37 pm
content: Quote from: Nevereven on April 29, 2014, 11:42:37 pmi saw that too. Apparently it's to just allow one to see what the GUI looks like and display some data files that I assume they provide? But a comm program that doesn't comm with real meters gives 'free' a bad name.I see they offer a real version (CV3) that supports my old 'obsolete' model 45, at like over half the price of the other versions.
Notch on the tilt stand of the Fluke 80 series. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: alexwhittemore
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 30, 2014, 06:13:34 am
content: The new style holster for the 80 series (H80M) comes with a stand that has a notch at the bottom. Everything else about the design of the case and meter is very deliberate, so I'm wondering: does any one know what the purpose is, if any, of that notch?
HPA 3696 et al - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: gclulow
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 03:24:13 am
content: I have pulled one of these and it's associated modules out of Prime TVs analogue TX on Mt Canobalos. Rather than cannibalise it for bits I am keen to get it going on ATV.Dave do you have a scan of the PCN-1205 handbook or know where I can get one?GeoffVK2GC
how to receive Data with viBufRead or viRead - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: ats3788
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 07:02:49 am
content: Hi GuysI wrote a interface @unit@ for visa32.dll and Delphi. It's far away from perfect. But if you are interested led me know._Rigol := T_RIGOL.Create(self);_Rigol.Active := true;if viOpenDefaultRM(defrm) <> VI_SUCCESS thenRaiseLastOSError;if viFindRsrc(defrm, 'USB?*', list, nmatches, matches) <> VI_SUCCESS then // Open the deviceRaiseLastOSError;if viOpen(defrm, matches, 0, 0, vi) <> VI_SUCCESS then // Send the command to query the status of CH1RaiseLastOSError;if viVPrintf(vi, ':CHAN1:DISP?' + #10, 0) <> VI_SUCCESS thenRaiseLastOSError; // Acquire the status of CH1if viScanf(vi, '%t', strRes) <> VI_SUCCESS thenRaiseLastOSError;b := ord(strRes) -48;s32Disp := b;If (s32Disp = 0) thenviVPrintf(vi, ':CHAN1:DISP 1' + #10, 0);if viVPrintf(vi, '*IDN?' + #10, 0) <> VI_SUCCESS thenRaiseLastOSError;if viScanf(vi, '%t', strRes) <> VI_SUCCESS thenRaiseLastOSError;MainForm.Caption := string(strRes);if viVPrintf(vi, ':WAV:SOUR CHAN1'+ #10, 0) <> VI_SUCCESS thenRaiseLastOSError;if viVPrintf(vi, ':WAV:MODE NORM'+ #10, 0) <> VI_SUCCESS thenRaiseLastOSError;if viVPrintf(vi, ':WAV:STOP?'+ #10, 0) <> VI_SUCCESS thenRaiseLastOSError;if viVPrintf(vi, ':WAV:FORM ASCii'+ #10, 0) <> VI_SUCCESS thenRaiseLastOSError;if viVPrintf(vi, ':wav:data?'+ #10, 0) <> VI_SUCCESS thenRaiseLastOSError;Test := viBufRead(vi, strRes, 500, retCount);viClose(vi);viClose(defrm);Works fine tillTest := viBufRead(vi, strRes, 500, retCount);Error ----> VI_SUCCESS_MAX_CNT = $3FFF0006;replacedTest := viRead(vi, strRes, 500, retCount);Error ----> VI_SUCCESS_MAX_CNT = $3FFF0006;I got a couple of Values 32 for instant. Does someone know good examples in Visual Basic or C++