Arb. functions generator or freqenzy generator? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: FriedMule
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 27, 2019, 09:41:57 pm
content: I am wondering if a Siglent 120MHZ arbitrary functions generator or a 500MHz frequency generator is most useful?I do not plan to work with radio or hf but I do also not think that I need to create complicated custom frequencies.On the other hand, who know what I want to do in 5 years time :-)My need is for your standard home hobby lab, but nothing super fancy.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 27, 2019, 09:50:02 pm
content: Arb gen, you can get a good one for <$300 (DG811). Much more useful for general hobby applications (pwm, pulse outputs, etc.). If you want the Siglent you can probably hack the SDG2042X no?If you need some special RF equipment 5 years from now, then buy that in 5 years and don't worry about it now.

author: FriedMule
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 27, 2019, 11:48:53 pm
content: Quote from: thm_w on June 27, 2019, 09:50:02 pmI am not set on any brand but the reason for the Siglent, is that it may still be able to "upgrade" to 120MHZ for a wary low price.Do anyone know if the Siglent SDG2042X is still able to change to the 120MHz version?

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2019, 01:09:39 am
content: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/the-siglent-sdg2042x-thread/https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/current-status-of-siglent-hacks/If its within your budget then go for it.

author: FriedMule
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2019, 01:55:08 am
content: Quote from: thm_w on June 28, 2019, 01:09:39 amIt isn't, not yet, but soon, I hope:-)Thanks for your help!

author: bob91343
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2019, 02:37:33 am
content: My approach is somewhat different. I will grab anything at a swap meet that seems like good value (translate to free if I am really lucky) and not much care if I can use it. In time, after getting it working and putting it through its paces, I can decide its fate.As a result I have an enviable selection of high end test gear on the work bench and in the closet and on the shelves that cost me nearly nothing but would have run many tens of thousands of dollars to purchase at listed prices. And many items good for swapping fodder.The big benefit of this method is that I gain perspective and experience with this gear. I see what it can do and one day I remember I have it and will trot it out for use. My Q meters are a good example. Lots of power supplies. I am down to only five oscilloscopes now. Lots of probes, voltmeters, signal generators, VNAs, spectrum analyzers, bridges, the list goes on.Then of course we can get into tools. Soldering equipment, hand tools, power tools, vises, clamps, saws, and so on.So my advice is not to blow a few hundred on something you aren't sure you need. Just accumulate and then see what you have.

author: FriedMule
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2019, 03:57:51 am
content: Quote from: bob91343 on June 28, 2019, 02:37:33 amI like your comment, unfortunately we do not have any places, except a paper where you can get gear, and that paper do most often contain gear that people try to sell for ridicules praises!We can also not ask any public places like schools, labs or something like that, sinse it is illegal for them to get money or give things away, so all that go straight to the plases for trash. And it is considered stealing to take anything any trash. So if I see a fantastic piece of gear, I have to let it go straight to the shredder!My best sources for gear is, right now, eBay and Amazon but would gladly know of more pleases:-)

author: capt bullshot
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2019, 06:40:09 am
content: Quote from: FriedMule on June 28, 2019, 03:57:51 amOften enough, no one cares about stealing from the trash. In theory, it's stealing, in practice just watch out what people are doing, have some nice words to the person that is in charge of the trash, whatever appears to be appropriate and no one will punish you for stealing from the trash.Of course, one can find examples for employees being fired for taking stuff from the trash, but most often this is just abused as an easier way to get rid of an employee than the regular way.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2019, 06:49:19 am
content: Note that it's legal to take trash in many countries. In those cases you are considered to have given up ownership as soon as you threw it in the trash. Getting permission will prevent you getting into trouble either way.

author: Zero999
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2019, 11:14:27 am
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on June 28, 2019, 06:49:19 amIf it's not on their property then yes, although it might become the property of whichever company is responsible for collecting the waste, especially if they own the bin it's in.