hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
What does the DE-5000 PC software actually do? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Steve Zarg
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2014, 06:32:48 pm
content: Hi,What does the DE-5000 PC software actually do?What does the GUI look like? Are there any screen shots?I'm trying to figure out if I'd ever use the USB feature.Thank You.

author: robrenz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2014, 08:37:05 pm
content: Stores data in files and displays on the 3 screen types shown. The first is the combined screen.

author: miguelvp
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2014, 08:38:07 pm
content: Not what you are looking for but here is a thread about it:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/ms5308-lcr-tester-software-and-serial-port/Dave's review:but no screenshots of the PC software, I guess you can download it and run it to see how it looks like.http://www.ietlabs.com/Drivers/DE_5000.zip

author: Steve Zarg
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2014, 10:13:09 pm
content: Thank You both for your help.
please help about recalibrate fake fluke 8020  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: unicornio
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2014, 12:45:59 pm
content: hi, there,i need some info to recalibrate this multimeter. is a 8020 copied multimetar from Lutron, Taiwan. it have more than 30 years and yet work fine, but i want to recalibrate it for now.it are not cheap, but it demonstrate that are well build and is a very durable unit.I discovered a secret position in which to measure its own supply voltage and I got a table with the references.if anyone has any multimeter like this, even with another brand, maybe if you have any information about the use of different setpoints, we would be very grateful ... the fluke 8020 was a nicely device that caused sensation with its new design , very good accuracy, ergonomic and robustness, so it was much copied by many oriental manufacturers.
ESR, LCR meter for polyester caps - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: torr032
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 09:06:01 pm
content: Hi,Polyester Capacitors failures in the switching power supplies have become more and more frequent and the reason the device is not working properly. It happened to me couple of times, capacitance is good, but after changing the cap device is working ok. It must be ESR is bad on the caps or something similar.Which of the ESR or LCR devices on the market that are wallet friendly can check ESR of the caps of about 2000pf or even smaller? Is the much appreciated here DE-5000 able to do that or UNI-T UT612 ?Currently I have MESR 100 V2 and it is very good for larger caps, but can't measure smaller ones. For capacitance I use ut61E and it is pretty good.

author: jarvis
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 20, 2014, 01:30:40 am
content: Quote from: torr032 on June 19, 2014, 09:06:01 pmI think both meters can do that well.It is better to use 10kHz/100kHz to measure ESR(Rs mode) of 2000pF or smaller caps.

author: torr032
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2014, 11:47:08 am
content: Thanks. I will probably buy DE-5000 I think it's a real bargain on ebay, for 100$ meter and two sets of probes.As I could see there is no other meter that can compete with that?
Agilent Oscilloscope Poster.. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: jimjam
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 12:22:32 pm
content: I've just submitted this form so hopefully they'll send me a posterHas anyone tried it?https://www.home.agilent.com/agilent/editorial.jspx?cc=US&lc=eng&ckey=2085750&nid=-34945.0.00&id=2085750&cmpid=fb2xped2I haven't bought any oscilloscopes yet... still weighing the options (including waiting) between MSOX/DSOX2000, MSOX/DSOX3000, Siglent DSD2000, or Rigol DS1000Z or DS4000. For me it's harder since I'm not specifically limiting my budget to under $1000. I would like to jump the gun and get an MSOX3014 or MSOX3024 (new) or an MSOX3034 (from ebay) - but really hesitant about the memory depth. Anyway I digressed. Curious to see if they'll send me a poster.

author: Nazareth
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 20, 2014, 02:50:23 am
content: JJ,I'm glad you came across this. I ordered a poster also and subscribed to the "Oscilloscope Tip of the Month" newsletter as well. There should be some good information coming from that and shouldn't be hard to filter out the brand specific info and apply it to my scope.Naz
I'd like to test a microphone capsule's capacitance: 50-100pF.  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Steve Zarg
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 20, 2014, 01:45:33 am
content: Hi,I've been working on a condenser microphone project and I have been trouble shooting an issue with the impedance conversion circuit that accompanies the capsule.I need to reassure myself that the capsule is still working correctly and so I'd like to measure it's capacitance, but my Fluke 179 DVM doesn't have a range that will test for such a small value.If the capsule is undamaged it should read approximately 70pF.I just searched the forum and got caught up looking at LCR meters, and watching Dave's tear down and review videos.I'm thinking that I'm over thinking this. Can I make accurate measurements with a cheap store bought capacitor meter or will I end up learning I need something hi end? I learned about, but don't want to pursue, the idea that I can build a cap meter from a kit. I prefer to buy something so I can keep tinkering with the microphones.I think I learned enough about the LCR meters Dave reviewed to make a decision about something expensive, but I've also seen a few simple "Capacitance Meters" for under $100 that seem to have a range that will measure pF.I got over whelmed reading and watching... any tips?Thank You.BTW it seems like a happy coincidence that several of the recent blogs have been about the type of microphones I have been working on. I just discovered them this evening. Thanks Dave!
Chinese knockoff of Hioki battery tester. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: DJ
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 21, 2014, 05:09:23 pm
content: One of the more niche instruments I've been looking for is the dedicated battery resistance tester.These typically use ac (1 kHz) and resolve minute differences in the sub-milliohm neighborhood.Hioki is one well-known brand, but pricey. I tried some of the cheap chinese meters ranging from $30 to $300 and got results ranging from awful to completely unusable.Almost tried an Applent unit (will they change their name to Appsight?) but did not want to gamble $600+ on it.http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-AT528L-Handheld-Battery-Internal-Resistance-Tester-AC-milliohm-Meter-/151016712316(Others from that mfg area available from that vendor)So I recently spotted a "CHT3562" for $600 which has specs like a $2-3k Hioki:http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-CHT3562-Battery-Meter-Tester-Resistance-1-300-Voltage-1mV-60V-/161054596970http://www.hioki.com/products/lcr_resistance_signal/lcr_resistance_meters/620Has anyone tried any of these? Any other brands worth a look?

author: DJ
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 21, 2014, 05:29:11 pm
content: References:http://www.applent.com/products/detail.aspx?familyid=bat&model=AT528Lhttp://www.jwfu.com/category-30330/product-403898.html
recapping Keithley 2015THD 3300uF vs 2200uF - Help - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: jpb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2014, 02:42:50 pm
content: I am in the middle of recapping my 2015HD - I've taken it entirely to bits and have probably destroyed it in the process but I'm ploughing on regardless.I ordered the replacement capacitors based on the parts list from the repair manual unfortunately the parts list missed two of them out - C260 and C261 which are both 47uF 50V.This is annoying as I didn't order them - I do have some spare 47uF 100V but they are physically too large unless I connect them via flying leads - rather messy.The other thing is that C146 is listed as being 3,300uF 16V (it is the smoothing cap for the 5V supply) so this is what I ordered.Having removed the old one it is only 2,200uV 16V - I plan to replace it with the 3,300uF as that is what I have and it is only part of the 5V supply - is this a bad idea??I'm not keen on ordering just two caps from Farnell/Mouser (given their minimum ordering amounts) will using the fat 100V ones, besides being a bit messy, have any detrimental effects such as the leads picking up noise? I don't know what 260 and 261 do as they are not listed in the manual - they seem to be next door to some regulators.Any thoughts anyone??

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2014, 03:11:07 pm
content: They will all work, as they are in a power supply and only have 100/120Hz ripple on them. bigger value up to a point has no issues, except a lower ripple and a higher peak current through the rectifier diodes. In the 5V supply you will most likely be fine with this.

author: jpb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2014, 04:19:47 pm
content: Quote from: SeanB on June 21, 2014, 03:11:07 pmThanks - that is what I thought.I may still order the 50V 47uF ones though as it would be much neater. It is annoying to have to pay postage though and also wait a few days before I can complete the job.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2014, 04:25:11 pm
content: If you have some in the range of 22uF to 220uF with voltage of at least 50v that will fit then use them. Most regulators are not too critical of capacitor value, and will work with this.
Thoughts on Jaycar MP3094 PSU? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Lee697
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 08:11:40 am
content: Has anyone used/heard reports about this power supply?? (MP3094 Switchmode 1-16V 40A)www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=MP3094I've got one of their 0-30V 3A linears (which I like), and a little cheap 0-24V 15A one also - I dislike the voltmeter/ammeter on this one though....I'm looking for something with a reasonable power rating, I like the high range of the 0-30, but the 3A limit a little, well, limiting sometimes....What else is around that would be worth looking at? - doesn't need to be the cheapest around, happy to pay a premium for good quality...Lee

author: jimjam
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 12:52:56 pm
content: Why not get a Siglent or Rigol - only like $20-$100 difference in price but night and day in sophistication and quality. I am thinking of getting the Siglent SPD3303Dhttp://www.triotest.com.au/shop/en/dc-bench-supplies/3095-siglent-spd3303d-195w-dc-power-supply-30v-3a-x-2-25v-33v-5v-3a-x-1.html

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 02:24:12 pm
content: Ever thought about a good, used Agilent supply. The E3610A, for example, is 0-8v 3A, and 0-15V 2A, and can be picked up on eBay for <$100 depending on where you are. Easy tor repair, all jellybean, schematic and service manual online.

author: Lee697
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 09:58:56 pm
content: Thanks for the link jimjam - some nice stuff there.....I'm quite happy with my little 0-30V 3A linear from Jaycar, so was looking for a higher current big brother to supplement it - there is an 'Array' branded one on there which is 14.5A - I've never heard of that brand - all right??link-http://www.triotest.com.au/shop/en/dc-bench-supplies/3088-array-3662a-500w-dc-programmable-power-supply-0-35v.html

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2014, 05:03:53 am
content: Quote from: Lee697 on June 17, 2014, 09:58:56 pmThe Jaycar one looks like some Manson PSUhttp://www.manson.com.hk/products/category/dc_power_suppliesRegarding Array, they make some good stuff and some bad stuff. Their 371x DC loads are well regarded. So are their 364x programmable power supplies. Their 6 1/2 digit multimeters are, however, not really great.

author: Lee697
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 08:19:38 am
content: Very little around in terms of reviews/opinions, excluding the dudes who made it, and the dudes selling it...Company seems well regarded, and must be a step up from the Jaycar/Manson unit.... ordered! My wife has anyway.... happy birthday to me soon....

author: Someone
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 09:46:05 am
content: Quote from: Lee697 on June 17, 2014, 08:11:40 amI've used these before for various purposes, not particularly stable or low ripple and had more than one die while not being stressed. Easy enough to work on and fix, but compared to the endlessly reliable HP and TTi supplies they just arent worth the time/money.
Hameg HMP2030 PSU - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: subolg123
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 02:12:12 am
content: ..

author: mjkuwp
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 02:58:38 am
content: nice! it does look like a very clean design. You know the Rigol stuff - I can see some on your bench. I am curious what other factors led you to choose this over something like Rigol DP832 or DP832A.not questioning your decision at all, for sure but It would be interesting to hear your line of reasoning since you are clearly not stuck to a particular manufacturer : )

author: nowlan
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 03:18:49 am
content: I have a different model, but found the spacing between the red blue sockets to be odd, and banana plug adapters didn't fit.Im not sure if there is a standard for that, i read 19mm or 3/4" spacing.How about yours?

author: anotherlin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 12:01:00 pm
content: Do you plan to open it (may void calibration and/or warranty) and post photos of it ?Schematics of the Hameg 7044 are available, I'd be curious to have a comparison.The 7044 is main transformer, then step down switch mode step down (using off the shelf IC), then linear regulation.According to Hameg's brochure, HMP series are using the same "architecture", except it has much more programmable features.Also, you are probably aware that Hameg is introducing a "compact" HMC series PSU, very similar to HMP except it has less power. I'll be curious to know the differences, as the HMC PSU are priced only a couple hundred euros cheaper than HMP and has same programmable feature.

author: rdl
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 07:20:48 pm
content: Just curious, what are those shelves made of that they don't sag from the weight of the equipment?Nice looking lab by the way.
DS1000Z - How to get the full waveform memory? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: jadew
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 04:20:06 am
content: Hey guys, any idea on how to get the entire waveform memory via SCPI?I have tried :WAV:DATA? but regardless of the mode and state of the scope (stopped/running), I only get a small fraction of the buffer.The datasheet says that if it's stopped and the :WAV:MODE is set to RAW, when you call :WAV:DATA? you would get the data that is in the big buffer and if it's not stopped, you get the screen memory.
Right tool for high power VSWR Measurements in a Pulse - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: qwaarjet
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2014, 06:35:10 pm
content: I have device that generate a 500W 13.5Mhz Pulse for ~1ms and can do that about once every 10s. However I don't believe I'm getting good matching between my RF source and my Load (which is capacitive and cannot be changed) What is the right tool for measuring the VSWR of short pulses in line at these kinds of powers. I haven't found any "probes" that meet all my criteria. The VSWR meters I have can only do average power over several 100mS at best.

author: N2IXK
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2014, 07:52:15 pm
content: http://www.birdrf.com/en/Products/Power-Measurement/DPS-Series-Directional-Power-Sensors/5010-Series_Directional-Power-Sensors.aspx

author: pa3bca
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2014, 08:04:39 pm
content: Quote from: N2IXK on June 18, 2014, 07:52:15 pmLess expensive option:First you need to know what the impedance is that the transmitter "wants" to see.Then: use a funcgen to generate a 13.5 MHz signal and measure the SWR. using the funcgen as the "transmitter"If you use a 50 ohm SWR meter it will show you the SWR (for a 50 Ohm system).Alternatively (and better because it will also give you the phase angle and thus the reactance) measure both current and voltage with a scope (open up your VSWR meter and attach the probes directly to the voltage and current transformers output) or build your own meter using two say 40 turns amidon ferrite cores. In that case you can create an SWR meter for any impedance you like...(My assumption here: the impedance of the load isnotdependent on the power into the load...)

author: qwaarjet
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 12:43:16 am
content: I actually have those Bird power meters but I would need to send pulses at about 10Hz for them to work and my device can't run that fast. something like that but with single pulse measurement capability would be Ideal.

author: Rory
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2014, 03:29:28 am
content: A directional coupler and dual channel storage oscilloscope can be used to measure low duty cycle pulse transmissions.Here's an example of a suitable device for a 50 ohm system.http://www.ebay.com/itm/DDC-1-Dual-Directional-Coupler-/201111343834?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2ed32b92daData sheet here:http://preciserf.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/datasheet-DDC-1-v3.pdfAs a corollary to pa3bca said, an RF load doesn't require the transmitter to make VSWR measurements. You can use a return loss bridge/directional coupler and a spectrum analyzer with tracking generator, or even a function generator as your signal source to measure the return loss and hence the VSWR. An RF impedance bridge would also be very useful to get the actual r+jx measurement which would be helpful in designing a matching network. Check out W2AEW's videos on Youtube for a demonstration.
Hantek 365 series datalogger/multimeter PC based - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Rayonger
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 18, 2014, 08:27:45 am
content: Hi'allThis is a recent purchase for us and it is "well" documented on the Hantek website as to it purported spec and capabilities, so I won't clutter this post with repetition.It comes with a type K thermocouple although this is not alluded to in the manual nor does it work (yet). The software will not run properly on Win7 but everything seems to work on XP except the thermocouple. I am still corresponding with Hantek and the merchant to get this thing up and running 100%.To be fair it looks OK, feels OK and does the basics including on screen graphing and logging but like other Hantek stuff it seems to be half DIY when it comes to getting complete functionality out of it. Logged data is saved as a strange text file instead of a nice CSV, so this is an added challenge to analysing your data.More to come....please add your own if you buy one of these thingsNotes and amendments.Attached you can see the temperature display from the logger.1. analog scale obscured by graph area: (fix) switch display to 96 dpi for this software.2. the temperature in my lab is minus 1701 (C), if we press the Fahrenheit button we get 78.6 degrees.3. yes, it is minus 1701, if this was correct, what units?, they display only as a box on the display but have a symbol in the list of logged values.4. switching between various measurement will sometimes (50%) require closing the software and starting again.
DPS-305BM Laboratory Adjustable power supply  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: ronniegogs
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 02:19:24 am
content: DPS-305BMI cam across this adjustable power supply DC Laboratory Adjustable power supply which seems to be programmable. I dont see any mention in the forums or any english videos.Did anyone use it. Any reviews or teardowns ?Found this Brazilian review and what I can can make from the translation seems to be decent enough power supply for the price.

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 05:20:37 am
content: These or similar ones are around for some time. I think the infamous Atten company makes one, too.I consider them more like an odd novelty item than a general-purpose bench supply. They aren't remote programmable, just settable via the keyboard. Probably ok if all you ever want is to dial in a voltage (or current) and go with it. Rather annoying if you want to manually ramp up or down some voltage (or current). They badly lack normal adjustment knobs. No knobs, no sale.

author: ronniegogs
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 08:03:35 am
content: Yes I agree its a cheap chinese product which will not perform as good. But I wanted a DC power supply which can work as my first DC power supply. Planning to build one for myself too.I just ordered one shipped via fedex for 82 USD. For a beginner like me it may work out just fine. Will do a teardown once I get mine of the insides. Senior guys with more experience can have a look inside and give their inputs further. One thing I am pretty good at is to take pictures.I have a basic oscilloscope so will do a test if the input peaks on power up. Lets see when it arrives.

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2014, 12:01:09 am
content: This website appears to be the OEM, company called Hongsheng. Don't hear much about it at all, a teardown would be good. Claims to be the lowest cost programmable PSU.http://www.hongshengdy.com/en/cp_view.asp?id=257
Harbor Freight DC Load Tester actually looks useful - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: nixfu
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 03:04:52 pm
content: Check this out:http://www.harborfreight.com/500-amp-carbon-pile-load-tester-91129.htmlA $49 variable DC load tester that supports:0 ~ 16 VDC0 ~ 500AIt only has analog meters, but I wonder if you could read the meter voltages with an arduino or something and use record the data to calculate total Ah etc.. otherwise a good ole stop watch would work for the home bench I guess.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 04:51:02 pm
content: 'Copper plated jaws'?If you leave this thing on for more than a couple of seconds it will go up in smoke.

author: AG6QR
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 06:51:28 pm
content: It does look kind of tempting, doesn't it?Having torn down a Cen-Tech meter, I would expect a similar level of quality in this product for $50. In other words, I wouldn't trust it to meet specs or be safe, but as long as that doesn't matter...If you tear it down first to repair loose wires before you use it, then only use it at well below its maximum rating, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby, it might make a useful and disposable load resistor for some moderately high current testing. I wouldn't trust the meters. I'd use a hall effect current clamp for current, and a proper DMM for voltage.I'm not joking about the fire extinguisher. I wouldn't leave this thing unattended ever, and I'd keep monitoring it with an IR thermometer if I used it for more than a few seconds.I just might get one.

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2014, 12:16:35 am
content: Nice, those are high watt low precision dc load testers. Noisy, and drifty, but cheap if you need to load 10s of amps at low voltage.

author: ignator
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2014, 01:12:49 am
content: Look at the spec. for duty cycle.15 Seconds per test with 1 minute cool down3 tests in 5 minutes maximum.I don't think you can use this for a load bank above a few watts.

author: Fank1
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2014, 01:13:59 am
content: Per the downloaded manual:on 15 sec per 1 min maximum number of tests 3 in a 5 min period.It's main use would be to find a high resistance cell in a car battery.
New Handheld Spectrumanalyzer from TTi 3.6 and 6 GHz - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Mr Simpleton
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 12:46:00 pm
content: Just saw in the news that TTI has two new handheld spectrum analyzers, up to 3.6 and 6.0 GHz. At first glance they do look neat but somehow I get this nagging feeling it is not just all singing and dancing. I cannot find any numbers on sweep time, other than that it is related to RBW and VBW and that there is an "speed-up function". If they do not tell numbers it sure will be badAnd they start at 10 MHz, which is no good in my book.http://aimtti.com/products-tti/pdf-brochure/rf-psa_s5-9p.pdfPrevious versions did not impress me either, and the TTi analyzer I still have is a very basic analogue 250 MHz unit which uses an analogue oscilloscope for display. Nice price back in the late 80's but totally obsolete now

author: deephaven
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 07:26:04 pm
content: Needs a review and a tear down. Hope they send one to Dave!
Unbricking the DS2072A - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: johnlondon
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 11:39:01 am
content: I have a new DS2072A that I attempted to reprogram from FW 00.03.00.SP1 using the downgrade tool on another thread. When I put the DSO into programming mode (via the Help button) and then inserted the USB drive, nothing happened. No flashing lights, nothing. The DSO won't boot up at all now, it just displays a Rigol logo - there's no progress bar under the logo like there used to be.Can anyone advise on ways to unblock the DSO please?

author: BloodyCactus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 12:24:53 pm
content: when I did mine last night, I noticed that I had to count to like 15-20 seconds once in programming mode BEFORE I put in the usb key. If I put the key in straight away it was not recognised and didnt load the firmware. If I waited, it would start loading the firmware.I made sure I tested the usb key before I did anything by taking a screenshot to verify it saved ok to the usb key.other than that I have no idea, sorry mate.

author: johnlondon
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 12:58:09 pm
content: Fixed the issue with the bricked DS2072A. It involved reflashing it with the latest firmware (from this site), then attempting it again. All good now. :-)
NI VirtualBench - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Noise Floor
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 05:43:51 pm
content: Anyone else see NI's announcement today for a product called VirtualBench? They have been teasing it on facebook for some time:http://www.ni.com/virtualbench/what-is/QuoteLooks like a nice kit for education and maybe some hobbyists. My initial concern would be its apparent inability to upgrade HW over time, but I'm pretty sure that's not the point and expect they will release 2.0 in a year and so forth. The solution invokes the aggregation Agilent is trying to do with their BenchVue software, only NI has integrated everything. This will be nice for educators, everything in one box with no cables or software to track down, I would have loved this when I was a TA.

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 06:24:39 pm
content: $2000. Plus $60 for a desktop stand (cheap bastards, they could have included the handle/stand).The specs of the instruments seem reasonable, although not really super great. The programmable DC power supply is maybe missing a bit of ompf on CH2 and CH3. But still acceptable. The digital I/O, well .. I wouldn't count that as an instrument, but as "decoration". The 4k samples for the logic analyzes, well, they apparently use compression, but it isn't really great either. It is also not clear which instruments are completely isolated from each other, and which share ground.Doing some very rough calculation it is on average $500 per instrument (I don't count the digital I/O as an instrument). On top of that comes partly the cost for a PC/laptop/iPad. In total the setup is not cheap. It probably makes sense if you already have a PC or similar on the bench and otherwise lack space.Oh, and the worst disadvantage: No knobs. No knobs, no sales.

author: djacobow
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 06:43:13 pm
content: Hmm. Well, could go nicely somewhere where compact is important, or maybe a school lab setting, where they want to put the same gear on every desk (and maybe with educational pricing).You can get better versions of all these instruments for less. Well, if you're willing to "go Rigol" and similar.I do find the idea of a "lab in a box" appealing, though. Could be fun for bringing to friend's house to debug this or that. Also, would be great for leaving with a DUT in a chilly, loud lab while you work from your comfortable, warm desk.Oh, and am I seeing screw terminal connections on the PSU? Come on.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 09:33:03 pm
content: $2000 and no arb?

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 09:35:15 pm
content: Quote from: echen1024 on June 16, 2014, 09:33:03 pmArb when you get the " NI VirtualBench application development support". I guess that is some extra $$$.

author: Vgkid
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2014, 12:14:44 am
content: This is very good for the edu market. We use a ton of their trainers at school, which are very useful as opposed to using a standalone ps/scope/f-gen.
KF5OBS #20: VOR NAV Receiver Testing  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: BalticLab
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 11:23:56 pm
content: This video shows how to generate a complex test signal to emulate a ground based radio navigation system for aircraft (VOR). The generated signal can then be used to verify the accuracy of navigational receivers intended to be used with a VOR. Used in this video: LeCroy WS3162, LeCroy HDO4024, Rigol DG1022 and Yaesu FTA-720
LeCroy WS3162 and HDO4024 Bugs - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: BalticLab
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 11:19:51 pm
content: If you own either a LeCroy WaveStation 3000 or a HDO 3000 / 4000, I'd be interested to know if you observe the same bugs on your devices.
Hantek PPS-2320A Tear-down & Problem - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Rambo
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 10:17:40 pm
content: Hi All!I recently purchased a Hantek PPS 2320A 3 channel lab PSU. Unfortunately the supply landed with some issues. I did a tear-down and repaired some obvious issues but the main issue still stands: Channel 2 will not output more than ~65mA, it seems to be 'stuck' in constant current mode (although when it should be in constant voltage mode then both the CC and CV indicators are lit).I've made a short video demonstrating the issue here:And a full description + pics of the tear down are available on my blog here:http://rambo.co.za/?p=473Does anyone have any ideas of where to look next on fixing this problem or know where I could find a schematic for this supply?
Rigol DS1000z Firmware Status? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: selkathguy
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 02:47:44 pm
content: I read in another thread that an issue with the DS1000z series is that while moving the horizontal or vertical offsets, the waveform stops updating. It only shows a frozen trace while you're moving it around until you let it sit for .5 seconds or something. This sounds like a problem the DS1052E had, and I'm wondering if they have patched the firmware so that it updates while you're changing offsets now. It's very useful for me when looking for a pattern of a semi-infrequent known event an unknown time from the trigger. Does anyone know?Just want to check before I pull the trigger on upgrading from an 1102E to a 1000Z. Thanks!

author: Orange
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 03:28:14 pm
content: It is not fixed/changed in V2.01SP5. Perhaps they did change it in V4.But frankly, I don't have a problem with this issue, the trace moves instantly while you rotate the knob.

author: selkathguy
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 03:38:59 pm
content: I really wish they had some sort of patch notes that I could read through...
Fluke 742A long term drift characteristics - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: atsthng
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 04:28:00 pm
content: I've just acquired a Fluke 742A-10K off eBay. It's cal label is dated Jul98, with nominal 10.000036kOhms. I've measured it as 10.00020 kOhms (about 16ppm out wrt nominal).Is this in the ballpark? Fluke specs 4ppm/yr, so it doesn't seem too bad...Also, will the temperature characteristics change with time? The cal label lists the alpha/beta coefficients, but I'm wondering if a recharacterization of the tempco is needed.Thanks!
Hitachi V-212 Vertical and Horizontal Problem - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Maister
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 16, 2014, 07:58:03 pm
content: Hello folksI just purchased the Hitachi V-212 on Ebay.There is a problem where the waveform gets compressed along the time axis at the right side, as well as at the top and bottom side along the y-axis when I shift the waveform up or down with the offset knob.The attached picture shows a sine wave with a constant frequency. As you can see, the frequency seems to be modulated, but in fact it is not!Any Idea on how to fix this ?Thanks a lot!Patrick

author: PA0PBZ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 16, 2014, 08:03:32 pm
content: A. Measure the supply voltages and ripple.B. Where is the promised picture?

author: Maister
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 16, 2014, 08:11:59 pm
content: Ok, I will do that.Sorry, there is the picture..

author: Maister
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 17, 2014, 09:35:58 am
content: There are 4 supply rails:120V, 8V, -8V, 5V.They are all good except the 120V rail, which is at 68V.There is a burned resistor in the PS-section where the 120V are generated (see photos and schematic).The electrolytic caps look ok. Unfortunately I do not have an ESR meter to measure them.I am going to do a measurement of the ripple at the supply rails now.[Edit:]Ripple is below 5 mV pk at all rails except for the 120V rail, which has a ripple of 800 mV pk-pk.

author: GreyWoolfe
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 17, 2014, 11:48:44 am
content: I see 2 bad resistors-R1102 and R1103. It is hard to tell, but is there a transistor missing right by R1103? I don't see a legend for it but that could just be the way the picture was taken. It might just be better to recap the PS, especially in the 120V area. Too many threads here where electrolytic caps in PS were replaced though they weren't bulged and the PS came back to proper life.

author: Maister
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 17, 2014, 01:03:00 pm
content: I just measured the temperature of R1102 and it gets well above 100°C.Then i replaced R1102 with a new 1k resistor and it burned away as well.You are right.. R1103 is also bad and TR1103 and TR1102 are missing! :OThere is connector for TR1102 that should go to the power Transistor on a heat sink but it does not. Infact, there is a Diode stuck into this connector. So R1102 may be directly applied to the 120V or at least in the series path with the 120V load.Seems that someone had a good bodge with that board. I am thinking about designing my own linear regulator for the 120V rail and recap the PS, just like GreyWoolfe says.

author: Kipling
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 02:13:08 pm
content: I've just had my V-212 apart to fix the trace rotation problem, so if you need any photos of what goes where in the power supply and the correct orientation, send me a PM or reply to this post.
Manuals wanted: Sencore LC75 and DVM38 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: rohmell
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 12, 2013, 04:21:04 pm
content: Hi all,I am looking for the manuals and schematic for the Sencore LC75 and the Sencore DVM38.At this point the DVM38 manual is wanted/needed more, as it is not working right now, and I would like to give a whirl to repairing it.The LC75 works fine, but I would like the manual for completeness, or is it compleatness?Original manuals, copies, or.PDFs are OK.Perhaps point me to a source for download?Thanky,rohmell@yahoo.com

author: rohmell
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 15, 2014, 06:50:28 pm
content: I now have the .pdf manual for the DVM38, if anyone needs it.rohmell@yahoo.com

author: miguelvp
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 06:19:09 am
content: LC102 is out there, not sure how close it will be to the lc75http://bama.edebris.com/manuals/sencore/lc102/Lc53 is also available, looks closer to the lc75.http://bama.edebris.com/manuals/sencore/
My scope memory length formulas correct? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: TriodeTiger
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 06:47:46 am
content: I am offered an old Tek TDS 340A scope for a good price, it sits at 100MHz / 500msps / 1k record length and I wanted to see if I understood the formulas for it, as I have only lived with a Tek 2215A now loaned to a friend and wanted something that could capture simple things (say, turn-on characteristics, bounce of some <1MHz signals, some transients.)If I am correct:record length = sample rate * time duration..Which gives me 2uS (500kHz) @ 500M samples.This should mean I can store 2uS worth of a 100MHz signal accurately within the 1k records, right?Does this also means, at 10x slower a speed (20uS = 50kHz) I can store 500/10 = 50Msamples and represent fully a 10MHz signal?200uS of 1MHz content? (switching regulator)1S of 200Hz content? (rotary encoders and such)10S of 20Hz content (power up spikes, very delayed signal comparison? heh)Since all of the cheap offerings seem to have small screens, freezing firmware, and all that, I wanted to stick again with the old Teks once moreTiger.

author: TriodeTiger
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 07:21:56 am
content: I can't go wrong with it,I bought it anyway- actually I was declined that, and got something even better for $50 lessYou'll see a review with excitement some day soon.Tiger.
WTB: Top cover for HP 5335A - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: rramirez
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2014, 02:54:54 pm
content: Looking for a top cover for a 5335, or a parts mule with one. Thanks.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2014, 03:49:08 pm
content: Damn it! At the swapmeet yesterday there was a whole box with hp front panels , covers and other metalworks ....How deep is that panel ? I may have something that fits.

author: rramirez
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2014, 05:53:18 pm
content: Approximately 16" wide x 12.25" deep. Thank-you Vincent!

author: rramirez
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2014, 07:46:16 pm
content: The part number is 5060-9833 and apparently was used on a product called the HP 98041A Disc Interface - weird! Anyway, it is 12" deep, not 12.25" as I indicated because I was not taking into account the seating of the cover when installed.Russ
Rigol RP3165 probe - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Alex Eisenhut
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2014, 02:41:19 am
content: No signal gets through at 10X setting, only at 1X... Somebody blew out the attenuator, I guess. Anyone know if these are repairable like the old Tek probes? I can't see an obvious way to get in.Otherwise it's bin time!

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2014, 06:20:11 am
content: Probably a faulty switch.

author: Alex Eisenhut
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2014, 02:37:28 pm
content: Quote from: vk6zgo on June 15, 2014, 06:20:11 amThat makes more sense, but I still can't get the thing apart. Looks like it wasn't meant to be repaired.
Boundary Scan automated solutions for testing PCB - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: eponte
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 15, 2014, 06:38:16 pm
content: Hi guys,My name is Emmanuel, I'm a Spanish engineer and I'm looking for information about boundary scan automated test solutions.I've been researching about this technology but I haven't found yet any automated solution which includes only boundary scan testing, I'm not interested in complementary solutions like ICT&Boundary Scan, flying probe&boundary scan etc (they are usually too expensive).In my company, we have an SMD assembly line, so I would like to know if any of you know something about any testing solution such as:- Boundary Scan automated Test ( With "automated" I mean a solution to introduce in an automated assembly line)- Boundary Scan to implement in an AOI Test (We have an AOI machine so any solution of boundary scan testing could be interesting for us to integrate it in the AOI).I'll appreciate any information about this topic.Thank you!!

author: AndyC_772
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2014, 06:42:43 pm
content: Have a word with Ian at JTAG Technologies:http://www.jtag.com/

author: eponte
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 16, 2014, 06:50:57 pm
content: Ok thanks, I'll talk to him
E3610A current meter mod - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: sync
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2013, 03:21:46 pm
content: HiOne thing that annoyed me with my E3610A PSU was that the meter only has 10mA resolution. I want 1mA. I moded it to a dual range meter. A new 1000mA range (it only has 3 digits) and the old 3A one.The meter uses a classic 7107 with 2V input range. Only up to 0.3V is used (3A with a 0.1 Ohm shunt). I modified the 7107 to 200mV input. This gave me the 1000mA range. For the 3A one i use a 10:1 voltage divider. The switching between them is done by CMOS switches. A ATtiny44 is used for auto ranging. To do this it monitors the display segments. Over 999mA it switches to the 3A range. Under 0.9A it switches back to the 1000mA one. I added a 1s delay to prevent oscillating between the two ranges.I added the red components. To change the 7107 to 200mV the existing R1 and C3 are changed to 33k Ohm and 470nF. The inserted 47k resistor between Vref and the R3 trimpot gives a finer adjustment for calibrating the 1000mA range.The voltage divider and the CMOS switches are simply inserted at the input of the current meter. The trimpot is used for calibrating the 3A range. The ATtiny is directly connected to the LED display segments for monitoring them. It also drives the decimal points. DP1 for the 1000mA range and DP3 for the 3A one.E3610A_current_meter.ino is the Arduino source code.

author: Len
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2013, 04:19:23 pm
content: The ATtiny is "watching" the display so it knows when to switch ranges? That's a clever hack.

author: sync
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2013, 04:27:25 pm
content: Quote from: Len on August 22, 2013, 04:19:23 pmBut an old one. In the ICL7107 datasheet is a similar circuit using logic gates.

author: bdivi
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 04, 2013, 05:20:14 pm
content: why not move the decimal point before the mA value - .234 instead of 234. ? I guess it will be better visualy

author: sync
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 04, 2013, 05:28:30 pm
content: There is no decimal point before available. I played with the idea to mount a LED for it. But then I took the easy way.

author: elektronchika
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 14, 2014, 02:15:11 pm
content: Cool, I like this idea
What was a Fluke 8010A's Original Price? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 14, 2014, 12:55:32 am
content: Just picked one up at HamCom In Plano, TX. Was used in some college lab, it had the letters "MVC" painted on the top of the case - it stood for "Mountain Valley College" which went bankrupt the guy said. I managed to clean them off and clean the whole thing. It looks pretty good and it's spot-on as far as measurement accuracy goes. I paid $10 for it.Was just curious what they cost back in the day.

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 14, 2014, 05:17:41 am
content: $249 USD according to this ad from Radio Electronicshttps://archive.org/stream/radio_electronics_1980-06/Radio_Electronics_June_1980#page/n63/mode/2up/search/fluke

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 14, 2014, 12:33:16 pm
content: Quote from: retiredcaps on June 14, 2014, 05:17:41 amThanks.
Case for Rigol DSA815 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: tkline98
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 13, 2014, 12:26:25 pm
content: I'm looking for a rugged case for my 815, and am wondering what others are using? I purchased a Pelican 1500, but it's a bit too tight when I close the case. I'm afraid the the lumpy foam in the lid will leave marks on the display.What case and size do you use? Do you have room for accessories in the same case?

author: radhaz
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 13, 2014, 05:44:15 pm
content: This looks pretty nice:http://www.saelig.com/product/PSBEA002.htm

author: tkline98
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 13, 2014, 06:53:32 pm
content: Thanks but I would prefer a hard plastic case to protect it in the back of the truck.

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 13, 2014, 08:06:42 pm
content: If I had a SA, I would have it ride shotgun.

author: tkline98
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 14, 2014, 12:41:04 am
content: Thinking about the 1520 now...http://www.pelican.com/cases_detail.php?Case=1520

author: rf-loop
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 14, 2014, 07:33:15 am
content: If I need select case it is:http://www.pelican.com/cases_detail_storm.php?Case=iM2450If I need also add some tools/cables/probes etc there is other models in Pelican Storm serie.Pelican 1520 internal dimesion 17cm is still quite tight for 815 (no any reserve for any inrush). There is good to be some extra for inrush if need protect equipment. Modify also foam so that TFT area do not touch at all.I have some experience what long time vibration in vechile may do in transport or vechile use. Specially if there is even small amount of some hard dust (grinding). It is pity they do not use protection glass over TFT soft surface.Also this German B&W have very good professional and mil class products as also Pelican.