Do you have any test equipment in your lab that uses vacuum tubes? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: 5065AGuru
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 04:57:22 am
content: Hi,Just wondered. The only vacuum tube test equipment I have is an HP 428B clip on Ammeter. It is one of my favorite instruments and warms up in less than 30 Seconds!Cheers,Corby Dawson

author: capt bullshot
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 05:37:22 am
content: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/chat/spot-the-test-equipment-%28find-the-hidden-object-with-the-picture%29/msg1412775/#msg1412775

author: Berni
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 05:41:41 am
content: While most of my equipment is rather old it still tends to have at least early ceramic DIP ICs in it.The one i do have is a Fluke 410B (Precision HV Power supply)https://testequipment.center/Products/Fluke-410BIt is modern enough for its control circuit and reference to be silicon, but it still uses incandescent lamps as indicators on the front panel. But since this thing can output up to 10kV they couldn't get a transistor to handle that, so there is a big fist sized vacuum tube inside working as a linear pass element to regulate the output.You would know the thing has vacuum tubes inside without even opening it up because the heater on this tube runs so hot that you can see the bright orange light shining out of all the vent holes in the back area.

author: Smith
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 06:01:35 am
content: I regularely use the HP 412B 2kV HV supply, basicly a 2kv version of the 410B. Its so easy to use, and verry precise. It only needed a new cap for the internal reference a few years back. The downside is the 32mA output, almost 32mA more than 1 need. The output is in series with a relay that should eventually kick in above the 32mA. Colleague got a shock from the his 3kV version once (415B), he was not amused.

author: fourfathom
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 06:30:17 am
content: Do Nixie tubes count? My old HP freq counter has these. I also have a variable high-voltage power supply with some big vacuum tubes, but I haven't plugged it in for a very long time.

author: Henrik_V
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 06:41:24 am
content: In my lab yes, however beside nixies (WG, HP and GR counter, and a V543 DMM) I use a Kepco 2kV Powersupply with a beam power pentode. My museum doesn't count, but in rare situations I use a TeraOhmMeter with a electrometer tube build by Jahre (maybe known as a mica Cap producer) just because it's working and the only gage if have at home for that range.

author: Berni
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 06:45:58 am
content: Quote from: Smith on September 09, 2019, 06:01:35 amI have not yet found out what is it like to touch the output of mine, but i really don't want to feel it. The last time i had the output of it arc over to ground it resulted in a loud pop and flash while the protection shut it down.Mine is a bit whimper at 10mA, but all that appears to be is a relay kicking in at that threshold, nothing actually limiting the output current, so when a short happens the thing just dumps its internal capacitors right out hence why it makes a loud pop when it arcs over, as there is likely amps of current flowing for a brief moment. My solution to that is to add a physicaly large resistor in series with the output so that there is at least something limiting the current.

author: TheSteve
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 06:54:25 am
content: Only VFD's, CRT's, Nixie's and Panaplex displays. I had some spare tubes(and CRT's) but they all went home with Mr Carlson a while back.

author: Berni
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 07:58:12 am
content: Oh and where is the line for it being considered a vacuum tube.Since quite a few of my equipment still has CRTs and even more has VFDs and those are technically vacuum tubes since they all fire electrons off a heater trough vacuum. Nixie tubes are different since they are essentially glorified neon bulbs (Much prettier to look at tho).Then you have weird 'tubes' like a traveling wave tube (old high performance RF amplifiers) or things like magnetrons or klystrons that also fit the working principle of a vacuum tube (Tho i don't think you find the last two in test gear).

author: Bart1965
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 09:23:35 am
content: I own a Philips GM4140-00 ("Philoscoop") measurement bridge from 1938. Inside are an EZ 40 rectifier, an EF 40 pentode (another Dutch invention) and the EM 34 "magic eye".

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 09:30:51 am
content: The only one in the house, Heathkit vacuum tube voltmeter, a freebie meter.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 09:58:51 am
content: I have an old graph paper servo plotter that uses tubes around somewhere.And i saved a magic eye valve from going to the rubbish tip a while back.Not sure what project i'll use it in.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 10:08:03 am
content: Quote from: Psi on September 09, 2019, 09:58:51 amGave the only one I've ever had to member Neo in the US as I'll never use it.He had some project but has never disclosed what.Still got a box of assorted tubes that I really must throw out unless you want them ?

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 10:18:41 am
content: Quote from: tautech on September 09, 2019, 10:08:03 amOnly if there's some 12AX7 or EL34 in there.

author: amspire
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 10:26:22 am
content: I have an ESI precision capacitor measuring transformer bridge that uses valves in the tracking oscillator and null detector. The null detector has a sharp bandpass filter that tracks the oscillator over a range of about 20Hz to 20KHz.Some of the vacuum tubes do not seem to be easily available.If it starts to fail, I think I might keep the meters, dials, resonant passive components and precision coupling transformers, but replace the valves with a solid state circuits. Maybe make it battery powered.I also have an old 5MHz BWD oscilloscope that is a transistor-valve hybrid - haven't used it in decades. It was my first scope and I just never felt like getting rid of it. Fantastic triggering.A basic valve RF oscillator and Vacuum Tube Voltmeter. They could end up being converted to solid state.Richard.

author: factory
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 10:28:02 am
content: Quote from: Smith on September 09, 2019, 06:01:35 amDid you mean a Fluke 412B? the HP 41x Series are all meters not HV supplies.I have loads of test gear with vacuum tubes in my collection, mostly HP, but I also have a Farnell E350, Advance SC1 and a few older ones from Taylor.David

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 10:29:21 am
content: Quote from: Psi on September 09, 2019, 10:18:41 amI think there might be, I'll look tomorrow and PM you.There's all sorts of old shite, some was Dads from the '40's but most were scrounged from old tele and radio sets.There's a few bases too, 4, 5 and 8 pin along with some later mini 8 pin bases.

author: aix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 10:58:45 am
content: I have a Keithley 240A power supply. I don't get to use it very often, but love the fact that it goes up to eleven!

author: med6753
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 11:25:48 am
content: Besides numerous analog scopes with CRT's I have:Tektronix Type 191 Signal GeneratorHeathkit V-5 VTVMHeathkit V-7A VTVMHeathkit S-3 Electronic SwitchHeatthkit AG-9A Audio GeneratorHeathkit OL-1 OscilloscopeAll are in working order.

author: tggzzz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 12:55:55 pm
content: My Tek time mark generator contains half a dozen or so. Here are pics of two of them:FFI seehttps://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/test-equipment-anonymous-(tea)-group-therapy-thread/msg2196288/#msg2196288and subsequent posts.

author: ferdieCX
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 01:01:05 pm
content: Heathkit IG-42 RF generator - in useTek 310A scope - in work condition, but not in use

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 03:41:45 pm
content: CRTs -- a few. Aside from those, not anything that I use regularly. I have the same VTVM BravoV shared, I think a later model; an RCA "high sensitivity AC VTVM" with a DC mod, and Eico 377 audio and 322 RF generators. Some audio amps about rounds it out.I suppose the distributed amplifier counts; haven't had much cause to use it, but it's an original.https://www.seventransistorlabs.com/Images/DistAmp2.jpgTim

author: KrudyZ
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 04:04:19 pm
content: I have a HP214B pulse generator.It uses tubes in the output section to deliver 100V into 50 Ohm with 15 ns transition times.Can't say that it sees a lot of use though...

author: schmitt trigger
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 04:13:25 pm
content: Quote from: tggzzz on September 09, 2019, 12:55:55 pmGorgeous!Nuvistors and metal-can transistors coexisting peacefully within inches of each other.

author: Dwaine
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 05:00:18 pm
content: Yep. Heathkits... cap checker and vtvm. Love them...

author: bob91343
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 05:01:55 pm
content: My tube gear mostly consists in HP types 400D and 412A voltmeters. I also have a couple of Boonton Q meters and a GR 1644-B bridge. My HP 410B is part of my ham station where it measures the output to the antenna.I am mildly annoyed by the warmup time as well as the high internal temperatures that invite failure. But I have these instruments and they work very well.My HP 428A failed and I am unable to repair it; the probe is the problem.I have plenty of tube type units that are surplus to my needs and would love to trade them off. They are mostly in my garage awaiting disposition. Signal generators, voltmeters, bridge, deviation meter, power supplies.

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 05:10:49 pm
content: Not including the displays, I have an old grid dip meter. I also have my old HF radio that I use for testing from time to time.

author: chris_leyson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 05:57:06 pm
content: Tektronix 130 L-C meter and Heath-Schlumberger SP-2717 PSU.

author: Grandchuck
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 06:24:05 pm
content: Only CRT left is inside.

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 06:25:44 pm
content: something glowing, yes.

author: Berni
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 06:30:00 pm
content: Now that's quite the Tek pile.

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 06:34:06 pm
content: I have an HP3400A True RMS voltmeter with the earlier Nuvistor input stage.

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 07:02:42 pm
content: Quote from: chris_leyson on September 09, 2019, 05:57:06 pmI love that, it`s one of the best instruments for very small L+C.It have no problems to test a 0,3pF accurate

author: MarkF
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 07:12:02 pm
content: I don't. But, have you seenMr. Carlson's LabHis latest project:

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 08:18:06 pm
content: I have numerous bits of gear with CRTs and a nixie display multimeter. I had an audio test oscillator but gave it to another eevblog member because I just wasn't using it.

author: artag
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 09:09:29 pm
content: Another Kepco power supply here - HB525, 500V 500mA, 5 x GE7581 (KT66) in the output stageAnd some 'scopes with CRTsAnd some quite modern instruments with VFDs .. they're thermionic too, right ? Even more so than Nixies !

author: med6753
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 10:05:51 pm
content: Quote from: james_s on September 09, 2019, 08:18:06 pmThat would be me and it's been completely restored.

author: L_Euler
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 10:28:36 pm
content: How about a his one. Nearly 100 tubes.

author: DaJMasta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2019, 10:44:04 pm
content: No from me, unless you count the nixie clock I made a while ago.Being a somewhat younger generation, I never had the affinity for older gear, and the size/heat/shipping fragility of even CRT gear generally dissuades me from a lot of it. I've noticed that when powered down, most of my gear has an LCD screen of some sort....

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 12:29:29 am
content: Quote from: med6753 on September 09, 2019, 10:05:51 pmLooking good, glad to see it. If only you could find a proper knob to replace the mismatched one it would look almost new.

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 12:54:02 am
content: HP 410C Electronic VoltmeterHP MODEL 11036A AC PROBE (I'm not shouting, that's how it is listed in the 410C manual)Leader LSG-11 RF Signal Generator.BWD 511 Oscilloscope (non- functional at present)All the other stuff is solid state.(actually my dipmeter used to be a "grid dipper", using a tube, but I modified it to use a FET)

author: Stray Electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 01:51:53 am
content: Quote from: BravoV on September 09, 2019, 09:30:51 amActually those are pretty decent meters. I had forgotten about them but I still have a couple of them around here somewhere. One of them still has a NIB 25,000 volt probe with it that's never been used. I think I paid $2 for it and the meter about 10 years ago. Around that time the ham fests were full of these meters and you almost couldn't give them away.Other than the Heathkit meters yes, now that I think about it, I still have a lot of tube type stuff.

author: Cubdriver
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 02:02:49 am
content: Quote from: L_Euler on September 09, 2019, 10:28:36 pmA triple nickel is on my wants list. Even more beautiful with the P11 phosphor! I have some tube stuff that gets used here and there - Sprague TO-4 and -5, a Tek 575 mod C curve tracer, HP 200CD audio generator, HP 428B clamp-on miliammeter... Most of the other tube stuff is more for collecting's sake, though it's fun to occasionally use the old HP counters and see all the glowing heaters.-Pat

author: Smith
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 05:55:22 am
content: Quote from: factory on September 09, 2019, 10:28:02 amYou are right, but it does match my HP gear quite wellI have 3 CRT scopes and a Philips nixie tube voltmeter if they count, but I don't really use the voltmeter.

author: PaulAm
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 01:20:30 pm
content: I have and still use on occasion an old Tek 453 with tube HV rectifiers and nuvistors in the H and V sections. I've had that scope for over 20 years and never had a problem with it.

author: notfaded1
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 01:28:34 pm
content: I really like this guy I have:

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 03:09:14 pm
content: that is fine, yesBut:Set it to 12 Volts or 15 Volts to feed any small transistor experiment,Then press STANDBY and look what the voltage output will do before shutting down finally.. (a typical 30V Transistor will be RIP )Heathkit made a bullshit there, it may be better to remove "Standby" and type there "WORST CASE SWITCH"

author: MarkL
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 03:11:39 pm
content: I have two pieces of test equipment that has vacuum tubes: A Heathkit IT-28 capacitor checker, and a Spellman 15kV @ 4mA HV supply. The Spellman has an interesting set of gas voltage regulator tubes in addition to the usual drivers and rectifier tubes. I've posted photos of it before:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/chat/how-many-psu_s-do-you-have/msg393637/#msg393637I'm still looking for a model ID or schematics if anyone recognizes it.I also have a tube-powered (5514/811A) Tesla coil which is physically in my lab, but it's not really a piece of test equipment. It probably has no business being in there given the other sensitive electronics.

author: med6753
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 05:26:02 pm
content: Quote from: MarkL on September 10, 2019, 03:11:39 pmJudging from the photos you posted if those metal 6L6's are original I place that supply earlier than 1960. Perhaps early to mid 1950's. It does appear that the tube on the far right....probably a 5U4....has at some point been replaced. If original it would have had a glass envelope just like your 0A3 VR tubes.

author: med6753
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 05:31:42 pm
content: Quote from: Martin.M on September 10, 2019, 03:09:14 pmThat may be true but that supply is poor choice for that application and is not meant for 12-15V equipment.

author: MarkL
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 06:34:30 pm
content: Quote from: med6753 on September 10, 2019, 05:26:02 pmSharp eye! Yes, I had to replace the shattered 5U4 tube when I first got the unit, so I don't know what the original envelope looked like. It was an attractive target, sticking out on the corner like that. Alas, the replacement 5U4 eventually died a natural death since that photo was taken and has since been re-replaced with a diode bridge equivalent.All the other tubes are original except the two HV rectifiers inside the plastic case, at least as when purchased by me. The HV rectifiers were not performing well. The unit still works perfectly.I'd believe 1950's. Odd that there's not a trace of a model number. Only "Spellman" on the meter faces. Maybe it was a custom unit for someone. I saw a similar one on ebay many years ago, but mounted in a small metal rack case with a flip-up lid to get to the tubes.

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 06:58:56 pm
content: Quote from: med6753 on September 10, 2019, 05:31:42 pmOf coarse, but when they build a unit from zero to 400, that have to work.OFF is OFF and not enhancing to +60V before OFF, = BullshitStandby with a Heathkit is simply, you remove the + Plug, then it`s trustful OFF.Martin

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 07:23:04 pm
content: the nice american Set.The glouchester version is different, they are VVM, not VTVM

author: MaxFrister
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 07:27:33 pm
content: I have a couple.

author: med6753
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 07:27:43 pm
content: Quote from: MarkL on September 10, 2019, 06:34:30 pmAre the HV rectifiers 1B3's by chance? From what I can see it appears so.

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 07:32:32 pm
content: hello Max,that`s very nice,but the 564 have a pair of dual differential amplifiers in the slots, there is no time base.Martin

author: MaxFrister
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 07:35:09 pm
content: Most of these have been restored and working, but not these 2 scopes. Note the red tags.

author: med6753
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 07:39:03 pm
content: Quote from: Martin.M on September 10, 2019, 07:23:04 pmYep, my American Heath V-7A VTVM has a British meter courtesy of a fellow blogger in the UK. The original American meter had damaged bearings.

author: schmitt trigger
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 08:04:00 pm
content: Quote from: Martin.M on September 09, 2019, 06:25:44 pmMany moons ago, I worked in a company whihc had a few of the Tek instruments you are showing here. I know they are VERY HEAVY.And from the photo, it looks like your lab is located in the attic.I hope you did not break your back carrying all that stuff up the stairs.

author: EE-digger
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 11, 2019, 12:24:12 am
content: Mostly in good working condition except for the Dumont:RCA WV98C VoltOhmyst VTVMDumont / Fairchild 401 scopeFluke 412B High voltage supplyHP 400FL ac voltmeterHP 401 oscillator (tube or FET??)But alas, none have been used in years

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 11, 2019, 04:19:52 am
content: I often wonder why HP call the 410C an "Electronic Voltmeter", as it can read Resistance & Current as well.Still, I suppose other "VTVMs" can do similar things.Now,thisis a "Vacuum Tube Voltmeter"!https://www.ietlabs.com/pdf/Manuals/GR/726-A%20Vacumm%20Tube%20VM.pdfIt was "AC voltages only"----How does that probe grab you?I had one for years, until, in a misguided "Nice guy" moment, I donated it to an Electronics Museum.They had a wonderful assortment of stuff, so I wasn't worried that it wasn't yet displayed.Years went by, & the decision was made by the "powers that be" to dedicate the museum to the early spark radio equipment used by the coastal radio station that originally occupied the site.To this end, all the other stuff was "cleared out".Where to? -----Dunno, maybe landfill!

author: med6753
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 11, 2019, 04:39:26 am
content: Quote from: vk6zgo on September 11, 2019, 04:19:52 amPowered vacuum tube probes were quite common in the 1950's. Today's equivalent is an FET probe.

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 11, 2019, 08:17:35 am
content: Quote from: med6753 on September 11, 2019, 04:39:26 amCertainly!----The 410C has one, but the tube in their probe was a lot smaller than the full sized "lighthouse" tube in the 726A probe!The large probe was always a problem when looking at 1950s/60s Electronics.The only time I really found the 726A useful was for aligning AM radios (used in conjunction with my portable one valve "signal generator").It would have been better, though, if it had a DC range, as I could have looked at the receiver AGC instead of audio out.It did look really cool, though!

author: ferdieCX
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 11, 2019, 01:15:29 pm
content: When I was student in the 70's, we used a 726A VTVM in the lab at the technical university.It still is in our warehouse, waiting to be restored.

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2019, 02:08:36 am
content: I always had a bit of a "soft spot" for General Radio equipment.At 6WF/WN in Perth, in the "Speech input room" at the Tx site, we had GR Audio generators, when I first worked there.They had a "mechanical digital" frequency display--- when you turned the frequency control, plastic pieces with numbers on them clicked into place behind a viewing window, where they were illuminated from the rear.It was quite different from the ordinary "rolling" mechanical display used on hour meters & the like.i ran into quite a lot of GR stuff over the years, but most of it was more esoteric stuff, which spent more time packed in beautiful polished wooden boxes than ever being used!

author: schmitt trigger
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2019, 01:08:24 pm
content: General Radio products were truly the Rolls-Royces of test equipment for many decades.Not only they had very high performance, but they were beautifully crafted products.And the mechanical bits and pieces on the inside were simply awesome.

author: MarkL
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 14, 2019, 02:49:59 pm
content: Quote from: med6753 on September 10, 2019, 07:27:43 pmClose - They're 1G3.I guess they needed more plate current than the 1B3. Difficult to tell them apart by looking at the internal structure. 1G3 is a sub for 1B3.

author: med6753
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2019, 06:57:01 pm
content: Quote from: MarkL on September 14, 2019, 02:49:59 pmAccording to the RCA Receiving Tube Manual 1G3/1B3 are identical....no difference in characteristics.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2019, 07:28:51 pm
content: Um ... just a CRT scope - Agilent 54622D mixed signal scope.

author: Addicted2AnalogTek
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2019, 08:09:13 pm
content: I'm only a minor player in the tube gear world. I've got a few old Tek cal fixtures:(2) Type 106 square wave generators067-0502-01 amplitude calibratorType 191 constant amplitude sine wave gen067-0532-01 constant amplitude sine wave gen067-0532-00 constant amplitude sine wave gen (in pieces)This of course excludes all of the CRTs

author: MarkL
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 14, 2019, 11:19:50 pm
content: Quote from: med6753 on September 14, 2019, 06:57:01 pmInteresting. I was looking here:http://tubedata.milbert.com/sheets14.htmlSome of the data sheets do show them to have the same ratings. Some don't.I also have a copy of the RCA Receiving Tube Manual. One thing that's different is that the 1G3 has a slightly smaller height (3+9/16" vs. 4+1/16").My sub book shows 1G3 as a sub for 1B3, but not the other way around.

author: n5al
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 01:20:40 am
content: Apart from CRTs and VFDs, none of my test equipment uses vacuum tubes. I have a HF linear amplifier that uses 3-500 tubes, but that's not test equipment, of course.

author: zitt
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 05:33:03 am
content: Hikok 605A Tube Tester - missing main needle meter.I'd like to get this tester working so I can resurrect my Grandma's AM Radio from 1930s which is also a vacuum tubes.

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 07:10:55 am
content: Quote from: Cubdriver on September 10, 2019, 02:02:49 amhello Pat,look for a P7 dual coating screen, they have a fast blue and a slowly greenyellow, so when the dot is slowly running its blue and draws a grennyellow line.That is the most cute CRT Tek have build. P7 is very useful for slowly frequencys about the very long delay of the greenyellow. In fast actions it looks blue only.The delay time of the greenyellow will reach 2 seconds, the blue have only msMartinPicture = Triple Nickel, P7the second picture is a 551 Dual Beam,with options P11 and 12kV mod (= another graticules glass, with a text below)

author: Cubdriver
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 08:06:41 am
content: Beautiful scopes, Martin - you have an awesome collection of them! I'm keeping my eyes open, but I fear like many of the heavy old Tek iron that they're getting more and more rare as audiophools gut them for their dual triodes and discard the carcasses. That really burns me up!Keep up your preservation efforts!!-PatEdit to add - thanks for the tip on the P7 dual phosphor - I'd read about it, but never gave it much thought - it looks like a great combination!

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 07:41:44 pm
content: Quote from: Cubdriver on September 15, 2019, 08:06:41 amthey are waiting for the next youtube video: "we build a scope using a Marantz Tuner"

author: Bill158
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 08:08:47 pm
content: Does a FLUKE 5215A power amp count? This is used with the 5200A AC Calibrator to generate up to 1000 Volts RMS, up to 100 KHz. Uses 4 ea. 4X150A transmitting tubes in the output. This thing is a real "widow maker" if you are not careful. It will also smoke any DVM that isn't rated at 1000 Volts AC at any frequency. You need to check the specs on the meter you are trying to calibrate before applying the AC voltage. It also doubles as a swell lab heater all year around.Bill

author: Michael Lloyd
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2019, 08:56:39 pm
content: I've got a few. Some I have duplicates. Some are a little rough but they work. All are not "on" the bench but I can use them as needed or desired. I have a very large Tektronix o-scope that's full of tubes but I haven't done anything with it, yet.Some stuff I don't have photos of. Like: An Eico-147A signal generator, Eico 315 signal generator, Eico 950 capacitor tester, and the queen of my bench - an Eico 249 VTVM. It shows up in at least one of the photos belowTektronix 422 in blackKnight 83Y135 Signal Tracer. No photo at the momentI restored this old oscilloscope. It was an adventureAfterBefore (the inside looked worse)These two beaters work now:Technically this isn't usable because it's not restored yet. I don't have a model number or schematic but I haven't looked very hard for it either

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2019, 05:29:40 am
content: I'd forgotten, I do have a Heathkit IP-32 power supply that has tubes in it. It's not something I use often, but on occasions where I need a relatively high regulated DC voltage there's nothing else I have that can deliver.

author: bob91343
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2019, 02:01:52 am
content: Those are wonderful pictures! I wish I had the patience to photograph some of my gear. I have plenty of it that uses tubes.In fact, yesterday I managed to get working again my venerable HP 428A clip-on dc millliammeter. Nice to have it again.

author: mmagin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2019, 04:19:05 am
content: Quote from: Michael Lloyd on September 15, 2019, 08:56:39 pmThat is the military, possibly second-source (non-HP) version of the HP 410b.

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2019, 05:07:45 am
content: VTVM:Sennheiser RV55 is a AC mVMGrundig RV3 is a VTVM with a warm probe for HFRV55 is a wonder about the s/n what it have in the < 1mV range, made with tubes. Here we find the experience of microphones technology (under-heated triode system)amazing: Sennheiser is a sponsor company at the Makerfaire Hannover, there is a friendship bec. I run there always any glowing history of them..This year I got a very lot of technical manuals from them, this books are now avaiable for all who do restorations. Also they have given me a RV54 made by LABOR W (Laboratories Wennebostel, that is the rather old name of them ! )

author: ferdieCX
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 23, 2019, 12:41:47 am
content: Quote from: Martin.M on September 21, 2019, 05:07:45 amThe BNC T in the picture looks like the ones that came with the VAXstations.Is that correct ?

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2019, 04:27:29 pm
content: I really don`t know that. Have saved the life from an old SGI, it was not possible to put it here in the room.It may be enough, no VAX hereMartin

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2019, 03:10:48 pm
content: lo-Ohm-Meter, 4wires testing. Full glowing< 1/3/10/30/100/300 Ohms full scale. This Oldie can test ESR at 10kHz sine also.It is possible this is the last one, it was made for internal use in the own manufacturings, by Philips NL.Picture: testing a 10 ohm

author: 001
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2019, 08:04:15 pm
content: I see a lot of tube power supplies in the treadWhat way You are using tube PS for? I mean in 2019I remember what all similar PS have high voltage spikes if You turn it off and no current limit anyway

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2019, 12:51:16 am
content: Quote from: 001 on September 26, 2019, 08:04:15 pmIf you are using them with tubes, such devices have a high degree of immunity to high voltage transients, as do many high voltage solid state devices, which are often used with relatively simple supplies.Many quite advanced tube power supplies exist which do have current limiting.Turn off of tube supplies can mean many things, such as turning the whole thing off, where, as the heaters are still hot, will result in a graceful drop in voltage to zero as they cool down.None of the tube power supplies I remember using had a separate switch for applying already present voltage to the output terminals.They were pretty much "turn the thing on from scratch".Transmitter power supplies are an exception, where they sometimes applied HT progressively to different sections of the equipment.The only comment I have seen regarding "voltage spikes" is where people are using tube based supplies to provide solid state type voltage levels.This is a long way from the original intended use of these power supplies.

author: Michael Lloyd
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2019, 01:11:23 am
content: Mine gets used in vintage Ham radio circuits (tube).

author: SLJ
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2019, 02:29:21 am
content: Half my bench is vacuum tube equipment.That's mostly what I work on.

author: TheUnnamedNewbie
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2019, 06:47:21 am
content: While technically not vacuum tubes, I do have a multimeter that still uses nixies (keithley 164). Does that count?

author: 001
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2019, 01:13:32 pm
content: Quote from: vk6zgo on September 27, 2019, 12:51:16 amOkWhat is You favorite tube power supply?

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2019, 12:59:14 am
content: Quote from: 001 on September 27, 2019, 01:13:32 pmGood comeback!I don't have oneStandalone tube power supplies were never very common.You might have found some in University or Tech College Labs, or at equipment Manufacturers.From memory, there was one at the 6WF transmiier site where I worked many moons ago, & that's about the only one I remember outside Tech College.Most tube supplies were part of a complete piece of equipment, & were fairly straightforward designs, so the requirement for such a supply "on the bench" was fairly rare.PS:-The above may sound as if I am contradicting my earlier posting, but there were many designs around for standalone supplies in books, magazines, etc, although it was unusual to see one "in the flesh".

author: 0culus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2019, 01:28:15 am
content: I seem to remember a Mr. Carlson's Lab episode where he demonstrates a rather beefy tube supply he uses on his bench.

author: bob91343
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2019, 06:41:01 am
content: I have one of those beefy power supplies. I never have used it.

author: 001
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2019, 11:41:12 am
content: Quote from: bob91343 on September 28, 2019, 06:41:01 amSo what the reason to own it?

author: TimFox
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2019, 01:57:20 pm
content: Because it's a free country?

author: schmitt trigger
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2019, 07:41:52 pm
content: Although I don't have the joy of owning a vacuum tube basedtest equipment, I do have a vacuum tubetester.That must count as something.

author: bob91343
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2019, 11:55:01 pm
content: The reason to own it is that nobody wants to buy it. I don't want to throw it away. It works great. I have owned it for about 40 years. Every couple of years I switch it on to see if it still works. The only problems it has are that one of the meters has a crack in the glass and one of the toggle switches gets intermittent from lack of use.It's nice, a big job in a rack panel, two main outputs 0-300V and 0-500V which can be put in series for 0-800 V. Also filament supply, 6.3V. One supply uses a variac. Perfect for bench testing of a 100W transmitter or a big tube type audio amplifier, servomechanism, or the like. They are closely regulated outputs and the unit is top quality, Dressen-Barnes.I am saving it for swap I guess. What would you do with it?

author: med6753
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2019, 01:24:19 am
content: Nothing like encouraging destruction of vintage equipment by audio phools. This clown includes in his ad "got Bulge boy tubes in it"https://www.ebay.com/itm/Vintage-Working-Tektronix-561B-Oscilliscope-2A60-AMPLIFIER-2B67-time-tube-type/113715031978?hash=item1a79f1afaa:g:45QAAOSwJvVcN8zE

author: 0culus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2019, 01:26:20 am
content: I'm super tempted to buy it just to prevent that. But this clown probably wouldn't pack it worth a shite.

author: mansaxel
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2019, 08:16:30 am
content: I have a (newly resurrected, seehere--hp) -- 428b, bought as for-parts from the US. With a probe! I have wanted it since I read about it in (I think) the --hp-- 410b service manual.I do not own a 410b; that auction fell through. This time.Idoown a MarconiTF1041BVTVM of 1968 vintage with the whole shebang including a heated probe, also working.Finally, an Euratele 412Abgleichsender, also working. My wife found it for me at the large Eskilstuna ham flea market. Yes, I have the best wife in the world.The Euratele range was, I understand, something of a German Heathkit, "some" assembly required. It does all then-current broadcast bands, and some more on shortwave. Have verified der Abgleichsender on Band II FM (in Sweden, it is allowed to operate a very, very weak Band II FM transmitter for local perusal), and it apparently works across the house, and probably further if you connect a decent antenna to it.There will undoubtely be more valve equipment coming my way.

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2019, 03:16:32 pm
content: Congratulation to that wifeDon`t forget some of the larger system needs some A for glowing.When I start here more then 3 from the scopes the fuse of the workroom will stop the jobMartin

author: med6753
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2019, 06:28:02 pm
content: Quote from: Martin.M on October 08, 2019, 03:16:32 pmAre you surprised by that?

author: mansaxel
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2019, 09:13:44 pm
content: Quote from: Martin.M on October 08, 2019, 03:16:32 pmI have a three-phase 16A 230/400V supply to the workshop. It is shared with the computers (including a 2KVA UPS with ~270 kilos of battery bank) and the machine workshop, where there are several 3-phase machines like drill press, air compressor, etc. I do not expect fuses blown, but sometimes the RCCB takes a dislike to the devices I connect...

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2019, 05:01:44 pm
content: left side from the work table:Tek 551 (850W)Tek 555 (1000W)Tek 555 (1000W) yes, it`s a pir of themTek 556 (850W)Tek 565 (500W)Tek 549 (600W)Tek 533A (< 500W)at the right side from the table ...

author: mansaxel
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2019, 05:24:05 pm
content: Quote from: Martin.M on October 09, 2019, 05:01:44 pmImpressive.L1: 533A+549+565 = 1600WL2: 555+666 = 1850WL3: 555+551 = 1850WL1 is always loaded more than the others, so will get the lowest load. Still, all three phases come in under 10A, with headroom.Oh, you don't have threephase "Drehstrom" in your workshop? I've lived in apartments with 3x16A main fuse. Sweden, home of ASEA (the A in ABB) and three-phase!

author: Martin.M
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2019, 06:03:02 pm
content: not so easy to calculate that, it was the e left side of the tableIf you are interested I have some details athttps://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/vintage-tek-restoration-pictures-by-martin/greetingsMartin

author: Larryc001
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2019, 10:42:47 pm
content: Some of mine.

author: 0culus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2019, 11:31:58 pm
content: Daaaaang, dude. Hope you have strong floor joists.That's a super awesome collection. One day I hope to own one nice example of a Tek vacuum tube scope. Maybe.

author: xrunner
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2019, 12:02:24 am
content: Quote from: Larryc001 on December 22, 2019, 10:42:47 pmWow!

author: Cubdriver
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 23, 2019, 12:08:51 am
content: Schweet bunch of scopes there!!-Pat

author: Michael Lloyd
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2019, 12:43:24 am
content: QuoteWow, are you Paul Carson's neighbor??

author: Cubdriver
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 23, 2019, 01:29:58 am
content: Quote from: Michael Lloyd on December 23, 2019, 12:43:24 amOr did you visit Germany and clean out Martin's place?

author: VK5RC
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 23, 2019, 02:23:35 am
content: Lovely gear, I can imagine the sound and smell of them being used!Rob

author: Larryc001
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2019, 04:15:13 am
content: I am having trouble posting but hopefully I can figure it out and put up a few more pictures.

author: David Hess
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2019, 04:16:10 am
content: I have a pair of 500 series Tektronix oscilloscopes, a Tektronix 184 time-mark generator, and a pair of ESI 250DA impedance bridges.

author: Larryc001
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2019, 04:21:52 am
content: A few more.

author: Larryc001
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2019, 04:29:48 am
content: First transistor scope the 321 and 321A.

author: Larryc001
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 28, 2019, 08:48:07 pm
content: I should clarify my response and photos. Although all of my many scopes are fully working, I don’t really use them for troubleshooting. They are really a collection. As the topic was more like vacuum tube instruments being actually used, my posts were a bit off topic. I have a 2465A, a 2213, and a 2445 that I use to work on the big scopes. My apologies.

author: 0culus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 28, 2019, 08:59:28 pm
content: Quote from: Larryc001 on December 28, 2019, 08:48:07 pmAbsolutely nothing wrong with that. Thanks for sharing.

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 28, 2019, 09:07:01 pm
content: Quote from: Larryc001 on December 28, 2019, 08:48:07 pmYou're wrong, that 2465A, 2213 and 2445 still fall into "vacuum tubes" test equipment as for it's screen.Thanks for sharing the collection.

author: Larryc001
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 31, 2019, 12:10:12 am
content: Here is an interesting website from Julian Bunn, a long time electronics enthusiast and Caltech professional. He has a lot of stuff here including the Tektronix portion:http://pcbunn.caltech.edu/jjb/Tektronix/tektronix.htmHis main site is at:http://pcbunn.caltech.edu/default.htmMany tubes here!

author: David Hess
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 31, 2019, 02:56:17 am
content: Quote from: BravoV on December 28, 2019, 09:07:01 pmI excluded CRT oscilloscopes because EEVBlog does not allow posts that long.

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 31, 2019, 03:14:56 am
content: Quote from: David Hess on December 31, 2019, 02:56:17 amWell, in that case, you need a sanctuary for that kinda post, anytime, you're very welcome at TEA.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 31, 2019, 09:35:43 am
content: Anybody have a use for a GE 1358x CRT though, has slight burns on it, from being run at high power as a chart recorder, but otherwise working, complete with the mumetal shielding can. Going to be expensive though to ship, but I can almost guarantee it will survive, will be packed HP style.

author: Yansi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 31, 2019, 09:44:02 am
content: I have a couple of old Russian RF generators, that have some pretty interesting stuff inside, including a bunch of twobs. These are a the G4 series generators, that go from about 1GHz to up to some tens of GHz.The front looks like this:And what's inside, see below. Pretty impressive stuff, especially that mechanical linearity trimming.See this thread for photos of the inside:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/rf-microwave/russian-microwave-signal-generator-g4-80-teardown///EDIT: Sorry, I have forgot that I have already uploaded the teardown here ^^

author: Larryc001
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 31, 2019, 10:45:28 pm
content: This was “Spotted this randomly, a lovely shot of a Type 531A at NASA, dated Dec31, 1960” by another enthusiast.https://www.flickr.com/photos/nasacommons/15708311313/in/contacts/

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2020, 02:43:29 am
content: Quote from: Larryc001 on December 31, 2019, 10:45:28 pmAnd it looks uncannily like it is displaying a field rate analog video signal.Maybe " Display something to make it look technical "?OK, it could be that the bottom line is just "no input", & the juxtaposition of the square wave is just a coincidence.

author: David Hess
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 02, 2020, 01:02:36 am
content: Oh, I forgot, I also have an HP TS-510/U UHF signal generator.

author: Tubesrule
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 06, 2023, 07:09:48 am
content: Okd thread but I'm bored and is midnightI have a heathkit magic eye, a couple of tube testers and something else some where. Oh yes my heathkit IG72