hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
CMU200 restart programatically or boot on power supply - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Zander1609
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 17, 2016, 09:01:15 am
content: Hi allI'm currently working with a CMU200 of Rohde&Schwarz. The Setup is running smooth and all tests are passing at the beginning of the testing period. BUT: after a while the CMU gets really slow, loses connection sometimes and a few other errors. As the CMU is not standing on my desk because is is pretty loud and therefore we outsourced the CMU to another room, it would be pretty annoying to always run to the CMU just to do a quick reboot.Is there some kind of workaround or anything that I miss that may avoid this? For example I know that some instruments offer the possibility of setting some kind of "Boot Up on Power Supply" in the BIOS menu. Unfortunately we did not find anything like this in the BIOS (maybe there is a newer version that we missed?).Another option would be to send a simple command via GPIB/RS232 to force a restart of the CMU. Does anyone know if such an option exists? Or is anyone having the same issues and installed some kind of workaround (like an arduino with some kind of servomotor that is pressing the button everytime you want to restart the CMU)Thanks in advance
Help: DMM thoughts - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: rapluwi
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 20, 2016, 07:30:57 am
content: Hi guys i'm looking to buy a new standard use dmm. so far here's what in my price range in my location... I'm in taiwan but i dont see much brymen herefrom cheapest..Hioki 4256 <- my top choiceBrymen 257s <- I only see one seller here and its cost more than the hiokiBrymen 817s <- pretty much common on online sellers here cost the same as hiokiSanwa cd772 <- my father used sanwa analog multi metersfluke 115 <- pretty much exceeds my budget as the others are around 120$could you guys help me with what would be the pros/cons of each one.. thanks

author: omgfire
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 20, 2016, 10:40:09 am
content: DT4256 for $120 sounds as a good deal. Switch looks nice and Hioki has autohold. Ironically, Fluke 115/117 does not have autohold feature.https://www.hioki.com/hdfile.jsp?id=20535
Need to get rid of a Oscilloscope? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: ziggyfish
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2016, 11:33:45 am
content: Hi,I am looking for an oscilloscope to use to inspect some PWM signals and whether I have sufficient bypassing capacitance for a 50 Mhz microcontroller. Does anyone have an oscilloscope they want to sell me that can do this job?
Thingiverse Link to .stl files a 3D printed holder for the EEVBlog BM235 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Malichite
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 15, 2016, 11:31:27 pm
content: Just wanted to share a link to some .stl files on thingiverse.com to 3D print a custom multi-meter holder for the EEVBlog BM235:http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1801708
Total Phase Beagle and Aardvark Alternative - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: canada13records
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 15, 2016, 08:41:33 pm
content: At work I have 2 Beagles and an Aardvark from Total Phase. I love these things, as they just work and the software is simple to use. However, for me to get setup with a Beagle and Aardvark at home I'm looking at $630. I would really like to spend maybe half of that, or maybe even $100.I am doing some contract work that requires me to control a ton of SPI digital potentiometers, and a memory device. I will likely end up taking on some more jobs, but feel that I only really need a Beagle and an Aardvark.What I really like about the beagle is that i can have it sit there and sniff I2C for days on end and then export my data.I love that the aardvark works with nearly any memory device and can easily read/write/erase memory devices with ease. I can feed it hex, ascii, and binary files to burn into eproms, flash memory, or even interact with my projects to help me manipulate the devices I am working with - before I write code.I see members here all raving and ranting about the Saleae units, but I don't really get a good feel for how they work on their site. Can you act as a I2C or SPI host? Does it know how to interact with nearly every memory device out there? I love how the total phase devices do this.Thanks!
HP 5328A Opt C18 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: jdownj
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 15, 2016, 06:31:13 pm
content: I just bought another counter, mainly to score the 10544 oscillator. It was a nice one, Opt 41(Digital Control Frontend), but is also marked Opt C18. I can't find any useful info on this option, what it is, what parts are used, etc. Anyone have a clue?NathanKK4REY
WARM-UP Times - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: mimmus78
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 10, 2016, 10:29:00 pm
content: I'm doing some experiments with warm-up times of some measurement instruments I have.Thought it was nice to share with you some results.First instrument is a TE9823 multifunction calibrator. This calibrator was a bit a surprise to me, I never expected this almost first class calibrator (10ppm maybe/wannabe) to take 3 hours to warm-up. This calibrator do not use ovenized references so it take a lot of time for the reference to get to temperature. Still to be proven that is the reference "drifting" and not the DAC or maybe a combination of the two.Next instrument is a K2001, this takes just 30 minutes to be ready ... this meter is using an LM399 an ovenized reference that go to temperature in a couple of minutes. It should be something else in the reference buffering circuit causing this drift (or some thermal emf?).In next days I will than test a K2000 too and a old and venerable Solartron 7150.Here first two shots.

author: mimmus78
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 14, 2016, 09:42:39 am
content: K2000 warm-up temperature was constant to all warm-up period.Also source voltage was measured constant according to mi K2001.This is the fastest meter to warm-up, it settle to -2ppm than it final value in just few minutes.Simple is better!

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2016, 11:54:08 pm
content: Neat. Thanks for sharing these, mimmus.
Rigol DM3058E data logging to PC? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 23, 2015, 08:35:27 pm
content: Has anybody got data logging working on the Rigol DM3058E?I'd like to log readings twice a second or so to my PC, preferably via Ethernet, but USB would be OK too.I'm told Ultraview doesn't do that (and is $$$ anyway), and I was advised to try the Excel macro from Rigol's website.But the Excel macro (a) doesn't work on my old 2003 version of Excel, and (b) demands I enable macros not just for this one Excel file, but for everything - a really bad idea security-wise.Surely this shouldn't be so hard - has anybody else got this working?

author: Pinkus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2016, 08:27:48 am
content: Alfons gave us an information in another thread which might be the solution:Quote from: Alfons on January 17, 2016, 04:15:53 pmI did not test it yet but it sounds very plausible.

author: stuartk
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 02, 2016, 02:02:51 pm
content: You should try the Rigol software. I've heard that "Run as Date" allows you to run it in trial mode indefinitely.

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 14, 2016, 05:55:50 pm
content: For what it's worth, I found a solution. I can read measurements from the DM3058E over USB using Python.Here's how I did it on Windows 10:1 - Install the NI Visa runtime (It's free. I used the version here:http://www.ni.com/download/ni-visa-run-time-engine-15.0/5379/en/)2 - Install Python if you don't already have it. I used Python 3.4, x64. (That's free too.)3 - Install the PyVisa module (home page ishttps://pyvisa.readthedocs.io/en/stable/index.html). All you have to do is this:c:\Users\Dave> python -m pip install -U pyvisaPython will download the package and install it by itself.4 - Now start Python and you can do this:import visarm = visa.ResourceManager()print(rm.list_resources())That prints:('USB0::0x1AB1::0x09C4::DM3R171400532::INSTR', 'ASRL1::INSTR', 'ASRL3::INSTR')Then open the DMM like this:dmm = rm.open_resource('USB0::0x1AB1::0x09C4::DM3R171400532::INSTR')You can query the instrument's ID:dmm.query('*IDN?')Out: 'Rigol Technologies,DM3058E,DM3R171400532,01.01.00.02.02.00\n'And measure voltage like so:dmm.query(":MEASure:VOLTage:DC?")Out: '1.230074E+01\n'That's 12.30074 volts.See the DM3058 Programming Guide for more commands you can send it:http://www.batronix.com/pdf/Rigol/ProgrammingGuide/DM3058_ProgrammingGuide_EN.pdf
Rigol DS2000A display freeze on manual memory depth. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: npelov
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 11:19:51 am
content: I recently updated firmware (see attachment) of my Rigol DS2072A, hoping that some of the bugs will be fixed. I noticed that If I set the memory depth to manual the display freezes at certain time bases (). The display shows last waveform, but the UI is still responsive. If I move the signal or move the trigger, the trigger state doesn't update on screen. Also single works fine. With auto memory depth the display is updated as it should. Did I mess something up or it's a bug? Can I downgrade?Also I have the feeling that screen is updating too slow - like 3-4 times/s even with auto memory depth. At 5us/div the screen update should be relatively fast.Did anyone else had the same problem?P.S.I haven't tried reset to defaults. I'll do that now.

author: npelov
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 11:25:57 am
content: Well, I messed up!!! I've set trigger holdoff to a quite big number because I had troubles triggering on digital data and I forgot about it. I set "startup" to "default", rebooted and it worked fine, and I remembered what what did.Does anyone know how to reset everything to default without rebooting the scope?

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 01:31:58 pm
content: Quote from: npelov on October 13, 2016, 11:25:57 amConnect the probe to the calibration signal and press "Auto"?

author: npelov
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 05:22:49 pm
content: Quote from: Fungus on October 13, 2016, 01:31:58 pmYes, that removes the holdoff and other trigger settings. It doesn't reset everything, but it'll probably fix most of the stuff I can mess up.

author: DG5SAY
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2016, 04:36:19 pm
content: Quote from: npelov on October 13, 2016, 11:19:51 amThe newest firmware is 00.03.05.00.01. Download here:http://beyondmeasure.rigoltech.com/acton/ct/1579/p-001a/Bct/-/-/ct1_0/1?sid=TV2%3AMThO8uNxL
HP6626A GPIB: any newer ROM than this? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Le_Bassiste
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2016, 01:54:47 pm
content: I need the firmware for an HP6626A, preferably a newer version than the one in the photo of my unit (this version still has the current spiking issue when going from CV to CC mode.)anybody able to help me with a ROM dump?thanks!

author: samofab
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2016, 05:47:04 pm
content: I don't have any more 662x power supplies, but I kept my ROM images... see attachment.I think my version of the board was slightly different, so be careful and check the names of the files.PS: you can try contacting TAMHAN, he has a few of these, I think.

author: TAMHAN
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2016, 08:20:01 pm
content: Hello,I have but one, but sadly have no means to read out the ROMs. But I can look up my version for you.Also, beware. I have a 6624A, not a 6626A. But as the product has just gone out of support recently, I would simply ask at Keysight,Tam@Samo Nice to see you again. Hows shite?

author: Le_Bassiste
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2016, 03:19:45 pm
content: Quote from: samofab on October 12, 2016, 05:47:04 pmthank you very much, will do a compare to my ROM as soon as time permits!
Agilent/Keysight U1733C tweezers- has anyone found better ones? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 12:37:48 pm
content: Using stock Agilent tweezers is starting to get very frustrating- they are just not designed for handling small parts.Are there any good quality third party tweezers that people found to work well instead? Basically a two leads+ guard setup

author: artag
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 08:02:45 pm
content: Tegam make some high-end oneshttps://www.tegam.com/product-category/voltage-resistance/microohmmeter-probes/All 4-wire, but a better-aligned and lower spring force mechanism than the Agilent ones.Or you could try the £3 ones from ebay. You'll soon learn to appreciate the Agilents

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 14, 2016, 12:48:06 pm
content: Oddly enough even the cheap one that comes with my Tonghui LCR is way better in use than the Agilent's
Need Tektronix TLA install media - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: ieure
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2016, 09:37:10 pm
content: I have a TLA 624 I want to put a CF or SD setup in, would like to do a clean install at the same time. I haven't been able to find the TLA software to install on it (it's running 4.4) — anyone have a disc image handy?I'm also not clear on the procedure, since I haven't been able to find documentation for this. It's not clear to me if I need to do an install of Windows 2000 from normal media, then install TLA; or if there's a Tek installer that does it all.Can someone help me out with this?

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2016, 11:05:16 pm
content: You can download the software from Tektronix but you have to use the search engine on their website which isn't easy.You can start with a regular Windows 2000 install and then install the software from Tektronix. The drivers are in a seperate folder of the installed software package.

author: ieure
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2016, 12:53:46 am
content: I'm striking out, I foundV5.1(which the TLA624 can't run) and V3.2, which requires Windows 95/98, but haven't found a single 4.x download.

author: andy2000
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2016, 01:57:57 am
content: 4.4 is available here:https://doc.xdevs.com/doc/Tektronix/TLA/

author: ieure
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2016, 02:53:22 am
content: Quote from: andy2000 on October 16, 2016, 01:57:57 amThis is perfect, thank you so much!

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 16, 2016, 11:27:30 am
content: With a bit of hacking you should be able to run version 5.1. Maybe that version is also available on xdevs. With version 5.1 you can control the logic analyser over the network from a PC. That way you can run the latest version of the software and have a big screen. Don't expect the software to be any faster than on the logic analyser itself. For some reason it seems to be slow by design. Even on a Pentium 1 133MHz the TLA software doesn't push the CPU load to the max.
Hantek DSO7000 series oscilloscopes - specifically the DSO7104B? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Gravity Wave Hunter
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 16, 2016, 07:16:17 pm
content: Hi All,Did a search on "Hantek DSO7000" and "Hantek DSO7104B". Only one unrelated comment came up. My question is does anyone have any experience with one of these oscilloscopes that they could share? I see the DSO7104B listed on aliexpress for about $555. An equivalent feature set from Rigol would be twice as much.4CH, 7 inch 64K color TFT LCD,(WBGA 800*480)Bandwidth - 100MHzReal Sample Rate - 2GSa/sMemory Depth - 64KFFTDemension & Weight - 313mmx108mmx142mm; 2.5KGetc., you can see on their product page:http://www.hantek.com/en/ProductDetail_155.htmlI tried writing tosupport@hantek.com.cnto see if they could send me a pdf user's manual, and to ask if a service manual is available, as I see no docs available for download on this particular product page at Hantek's website (maybe too new, or is this par for the course for Hantek?) - got no reply.Could Tinhead's hack work on the DSO7104B to bring it up to 300Mhz of the DSO7304B? If so, this would make it a nice purchase.

author: Hydrawerk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2016, 07:38:09 pm
content: QuoteThis is shit. This was cool back in 2005. Even the old Rigol DS1052E has 1Mpoints.https://www.rigolna.com/products/digital-oscilloscopes/ds1000e/ds1052e/

author: snoopy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 11:34:24 pm
content: Some specs for the 7304 here. The small record depth is a let downhttp://www.rigoloscilloscope.com.au/wholesale/Hantek-MSO7304BLG-4-Channel-Oscilloscope-300MHz-2Gsa-s-with-25MHz-Arbitrary-Signal-Generator-Logic-A-710.html
HP 16500b and backplane cards - which to use and gotchas? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: erikg
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2016, 04:45:46 pm
content: Hi, all;I'm an older newbie and I'm setting up my bench. I fortunately have good business connections with local surplus dealers, so I've picked up some decent gear cheaply.I have an analog oscilloscope(Tek 2213), but I ran across a working HP 16500b mainframe logic analyzer with an oscilloscope card in it (16533A) that looks appealing. It also included a 16550A logic analyzer card (100Mhz state/500mhz timing) and and an apparently higher spec 16517A "high speed" 16 channel logic analyzer card with 4 ghz timing/1 ghz state.Mostly I've been working with micro controllers and PC motion control (rebuilt my CNC mill) so I've wanted a logic analyzer to look at I2C stuff and 3.3 and 5v logic. This mainframe has the potential to permit cross triggering and viewing of analog on the scope in sync with the digital signals on the analyzer (I think). I may try to design/build a brushless motor controller in the future, so mixed digital/analog analysis has some interest.My questions to anyone experienced with this hardware are:1) Are there any things to look out for with regard to oscilloscope measurements made with the 16533A? I've watched Dave's video on DSOs and the specs of the card look ok if old (1 Gs/sec, 2 channel, up to 500mhz bandwidth, 32k sample memory per channel).2) I'm guessing in this configuration I can use the 16 channels on the 16517a by default for logic analysis, and use the 16550a if I need more channels? The "high speed" card seems to be superior in every way except channel count. Or is the 16517a more of a niche card for specific purposes, and I should work with the 16550a most of the time instead?Anything else I should look out for with this setup? I'm pretty familiar with X windows and networking, so I've got that covered.Erik

author: cruff
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 09:03:19 pm
content: I have a 16500A that was upgraded to the 16500C, with the 16550A and 16532A boards among others.QuoteIt is a DSO, so behaves as do other DSOs. I've found the interface of a plain DSO faster to manipulate quickly, as compared to the interface screens of the 16532A, but it will get the job done. However, you can configure to trigger based on a LA state, which will be useful in some situations.QuoteIf you don't need the higher sampling rate of the 16517A, then it won't matter which you use. The 16517A can see shorter glitches than the 16550A if you have a noise problem. I've used my 16550A cards to do a bus capture of a Z80 system accessing ROM, and needed more than 16 channels to accomplish that. Read out the contents of the ROM as a byproduct of tracing the startup ROM checksum test, as I didn't have a standalone PROM programmer that would handle that device. Had to do it in three passes as the sample memory was not deep enough, but could set a multi-step trigger on the next starting address I needed for the next batch.
Sencore VP401 Video Generator - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: SoundTech-LG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 02:59:47 pm
content: Apparently Sencore gave up on manufacturing test gear.I need a schematic for a VP401 Vid Gen. Any clue as to where these are locked down?

author: jh15
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 04:18:06 pm
content: I tried to get service info when I bought mine. Sencore used to publish full service manuals with foldout schematics, color PCB views, etc.They said it was much too 'sophisticated' for the end user.Mine works fine, be sure your NiMH AA cells are good. Manual says AA alkalines can be used, but don't run off charger. Think there is a switch for that.If you need any test point voltages, maybe I can look at mine.Way back I saw something similar on a U.K site. I bet they were buying from them, thus no service info.

author: SoundTech-LG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 05:34:06 pm
content: Thanks. Unfortunately much deeper than the battery circuit. There is a problem on the reset line for the MPU, found damaged sot23 reset IC so far... hoping MP is ok, likely NOT!!! Have a VP400 to follow, but it's a bit different circuitry.when the PS voltages come up by pushing (and holding) on button 3.3, and 1.8 are ok. 5V does not. 5V regulator is ok, but normally switches on using the reset line.
EasySpectrum - conducted emissions testing - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Jester
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 04:53:11 pm
content: Is anyone using the EMI capabilities in EasySpectrum?It looks like (initial impression) that you have to program in the limits for anything other than the EN55011 curves, I had hoped that there would be some predefined limits for the various classes in CISPR25.
Wander Lead CAT rating physical differences - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: lwi004
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2016, 08:22:40 pm
content: HiWas wanting to buy a wander lead, for ease of testing PV system faults and for other purposes requiring CAT III/IV, so was wanting at least CAT III 600V or preferably CAT IV 600V (plus cat II 1000V).Most of the leads on nice reels (for ease of use and storage) appear to be CAT II 1000V only.An example of a typical CAT IIhttp://silvertronic.com/catalogue/cable-assemblies/50-metre-test-lead-reel/Same company has a shorter CAT III rated onehttp://silvertronic.com/catalogue/cable-assemblies/12-metre-extension-reel/My question is, what is likely to be the difference? A physical difference in the double insulated cable they are using or just the plugs and jacks at the end? If it's just the connectors, I'd buy a 50m reel and swap the connectors for higher spec'd ones.Thjanks in advance

author: lwi004
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 17, 2016, 01:58:45 pm
content: Bump....

author: lwi004
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 18, 2016, 02:40:21 pm
content: Managed to get through to the manufacturer. On the 50m Reel, the small socket in the middle is not Cat III rated. The rest would be. So I will change it by adding a flying lead socket instead which is Cat III rated (or just a CAT III socket instead...).
Anyone have a clip on trackball for a HP 548XXA Infinium Scope - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Tony_G
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2016, 03:56:40 pm
content: Hi All,I'm thinking about buying one of these to help clear up the clutter on my bench but I don't feel like paying the %50 asking price for an official trackball on eBay.They're branded Logitech though so I'm hoping someone has one and can flip it over to see what actual Logitech part it is.Thanks,TonyG

author: Wuerstchenhund
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2016, 04:57:07 pm
content: Quote from: Tony_G on October 12, 2016, 03:56:40 pmThey're branded Logitech though so I'm hoping someone has one and can flip it over to see what actual Logitech part it is.I don't have the original trackball (I do have the small Cirque GT410P touchpad that the later Infiniium 8000 scopes were sold with) but I remember from back then that it wasn't that great (pretty unreliable, and like most mechanical pointing devices it accumulated dust in no time).I'd recommend to get something like a Logitech Marble Mouse (it's a compact trackball, not a mouse despite the name) or one of the small USB touchpads instead of the original trackball.

author: Tony_G
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2016, 04:59:02 pm
content: Thanks - I had several of the original Microsoft clip on trackballs for laptops and they were pretty reasonable.The trackpad idea is inspired though - Thanks for that, I'll see if I can find a PS/2 connected one.TonyG
Unlock Hantek DSO5072P sample rate in XY mode? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Wunderland
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 08:59:50 pm
content: I purchased a Hantek DSO5072P and the sample rate (among other things) seems to be locked in XY mode to 1Msa/s. I actually need to sample down around 20usa/s. Has anyone managed to fully unlock the locked features on this scope? The SW version is 3.4 if that helps. Thanks in advance!
RIGOL DG1022 Update loose screen. Please I need Help. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: cesarpaz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 07, 2016, 06:54:42 am
content: Hi all.I managed to recover the start system of the device. But now he tells me that many functions and keys are locked.As could I unlock these functions and keys?Many thanks.Modify message

author: MudMan
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2016, 06:29:16 am
content: Maybe,thismay help you.

author: cesarpaz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 11, 2016, 06:31:54 am
content: Hi.I try whith thisThanks so much, Sorry for my ignorance.Regards.
excel <--RS-232 -->  HP33120      using Visual basic  Win7  excel2010 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Jester
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2016, 05:53:08 pm
content: I'm attempting to add a RS-232 comm link in excel using VB to control a HP33120A. GPIB is not an option for this particular instrument.I can communicate with the 33120 via the Keysight connection expert, set the frequency, amplitude etc, so the hardware is okay. Now I need to control it from excel.I'm adding to an existing .xlsm file that already has functional interfaces to other equipment using an USB port. Every link I find via google for excel<-->RS232 seems quite dated and the examples I have tried don't work. I have attempted to insert a Microsoft Communications Control (this is an Active X control) from the excel developer menu and all seems well except nothing happens after I press OK.Does anyone have info on a tried and true method to send lowly RS232 data via excel?

author: PA0PBZ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2016, 05:58:37 pm
content: Maybe this will help:

author: Jester
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2016, 06:25:33 pm
content: PA0PBZ,Thanks for that. I actually watched that video, I didn't think to simply try pasting the discovered address of the RS232 port into the existing USB serial port call that is already working in my .xlsm file.I did and it works that was much to easy ;-)

author: Macbeth
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2016, 06:34:23 pm
content: There should be no reason to drive the COM port directly from Excel (using MSCOMM or Windows API calls). You just have to have VISA installed, like National Instruments or Keysight VISA. Set up the relevant serial port using NI-MAX or Keysight Connection Expert.In Excel make sure you reference the VISA library using theTools -> References...menu, scroll down toVISA COM n.n Type Libraryand select it.Bare minimum code to get started:Code:'Requires Reference to VISA COM Type LibraryDim ioMgr As New VisaComLib.ResourceManagerDim instr As New VisaComLib.FormattedIO488Dim result as StringSet instr.IO = ioMgr.Open("ASRL2::INSTR") ' Open instrument on COM2instr.WriteString "*IDN?"result = instr.ReadString()MsgBox result, vbOKOnly

author: PA0PBZ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2016, 07:31:46 pm
content: Quote from: Jester on October 10, 2016, 06:25:33 pmAnother easy way to use RS232 from VBA is just to open it as a file:Open "Com1:9600,n,8,1" For Binary As #1Maybe for the next project...

author: Macbeth
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2016, 08:19:51 pm
content: Quote from: PA0PBZ on October 10, 2016, 07:31:46 pmEasy? Oh wow, don't even go there... You utter sadist!
Control of Tektronix PS2520G via GPIB - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Ross
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2016, 10:19:27 pm
content: Hi,I have a PS2520G Tektronix power supply, which we have been using for years. I would like to automate some work that uses the supply. It has a GPIB interface and know very little about this (what I can search for on the web) and zero experience. I would like to get a USB or Ethernet to GPIB converter to connect a PC to the supply and then use Perl to perform some simple control (set output voltage and turn on outputs, etc).From what I can see on the web it is not necessarily that easy. Has anyone had any experience doing this (Tekronix controlled via Perl over GPIB converter)? And if so are they anything I should watch out for?Or am I better to forget about it and just buy a new Rigol or Siglent that is already Ethernet/USB connections?Thanks,Ross
Optical Galvanometer Cleaning - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Cyberdragon
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2016, 06:27:23 am
content: I have a couple very old optical galvanometer boxes, the most complete one being a Rubicon one. The problem is they are full of cobwebs and crustyness, even on the tiny bits.How would I clean the tiny galvanometer mirror without breaking the mechanism? I looks so fragile I'm afraid a cotton swab would break it (or leave fuzzies on it).
hp 3468A 4 wire resistance measurement error - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: hainjedaf
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2016, 01:51:13 pm
content: Hi,I bought a Fluke 8840A and a HP 3468A on ebay. Both work equally well in DC and AC volts and amps.However, if I take a simple 330 ohm 1/4 watt resistor:Fluke:2-wire measurement: 325.63 ohm4-wire measurement: 325.23 ohmHP:2-wire measurement: 325.70 ohm4-wire measurement: -204.99 ohm (yes, it reads minus)of course I use the same set of kelvin capable wires and the same resistor.I even swapped sense and input to see if that changes anything.the reading in 4-wire mode on HP is eratic and after about 10 minutes settlesarount -81.60 ohms.what can be wrong? is this a calibration issue or is something more sinister wrong?Help is greatly appreciated.Regards,marout

author: singapol
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2016, 05:43:01 pm
content: Please read chapter 7 of 3468a service manual.
A look at a couple Bell System Meters - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: FlyingHacker
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2016, 08:57:31 pm
content: Hey all,I recent acquired a pair of Bell System analog neters based on the Simpson260, and the Triplett 630. They are really nice old instruments, and I take a look at them, and do a quick teardown here in the YouTube Video.
Cheapo LCR-T4 ESR Meter Transistor Tester - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: StillTrying
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 12:33:01 am
content: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/LCR-T4-ESR-Meter-Transistor-Tester-Diode-Triode-Capacitance-SCR-Inductance-/322192982166Are there any menus or calibration on this version, I've tried shorting 1-2-3, holding the button for ages, and both together, it just shows a 0.04 and 0.05 resistor then turns off!

author: vinceroger
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 06:27:01 am
content: Quote from: StillTrying on October 06, 2016, 12:33:01 amThis video also shows to short pins 1/2/3 then it starts to calabrate i wonder if your meter is faulty somehow? can you return it

author: StillTrying
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 01:02:28 pm
content: I could return it but as itseems to workand I only paid about a £5'er for it, it hardly seems worth the trouble.It reads resistance and capacitance about 1.5% high, over 1M it reads 2% high, and it reads it's Vbat about 0.22V low.This post is exactly the same board and screens, - never shows any name or version number, or any bleedin' menu/calib no matter what.https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/lcr-t4-mtester-v2-07-lcr-meter-black-block-issue/msg1001355/#msg1001355I might try to re-flash it one day.

author: vinceroger
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 02:02:26 pm
content: Quote from: StillTrying on October 06, 2016, 01:02:28 pmyou paid for a working meter though so i would contact the ebay seller as they may have a bad batch they may send you a fully working one in the post but yes a firmware upgrade would probably sort it out.

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 07:44:54 pm
content: Quote from: StillTrying on October 06, 2016, 01:02:28 pmRegardless of being able to get into the calibration menu, the tolerances you list, together with the shorted pins readings sound pretty good for this tester.Try searching the Main $20 LCR ESR Transistor checker project thread...https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/$20-lcr-esr-transistor-checker-project/

author: PedroDaGr8
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 08:36:38 pm
content: Yep, madires in that thread is the developer for the software and the hardware design that all of those testers are using. That thread is pretty much the english language facing developer thread.

author: StillTrying
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 08:50:04 pm
content: Quote from: Gyro on October 06, 2016, 07:44:54 pmI agree, it's often reading 0.01R,0.01R or even 0.00R,0.00R ATM, so can't argue with that. Still intrigued that it won't go into any sort of menu though.Yes, I keep having a read of the other long thread.

author: TheBay
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 09:38:40 pm
content: Quote from: StillTrying on October 06, 2016, 08:50:04 pmThis firmware doesn't have a "Menu"
Agilent/Keysight Datalogger Software for LCR Meters (handheld) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Merlot1970
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 07, 2016, 08:36:12 pm
content: Anyone ever use their Datalogger software? It's absolutely atrocious.GW Instek kicks your ass for a datalog interface.The software is so non-intuitive, I feel like returning the meter U1773C... $585.00 dollars
Building attenuators, BNC . - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: ErikTheNorwegian
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2016, 08:27:29 pm
content: Hi,do anyone here build ther own attenuators for use on scope or spectrum analyzers?Bought a set of these, but they come at a cost..http://www.ebay.com/itm/351851130169

author: joeqsmith
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2016, 09:35:45 pm
content: I have but rare. The last one I made can be seen here:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/projects/home-made-pa-and-load/msg639804/#msg639804The ones you show are pretty inexpensive. If you ever need something a little better, I get mine from Mini-Circuits and Midwest Microwave.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2016, 10:47:29 pm
content: You might find some info in this thread:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/how-to-avoid-breaking-the-spectrum-analyzer-what-accessories-to-have/

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2016, 11:15:01 pm
content: For scopes years ago when I needed 50input termination I found Tek ones on eBay011-0059-02 10x 502W011-0049--01 1x 502WThey've both been useful on the odd occasion over the years.

author: David Hess
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2016, 11:32:56 pm
content: For small signal applications, if you use printed circuit board edge mount connectors and a symmetrical coplanar waveguide layout with surface mount parts, it is difficult to go wrong.

author: Performa01
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2016, 03:22:10 am
content: The attenuators from the eBay auction are in fact dirt cheap – thanks for the advertisingWhen you need just a fixed attenuator for low power applications, inline types like the ones in your link are the obvious way to go and I don’t think it’s worth tinkering.It might be different if you have a special purpose, especially when the bandwidth requirements are low.For example, some decades ago I’ve build a 20dB power attenuator for HF applications (up to 30MHz) that could handle 40W (for a limited period of time).It looks like this (HB_ATT_20dB_50W)Inside view (HB_ATT_20dB_50W_inside)The resistors are metal oxide, which can handle a bit of power while having reasonably low inductance.Big question is, how does it perform?Attenuation vs. frequency (HB_G_4GHz)As can be seen, attenuation is accurate to 81MHz.+1dB error at 271MHz, max. error is +1.4dB at 581MHz.Accurate again at 1300MHz.-2.8dB error at 1481MHz.This appears not too bad, but doesn’t tell the whole story.Let’s have a look at the return loss (HB_RL_4GHz)The cyan trace shows a commercial 50 ohm BNC terminator as reference. Please note that the reflection bridge used for this measurement is only specified up to 2GHz, so the right half of the screen is irrelevant.Return loss is only good (-20dB) up to 81MHz, still usable at 151MHz (-15.3dB) and the absolute limit is reached at 271MHz (-10.2dB).All in all, this homebrew attenuator has served me well for my HF work and is still useful up to the lower VHF range.
Anritsu MS2602a Spectrum analyzer repair help - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: lectrohamlincoln
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2016, 11:16:25 pm
content: Hi,I just picked up a Anritsu MS2602a 8.5Ghz spectrum analyzer for free! However, it does not display any signal and it appears the A/D board has gone bad.I suspect the A/D board for two reasons: the flow chart in the service manual vol 1, and when I took it apart the A/D board had a piece of masking tape with a big black X on itThe service vol 1. doesn't offer much in the way of diagnosing circuit level problems and it appears the service manual vol 2 is IMPOSSIBLE to find. I've done some rudimentary test, such as checking all voltage at labeled rails (all voltages good so far), and now I'm at a loss as to how to proceed.Do you guys have any suggestion on what I should check next? Or where I might find the Service Manual vol. 2, a replacement A/D board, or even an extender so I can take the board out while the MS2602a is powered on?

author: _Wim_
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 08:00:36 pm
content: I was facing a slightly comparable problem when repairing an SMU from Yokogawa (also no usable service manual). I got some excellent tips that are generally applicable in repairing a unit without knowing the circuit diagram:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/yokogawa-gs610-source-measure-unit-service-manual-needed/Hopefully your problem is also something simple, but off course, an 8.5Ghz spectrum analyzer is way more complex then my SMU...Good luck, hope you find it.
Tektronix G-8680-04 XY Plotter board/kit - what is it? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Jeff_Birt
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 12:34:29 pm
content: I bought a bunch of stuff from university surplus recently. There was a box of 5 of these boards/kits, only one of which had ever been opened. The board silkscreen has (c) 1995 G-86860-04 XY Plotter on it. It looks to be an option kit and comes with the PCB mounted to an aluminum bracket, a couple of EPROMs and a few screws.Any ideas on that this fits? I have thus far come up empty with my web searches.Doh! I forgot the picture!

author: Jeff_Birt
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 04:27:22 pm
content: I 'think' these are XY plotter output boards for 2230 series oscilloscopes. Guess I'll have to find a manual for the 2230 to try and confirm that.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 06:37:32 pm
content: Yes, the optional plotter board. Gives a X and Y signal along with a pen control, so you could get a hard copy in analogue form from the stored digital waveform, by simply connecting a regular and common ( at that time) XY analogue plotter to it.plugs into the scope, replacing the blank plate at the side, and the 2 EPROMS are the updated firmware with the menu option to plot the waveform. When you press plot it enables the output, and you see the beam move slowly along the screen drawing the waveform, then drawing the display settings, then the second trace ( if enabled and you had the dual trace scope), before going back to the regular display.
Tequipment special offer on DS1045Z? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: richd
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 04, 2016, 12:52:45 am
content: Hello - I'm wondering if anyone else saw this or if I'm going crazy...Last night I was filling my shopping cart at Tequipment and added the Rigol DS1054Z to my cart. They were running a special where you got the SA-DS1000Z Serial Bus Analysis Option for free. It added to my cart fine and the normal $174.00 price was reduced to zero. I left it in my cart overnight while I wait to get my eevblog discount code and when I went back today to pull the trigger, the special is gone. Now the option is back up to $174.00.Did anyone else see it for free? I'm pretty sure I recall a banner ad on the sight last night too.I started a live chat with their support and they said they were not aware of it but they were going to check with their supervisor in the morning.I should have just purchased last night... I was holding out waiting for my discount code. Well, hopefully they will put it back up.

author: nanofrog
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2016, 01:02:20 am
content: Don't sweat it. The unlocking process will bring that up as well as all of the other software options, double the memory, and double the BW to 100MHz.Also, PM sent.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2016, 01:25:53 am
content: Quote from: richd on October 04, 2016, 12:52:45 amUmmm.... isn't italwaysfree?

author: alank2
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2016, 10:41:14 pm
content: Their page says:FREE Serial Decode Bundle$174 Valuehttp://www.tequipment.net/Rigol/DS1054Z-Kit1/Digital-Oscilloscopes/But I don't see it added to the cart. Since it "says" this I'd start a chat and see if they will honor it. This is for their $465 one they call kit1...
70's vintage Pasco Scientific 9302 Waveform Analyzer schematic? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Jester
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2016, 11:40:02 am
content: Picked this up in partially working order, the high pass section is bad and the output has a large DC offset. Any chance anyone has a schematic for this little piece of history?
Service Manual Fluke 332A - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: VintageNut
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2016, 06:11:40 pm
content: I am looking for the parts list and service information for the Fluke 332A Voltage Standard. I want to replace some or all of the potentiometers for the resistor string. One or more of them are flaky when making an adjustment.A soft copy of the full service manual would be much appreciated. I do have the user manual wit the schematic.

author: Jeff_Birt
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2016, 06:13:26 pm
content: If they are wire wound pots they might respond well to a good cleaning. Sometimes carbon pots can be cleaned but if they are worn then there is nothing you can do.

author: dacman
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2016, 10:51:54 pm
content: The Bourns 3009P should work fine, or a 3006P with a standoff.http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Bourns/3009P-1-200LF/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMvygUB3GLcD7rWQi3ryFzjG4Hstmz8wUTo%3dhttp://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Bourns/3009P-1-201LF/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMvygUB3GLcD7rufck0TIBKyqw3C3Z6biIc%3d
What's coming for Rigol? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: richd
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 03, 2016, 06:21:28 am
content: Hello - new user here. I've been watching Dave on YouTube for a long time but this is my first post to the blog. I am a novice/hobbyist and I'm making my first Oscilloscope purchase. After much searching around here, it seems everyone's favorite recommendation for "bang for the buck" entry level scope is the Rigol DS1054Z. I like the looks of it and I'm ready to pull the trigger an buy. However, my question is... I worry that this model has been shipping for quite a while now. I worry that I'll buy it and then right after I do, Rigol will ship the new model that becomes the new entry-level hotness and I'll be kicking myself that I should have waited and got that. So, does anyone know if there is a new Rigol model in the pipeline ready to ship that will be the "new version" of the 1054Z? If so, any timeframes? Thanks for any input!

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2016, 06:38:17 am
content: a) A manufacturer will never give any clues about new models because they'd lose six months of sales of the old one.b) They currently have no competition at the $400 price point so why would they kill their own market?c) Since the DS1054Z was launched they've already released several new ones.eg.http://www.batronix.com/shop/oscilloscopes/Rigol-DS1074Z-Plus.htmlBest to just go for it and start owning/using an oscilloscope today.

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2016, 06:41:54 am
content: New model will not be the best bang for buck, usually you will have to wait for a while (few years maybe) for it's price to drift down like the current DS1054Z.So don't fall into the endless waiting game .. you just can't win.Unless, you really don't "need" a scope, just wanting it.

author: richd
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 03, 2016, 05:02:30 pm
content: That's good advice guys! Thanks to both of you...

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2016, 10:45:26 pm
content: Quote from: BravoV on October 03, 2016, 06:41:54 amAlso, firmware maturity takes time. Yet another reason not to buy the latest hot thing.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2016, 10:48:40 pm
content: Quote from: bitseeker on October 03, 2016, 10:45:26 pmVery true. So even if there is something new around the corner you better wait at least two years before even considering buying it!

author: richd
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 04, 2016, 12:47:54 am
content: Yeah, you guys are right. It's silly for me to wait. This scope does way more than what I need and is a great price compared to the others. It looks like there is great support for it as well. I'm just going to jump in and get going!

author: bitseeker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2016, 06:35:27 pm
content: Yep, and if you ever outgrow it, then you'll know exactly what you need from what's available at that time. Happy scoping!