hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Can't find a schematic! Help! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: calexanian
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 16, 2014, 05:30:42 am
content: I can't find a schematic for a Beckman Industrial FG3B. This is one of those sweep generators that popped up with a dozen different names on it in the early 90's. Nowhere can I find a schematic for one. The output amp died and I have been going under the assumption it is a basic complimentary pair amplifier but I just cant make any headway on the thing. Its not worth sending to somebody to have it fixed, but its simple enough to do on my own, provided I had a schematic.HELP!!

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 16, 2014, 05:46:20 am
content: Beckman doesn't make a lot of their own stuff. Search for Wavetek FG3B and there is ahttps://www.manualsdrive.com/document.php?lang=en&iddocument=D4s2z39aceschematic, but it costs 29 Euro.Off to look for a free version for you.

author: calexanian
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 16, 2014, 05:52:24 am
content: Thanks! 29 euro, is a bit much. Wavetek has it, exact same model number as a matter of fact.

author: calexanian
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 16, 2014, 07:00:55 am
content: I fixed it anyways. It was not a traditional complementary circuit. It was actually interestingly enough kind of a cheater circuit I have used a number of times. They built a discrete op amp type circuit with a 47 ohm resistor to the output jack and the two output transistors basses on the amp side of that resistor and the emitters on the load side and the feedback from there back to the input of the op amp. Kinda weak sauce for a $400 piece of equipment. Anyways the circuit already has some collector blow out resistors so I tacked in a 3904 and a 3906 respectively and got my output amplitude back. I just now put in MJE15034 and 35's on heat sinks and everything looks good. Most of the holes are not even plated through on this thing! Talk about crap!

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 16, 2014, 07:06:51 am
content: Well, I'm glad you got it fixed and documented the repair. I spent the last 1 hour looking for the schematic (even for the FG2, older model), but came up empty.How about a couple of pictures of the insides?

author: calexanian
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 16, 2014, 07:17:57 am
content: I already buttoned it up! If I get a chance I will pull it open again and take some pictures. You will not be impressed. Its a double sided board, but many of the holes are not plated through. late 80's early 90's test gear at its most mediocre. all through hole jelly bead CMOS and logic. Cheapest choice analog section. Etc etc.
Chinese Hakko tip testers? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: tony3d
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2014, 02:04:18 am
content: Hi all, How are these Chinese Hakko Solder iron tip testers on eBay? Are they accurate? I was thinking of ordering one. Any particular dealer I should use?

author: AndreaEl
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2014, 10:44:03 am
content: Read this, maybe can help youhttp://forums.adafruit.com/viewtopic.php?f=44&t=37070&start=45Only the page 4.EDIT: more info:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/buysellwanted/found-%28cheap%29-hakko-fg-100-soldering-iron-tip-thermometer-on-ebay/

author: tony3d
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2014, 03:35:09 pm
content: Thanks. I ordered one. We'll see for $17.00 it's worth a try.

author: Shock
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2014, 03:57:03 pm
content: I have one, it's fairly warm here at the moment, it picks up room and body temp as well.Paid $10 for mine, make sure you get one with the extra sensor wires. Works well with my $15 Hakko 936 clones and $1 fake tips.

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2014, 04:00:51 pm
content: On this topic, we left a large discussion and many photos in forum archives.
BK Precision 4003 function generator - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Axtman
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2014, 01:39:21 am
content: Has anybody had any experience with the BK Precision 4003 function generator? I am upgrading my equipment and am interested in buying one of these. One of the reasons for my interest is the digital display. It also can operate as a frequency counter. Thanks!

author: dc101
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2014, 01:47:25 am
content: I would say you're better off getting an Agilent/HP 33120A off Ebay. The BK retails for around $250 in the US, but you can a used Agilent off Ebay for around $400 in pretty good condition. It goes up to 15 MHz, and has a boatload more features than the BK, including noise generation, and arbitrary waveform capability.Cheers,-TimQuote from: Axtman on February 14, 2014, 01:39:21 am

author: echen1024
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2014, 02:37:32 am
content: Quote from: dc101 on February 14, 2014, 01:47:25 am

author: Kilroy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 14, 2014, 06:19:28 am
content: I have an older BK 4040A 20Mhz function/sweep generator which has been totally solid and reliable, holds calibration very well, and is fast to use.
SIGLENT SDG800,a new function/abitrary waveform generator - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Herman
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2013, 03:47:20 am
content: Hi guys,I noticed a new waveform generator on the official website of SIGLENT.http://www.siglent.com/cn/product/detail3.aspx?id=100000003696825&nodecode=105008003The main features are below,125MSa/s sample rate, 14bit vertical resolution, 16Kpts wave lengthOutput 5 types of standard waveform, internally installed 46 types of waveformModulation function, AM, FM, PM, DSB-AM, FSK, ASK, PWM, Sweep, BurstUnique EasyPulse technology, can output low jitter, fast rise / fall.http://www.siglent.com/en/news/detail.aspx?id=100000041467187&nodecode=119002004

author: kebogen
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 01:38:09 am
content: :clap:wow, siglent new generator, I have got one SDG1050 function generator for a year, it works really nice, especially the arbitrary wave function.This SDG800 series looks semblable to sdg1050, but only one channel, I am interest on the price about it.

author: electronics man
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 12:21:54 pm
content: Im getting one for my birthday so i will do a review of it it will be on the 28th

author: kebogen
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2014, 01:01:15 am
content: Quote from: electronics man on February 12, 2014, 12:21:54 pmThat's great, I am looking forward to it.
Rigol DS2072 delivers only 8bit values even in highres mode - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: e61_phil
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2014, 12:05:00 pm
content: Hello,I connected my Rigol DS2072 via LXI to labview VISA. I would like to build some control VIs for the scope (I know, there are device drivers for labview, but the drivers use only BYTE mode).I switched the scope in HighRes Mode and send:wav:format wordThe scope answers in 16bit values but the second byte is always 0x00 -> only 8bit resolution. (see attached picture). Is it impossible to get the 12bit HighRes values? But why is it possible to select WORD instead of BYTE?Has anyone tried to get higher resolution than 8bit out of an rigol scope?ThanksPhilippPS: The First 6 Words in the picture are data information. The first data word ist word number 7

author: Teneyes
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2014, 02:43:36 pm
content: Hi HiRes mode on the DS2000 is a Boxcar Averaging of multiple samples , so I think you will have to write your own averaging program for the 8 bit samples you are receiving.

author: e61_phil
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2014, 03:21:29 pm
content: The scope delievers exactly the same amount of data in HighRes mode like in normal mode. So there are no extra samples I could average. And why should I select WORD mode if I have to throw away 50% of the data and average the rest on my own?

author: Mark_O
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 04:13:17 am
content: Quote from: e61_phil on February 09, 2014, 12:05:00 pmYes, that's correct.QuoteYes.QuoteFor compatibility with the SCPI command set, and tools that use it.QuoteYes. Unfortunately, there is no bank of memory to hold more than 8-bit samples. So that's all that can ever be gotten.

author: marmad
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 01:28:53 pm
content: Quote from: e61_phil on February 09, 2014, 03:21:29 pmThe Rigol implements HighRes averagingbetweensample memory and display memory. Both are 8-bit memory, so once the averaging is done internally, the result is down-sampled to 8 bits again. If you want 12 bits (or anything >8 bits), you will have to read the sample memory and do the averaging in Labview. If you read the display memory, you're reading the already down-sampled high resolution waveform.But just in case you're not aware of it, High Resolution mode (i.e. successive-sample averaging) produces the effects of a low-pass filter (or multiple notch filter):...which equates to the following bandwidths when running on the DS2000:

author: Mark_O
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2014, 12:11:59 am
content: Quote from: marmad on February 12, 2014, 01:28:53 pmThat's a cool graph. I knew about the combing effect, but I hadn't visualized how deep the nulls actually were. This is illuminating. Thanks!
Function Generators. This one, this one, or something else? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: regalzack
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 20, 2014, 04:23:52 pm
content: So am a beginning BSEE student and hobbyist. Looking for something with versatility although I will mostly be using it for audio applications. I have much to learn hence me asking advice.My budget is around $200.00 and from searching the forums here I see the Instek SFG-1003<http://www.gwinstek.com/en/product/productdetail.aspx?pid=5&mid=72&id=94> seems like a great choice.However I also stumbled across the GFG_8020H <http://www.gwinstek.com/en/product/productdetail.aspx?pid=5&mid=73&id=105> also looks like a good way to go.I understand that the CFG is DDS and the GFG is analog... The prices are comparable. Any input would be appreciated.Thank you!Zachary Herberholz

author: saturation
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 04:53:34 pm
content: The 1003 is stabler and has better S/N. The key is VCF function in one machine and not on the other. VCF is used for experimenting with PLL circuits and FM.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 05:24:31 pm
content: A Siglent SD1005 costs little under $300. I know I'm stretching the budget and you can spend money only once but IMHO it is much better value for money.

author: Dongulus
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 05:34:57 pm
content: So you are attending a university? Do you not have access to labs with test equipment on campus?

author: Smokey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 05:56:26 pm
content: You don't have your country shown, but generally check out scoring something used on ebay. If you don't have a specific application in mind and just want a general purpose function gen, pretty much anything will do.I sometimes use both an analog and DDS instek function gen. The benefit of the DDS is that it's easier to go to a target frequency. The benefit of the analog one is you have an actual knob to continuously sweep the frequency instead of the steps with the DDS encoder knob. Both are really nice features to have in certain situations.

author: electronics man
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 06:10:37 pm
content: how about the sdg805 i dont know how good it is i am getting one soon and i will do a reveiw of it when i get it
Draper Multimeter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: electrolux
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2014, 11:27:38 am
content: Do Draper re-brand their multimeter's or do they make them like Fluke and are they any good?

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 13, 2014, 07:00:26 pm
content: Based on what I have just been able to casually research online, they are all most likely rebranded junk. It appears that Draper is a general tool reseller and the multimeters are just another part of the much bigger business. In my experience, most multimeters sold from companies like this tend to be rather poor value and/or possibly dangerous for their stated use and safety rating.

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2014, 10:12:26 pm
content: Many tool makers like Klein, Greenlee, UEI, MasterCraft (Canadian Tire), Craftsman (Sears), Southwire, Snap-on etc don't make their multimeters.Draper gets theirs made from CEM Instruments. Proof. (Tip: The exaggerated height of the lcd digits is sure sign of a CEM meter).Draper = CEM DT 101http://www.drapertools.com/products/Detail/52320_DMM7.jpghttp://www.cem-instruments.com/en/UploadFile/20110307173047230.jpgDraper = CEM DT-2005Bhttp://www.drapertools.com/products/Detail/78998_DMM10B.jpghttp://www.cem-instruments.com/en/UploadFile/20110307172929236.jpgAre CEM multimeters any good? The evidence shown here in teardowns and Dave's $100 shootout reveal shockingly horrible internal build and soldering. And yes, I have a CEM multimeter and I wouldn't buy another again unless I could get it under $5.

author: electrolux
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 16, 2014, 11:58:53 am
content: Quote from: retiredcaps on February 13, 2014, 10:12:26 pmI definitely agree they are re-branded.
Rigol helps make a new product - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 05:18:50 am
content: A star movie role for a Rigol oscilloscope (and someone's power supply), not to mention a cool new product:

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 07:46:08 am
content: I dunno, i think i'd diy it and go for something like this;http://endless-sphere.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=35&t=47176
Fluke Scopemeter 105 Series 2 will not run on batteries - help - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: gordo51
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2014, 03:10:05 am
content: I have been watching the videos here for a long time but it never occured to me that I should also check out the forum for information or help. So here I am wondering if anyone could give me ideas to fix my Fluke 105 scopemeter. The unit works fine on the adapter but will not run from batteries which kind or defeats the purpose of having it. I installed fully charge NiMH C cells with no luck. The NiCd pack seems charged according to my multimeter. So, is there a common failure mode for this sort of thing? There was some corrosion on the battery terminals but I cleaned that up. I opened it up but did not see anything the looked suspicous. All the wiring from the battery terminals looks intact. Any help would be appreciated.Gordon

author: Galaxyrise
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2014, 03:52:49 am
content: I can't make comments on that circuit specifically, but you should be in pretty good shape since you can probe it both in the working and failed condition. Presumably either the batteries aren't charging or something between the batteries and the voltage regulators is out. Do you have another DMM to probe it with?

author: gordo51
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2014, 06:13:43 am
content: Yes, I have plenty of equipment. Have not had the time to dig into it. I was just wondering there might be a micro fuse or some other protection feature that might have gone off and someone knew about this. Batteries are definitely charged. I guess I will hook up a power supply to the battery terminals and see if that makes any difference and if not I will trace where the power is going and stopping.

author: emptech
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 06:01:08 am
content: At first glance the battery compartment looks like any other battery compartment, made up for aspecial high priced C cell battery pack. One difference, since it took a "special" battery, there wasa "special" contact on the battery pack. Looking at the rear of the battery compartment, you seefour spring type battery contacts, one on each corner. Under the lower left spring contact is a flatcontact. I took some AA 2400 mah cells, wrapped them in cardboard and put them in the batterywell. In order to make it work, I had to add a jumper wire from the flat contact on the bottom tothe spring contact immediately above.The only problem I've ever had, since I'm using cardboard rolled up, is intermittent battery contacts.If I had the time, I'd machine some plastic spacer tubes to adapt to the c cell size. I think you canbuy them somewhere.Let me know if this helps, it worked for me. Do you need a photo?Jim

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 07:36:16 am
content: Quote from: emptech on February 12, 2014, 06:01:08 amYes, lots on ebay. Here is an example.http://www.ebay.com/itm/380816994967I have used AAA to AA and AA to D with no problems.
AM503a schematic diagram - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: jashugan
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2014, 07:47:00 pm
content: Hi,I have a current probe amplifier AM503a with the infamous "54" error. I would like to repair it, but unfortunately the tektronix service manual in internet doesn't have the schematic pages inside. Do any of you have these pages? I would be very grateful if you could help me!

author: casinada
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2014, 08:03:37 pm
content: Check in the Tektronix yahoo groups, all the Tektronix old wise men hang out overthere. Best place for anything classic Tek stuff.

author: jashugan
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 07:35:31 am
content: Thank you guy, I'll check immediately!
Is the Triplett 1101-B good? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Ronshere
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 11:21:58 pm
content: I saw it on amazon and it has a great rating amongst all of their multimeters.I am looking for a good meter at a low price for general testing around thehome and for basic electronic circuit testing as well.Thanks

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 11:28:52 pm
content: IMHO, for $30, there are better deals. This one is available on Amazon.com for $30 and been reviewed by Martin.
Agilent X3000  Input Offset - Need calibration? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: B0B45
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2014, 12:17:44 am
content: Hi Guys,I own a X3014A made 2012 with a user calibration date of 09.2012. While I was building and testing some differential HV Probes I found out I had some offset on the inputs(see Attachment).My Question: Are these values normal for a scope like this or do I have to calibrate or something else?The last screenshot shows the onboard FG trimmed to a real 0V offset.Kindly RegardsB0B

author: kg4arn
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 08, 2014, 03:06:10 am
content: Your offsets look pretty good to me.When I do a user cal it nulls the offset.The offset is also sensitive to the scope's temperature.The traces below were done at Power on (scope temp -5.5C from user cal) then after 20 minute warm up (temp -1.8C from user cal).

author: B0B45
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 02:02:54 am
content: Hi,Today I had the chance to get some BNC-Cable and do the user calibration. The new values look way better than before.But I'm still wondering how accurate these scopes are anyway. Haven't seen any specs yet.B0B

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 02:10:34 am
content: Don't expect better than 1% plus a few counts due to ADC noise.Oscilloscope vertical accuracy is rarely a concern: the most critical IMO is timebase accuracy, and this is typically better than 10ppm when warmed up. Given your average 10X probe isn't very accurate (2~3%?) I wouldn't worry too much about the oscilloscope's contribution.We have 70+ 2000X and MSO6000's in university lab and they all show around 500uV~1mV offset. Not a big deal, but noticeable on very low level signals.
A new scope from Tektronix on 25. 2. 2014? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Hydrawerk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 01:02:04 am
content: Has anybody noticed this upcoming scope from Tektronix?Quotehttp://info.tek.com/www_futureofscopes.htmlBut the design is quite traditional... I wonder if that scope is based on an old platform... Well, the Agilent DSOX 2000 or 3000 was really revolutionary back in 2011.

author: dr.diesel
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 01:06:13 am
content: Yeah, discussion over here:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/new-6-in-1-scope-from-tektronix/

author: Hydrawerk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 01:11:23 am
content: OK, sorry, I did not find the original discussion.
HP 5314A Universal Counter does not measure sine wave - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: SkyMaster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2014, 11:01:11 pm
content: Hello,I recently bought a HP 5314A Universal Counter.When I feed it with square waves, it measures frequencies, periods and intervals correctly.But it does not measure the frequencies correctly from sine waves (I did not try to measure period or interval from sine waves). With a sine wave input, the reading shown is way above the correct frequency, and the reading changes all the time.Could the front end be damaged in such a way that it could correctly read a square wave, but not a sine wave?I have the manual, it shows the waveforms at various test point. The HP 5314A is the model where all the circuitry is on a single pcb that is mounted behind the front panel. I figured I could ask for any possible suggestion before I dismantle the front panel.I only tried to measure low level amplitude signal (about 70 mV p-p to 250 mV p-p) as it is described in the Performance Tests section of the Manual (section 4).Any idea of what could be wrong?Martin

author: Andy Watson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2014, 11:47:16 pm
content: Probably a capacitor that has dried-up and decreased significantly in value. High frequencies, such as those associated with the edges of a square wave will still be coupled, but lower frequencies, i.e. your sinewave signals are attenuated.

author: PaulAm
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2014, 12:41:13 am
content: If you haven't already, go towww.agilent.comand retrieve the operation/service manual. The schematic scan is pretty crappy, but there is a procedure around page 80 on testing the input circuits.Does channel B work with a sine wave? The two channels are pretty much independent until they get to the counter chip. If B won't count sine waves, then look for problems in the common circuitry.

author: SkyMaster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 12:40:29 am
content: Quote from: Andy Watson on February 09, 2014, 11:47:16 pmThis is an interesting theory; I will look into this.Thank you

author: SkyMaster
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 12:47:10 am
content: Quote from: PaulAm on February 10, 2014, 12:41:13 amI followed your suggestion. The B channel is only use (in combination of channel A) to measure Ratio and Time Interval. So I did just that. A square wave on channel A, and a sine wave on channel B. I was able to measure the Time Interval between the two with no problem. Channel B was triggering on the sine wave down to an amplitude of 75 mV p-p, which is the minimum sensitivity as per the spec.My next step is to open up the unit.
USB Microscope ANDONSTAR - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: edmundopt
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2014, 09:01:15 pm
content: hello,I did not like the original camera software, so I went searching for alternative:so I found in eevblog forum :http://share.cx.com/ngc54vand this also works(has better image):http://www.bustatech.com/webcamviewer-a-simple-viewer-for-webcam/please provide more links for compatible software!
UNI-T UT-C01 Spring Hook Giveaway - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: hgg
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2014, 03:09:29 pm
content: Hi,Bought these in case they were compatible with the Fluke TL175 leadsbut they have a larger diameter hole so I have no use for them.If someone wants them, I can ship them.if he pays only for shipping.UT-C01If someone knows of compatible spring hooks for the TL175 leads, please let me know.Thanks.
Siemens Oscillar M07114 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: 0201m
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2014, 12:27:05 pm
content: Hi everyone,just wanted to share with you my newest score I got localy here in Germany. It's a Siemens Oscillar M07114 dated (I think) 1984.Works a treat and is in a quite good condition, the only thing im having trouble with is the write/read function of the cathode. It is supposed to "burn in" the waveform but it only gives me some weird looking ink splattering across the screen.I've taken some pics for those that love old testequipmentEnjoy and sorry for my bad english,Marco

author: Rantanplan
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 10, 2014, 10:19:34 am
content: Hi Marco,I have a similar scope and it took me quite some time to figure out how to use the storage.You have to switch the trigger to normal (Nor.) mode or you'll get a blurry image. If you set the knob for the storage time (Autom. Löschung) fully clockwise, the image will persist forever. Therefore you can only use it in single sweep mode (Abl. 1x).Further you must play around with different brightness (Intens.) and writing speed (Schreibgeschwindigkeit) levels to get a clear and sharp image. After you recorded the image, push the button "Betrachten". In that mode the image will almost last forever.I'm a bit worried, that you have to turn up the brightness to the max. This may indicate a problem. I need sunglasses to do this with mine.Hope this helps a little...Enjoy your nice equipment!Rantanplan
Help me assemble my lab! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: valvedoctor
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2014, 01:16:19 am
content: Hi everybody. Attached picture is a proposed method of hooking all of my test gear together. Any suggestions on better placement?My main question is should I build bnc junction boxes for the "input" and "output" sides so I can connect everything together.Another question I need answered is if I need various types of terminations. For instance for amplifiers, should a 600 ohm termination be added to the input. Are there any other places a termination or feed-terminator should be used?I test audio gear and rf gear with AM circuits. The only thing im really missing is a nice rf spectrum analyzer. Any suggestions are welcome!Sent from my SGH-I337M using Tapatalk

author: w2aew
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2014, 01:27:51 am
content: Quote from: valvedoctor on February 10, 2014, 01:16:19 amTo answer your first question, I'd say no. I've been working with test equipment for more that 30 years, and have never come across a situation on a test bench where junction boxes or panels provide any real value. The only exceptions to this are: to bring out connections from the rear panel of instruments that are used often, or in a production test environment where there are a few common connections that never change. In my opinion, it's much better to connect directly to the instruments for each test or measurement you are making - configuring the setup as needed.As for terminations - 600 ohm for some audio work might be useful, and 50 ohm terminations, thru-terminations, attenuators, etc. are highly useful and often necessary for RF work.

author: madshaman
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2014, 04:23:45 am
content: I do stuff like this for back-panel connections; might be cheesy, but it's convenient:

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2014, 09:03:00 am
content: Quote from: valvedoctor on February 10, 2014, 01:16:19 amYou do need at least a dummy, "just wire" DUT.If you need a real junction box: I guess the question is how often are you going to change a setup. I almost built a multichannel audio junction box for my lab, but didn't. For the time spent building a box I'll connect a lot of cables... Instead I made color coding, labels and a cable hook rack. All instruments have one end of the cable already connected and the loose ends of the cables are at the rack. When setting up the measurement, I just look at a instrument and see a green cable with red zip tie, for example. It is easy enough to find the other end from the rack.
Datron (/ Wavetek?) 1065 service manual - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: wilhe_jo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2014, 08:44:49 pm
content: Shot one of these nice 5 1/2 digit multimeters on ebay for a really reasonable price (<100euro including shipment).The seller shows me photos with a 10V voltage standard connected... seems to be spot on (at least at dc)Never the less I want to be prepared for recal (have access to such equipment at work).Has anyone a service/recal manual for this little testgear? (already found at least the recal-manual for the 1061 which is quite similar... schematics are missing... having those would also be nice... just in case)73

author: sync
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2014, 09:46:39 pm
content: You can get the 1061 service manual with schematics here:http://ko4bb.com/manuals/index.php?dir=09%29_Misc_Test_Equipment/Datron.
Agilent x3000 Bluetooth keyboard - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Bob S
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 02:39:13 am
content: Has anyone been able to connect a Bluetooth keyboard to this scope? The scope works with a USB keyboard but it cant do much in the way of drivers for Bluetooth. To get around this limitation, I have also been looking for a Bluetooth keyboard emulator dongle and have yet to found one.

author: vl400
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 03:18:57 am
content: Logitech MX5500 works, plugged in the Logitech Bluetooth dongle and away it went. Needed to setup some new labels so tested it with that.

author: taemun
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 09:21:20 am
content: The dongle with most of Logitech's Bluetooth keyboards will work in a basic legacy mode, allowing you to use it in BIOS (to setup a motherboard).It'll work in legacy mode, providing that the keyboard is paired with the dongle and not with the Windows software stack (if that makes sense).

author: kg4arn
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 11:14:06 pm
content: I am using a Logitech K400 with my x3000 scope without a problem.
User manual for AM FM Stereo signal generator - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: CDFixer
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 09, 2014, 03:51:45 am
content: This is my first post here, but I do post regularly on AudioKarma, I just bought an AM/FM Stereo signal generator and am trying to find a user manual for it. It is a Kenwood SG-5110. I have found that the following units are identical Jung Jin JSG-1101B and Goldstar SG-4015S also Kenwood made (or badged) a unit labled as SG-5150. I have the service manual and can probably figure out how to use this unit but would like to have the user manual to ensure that I am using it properly.I hope this is a valid question for posting here.Thank YouCheers Jim"Mother Nature is a hard teacher She gives the test first the lesson later"
PC logic analyser, Intronix still good? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Harvs
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2014, 12:19:51 am
content: I need to grab a logic analyser for a job I'm currently working on. 16+ channels, 100MHz+ timing analysis, preferably the size of a modern DSO or smaller, PC based is preferable.The Intronix LogicPort looks like it fits the bill, albeit deeper memory would have been good. It's got other nice features that would be useful in the future.The logicPort has been around for quite a while though, has anyone used anything better in the <$1k price range? I don't have the time to be hunting around for a secondhand item at the moment.

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2014, 01:34:18 am
content: Harvs, don't know if you have tried the Intronix software/demo - it's pretty easy to download and take a look-see. Let us know what you think/do. Good luck, EF

author: abyrvalg
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2014, 01:47:32 am
content: Hantek 4032L? 32 channels, 64M/channel (2Gbit) memory, 400Msps, just $200. Try their software first - if it suits you (there are not so many functions like protocol decoders), the hardware does it's job well, tested on things like Toggle DDR NAND.

author: Harvs
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2014, 09:01:55 am
content: Quote from: Electro Fan on February 03, 2014, 01:34:18 amThanks, I had a quick look. It'll certainly do what I need it to do at the moment, which isn't that much, just sniff a bus.QuoteLooks like it'll do the job. Basic, but that's all I need right now, at only $200 I've just bought one.Thanks

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2014, 01:59:12 am
content: Harvs,Did you get your Hantek LA? Any initial impressions you can share?Thanks, EF
How to fix blown Rigol scope probe RP3300A? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Circlotron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 25, 2013, 05:36:53 am
content: I applied a 450V pulse to the probe with probably a 1uS rise time and it was just a bit much... Now with the test square wave that comes out of the front of the scope it only shows about 2/3 it's actual amplitude and the rising and falling edges are very rounded. It does get to the final (lowish) voltage though. Swapped channels and the problem follows the probe.There's only 2 resistors, a cap and a trimmer. What is most likely bad, the upper divider resistor? The upper divider resistor is labeled "01A" and the lower "16A". What values would that mean?

author: Circlotron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 25, 2013, 06:01:16 am
content: More info:-R2 measures 100.0 ohms, a reasonable figure maybe.R1 measures 142.6 ohms - a bit sus. I would have thought perhaps 9.0 megs.Edit -> seems the resistor values are correct at 100 and 143 ohms.Maybe there is another resistor in the probe end, not the connector end as in the picture.

author: Circlotron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 25, 2013, 06:24:11 am
content: Okay. The good probe measures 9 megs end to end and the bad one 15.5 megs from the BNC connector to the blob of solder on the left side of the pcb. There does not appear to be any way to get the probe apart. If not then it's all over.

author: KJDS
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 25, 2013, 09:28:44 am
content: Quote from: Circlotron on November 25, 2013, 06:24:11 amThere's always a way to take something apart. The difficult bit is doing so in a way that allows you to put it back together.You could always resort to a hammer for the first operation and duck tape for the second.

author: sorin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 03:26:13 pm
content: Did you repair it?

author: Circlotron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2014, 10:41:29 pm
content: Nah.For the price of a new one I bought two x10 probes and two x100 1kV probes, all 100MHz I think. The remaining original one is kept aside for special purposes. Maybe I'll get a new one one day, for AUD$65.
Beehive Electronics EMC Probe Set - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Terabyte2007
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2014, 01:30:01 pm
content: I am looking at getting a nice Nearfield or EMC probe set. I found these guys and the reviews are pretty good. Has anyone had any experience with them or these probe sets?http://www.beehive-electronics.com/probes.html

author: JackOfVA
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 08, 2014, 03:08:34 pm
content: I have one of the Beehive loops - model 100C.I used it to measure the magnetic field inside a Helmholtz coil I built to calibrate loop receiving antennas and found decent correlation between measured and computer simulated field, both for absolute value and field uniformity. The measurements were in the 100 KHz - 10 MHz range.For the modest price, I found it more than acceptable.It's a simply made antenna - I believe it's a 4 layer PCB with the loop (think it's 2 turns) and shield being PCB traces. There's a transformer at the connector end to go from balanced loop to unbalanced 50 ohm transmission line and it is encapsulated in something like the liquid electrical tape.

author: w2aew
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2014, 03:37:44 pm
content: Quote from: Terabyte2007 on February 08, 2014, 01:30:01 pmI use them quite often, and they work well. Plus, they're much less expensive than many other near field probes that are out there. You *could* make your own and that would be cheaper, but I really like the Beehive set. You can see one of them in action in this video I did:

author: Co6aka
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 08, 2014, 03:47:24 pm
content: The price is relatively reasonable. (I've looked at them too.) You can make your own for much less though, with some small diameter semi-rigid coaxial cable and a MiniCircuits transformer. It's basically just a tiny magnetic loop. Also, you can make a pretty good E-field probe with a bootstrapped-JFET source follower. I used a J310 in SOT23 package. You will have to calibrate 'em though, so consider that as most of what you're paying for if you buy.If you need more sensitivity for the magloop, you can make a decent amp from a dual-bipolar (or maybe even a dual-FET) transistor in differential common-base (common-gate) configuration.PS- Another handy device is what's essentially just a directional coupler probe. Also easily made, but you really need a VNA to get it precisely terminated and matched, which is necessary for good directivity.

author: Terabyte2007
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2014, 04:09:28 pm
content: Quote from: w2aew on February 08, 2014, 03:37:44 pmGreat video! Thanks for the info...

author: Terabyte2007
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2014, 04:11:47 pm
content: Quote from: Co6aka on February 08, 2014, 03:47:24 pmI thought about that, but time and calibration are something I don't have. I think it would worth the money for that set.
RIGOL DP832 timing issue - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: W7NGA
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2014, 07:03:55 pm
content: Inspired by Dave Jones, I thought I would make my initial entry in video blogging about the DP832 and some of the more arcane aspects of its operation where the manual is not clear.As fun as it has been, trying to decipher the DP832 workings without the magic-decoder ring has been frustrating. When I program the Timer/Delayer, using a template or a simple pattern toggle or ramp, the interval between states is not accurate. I set the interval to 1-second, but the state changes every ~800ms. Same with the Delayer set to toggle the output on/off, the 1-second interval is considerably less than that.Could someone with a DP832 perform a simple Timer test and measure the time interval between state changes (RIGOL calls them Groups & Points). Set 6 groups at 1-second intervals and assess whether or not each state lasts 1-second. I need to know if this is a programming bug or my real-time clock is not accurate. I've asked RIGOL Technical Support for feedback but I'm not overly optimistic.I am using firmware v01.08.daniel

author: W7NGA
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2014, 09:24:45 pm
content: As you can see, each state is held far less than the 1-second per division. As I dig deeper into the DP832 I will also share my observations on the Agilent 34461A.daniel

author: W7NGA
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2014, 09:42:42 pm
content: I forgot to mention that someone here was asking if you can display each individual channel separately with larger fonts.Yes, you can by enabling the Display mode = waveform option. The display is a marginal improvement but for those with eyesight issues it might help.The parameters of the individual channel are set/displayed with a larger font and a running waveform display is also shown.daniel

author: thmjpr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2014, 05:28:05 am
content: Both timer/delayer are fairly accurate for me.When I set it to 1s I get 1.03s. Plus/minus 20ms or so.Setting a delay of 50s gave ~51.4s on a stopwatch. Which agrees with above that its a few percent slow.DP832A FW 1.09
Funny extech ex330 reading - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: electronics man
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2014, 09:49:57 pm
content: I was testing a circuits current on my extech ex330 I had the meter set to mA but the curent was too high so I switched to the 10A range but forgot to change jacks, so there was nothing on the 10A input however it was displaying 1.17A so I then realised and put the probe 10A jack and it was reading 1.07A. So how come it was detecting nearly the correct value when ther was nothing on the 10Ajack. Does anyone know why this is it Is as realy strange.

author: Mehran
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2014, 10:57:09 pm
content: my extech 330 is out by a country mile on voltage. got a dmmcheck plus on order to measure how bad it really is and try to sort it...

author: rjk5378
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2014, 12:43:55 am
content: Quote from: Mehran on February 07, 2014, 10:57:09 pmThat's roughly a 2% difference between the EX330 and the other two meters. The specifcation for the EX330 in the 9 volt range is +/- 1% plus 2 digits (i.e., more than half of that 2% difference in the comparative readings). Thus, if the accuracy specs on the other two meters are about the same, this reading is technically within tolerance--i.e., the EX330 could be reading 1% high and they could be reading 1% low. Since the other two are in agreement, however, the EX330 probably is reading a bit high, but given its accuracy specification, I'm not sure it is off by a "country mile." <g>- Bob, KY3R

author: tiofilo75
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2014, 12:46:28 am
content: I've had bad luck with mine as well. The selector sometimes does not sit well so sometimes it wont give me a reading until I press hard into it. Having it turn off by self after using it for a while is annoying as well. I am saving for a fluke so that it can replace it in the future.
Hameg HZ 36 dual trace unit. How does it work? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: schwarz-brot
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2014, 04:41:17 pm
content: Hi there,I have lying around a "Hameg HZ 36 Dual Trace Unit", "Zweikanal-Vorsatz" in German. Made in 1970. Hameg is of course well known. I am not sure if I should sell this thing as is or try to get it to work or simply kill it for the nice case and big switches.As it seems I cannot get it to work with the HM 312 Scope which it came with. I figured out it needed a battery, so it got hooked up to my PSU. Still nothing on the screen but one beam. By looking inside I figured out there is not much to go wrong beside some old electrolytics which are possibly dead. They wouldn't cost me a fortune, but I am not sure about the resale value. Pretty sure it's not worth the effort. But also I am not sure if I did not simply connect it wrong.Besides that I am curios to know what this mystery box does. Can you please explain whats going on in there? What am I supposed to see on the screen when it works correctly?

author: Fraser
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2014, 05:31:21 pm
content: These units date back to when many users had single trace oscilloscopes (due to cost). The unit is basically an electronic switch with output offset injection.It takes 2 inputs and alternately presents them to the output at fast rate and also offsets teh Dc level of teh output depending upon the input it is presenting. This effectively produces a two trace oscilloscope. It will have its own input attenuators and amplifiers.http://www.radiomuseum.org/r/hameg_zweikanal_vorsatz_hz36.html

author: schwarz-brot
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2014, 06:30:04 pm
content: Aurora, that link doesn't help much - I am no member of radiomuseum.org. So no way to get the schematics.Thank you anyways.

author: Fraser
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2014, 08:20:43 pm
content: See if you can find someone who is or write to the person who submitted it. That is what I do and I often receive schematics by email.The link provides details of the frequency specification. Now you know what you are looking at it should be pretty easy to work out if it is working and, if not, what has gone wrong. It is really just an oscillator running an analogue switch that takes inputs from channel amplifiers and attenuators.I attach the thumbnail schematic from the Radio Museum web site. I would be able to work with the detail provided in it. You can see the design is tansistor based and pretty simple. Just zoom into it a little. Remember ....it has two input channels so you have component commonality there. A common item to both channels is the oscillator, analogue switch and any power regulation.
Rigol DP832, DM3058E from TEquipment - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Macbeth
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2014, 08:39:54 pm
content: Just ordered the PSU and Bench Meter from TEquipment.net. Was assured the DP832 is latest revision without heatsink problems. It's coming to the UK USPS Int'l, and even with delivery ($136), if I get hit for VAT it is cheaper than anything local or from China I can find online. I've never had a true bench meter at home either (used to have a '80s Fluke when I was a bench service engineer). Looking forward to play with the DM3058EThis is probably overkill stuff for me, but I have the cash burning a hole in my pocket (and it's only getting more worthless with negative real interest rates), so I can't resist!ETA: Of course I got the 6% EEVBlog discount! (EEVBLOG6)

author: wilheldp
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2014, 10:10:09 pm
content: I ordered the exact same pieces of equipment from them late last year. The DMM took a while to ship because they were backordered, but the PS was the latest version (silver heatsink).

author: Macbeth
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2014, 07:05:21 pm
content: Not happy - just been informed that estimated delivery is 3 months away! Because I paid paypal they have my dosh and no incentive to expedite. I think I will ask them to reverse the paypal and pay by credit card as they can only charge a card on despatch.