hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
My visit with John Fluke (only of interest to old Fluke DMM aficionados) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: drtaylor
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2018, 03:46:04 am
content: I attended a meeting with potential consulting clients today (13 July 2018) at the Seattle Yacht club. Due to a signed NDA, I won't reveal who the client is or what they want me to design, but to my pleasant surprise, I was introduced to John Fluke Jr, who is, at least peripherally, associated with the clients. I probably met John Jr back in my early years at Fluke, but at most said hi to him when passing in the hall. He was not directly in my Business Unit. I had many conversations with his father during my career, but John Jr was less familiar to me. Anyway, John knew of me, and we had a great time talking about the old days at Fluke. We discussed the important people at Fluke at the time. He gave great praise to Dick Van Saun (designer extraordinaire, inventor of the Recirculating Remainder A/D) and credited him with much of Flukes growth from a fairly small company to the well respected company it is today. Dick Van Saun was my BU manager for years, and I learned much from him. I heard much of the inner workings of management of Fluke at the time, some decisions that he was involved with and just all kinds of interesting banter. I shared with him some of the stories that forum members that have read my posts here or listened to my Amphour episode are familiar with. He liked the one about when a model rocket landed right outside John Sr's office and I went on the roof to get it. John Sr saw me and gave a little wave. Later I got in trouble with the building manager because I went on "his" roof, but John Sr told him to lay off. Great man!John was articulate on many subjects and it was great fun to listen to him. He had a very interesting view on Trump...but I don't want to start a war about that.Anyway, it was a great trip to the past. I felt honored to meet John again, and he bought me lunch! There's so much more I would have liked to ask him such as what, if any, is his involvement with Fluke now after the Danaher buyout and then the subsequent spinoff. But we finally had to start discussing the project. I could kick myself for not getting a business card or something...oh well.
Rigol DP832 analog board protocol - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: isb
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 16, 2018, 03:08:18 pm
content: After years of service, my DP832 gave up a ghost. The processor board won't boot any more. I checked the voltages and tried to isolate the problem with no success. There's not much else I can check or replace on that board so I think I'll just let this one go.Although... the two analog boards seem to be fine. A quick look around revealed communication is done using isolated UART at 115200 with another 2 isolated signals (output enable maybe?). I haven't done any more of RE in hopes that someone else can't keep their logic analyzer to themselves.So! Has anyone reverse engineered the protocol used to control those boards? Or at least captured some packets.

author: _Wim_
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2018, 03:15:33 pm
content: Have you tried to reinstall the firmware? How did your unit die, at turn-on or while using? Do you see anything appearing on the display when you turn the power on? With some more description of the issue it might be solvable after all...

author: isb
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 16, 2018, 03:53:59 pm
content: It just failed to start one day. It did have the well known overheating problem even with improved heat sink. It was so rare though that I didn't bother to fix it.I didn't try to re-flash it. Rigol wants SN and current version when requesting firmware update. I guess they'll make exception but it's still a PITA.I suspect the logic board failure is a bit more involved because I couldn't see any FLASH IO activity on the scope.

author: _Wim_
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2018, 07:24:04 pm
content: You can download rigol firmware from here without SN and Version:http://int.rigol.com/Support/SoftDownload/3http://www.rigol.com/Support/SoftDownload/3If you had problems with overheating, did you check the 3-pin regulator is still working correctly? Or more in general, did you check all power supply voltages of the board?Edit: added rigol.com link as it contains more recent versions
Can anyone identify this adapter? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Tony_G
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 07:26:46 am
content: Hey All,I just saw this and I'm wondering if anyone actually knows what the adapter is for:I have no idea what this is for so any help appreciated.Thanks,TonyG

author: Fortran
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 07:48:55 am
content: Feed through terminator perhaps?Should be ~50-75between the casing and the pin if it is.

author: Brumby
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 02:03:30 pm
content: Interesting what's located in the outer annulus...

author: ArthurDent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 04:19:41 pm
content: It looks like it is a component holder for perhaps a 1N21 microwave diode.

author: ArthurDent
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 04:48:58 pm
content: Here's one. A crystal detector.

author: Tony_G
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 08:17:25 pm
content: Thanks all - I think Arthur's suggestion that it is a 1N21 Crystal Diode Cartridge Holder is the most likely - I have several of the HP Crystal Detectors but I've never actually taken one apart to see what is inside them.Thanks again for the help.TonyG
Bus Pirate 1 Mbaud uart. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 11:57:23 am
content: Today I had to test a serial connection of 1 Mbaud. The only available 1 Mbaud capable USB<->serial adapter I had was the TF323R on a Bus Pirate.It's fairly easy to set it up like a transparent bridge on 1 Mbaud, but it seems the speed between TF232R an the PIC 24F is at a fixed 115,2 kbaud?PC USB <---115,2 kbaud---> PIC 24F <---1 Mbaud---> Serial DeviceIs that correct? I can't use a true 1 Mbaud bridge?Alexander.

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 03:29:04 pm
content: For everyone interested, i can be done by making source code changes.uart.c:55From:Code:const uint16_t UART_BRG_SPEED[] = {13332, /* 300 bps */3332, /* 1200 bps */1666, /* 2400 bps */832, /* 4800 bps */416, /* 9600 bps */207, /* 19200 bps */103, /* 38400 bps */68, /* 57600 bps */34, /* 115200 bps */127, /* 31250 bps */};To:Code:const uint16_t UART_BRG_SPEED[] = {13332, /* 300 bps */3332, /* 1200 bps */1666, /* 2400 bps */832, /* 4800 bps */416, /* 9600 bps */207, /* 19200 bps */103, /* 38400 bps */68, /* 57600 bps */34, /* 115200 bps */127, /* 31250 bps */3 /* 1000000 bps*/};main.c:171From:Code:/* Set the UART port speed to 115200 bps. */bus_pirate_configuration.terminal_speed = 8;To:Code:/* Set the UART port speed to 1000000 bps. */bus_pirate_configuration.terminal_speed = 10;

author: ricktendo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 03:32:51 pm
content: Sorta Off Topic: but can BusBlasteralso be used as UART?

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 03:39:25 pm
content: I don't know.Alexander.
FY6600 60MHz signal - function generator any good in 2018 ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: lordvader88
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 03:54:20 am
content: I have a $20 sig.gen. and some xr2206 chips, thats fine enough for low freq tests.So looking at the prices there's no more options under $100 and then the FY6600 is advertised as 60MHz for $130(for me). Thats high enough frequency for now. And I'm not spending +500 or 1000, for now I barely need 1 anyway.I saw a 64page thread on here about it, what's the combined wisdom on the FY6600?Thanks

author: bugi
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 06:51:27 am
content: See also its next version FY6800. Also discussed in the FY6600 thread (in the latest parts) due to being so similar.
speaking of Brymen - what about voltage tester? Any experience? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: evava
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 09:30:26 am
content: Brymen BT-75EUmanual:https://static.eleshop.nl/mage/media/downloads/BT-70EU_manual.pdfin comparison with Fluke T150, Brymen BT-75EU can also measure capacitors, really useful tester I think.I wonder if someone already tested it?

author: 2N3055
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 10:16:44 am
content: I have BT-75EU.It is made of good materials, feels really solid and high quality.Display fonts are a bit weird, but quite visible anyways. Back light is very good, but a bit short.Common ground probe is detachable, cable used is high quality silicon, but a bit thin and very flexible. I expected a bit thicker cable. Don't know if it is going to be a problem, so far so good.It has vibration alert when probing high voltage, built in LED lamp, non contact voltage detection...I checked voltage (AC and DC) and resistance accuracy and it seems to be well in spec.All in all, like other Brymen stuff, full of functions, good quality and fantastic value for money. If I have a suggestion, a thicker, more rugged black (ground) probe cable would be more appropriate.If you have a more specific question, ask.Regards,Sinisa

author: evava
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2018, 10:26:21 am
content: Thank you very much.Found datasheet also:https://static.eleshop.nl/mage/media/downloads/BT-70EU_datasheet.pdfI think I will buy it.So far I use UT18C, which is fine and cheap, but little bit slow IMHO. And sometimes I have to use multimeter for resistance or capacity, which is uncomfortable.
Rohde & Schwarz CMU200 Universal Radio Communication Tester resources - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: drew23
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 10, 2018, 11:25:46 pm
content: Hi all.I have recently bought a Rohde & Schwarz CMU200 Universal Radio Communication Tester. While waiting for delivery I searched out resources such as manuals, firmware, software and fixes (HDD & screen). I have put them in a post on my blog for others to use. I will update the post over time.The CMU200 is a very impressive instrument for general RF work, with a spectrum analyser, RF and AF (option) generators and analysers, power meter and frequency counter, all in one box. They can be bought on eBay for quite reasonable sums.Regards Drew VK4ZXIhttps://vk4zxi.blogspot.com/2018/07/rohde-schwarz-cmu200.html

author: drew23
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2018, 12:26:15 am
content: Hi allI was wondering if there is a BIOS update for the AMD cpu? Mine seems to be V8.50 02.05.06. That may fix the SSD recognition problem. The most recent bios image and tool seem to be on the drive. Can someone help?"I note the Award BIOS FLASH tool and bios image can be found in \internal\install\bios folder. Run the batch file FLASH.BAT to reflash."Regards Drew

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2018, 04:45:31 pm
content: Hi Drew23,Looks nice, but the download links ast Rohde&Schwarz are all broken!Regards,Vitor

author: drew23
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2018, 09:04:48 pm
content: Hi VitorNot sure what you mean? The R&S links in text all still work. The picture is to show current versions and is a screen shot, not a link. A free GLORIS account is needed to access them via the screen shot shown; register and give equipment details when asked by email.http://gotroot.ca/cmu200/still works too and includes all current firmware.Regards Drew VK4ZXI

author: Bicurico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2018, 09:28:10 pm
content: I tried again and it now works. Not sure what was wrong, perhaps their server had an issue...Thanks and congratulation for the sum-up page!Regards,Vitor
International Microwave Symposium 2018 - Industry Trade Show Overview - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Hugoneus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 09, 2018, 02:42:15 pm
content: In this episode Shahriar presents an overview of a small portion of the vendors present on the exhibition floor at the International Microwave Symposium 2018.The IEEE MTT International Microwave Symposium (IMS) is the premier annual international meeting for technologists involved in all aspects of microwave theory and practice. It consists of a full week of events, including technical paper presentations, workshops, and tutorials, as well as numerous social events and networking opportunities. The symposium also hosts a large commercial exhibition. Co-located with IMS are the IEEE RFIC, IMBioC and ARFTG conferences.http://ims2018.orgThe video is organized as follows:You can watch the video here: [1 Hour & 9 Minutes]youtu.be/fZjSlrP8Ax800:00:08 - Introductions00:02:21 - Keysight Technologies (www.Keysight.com)00:12:25 - Rohde & Schwarz (www.rohde-schwarz.com)00:21:12 - X-Microwave (www.xmicrowave.com)00:26:49 - MPI-Corporation (www.mpi-corporation.com)00:33:34 - Siglent Technologies (www.siglentamerica.com)00:36:56 - Signal Hound (www.signalhound.com)00:40:34 - Mini-Circuits (www.minicircuits.com)00:44:39 - Pico Technology (www.picotech.com)00:48:11 - Virginia Diodes Inc. (www.vadiodes.com)00:50:21 - SAF Tehnika (www.saftehnika.com)00:52:28 - LPFK (www.lpkf.com)00:55:45 - Teledyne Technologies (www.teledyne.com)00:56:55 - Maury-Microwave (www.maurymw.com)00:58:20 - Noisecom & Boonton (www.noisecom.com)01:00:00 - Guzik Technical Enterprises (www.guzik.com)01:03:00 - Connectronics Inc. (www.connectronicsinc.com)01:03:43 - A.J. Tuck Company (ajtuckco.dyndns.org)01:04:51 - HyperLabs Inc. (www.hyperlabsinc.com)01:07:15 - Holzworth Instruments (www.holzworth.com)The Signal Pathwww.TheSignalPath.comwww.YouTube.com/TheSignalPathwww.Patreon.com/TheSignalPath

author: Hugoneus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 10, 2018, 02:17:09 am
content: Don't forget to provide feedback for what you would like to see next year!
Tektronix 370 curve tracer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: alocam
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2018, 06:35:37 pm
content: Hello, I am looking for a 370 curve tracer service manual. I was able to download 370A, but it looks like there are several differences, mainly related to storage unit (bubble memory).Any guidance will be appreciated!regardsAlberto

author: JoeO
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 04, 2018, 02:33:32 am
content: Here is a link to the PART NUMBER of the service manual.https://www.recycledgoods.com/tektronix-370-programmable-curve-tracer-service-manual/

author: alocam
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2018, 12:40:16 am
content: Thank you Joe, in fact I sent an email to Tek, and they gave me the P/N, but the manual is not available either. I will keep searching...Regards
HP 8494E Ref In/Out - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Ice-Tea
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 07, 2018, 04:47:09 pm
content: Hello gents,I have two 8594E's, one with ref in and out connected (picture) and one without the connection. And a 8595E without as well. They obviously need to be connected if you're not using an external reference but...- What goes wrong if you don't?- Is the connection crititical? I don't think so... Since you can use an external one of 'sufficient amplitude' cable losses don't matter and for the same reason delay/ fase difference probably don't matter either. So... A whatever piece of coax will do?

author: pe1oxp
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 07, 2018, 05:02:55 pm
content: My 8594E had also no cable, so I made one by myself.Cable isn't critical, it's just 10MHz, so some short peace of RG58 or RG142/400 will do the job.

author: Tony_G
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 08, 2018, 08:54:48 am
content: I used a 6" HP 50 ohm cable I had and it worked fine. I also tried it with a 36" one and didn't notice any difference.Did you make a mod to that scope? The normal/typical connector is a HP 1250-1499 Reference Connector (can't find an image now but it looks like a little bar with 2 bnc connectors on one side).TonyG

author: Ice-Tea
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 08, 2018, 11:25:46 am
content: I bought it like this... So, not an original part? Good to know...

author: Miti
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 08, 2018, 02:05:26 pm
content: The HP8590 series of spectrum analyzers come with two reference oscillator options AFAIK, regular TCXO and high stability OCXO. You can also connect an external GPSDO, rubidium, atomic or whatever reference you have in your lab, hence the external connection.All your internal frequencies are derived from the PLL oscillator that locks on the reference input. If you don't connect them, all your frequency measurements will be at the hand of a very inaccurate and unstable, approximately 600MHz oscillator.The original BNC adaptor is on the left but I used the cable on the right with no problems. As long as it is 50 Ohm (or at that length probably even that doesn't matter) you are ok.Edit: Looking at the block schematic, the reference PLL controls a 600MHz VCO so I adjusted my post accordingly.

author: Tony_G
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 09, 2018, 07:32:08 am
content: [Interesting the image shows reversed between small and large on my machine - updated my text for the thumbnail image version]The rectangular one on the left is the original one for the 8560 & 8590 series SAs. The BNC on the right is a common reference connector for many pieces of HP kit though.TonyG

author: Ice-Tea
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 09, 2018, 08:04:48 am
content: Well, got some regular BNC on the way. Doesn't seem very critical even though I see the benefit of having a completely flat backend of the scope.
Universal Multimeter Software - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: exit_failure
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 08, 2018, 01:19:46 pm
content: I have searched around a bit but was unable to find software to display and record the readings of a variety of multimeters. There are the vendor specific ones but none that would support the simultaneous use of multiple meters that are different brands.Maybe I'm just too stupid to search properly. If that's the case, could you please point me in the right direction.If not, working on such a thing would be something I'd very interested in doing. I'm looking for a new software project to sink my teeth in anyway.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 08, 2018, 02:53:46 pm
content: Sigrok?https://sigrok.org/wiki/Supported_hardware#MultimetersBut maybe you can improve on that.

author: exit_failure
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 08, 2018, 03:27:39 pm
content: Quote from: Fungus on July 08, 2018, 02:53:46 pmHadn't heard of it before. At first glance is seemed to be, what I'm looking for but after browsing their homepage and a few pieces of code for about half an hour, my impression is that the documentation (end-user and developer), availability of binaries and the website itself seems to be a bit of a mess and also not very well maintained.

author: mtdoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 08, 2018, 03:47:59 pm
content: Here’s one that I like:QtDMM
GWInstek MSO series Cursor Enabling - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: rfdes
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 07, 2018, 07:23:34 pm
content: Does anyone know whether it is possible to ONLY enable the Horiz Cursors for these scopes? When I press the CURSOR button, the VERT cursors pop up and when I press CURSOR a second time, both the HORZ and VERT cursors appear. I cannot seem to get just the HORZ to appear. Is this the way the firmware is designed or am I missing something.ThanksJim

author: SWR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 08, 2018, 03:54:27 pm
content: My MDO-2204EX works just like you are describing.It's the way they are designed.

author: rfdes
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 08, 2018, 04:57:59 pm
content: Thanks for the response. Ok... 99% of the time I(we?) only use the VERT cursors anyway.Take care -

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 08, 2018, 05:11:38 pm
content: Quote from: rfdes on July 08, 2018, 04:57:59 pmIt seems most of the time people are using vertical cursors to measure horizontal thingsI see what you mean though. It would be nicer to be able to switch off the horizontal cursors when you are only interested in amplitude (vertical) measurements.
New GW Instek MDO scope ES version - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: SWR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2018, 09:18:34 am
content: I found a new version of the MDO line on a couple of chinese and korean sites.The MDO-2204ES is the MDO-2204EX combined with the logic analyzer of the MSO-2204. It will have the 4ch scope, the spectrum analyzer, the dual waveform gen, the dual power supply, the multimeter and the 16ch logic analyzer.Quite versatile at a great price IMO.I will base our future LabView test rigs on this instrument.Best regardsSoren

author: pascal_sweden
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2018, 02:44:52 pm
content: Can you provide a link to these sites?

author: SWR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2018, 09:25:20 pm
content: Here's one example:http://www.gwinstek17.com/gwinstek-Products-28632761/You'll probably have to hit the translate button.
Agilent  E4402B Spectrum Analyzer repair  Align Now All Required - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: startronic
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 07, 2018, 03:34:06 pm
content: Hello Guys,...I have an Agilent E4402b, with the display message Align now All required, even after doing the procedure Align Now, after restarting the E4402 back with the same problem, in the system menu in Shows errors appears the error code - 222,I reshoot Aling Now again, and now you get the message DATA OUT OF RANGE on the display.Here in Brazil Agilent (Keysight), not of due support, say that it is already obsolete.So I'll have to fix it myself,I would like to request judo from the forum forum, if any have the service manual for this model I am very grateful.Thank you
IFR 6201B - Easy & fun way to test? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Ice-Tea
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 07, 2018, 04:19:32 pm
content: Recently got a IFR 6201B. 8G SNA, power meter & freq counter. I buy this stuff to have fun, learn a bit and sell them (if at all possible with some profit.) It boots and passes selftests but other than that I'm not sure what and how to test without spending additional $ for test fixtures and stuff. I guess buying female-to-male N-type addapters is unavoidable and I don't mind but what would be a meaningfull way to test the machine with minimal additional investments? Thoughts?Datasheet
First true Chinese budget meter name - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: mustafakerb
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2018, 08:34:10 pm
content: source:https://www.banggood.com/MESTEK-CM81-Clamp-Multimeter-Diagnostic-tool-6000-Counts-Digital-DC-p-1315224.html?rmmds=search&stayold=1&cur_warehouse=CN

author: DaJMasta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2018, 08:38:06 pm
content: An attempt at no bullshit design?

author: tsman
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2018, 09:56:48 pm
content: Quote from: DaJMasta on July 05, 2018, 08:38:06 pmYeah. I think that is what they're trying to say. The same meter is on Aliexpress and it says"bid farewall bullshit"

author: exit_failure
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2018, 11:23:39 pm
content: Well at least they show you the innards, so you immediately see that its crap without actually buying one and taking it apart. That goes to show, how considerate they actually are.

author: exit_failure
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2018, 11:44:23 pm
content: Quote from: wilfred on July 05, 2018, 11:27:16 pmI noticed this quite a lot with cheap multimeters in the last couple of months. I guess those images are there make to make the appear more techy or professional to less savvy customers.
Tenma 72-1012 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Flappy
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2018, 09:02:09 am
content: Saw this at work today. Manu ranging? It doesn't even have auto-ranging. And look at that font! Why would anyone even design this meter? This thing should not exist. It is an abomination.

author: bd139
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2018, 06:36:23 pm
content: It’s a rebranded Uni-T UT801. Bloody horrible things and expensive for what it is.
E4432B service software - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Joel_l
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 04, 2018, 08:21:36 pm
content: Hi,Having just bought an E4432B that I think will need at least some repair, I have been going through the site and reading all the threads I could find, plenty of excellent info! Somewhere there was a mention a some service software that you can use to put the SG into maintenance/manufacturing mode and run internal calibration routines. I can't seem to find that thread anymore. I have been to the KS site and downloaded all the applicable docs I can find but can't seem to find anything like the software that was mentioned.Anyone know what the software is and where to get it?Thanks!

author: Joel_l
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2018, 12:51:00 am
content: Found it on the KS site. Hope it runs on Win10.

author: Joel_l
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2018, 08:34:44 pm
content: What I learned,The old HP software is 16bit. I brought an old 32bit Athlon system out of mothballs and set it up. The software is now running fine with XP. My drive is a bit noisy, so I bought another. I will try 32bit win 7 on it and see if things still go. If not, just fall back to XP.I guess the plus of this exercise is now I can load the various pieces of test software up I have but never did on my main system.Don't know how much I'll really use it, but now I will have a work bench system connected to all my test equipment.What do you mean it's not backwards compatible.....
Sparks from oscilloscope ground - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: TomS_
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 07, 2018, 09:29:21 am
content: Hi everyone, Im not sure what is going on here.Lately Ive been noticing that when attaching my oscilloscope ground to parts of my circuit I sometimes get little sparks flying off.Also, if I touch, say, the ground of a USB lead coming from my computer and the oscilloscope ground I can feel a 50hz tingle much like mains frequency, just not as harsh (I have been shocked a couple of times before).As I was writing this I had an idea... Using my multimeter I measured AC voltage between the USB ground and the oscilloscope ground I see about 60VAC??Wondering if anyone knows what would be causing this? Its definitely not right...

author: GeorgeOfTheJungle
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 07, 2018, 09:35:21 am
content: ISTM that's a floating GND, the voltage you see might be coming from the mains' input filter crapacitors.https://uk.tdk-lambda.com/faq/question.aspx?id=99

author: TomS_
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 07, 2018, 09:50:18 am
content: This got me thinking...My scope is plugged in to a surge protected power board/extension lead. Those things have caps and MOVs and other bits and pieces in them...Its very subtle, and you have to look close, but it seems the neon which indicates "surge protection active" is lit. From a distance it doesnt look like anything, maybe just some light reflecting from the glass bulb of the neon through the coloured window, but upon closer inspection it is definitely putting out some light.I moved my scope to another power board which doesnt have this neon lit, and Im not seeing the same thing. Meavuring voltage between USB ground and scope ground I get millivolts if anything. So maybe the surge protection of this other one is busted or leaking or something.I could buy a new one, or I could try to fix this one I guess, I'll just have to buy some parts as I dont tend to work with higher voltages like mains.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 07, 2018, 09:53:19 am
content: It may be that you have a bad ground connection somewhere, check your plugs and mains cables.If your USB is from a laptop then it will probably be floating and it might simply be floating very far from mains ground.nb. Theentirereason you attach a ground clip to get rid of these differences in GND while you take a measurement.Quote from: TomS_ on July 07, 2018, 09:29:21 amThis is consistent with a floating power supply. You can have a voltage difference but there should be no current flow (at least, not after the capacitors in the power supply have charged to the same level as 'scope GND).If the sparks annoy you then you could attach the USB GND to mains GND with a separate wire and leave it there while you're working.
Checking instrument power feed for EMI - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: rhb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2018, 03:10:39 pm
content: I want to check to see how much conducted EMI there is on the power to my test bench. A LISN appears to be intended to for testing EMI produced by the DUT. In my case I'm concerned about noise pickup by the house wiring which is unshielded romex.I'm inclined to capactively couple my SA input to the power line with a small capacitor and a resistive divider. I do *not* want to blow out my 8560A so I intend to limit the line frequency component to +10 dBm or less, verified with a scope before connecting to the SA. The 8560A damage level is +30 dBm.Comments? Anyone with experience doing this sort of a test? I plan to test all the electrical devices in the house one at a time and filter any which produce detectable noise at my bench location.
Near Field Probe Set - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: BillB
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 04, 2018, 10:25:33 pm
content: Anyone have any experience with this set sold on eBay?eBay auction: #352390078800

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 04, 2018, 10:41:35 pm
content: Have a look at these Bill:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/new-affordable-emc-probe-set-at-a-bargain-price-from-ariel-rocholl_s-lab/
USB Camera software? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Jester
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 04, 2018, 06:01:37 pm
content: I recently picked up an AmScope trinocular zoom microscope for PCB rework, and just ordered a 16MP 1080P 60FPS camera.From what I read on-line, some versions of the PC software are better / faster than others. I guess that implies that the commands to and from this style of camera our somewhat standard?Can anyone suggest PC software (Win7) that works reasonably well?The important aspects for me are:1) Speed if I decide to use the monitor instead of the eye pieces for re-work, while using USB instead of HDMI2) Ability to take a clear focused picture of images about the size of a silver dollar.Camera:https://www.ebay.com/itm/16MP-1080P-60FPS-HDMI-USB-Industrial-Cmount-Microscope-Camera-Photo-Video-Remote/232786099858?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649Microscope:
Tenma 72-10480 (Korad KA3003D) power supply - noisy fan - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: mrchen
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 09, 2016, 08:37:59 pm
content: I am trying to make my Tenma 72-10480 power supply more quiet. Without any load the fan is on and can be annoying. I was going to add a little circuit with a NTC thermistor and a Attiny microcontroller to control the fan with PWM depending on the temperature. But when I opened the case I found a thermistor is already there. Nevertheless the fan speed does not change at all when I heated the thermistor with a hair dryer. I suspected a faulty thermisor but it tested fine.One might think that the fan runs at constant speed and is not controlled, but that's not the case. There is a thermal fuse inside the main power transformer and it is connected to the main board. When I disconnect it (simulating a blown fuse) the fan suddenly starts running faster. Reconnecting it slows the fan down again.I am at a loss here - why is the temperature of the thermistor is ignored by the fan control logic? Any suggestions / advice would be appreciated. My unit is about 8 months old and it is free from the problem that Dave described. I also wondered if I got a faulty unit. If someone owns the same / similar model and is willing to open it and test the NTC thermistor / fan speed with a hair dryer that would be appreciated too.I enclose a photo with the NTC thermistor marked.Thank you

author: euzer
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2018, 10:08:27 am
content: With the output turned off, the fan on our 72-10480 idles away, but every 15 to 45 seconds suddenly ramps the fan on to a faster speed for a second or so, which is quite annoying.
HP 8590A softkeys do not react - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Bjoern
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 03, 2018, 09:56:56 am
content: I bought this unit second hand and when I switched in on I got the display showing: ADC-2v Fail, LOCK OFF, SMPLR UNLOCK.None of the soft keys react at all.I bridged the 10Mhz input and output reference at the back as well as the cal output and input at the front.Could a faulty battery cause this problem since this unit must have been in storage for a long time.Where shall I start looking??

author: Bjoern
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 04, 2018, 08:21:14 am
content: OK today I opened the Baby up and found that the +15v were missing.After disconnecting board by board and measuring 15v against ground I could isolate the issue to one board on which TWO tantalum capacitors needed replacement due to short. (no visual sign !).Now it works !

author: jjoonathan
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 04, 2018, 04:18:24 pm
content: I saw something similar on my HP 8340 signal generator: they put protection resistors on the power supplies so that instead of "explode, leave skidmarks, and catch fire" the shorted circuit simply got hot. It saved my butt even if it wasn't what I expected
Fluke 87 III Over Load indication. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2018, 03:57:51 pm
content: Some time my Fluke 87 III displays an Over-Load on volts scale without anything connected. A simple tap on the rotary switch is enough to fix it. Bad contacts?Alexander.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2018, 09:00:14 pm
content: Certainly sounds like it.Pull it apart and rub them with spit, that usually does the trick.

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2018, 09:57:57 pm
content: Seehttp://mrmodemhead.com/blog/fluke-83-iii-rotary-switch/"It basically works and seems to be calibrated correctly, but occasionally when set to measure Ohms, the display will flicker a bit and only display “OL”, regardless of whether the leads are connected to anything, or even shorted together. A slight tap on the rotary switch will cause it to start working correctly again. Odds are, there’s a minor problem with the internal switch contacts."

author: mzacharias
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 04, 2018, 12:56:48 pm
content: DeOxit D-100L. Apply directly to switch contacts. Do not use a spray cleaner.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 04, 2018, 01:45:24 pm
content: I refer you to time 12m02s in this video:
GW Instek GDS-1000B screen capture tool - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: cyberfish
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 03, 2018, 02:45:43 am
content: I got a GDS-1104B today, and needed a simple program to take screenshots from the scope through the USB port for blogging.The official program requires a million dependencies, is crazy complicated (crashes through PySide -> Qt -> GTK on my machine...), and unmaintained, so I decided to write my own.Just putting it here in case anyone else has similar needs:https://github.com/matthewlai/gdstoolsIt has only been tested on my scope on Linux, but it should be cross-platform. It should work with 2000E and 3000 as well, but not 1000A, 1000-U, or 1000-A-U. Looks like only their higher end scopes support the ":DISPlay:OUTPut?" command.My aim is to eventually end up with a bunch of simple scripts that can do simple things... maybe even serial decode one day? It shouldn't be difficult, just a bit time consuming to write.Pull requests are of course welcome.
HP 8657B Cooling Fan Intermittent - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Bjw
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 21, 2018, 04:45:44 am
content: Anyone have any history with the fan turning on at power up and then shutting off after 5 to 10 seconds ?? I believe the fan runs continuously and not temperature controlled.Thanks,Brad

author: RFDUK
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2018, 07:59:26 am
content: Hello Brad, I've had a couple here for about 15 years, one in regular use. To confirm the fan is on continuously, I've never noticed it off after hours of use and it isn't that quiet. Great generators for low level setting accuracy and low leakage.Some signal generator fan drivers are complex, don't know if this is one of them. Example is the iconic HP 8640A & B, zero non harmonic spurious except for AC line, low phase noise and lockable. Wonderful things.The full service 8657B manual pdf is available on line. Regards, Martyn.

author: Bjw
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 22, 2018, 12:13:46 am
content: Thanks Martyn,Got the manual and will start with the power supply to see whats going on. Thanks for the comments !!73 de Brad

author: Bjw
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 23, 2018, 08:05:49 pm
content: So (DUH !!) of course it ended up being the fan ....I have never in my life had a fan failure like this. Now to go find a replacement Matsushita or alternate drop-in replacement.Update: Matsushita ?? This can't be the original fan....internal board had some surface mount components.....from 1994 ??73 de Brad

author: Bjw
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 02, 2018, 03:48:49 pm
content: Fan Update:Replaced the fan with an ebay "new old stock" same model Matsushita. Works fine now. But while checking the power supply rails I did find the unregulated +/- 15Vdc was running at about 30V......back to the bench.Brad
How much run time is too much? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Joel_l
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2018, 01:41:53 am
content: Hi,So, I continue my search for a new to me signal generator I'm finding some have many hours on them. My contenders at the moment are R&S SMIQ ( finding one with the options I want has been limiting ) and HP ESG-D. The HP seems to be easier to find with acceptable options but the ones I'm finding have the equivalent of 10 years of run time and over a million attenuator cycles. Interesting the HP also shows reverse power protection faults, some units have a few, though I don't think this concerns me as much as the run hours.Then I also wonder about all those caps....How much is too much?
Impedance Analyzer Gadget For Analog Discovery 2 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: rstofer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 10, 2018, 09:12:23 pm
content: https://store.digilentinc.com/impedance-analyzer-for-analog-discovery/I just ordered this to see what it can do. Basically, it is an impedance analyzer with a bandwidth from 1 Hz to 15 MHz.Here's the blog discussion:https://blog.digilentinc.com/add-impedance-analysis-to-the-analog-discovery/

author: tsman
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 10, 2018, 09:19:15 pm
content: I saw the blog post about this board the other day and found ashort reviewof it.

author: precaud
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2018, 02:36:45 am
content: Reasonably priced, bit it's spec'ed for a pretty limited range of impedances. In fact, they only spec it in terms of C and L:50pF - 500µF Capacitance Measurement Range10µH - 1000mH Inductance Measurement RangeAnd it's not a very wide range, at that.No mention of minimum and maximum impedances. Or accuracy.The topology they use, and refer to as "load first", is more commonly known as "Series-Thru". It was discussed in the teardown of the Omicron B-WIC fixture:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/mini-teardown-omicron-b-wic-impedance-test-adapter/The general gist is, it is more useful for higher-impedance devices; smaller capacitors, larger inductors.I think the Discovery 2 is capable of better than what this offers...

author: rhb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2018, 11:58:35 pm
content: I'd like to suggest taking a close look at the input voltage ranges. They are not likely to be robust.
SMUs and capacitive loads - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: jeremy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 30, 2018, 12:32:37 pm
content: Hi,I'm using an Agilent SMU (U2723A) with a 10nF maximum load capacitance. However, I'm not interested in using the pulsed mode, nor the stepped mode. DC only, and if it takes a whole minute to settle, that's fineI'd like to characterise some devices which have a larger capacitance than this (up to 1uF). Is there some trick to improve the stability of the SMU so it can be used beyond this limit? Some of the newer units have "advanced algorithms" to work with this according to the datasheets, but I'm assuming they just slow down the feedback loop a lot.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 30, 2018, 08:54:19 pm
content: Adding series resistance should do it.
Can't connect to my LeCroy 9354 via RS232 (Scope Explorer) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: exit_failure
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 30, 2018, 09:41:49 am
content: I tried to connect to my LeCory 9354AM via RS232 with LeCroy's Scope Explorer. The 'scope has the RS232 hardware option installed. I tried using the pin header on my mainboard and a USB adapter. Both the Scope and my RS232 adapters are set up tu 19200 baud rate, 8 data bits, no parity, one stop bit. I'm using Scope Explorer 2.25.0.0 on Windows 10 64-bit (latest version).Neither the automatic detection nor manually adding the scope work. When I add it manually the status reads "Dead".I found some people here who successfully use Scope Explorer but unfortunately no information about what the problem might be in my case.Is there anything I'm overlooking?

author: Mr Nutts
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 30, 2018, 10:03:06 am
content: Do you use a straight cable or a null modem cable? In any case, try the other

author: exit_failure
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 30, 2018, 10:45:17 am
content: Quote from: Mr Nutts on June 30, 2018, 10:03:06 amThat did the trick. I had to use a null modem cable. Thank you.
How to Use Signal Generators for Electronic Circuit Testing [1951 US Army] - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: SimonZerafa
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 29, 2018, 10:52:23 am
content: Hi,A short vintage video [25' 28"] about using Signal Generators to tune circuitsThis may be of interest to former US service personal or anyone interested in vintage equipment or techniques.Kind RegardsSimon Zerafa--

author: DaJMasta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 29, 2018, 04:34:12 pm
content: You can change the frequency of the oscillation, measured in kilocycles, by varying the capacity of the condenser in your self-excited tube oscillator circuit.Things have certainly changed a bit, haven't they? Also, the pacing seems much slower at times than most video stuff - do you think this was supposed to have a live demonstration component as part of the presentation?
FY6800 function generator DC offset and frequency calibration  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Mozee
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 29, 2018, 09:07:37 am
content: Hello guysCould any one tell me how to calibrate the offset ? the measured DC offset is not as the one indicated on the Fy6800 display! also the frequency is some what not a match.
Marconi 2945 Attenuator Relays - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: atw60444
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2018, 05:30:15 pm
content: I'm looking for some help, please. I have a Communications Service monitor, Marconi 2945 which was giving low readings on Narrowband Power measurement and Spectrum Analyser, (about 35dB low).The fault has cleared since taking the input attenuator out to test. It looked fine on a tracking generator up to 1.5GHz. But I'm sure the fault will return sooner or later.After posting on my Twitter feed, a French Radio Amateur replied, to tell me that it would be the attenuator relays. I should replace all ten (across the two attenuators) with, specifically, Panasonic RK1-L2-5V-H23. These seem to be impossible to find. There are versions about with different suffixes, like H41 and H55 (I think, from memory). But there is no information on the data sheet explaining this suffix. The French gentleman is adamant that you need the correct part. But I'd like to understand the actual differences. I'm very grateful for his help, but Google translate isn't the most helpful thing with technical language.
RK5000 AC power source. Has anyone bought one? Are they any good? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: InterestedTom
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2018, 01:55:51 pm
content: Saw RK5000 on ebay and alibaba brand new shipped direct from china.I'd like one in a way, don't have the money right now, but looking at the pictures would rather make my own in some ways (it's not very pretty!).Features:* Output capacity: 500VA* Circuit mode:(IGBT)SPWM Pulse Width Modulation* AC input: Single-phase AC 110V+/-10% 60Hz* AC output:Voltage: Low range 0-150V, High range 0-300VFrequency: 45Hz-70Hz adjustable 50Hz/60Hz/400Hz(Optional)Maximal current: L=120V 4.2A, H=240V 2.1ALoad Regulation: 1%T.H.D: 1%Frequency Regulation: 0.01%Load voltage stabilizing rate: <=0.5%Waveform: Sine waveWaveform distortion degree: <=2%(resistance load)Efficiency: More than 85%Response time: <=2ms* Display and resolution:Digit frequency 4 digits display, resolution 0.1HzDigit voltage 4 digits display, resolution 0.1VDigit current 4 digits display, resolution 0.01ADigit power 4 digits display, resolution 1WDigit power factor 4 digits display, resolution 0.001* Protection : overvoltage, over current, overload, over temperature and short-circuit, as well as automatic jump protection and alarm device* Cooling: Forced fan cooling* Working temperature: 0 degreeC - +45 degreeC, Relative 0-90%(non- condense)* Dimensions(mm): 420(600)*420*190* Weight(Kg): 30KG