hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
R&S RTO question - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: phenol
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2015, 01:04:28 pm
content: Has any of you owners of an RTO series scope updated the firmware to the recent 2.45.1.1 version?If so, does the ACQUISITION soft button work? it seems to do nothing on the RTO1004 i have. the acquisition menu is still there, but it can only be accessed thru the other menus, such as vertical, for instance...cheers

author: rfbroadband
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 11, 2015, 05:50:24 am
content: yes I installed 2.45.1.1 and acquisition soft button works fine (RTO 1024)

author: phenol
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2015, 10:48:14 am
content: i re-installed it and it works fine now. there is a KeyTest application on the desktop with which the function of all buttons and knobs can be tested. The only button that didnt work was the acquisition button, but it seems back to normal now.
searching user manual for PREMA 3040 precision thermometer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: pelule
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2015, 10:02:19 pm
content: HiI recently bougth a used PREMA 3040 precision thermometer. I am looking for a user manual, or at least description of how to use and connect PT1000 sensors with front connectors.Anyone able to help?

author: radhaz
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2015, 11:51:55 pm
content: http://www.prema.com/index.php/en/service-en/maintanance-of-measuring-instrumentsThey might offer a manual.

author: pelule
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2015, 05:41:14 pm
content: Already tried to get in contact with PREMA.COM. So far no feedback.Any other tip?

author: pelule
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2015, 11:02:37 am
content: Have contacted the German PREMA headquarters and received the manual.Topic solved.
Android Oscilloscope - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Kedar264
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2015, 03:57:52 pm
content: why not use android device as an oscilloscope ,certainly it has limitations 0hz -20 KHZ but something is better than nothing

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2015, 04:18:40 pm
content: Why not use pen and paper ?Why you need a scope at all ?An operating system does not make a scope.
Fluke 87V calibration internals? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: try
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2015, 11:14:09 pm
content: Hi there,after completion of a construction kit for a bench multimeter which is calibrated by filling a table in the microprocessor eprom containing offset and scaling figures for each range I wondered which handheld multimeters use the same technique?The best handheld multimeter I own is an Unitrend (Dave's most disliked company) UT61E.As far as I know there is a just one trim pot inside for DC calibration. When calibrating the base range of 2,2V the other ranges are always a little bit off due to the lack of precision of the voltage divider or its drift over time.How about the Fluke 87V? Is it calibrated digitally? Are there settings for each range?I wonder if and which handheld multimeters are around that work this digital calibration way.Regardstry

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2015, 11:25:11 pm
content: Quote from: try on February 08, 2015, 11:14:09 pmSee for yourself.http://media.fluke.com/documents/8xv_____cmeng0100.pdf

author: try
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2015, 11:40:25 pm
content: Hi retiredcaps,thanks for pointing out the english manual. The german manual that I looked in does not contain that calibration information!Do you have any idea which other multimeters work that way?Regardstry

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2015, 12:00:31 am
content: Quote from: try on February 08, 2015, 11:40:25 pmMost, but not all, current Fluke multimeters use software calibration like the 87V. As an example, the Fluke 15B calibration is done using trimpot.http://bsd.ee/~olev/Fluke_15B_17B_calibration_manual.pdfMost Agilent and Gossen multimeters are also software calibrated. I know of no master list.The less expensive multimeters use trimpots of various quality.
Rigol DG1022 - is it any good? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Pentium100
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2015, 09:29:16 pm
content: Hi, I need a function generator to align my FM tuner. Specifically, I need to generate a frequency sweep from ~11.5 to ~13.5MHz (the IF on that tuner is 12.5MHz). Rigol DG1022 seems to be able to generate such a signal. AFAIK, the DG1022 had a non-flat frequency response when in frequency sweep mode, how much non-flat is it and maybe they fixed that problem in newer firmware. I do not need it to be absolutely flat, just flat enough to not be very noticeable on a scope.As far as I can find, this generator is the cheapest that can generate the signal I need.
No traces over X-Window from 16500B with 16515A analyzer card - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: davorin
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 08, 2015, 12:13:36 pm
content: HelloJust discovered that over X-Window I don't see the traces from a 16515A analyzer card...but from a 16555A card they sow up...Printing to disk is fine though...
USB3.0 Power Monitor (to 1 mV and 0.1 mA) first impressions - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: JBeale
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2015, 07:21:25 pm
content: Out of curiousity I got the YZXStudio "USB3.0 Power Monitor" with OLED display, which is on ebay around US$32. It reads voltage to 1 mV and current to 0.1 mA, also tracking accumulated mAh and mWh. It has a cute scrolling graph mode to show current over time, but unfortunately fixed at +3.0 A max scale, so the resolution is not too useful for <200 mA type loads. I also have a smaller, cheaper "Matek USB Power Monitor" that has only 10 mV resolution (and maybe 20 or 30 mV accuracy).The quick summary is that the YZXStudio device does actually justify the number of digits it presents. As far as I can tell, it is off by only a few counts. I compared voltage and current readings to a 6.5 digit Keithley 196 DMM, last calibrated in 2008 but it reads 9.99985 V on a 10V Geller reference mfr. in Oct. 2011. By the way, 1 mV resolution is probably as much as you need in a USB power monitor, as none of the USB sockets in various computers I tried are stable at the mV level. I tested with a separate custom power supply. I noticed my cheap bench supply is not too stable at the mV level either.Code:USB3 meterKeithley 196 DMM----------------------AMPS readout----------------------0.12010.1200830.15710.1571680.22460.224550.44670.446850.44760.44801----------------------VOLTS readout----------------------4.6834.682475.0155.01385.1925.19255.3495.348565.4575.4567----------------------
Experiments  with the Teledyne LeCroy LabMaster 10-100zi 100GHz Oscilloscope - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: BalticLab
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2015, 08:48:30 am
content: With 100 GHz bandwidth and 240 GS/s sampling rate, the LabMaster 10-100Zi is the highest bandwidth oscilloscope in the world today. I met up with Alan Blankman, Technical Product Marketing Manager at Teledyne LeCroy, and Patrick Connolly for a quick chat and demonstration for this insanely fast instrument.This was the first time that Teledyne LeCroy invited a blogger into their facility. More copy-cats to follow soon...Two side-videos from the visit:I have still tons of other footage left and I'll upload it once I find the time. So please subscribe to my channel if you are interested.
sine Sweep Generator  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: R_G_B_
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2015, 04:12:31 pm
content: I was testing some filters (twin notch and PI low pass ) using the sweep sine function on the analogue discovery and FFT on an digital oscilloscope then realised that the maximum bandwidth of the analogue discovery was 10Mhz.I have a chinese DDS waveform generator AD9851 and a spectrum swept sine spectrum analyzer.Im not sure if I could access the sweep sine generator of the spectrum analyzer and use this to drive the filters?or use the AD9851 DDS to sweep the frequency up to 25MHZ or more if possible? I suspect the distortion and signal to noise ratio on the AD9851 could be a problem in this respect?What other options do I have regarding the solution to this problem?Can anyone help with this problemthanksR_G_B
Keithley 6220 current source accuracy only .1%? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: splin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 07:27:27 pm
content: For a $5400 instrument I'd have expected much better - 1 year accuracy is quoted at .1% + 50uA on the 100mA range, so >= .2% error for currents below 50mA. The 20uA, 200uA, 2mA and 20mA ranges are better at .05% (+10uA for the 20mA range).Even the temperature coefficient is a lousy 100ppm + 2uA on the 100mA range. Actually that seems to be an unusual way to specify temperature coefficient - is that 100pm of reading + 2uA per degree C?.01% resistors are only 30 cents apiece and a voltage reference that won't drift more than .05% in a year only costs a few dollars so why is it so poor?I’m not suggesting that the unit isn’t worth the money – it does go down to 100fA resolution on the 2nA range (albeit with an accuracy of .4% + 2pA), and has an output voltage of +/- 100V, but I’m surprised that the accuracy specifications aren’t much better. What am I missing?

author: andrija
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2015, 12:51:38 am
content: My guess is that $5400 is actually not considered to be a lot of money in professional market.Also, where did you see 0.01% resistors for 30 cents a piece? Vishays I got from Parts Connexion where $10 a piece even at the clearance discount. And equipment like this usually uses custom order components, not off the shelf.

author: don
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2015, 03:16:09 am
content: I have a 2420 sourcemeter which has higher DC accuracy but can't generate arbitray waveforms at 100kHz. 2420 is designed for slow IV source/measure sweeps at ~1kHz max. Guessing lower DC accuracy may be a tradeoff of arb generator. 6220 and 2420 are different tools though.

author: splin
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2015, 04:23:04 pm
content: Quote from: andrija on February 06, 2015, 12:51:38 amDigikey; but that price is for 10ppm thin film SMD in 1K+ quantities - metal foil resistors are much more expensive. If I were designing equipment at that price I'd like to think I'd use something better than 30 cent resistors - I wonder what Keithley have used to only mange .1%/100ppm accuracy?
Oscilloscope purchase - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: clkaczor
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 05:16:16 pm
content: I am purchasing a new oscilloscope and I am trying to decide between the siglent SDS2204 or the gwinstek GDS2204A.Does anyone have any opinions or thoughts between these two scopes?Any advice would be appreciated.Thanks

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 07:21:30 pm
content: I could only relay the comments of a client that expressed the GW UI was not at all to his liking.The SDS2000 is a newer and more capable scope.Have you studied the SDS2000 threads in this forum?A lot comes down to your local support, could you put you country flag in your profile?

author: clkaczor
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 07:51:17 pm
content: I can't get a real clear picture on peoples thoughts of the SDS2000.With the GDS2000 though I called to ask questions about what I read in the manual and had to speak to some Asian fellow that I could not understand very well, he was not very nice and did not answer my question. He just kept saying it is just like all the other scopes. I know they probably have other employees but it was just a real bad experience.Some of the retailers should provide support though right?

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 08:05:40 pm
content: Like ALL scopes each has it's own little quirks of use, these are being continually refined and improved by the manufacturers ....those that arefocusedon product improvement as Siglent are IMO.Siglent USA should be able to point you to your local supplier, Steve and crew are very helpful.Get one in your hands and try them out, neither are "cheap entry level" and a test drive should be on your list of things to do.

author: rf-loop
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 08:34:34 pm
content: Quote from: clkaczor on February 05, 2015, 05:16:16 pmAlso you need know Siglent Official offer what all official distributors also follow.You buy (example) SDS2204 + LA package (include MSO activation in FW + SPL2008 logic probe.You get SDS2304 + LA + free FG option + free DC option (serial decoding)(or if you want SDS2204 you can buy SDS2104 and get SDS2204.)Options do not need buy. Buy alone exaple SDS2104 and they send SDS2204 to you.Offer need buy from official distributor. Model upgrade is not possible afterwards.Offer is valid before 28.Feb.2015 made deals.
µCurrent in nA range - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: jancumps
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 13, 2015, 07:18:28 pm
content: When I use my µCurrent in the nA range, I get a result I 'm not expecting.I'm measuring current through a 3M6 resistor powered by 15V.This should result in 4.13 nAI measure a voltage drop of 41.2 mV over the current input , but the output of the µCurrent is 1.356VIn the µA range, the output is 4.1 mV for the same setupI've used a freshly opened 2032, (shelf life July 2022). Battery light is on.I'm measuring the voltages at the backside of the PCB directly on the PCB traces of the µCurrent connectors.I wonder what I'm doing wrong? Am I measuring outside of it's range?

author: JohnnyBerg
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2015, 07:25:47 pm
content: if your input voltage is 41.2mv then the output would be 41,2 x 100 = 4,12V. This is impossible, due to the fact the battery is 3VSo, there must be something wrong on your input. Either you are putting the wrong current into it, or your input shunt resistor is defect.

author: jancumps
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 13, 2015, 07:42:47 pm
content: You're right. I was a full order of magnitude off. Forgot that there's mA befor µA. Go figure.
Possible uCurrent GOLD Resistor Issue - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 04, 2015, 05:07:02 am
content: I've had one report of a unit that supposedly has a 100R resistor for R9, the uA range resistor. But it is labeled 10R0 as it should be.See photo.Wasn't willing to put too much stock in this report until a 2nd email just came through reporting a possible "decade out" issue.Can those with recent uCurrent's please measure the uA range resistor. No need to open, just through the front panels with range switch on uA.Thanks.

author: leppie
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2015, 05:48:42 am
content: I got mine yesterday (although it was shipped 1 October already). Will check tonight. I have only used it on mA so far quickly for LiPo charging last night.Mine is 10 too.

author: LaurentR
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2015, 06:10:30 am
content: Sept 2014: 10 Ohms - good

author: HzMegaBad
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 04, 2015, 07:49:20 am
content: Purchased my gold around October. 10.0 Ohms.

author: wilhelm
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2015, 04:33:20 pm
content: Dec 2014, 10 ohm
Tektronix 7854 question - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: isbuck
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 02, 2015, 04:13:17 pm
content: Hi all of you. I'm a newby here so my apologies if in the wrong place; please redirect me.I have a late model Tek 7854 SN B105115 that has been working fine but has just died. I have the service manual ( courtesy of the BAMA website (http://bama.edebris.com/manuals/). Symptoms are complete deadness (no burst mode) According to the service manual I should check out the inverter board. Problem is that I don't have some of the test equipment required and to get it would probably cost more than the scope is worth. Also I don't have much experience in HV swirtch mode systems. I do have other two other scopes, meters etc, but not a variac, precision meters etc.Can anyone who has experience of this scope advise? I'm thinking of either complete board replacement if I can get the boards, or more likely piece by piece component replacement ( I have the Tek component to JEDEC equivalent manual).I'd be sorry to see this scope go. My old Tek 545A lasted for years and I didn't need a heater for the workshop.ThanksIan

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 02, 2015, 08:43:17 pm
content: Welcome to the forum.Grab the first link in this thread:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/repair/repair-documents-and-links-sticky-me-please-mods/msg477909/#msg477909It is for older gear but there is a section on SMPS to study.
Rigol DS1054Z back in stock at TEquipment - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Dongulus
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2015, 07:07:21 pm
content: I have just received an email from TEquipment and wanted to post this in case anyone has been waiting. The website shows that 68 are in stock at the time of this post.

author: williakz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 29, 2015, 02:07:49 am
content: 67!

author: keninvic
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 06:22:21 am
content: Yes, they have lots for now, mine is in a UPS truck enroute to San Diego. Anyone know what the board and firmware revisions are on this latest batch?

author: HighResolution
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 07:31:33 am
content: Quote from: keninvic on January 30, 2015, 06:22:21 amI received mine earlier today and it was SP3. Updated to SP4.

author: keninvic
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 01:57:50 pm
content: What is your board version?TIA

author: JE
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 03:58:24 pm
content: Just got mine from TE yesterday, it'sSoft - 00.04.02.SP3Board - 0.1.1

author: keninvic
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 04:29:28 pm
content: That confirms that the current batch is the same board rev level, no change in board design.

author: caseyjamesn
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 02, 2015, 04:21:01 pm
content: I hurried and ordered a DS1054Z yesterday from TEquipment when I saw this post, hoping to get it soon. Just talked to a support rep today because my estimated ship date, which they emailed me today, is not until 2/17. She told me they received over 300 DS1054Z scopes just this last Monday, and they are already gone.She mentioned that for the DS1054Z, large shipments they order usually sell out before they even arrive at TEquipment!! So if you're thinking you want to get one in the near future, order it now so you can get it then.I could barely contain my excitement thinking it would be here much sooner after reading this post that 68 were in stock just a couple days ago!! And now... this wait is going to be torture!!!

author: macsboost
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 03, 2015, 02:46:19 am
content: I received mine last thursday. Same rev as above. So far, what an awesome deal.

author: keninvic
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2015, 02:14:27 am
content: I got mine yesterday - last oscilloscopes I used were a 466 and a 475, and that was in the 80's - now I can finally afford my own - lovin it, and lovin the learning curve too. It still needed the latest firmware update. Done.

author: dadler
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 04, 2015, 06:17:48 am
content: I ordered 12/26 and received mine today. But they have been back out of stock for a few days now. I think they said they were getting more in a few weeks?

author: Yago
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2015, 08:01:17 am
content: Still waiting for them to hit UK shores again!Oh the sands of time!
Opinions on pocket scope for audio signal measurments - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: drummerdimitri
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 02, 2015, 10:14:52 pm
content: Hello guys,I have purchased the DS203 pocket oscilloscope knowing its limitations but I am only interested in using it to measure audio signals from 1 to 22000 Hz.Is this toy good enough for such a task? I know it probably performs much less than its advertised specs but I was wondering if I would be able to test audio amplifiers and troubleshoot them properly with such a device in terms of distortion in the waveform at high voltage and by detecting noise.I am sure I will eventually buy a real decent beginner's scope in the near future, but for now I would like to know your thoughts on this.Cheers!

author: Maxlor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 02, 2015, 10:20:24 pm
content: Yes, it's perfectly capable of handling audio frequencies, and then some.The frustrating aspect is the user interface, it's incredibly fiddly to do anything with it...

author: drummerdimitri
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 02, 2015, 10:29:39 pm
content: Thanks for the reply.Will I get a waveform that I can rely on or will I see distortion in the waveform when there isn't any or will I see a lot of noise when the signal is perfectly clean?My only concern is not being able to rate the quality of an audio signal with confidence.
Penalty phase of Fluke 8060a - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: xwarp
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 11:21:25 am
content: I'd post this in the T.E. repair section, but repair is no longer an option. (if this thread belongs in a difference forum, or, violates any rules, my apologies) It had a good run while I had it, and even then, it acted up and now is dead. (On power up, all segments appear and that is where it stops. All signals are what they are supposed to be, so apparently U5 is the culprit.)I no longer have any interest in spending more time or money trying to limp this thing along. I have plenty of other meters.I HATE not being able to save test equipment and the frustration of nice equipment just not being able to be saved frustrates me.So, members of EEVBLOG, give me ideas of creative ways to detroy this thing. (legal only please)My thought, (filmed of course), strapped to a 1/4 pound of tannerite and set off with a round of 1942 vintage Turkish loaded 7.92x57mm from a 1938 bSw German made k98k mauser.Any other ideas?

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 11:26:35 am
content: Sold for parts to somebody with more patience

author: wiss
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 11:57:58 am
content: Is the display ok? Then you should get one with a bad display of ebay and build a working one!

author: xwarp
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 12:07:30 pm
content: I've thought about that and have you seen the prices?Well, while some may consider even the prices of the currently listed units as fair to them, I'm not interested in buying another to try to fix this one or that one.The total cost of the meter, plus any currently listed, exceeds what I can find of newer and better reliability.

author: wiss
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 01:08:32 pm
content: I do not know of the US prices, I got a 8062 with fading display for 18:50 eur a few months back.

author: retiredcaps
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 08:20:16 pm
content: Quote from: xwarp on February 05, 2015, 11:21:25 amIf you are willing, I will send you a symbolic $8.060 USD paypal money for you to ship it to an eevblog member who lives in the USA.All you have to do is put some bubble wrap around the 8060A and stuff it into a box and use United States Postal Service lowest cost shipping.
WebDAQ/100  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: hpmaxim
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 01, 2015, 08:08:08 am
content: I bought a WebDAQ/100 several years ago off eBay and hadn't really played with it until now. I am trying to use it to monitor several microphones (don't know what type) simultaneously. I noticed some undesirable behavior and was hoping someone could clue in me in as to what's going on.At the moment, I am running 2 microphones @ 5kSa/s in differential mode. Eventually, I will go to 6 microphones, and might increase the sample rate. The sampled signals looked pretty noisy and I could not detect any signal out of the microphones. I cranked up the gain to 11 (actually, more like 100), and noticed that the noise seemed to decrease. I am assuming that the signal was actually below the noise floor of the digitizer and the gain prior to the digitizer made things better. Here are some observations:1) There is a DC bias, typically between 5 and 40mV. The gain doesn't seem to impact this, which implies to me that the bias is in the digitizer. The bias seems kind of random though.2) The gain seems to decrease the range of the digitizer. With 100x gain, I am limited to a +/- 100mV signal. I don't understand this. The digitizer is after the gain stage so it should still be a +/-10V limit. OTOH, the firmware may be dividing down the value by gain in software and displaying the divided down voltage. If that's the case, then the aforementioned DC bias, is *NOT* from the digitizer but is actual bias on the signal lines.3) The DC bias issue actually becomes a serious problem at high gains. At 400x, the limits are now +/- 25mV. With such a low limit, the digitizer gets maxed out and I get no signal much of the time.4) There seems to be some crosstalk between the lines even though they should be differential. I'm not sure if the cables on the microphone are shielded or not (they are part of an assembly). If the lines are coaxial... If they are, it seems that could make things worse,since the outer conductor could get impacted by crosstalk but the inner conductor may be shielded. This would be fine if the outer conductor was tied to ground, but if its not, it could be worse than two parallel wires in the cable.5) I tried a few things to reduce the DC offset. I tried tying one line to ground and also tried running it in single-ended mode (with the other line tied to ground). In both cases, this made the DC offset much worse. In fact, at 100x gain, it was continuously railed at 100mV. I have no idea why this is unless the digitizer doesn't like to be near ground. It's hard for me to understand how "floating" lines could be preferable to tying one to a DC voltage. However, if that's the case it makes me wonder if I want a series capacitor to remove DC bias.Anyone have any experience with WebDAQ/100s or have any other thoughts about this DC bias issue?
BK Precision 879B, LCR meter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: IvoS
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2015, 01:31:23 pm
content: I have this LCR meter and my question is regarding series/parallel measurements.http://www.bkprecision.com/products/component-testers/879B-40000-count-dual-display-handheld-lcr-meter-with-esr.htmlManualhttps://bkpmedia.s3.amazonaws.com/downloads/manuals/en-us/87xB_manual.pdfManual talks about parallel-series measurement mode on page 48 but doesn't explain why and when to use them. What is the difference between these two modes and how are they done? If I am measuring capacitor for example how is the capacitor connected to the input stage of the unit?

author: omgfire
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2015, 02:52:26 pm
content: Quote from: IvoS on February 03, 2015, 01:31:23 pm1. Go to page 82 (Selecting Series or Parallel Mode)2. Conrad HoffmanHow to Check Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitors3. IET Labs Inc.LCR Measurement Primer4.Impedance, LCR, ESR meters5.About capacitance measurement with DVMs

author: IvoS
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2015, 05:41:29 pm
content: Well, I am capable of pushing buttons. My question was about capacitor or other measured component being connected to the input of the unit. Means, that specific portion of the input stage of the LCR meter, schematic pretty much.
DP832 screen crooked - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: dadler
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 07:49:00 pm
content: Hi all-The DP832 I recently purchased has a crooked screen, it seems the LCD was just mounted improperly.I thought I could deal with it, but it's driving me crazy. Every time I look at the screen, I can't avoid noticing the bezel and display are not parallel around the edges.I imagine it's an easy fix, but can I open this thing up without voiding the warranty?Thanks
Tektronix Bundle MDO3BND - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: nowlan
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2015, 12:22:45 pm
content: Got an email from tektronix for bundled applications. No mention of prices. Sounds similar to Agilent's promo last year.http://info.tek.com/ScopesBuyOneGetAll_MDO3000-Deals_AS.htmlApplication Bundle for Protocol Analysis, Limit & Mask Testing and Power Analysis. Limited Time Offer!Powerful Applications to Supercharge Your Scope.Get up to 90% off on Tektronix application software options when you buy our new scopes.Save up to $13,708* on software options for protocol analysis, limit & mask testing and power analysis when you buy all options as a bundle.MDO3BND: Application module that enables all of the functionality of the application modules below in a single moduleMDO3EMBD: I2C, SPIMDO3AUTO: CAN, LINMDO3FLEX: FlexRayMDO3COMP: RS-232/422/485/UARTMDO3AUDIO:I2S/LJ/RJ/TDMMDO3AERO: MIL-STD 1553MDO3USB: USB2.0MDO3PWR: Power AnalysisMDO3LMT: Limit & Mask TestingUp to 89% Savings!

author: Lunasix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 10:27:19 pm
content: And probably only a small eeprom with "MDO3BND" string in itI've seen this new application module, needing last software update I think, available for MDO3000 and MDO4000.Test will be done when possible.

author: nowlan
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 02:20:15 am
content: Probably a string. I think the options were like $900 odd dollars each previously. Agilent 3000 series same ballpark.Did the mdo3000 spectrum option expire last year?Spectrum Analyzer Frequency Range (Upgradable to 3GHz)Also the hameg hmo complete bundle looks to have expired yesterday (30th)

author: Lunasix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 08:20:38 am
content: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/tektronix-dpomso-3000-and-4000-module/msg584128/#msg584128

author: Noise Floor
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 05:34:20 pm
content: Ah competition, driving down the prices. Its interesting how companies are always so willing to discount the software compared to their hardware. I get it, its just bits, but its not like they have not invested in the software. I'm sure it all makes sense on a spreadsheet. Regardless, we win.
Babies first Oscilloscope - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: SEKCobra
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 01, 2015, 08:42:40 am
content: Please don't hit me, I did try to search for this, but all I got were discussions of specific oscilloscopes which don't really help me much.Situation is this: My dad has this really nice Rohde & Schwarz HMO2024 and I borrowed it for some Diagnostics work on a recent project. Now that I have to give it back, I feel the sudden urge to have my own osci, but obviously I don't need something that fancy and also can't really afford something that expensive.Really, I want it to be digital and preferably maybe even be able to parse digital signals, I don't think I need a very high range tho. Since I have no idea about oscilloscopes and what really makes them better or worse, I was hoping you guys could point me towards some cheap(-ish) beginner devices that are reliable enough.I was looking at Rigol, but it seems that only more expensive Rigol devices are sold here (Austria). There's also Voltcraft, which I think is a store brand and fairly cheap, they also have a fairly good track record with me when it comes to power supplies.Anyway, would appreciate some pointers, and if this question has already been asked, feel free to point me there.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 01, 2015, 09:11:08 am
content: Get this one:

author: larry42
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 01, 2015, 09:25:36 am
content: Don't take this the wrong way, but This question is asked weekly and you don't give a budget. Please read more of the forum (like for about a week or so) to get a better understanding.-- from a phone

author: SEKCobra
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 01, 2015, 09:38:38 am
content: Quote from: larry42 on February 01, 2015, 09:25:36 amI assumed that, but I couldn't find anything via search and going back a few pages. Budget wise I'm definitely looking to spend less than a grand, and preferably as little as possible. Of course I'll drop an additional 100 for twice the range or something, as it seems with some devices.E: Well, I think the DS1054Z will do nicely, and if you can actually unlock 100 MHz that's even cooler.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 01, 2015, 09:45:02 am
content: Quote from: SEKCobra on February 01, 2015, 09:38:38 amDon't need even half that for really great scope.QuoteYou can, plus all the extra features, it's trivial.

author: SEKCobra
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 01, 2015, 09:53:28 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on February 01, 2015, 09:45:02 amWell, this is happening now.
Fluke 90i-610s AC/DC Current Probe question - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: KGB
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 08:20:03 pm
content: Hi!What does the "FLOAT VOLTAGE 30V MAX" on this 600V CAT II rated device?The tight-lipped Instruction Sheet is not mentioned, only "The 90i-610S is a clamp-on AC / DC Current Probe designed to measure current waveforms in automotive applications ..." comment refers to the low voltage.All other Fluke called "Current Clamp" only this called "Current Probe". Who knows why. Well, it has very limited useful AC bandwidth: 40 to 400 Hz, but for example, similar to the i410 Current Clamp as well.The important question is: I can securely use this at 230V 50Hz mains voltage?

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 08:29:41 pm
content: Means the clamp jaws are only rated to withstand 600V if you are using an uninsulated wire that you are measuring the current in. If the wire is insulated then the insulation voltage is the usable voltage as then it is the primary insulation so long as it fits in the jaw opening.The meter it is connected to must float no more than 30V off earth, as otherwise the bare internal parts of the meter leads will no longer be at a safe voltage and you can get a shock off them or from exposed metal parts of the probe. That is why the probe output is limited to 30V as this is a safe voltage level for incidental contact with dry skin.

author: KGB
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 02, 2015, 05:08:53 pm
content: Thanks for the reply! Although I do not understand. Why would anyone want to connect any voltage to the output of the probe?I looked around and the only similar tool which does this ominous 30V restriction is the Amprobe CT600. Which is virtually identical to the Fluke, just not as expensive. However, the Amprobe does not have any CAT rating, and even the operating voltage is nowhere mentioned. Still I am not convinced that it is safe to be used at mains voltage.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 02, 2015, 05:35:07 pm
content: You might be using it with a power meter, so there if you are doing a single phase measurement with no neutral the common terminal will be at phase voltage WRT ground. Typical in a single phase load connected across 2 phases in a 3 phase system, like a 400V lamp with ballast in a large light installation where there are 3 lamps in a unit across the 3 phases of the power, done to reduce flicker in the group and to use a 4 wire cable ( 3 phases plus PE) as power leads, plus lower phase currents.You measure there with all probes doing the readings at line voltage, so this current probe cannot be used in a power meter in such a system. you need a probe rated for the line voltage on the output as well.

author: KGB
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 02, 2015, 06:38:27 pm
content: Wow, so clean now. Thanks for the detailed explanation!
DER EE DE-19A Pocket DMM with Clamp - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: kwass
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 05:48:30 pm
content: Does anyone know where to buy one of these, other than alibaba (I'm in the US):http://www.deree.com.tw/de-19a.htm

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 05:55:02 pm
content: I have no idea, but there is this similar model you can get from TME.http://www.tme.eu/en/details/kt2000/portable-digital-multimeters/kyoritsu/kewmate-2000/#

author: Wytnucls
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 06:00:10 pm
content: This shop in Taiwan has it:http://www.icshop.com.tw/product_info.php/products_id/10106

author: kwass
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 02:29:07 am
content: Quote from: Lightages on January 30, 2015, 05:55:02 pmSimilar, but missing capacitance, frequency, higher current range and a back light.

author: kwass
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 02:30:49 am
content: Quote from: Wytnucls on January 30, 2015, 06:00:10 pmThanks! The price seems reasonable, about $83USD and they take Paypal. Now I've got to figure out how to actually place an order using Google Translate (I can't find an English language version of their site).

author: Ebivetar
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 10:00:36 am
content: http://www.globaltestsupply.com/c/393/Kyoritsu_Kew_Mate_2012R_Multimeter.htmlThis looks like the same but without backlit.Maybe DER EE are making this for Kyoritsu... This would be strange because you can find the patent by Kyroitsu on google

author: kwass
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 03:30:01 pm
content: Quote from: Ebivetar on January 31, 2015, 10:00:36 amStill seems somewhat different. The ranges are not the same, particularly frequency, and the zero adjust is a pot, not a button. Anyway, there's one nasty item on the spec sheet:Input sensitivity, current, more than 2A.This seems to imply that even though the resolution is 10ma, it's going to read zero unless you're measuring more than 2 amps. If true, that's horrible (and might apply to the DE-19A as well).Here are the specs:http://warungkopi.okezone.com/showthread.php?197067-Dijual-KYORITSU-Kew-Mate-2012R-MultimeterIs this why there aren't more open jaw current sensors out there?

author: iloveelectronics
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 03:53:41 pm
content: Quote from: kwass on January 31, 2015, 02:30:49 amFrom what I read on their website they don't seem to ship outside of Taiwan.

author: kwass
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 04:00:12 pm
content: Quote from: iloveelectronics on January 31, 2015, 03:53:41 pmThanks for letting me know, I wasn't making much progress with this potential purchase.
Elecom function generator 8016d(can't delete, moved this post to Repair forum) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: gigauser
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 05:50:05 pm
content: (At first I tried this post in Beginners forum but it didn't work with pics attached)Hi I am new guy in this forum and newbie in EEI started EE now at my 50 as a hobby and new career. I have self studied several weeks now and bought several tools including fluke175 dmm used at first and then rigol dso 1054z.Recently I found an old guy(20 or more older than me) selling this generator and Iwatsu analogue scope ss7611+4probes on a local used site. I paid the former EE guy 160k KRW(about 130 USD) and carried them 2hours back home.Yesterday I checked the scope most fine and today I checked 8016d. Its most basic functions are working but its "-20dB" button and "offset" knob doesn't make change anything. So I did this EEVblog site does and post my first post on itYou can see in my photos the leakage stains on two 1000 uF and one 4700 uF capacitors' place. I desoldered them from PCB.I am still studying basice EE, so I am not sure whether replacing them with the new ones will repair the issues.I checked the caps with my fluke175. Two 1000uF read as 1113uF and 1118uF, 4700uF reads as 5092uF. Do these result mean the two 1000uF caps are resuable even though they have stains leaked and 4700uF is not good?Anyway I am going to buy the new capacitors with the same size and solder them on the PCB to see any difference. Please recommend me better caps and advise me anything to help my repairing this generator.Thanks.DH.

author: gigauser
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 12:52:43 am
content: How can I delete this post from this forum? I reposted it on Repair forum, so I don't need this redundance.
Rigol DS2000A use EXT TRIG as source for hardware Counter? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: DIPLover
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 04:20:40 pm
content: From the DS2000A user manual, page 6-19 :Press ? Measure->Counter to select CH1, CH2 or any channel of D0-D15 as the measurement source.Besides, the signal input from the [EXT TRIG] connector can also be used as measurement source.I couldn't find anywhere in the UI that would let you select EXT TRIG as the counter sourceNot a problem I tought, I'll just use SCPI because...DS2000A Programmers manual, page 2-143 ::MEASure:COUNter:SOURceSyntax:MEASure:COUNter:SOURce <sour>:MEASure:COUNter:SOURce?DescriptionSet or query the measurement source of the frequency counter or disable the frequency counter measurement.ParameterReturn FormatThe query returns D0, D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7, D8, D9, D10, D11, D12, D13, D14, D15, CHAN1, CHAN2, EXT or OFF.But selecting EXT as a source does nothing, the measurement is always 9.9e37 (which means no signal) and querying the source returns the previous source (chan1, chan2 or off).Is there a way to use the EXT TRIG as a counter source as mentionned in both manuals?

author: Rory
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 04:58:45 pm
content: With my DS2072, (not A), using v3.00.SP1 firmware, the hardware counter works with the ext trig input but needs over 225mV p-p input using x1 probe or 2.25v p-p using x10 probe. I also found the trigger threshold setting affects counter sensitivity when trigger source is EXT.

author: DIPLover
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 05:21:41 pm
content: Ah I'm using DS2072A with 02.01 firmware.My signal is 2.5Vpp with coax cable (1x) so should not be a problem, I'll have to play with trigger level.Do you have a way to select the counter on the scope or do you use SCPI commands?

author: Rory
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 05:43:22 pm
content: Measure menu front panel setting worked for me.

author: DIPLover
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 09:38:41 pm
content: I can confirm updating to the latest firmware fixes the issue on DS2072A.EXT is available in measure menu and responds to SCPI commands correctly.Thanks for your help Rory.
Scope probe compensation at BNC or Probe, what's the difference? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: BlueBill
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 09:20:07 pm
content: I've got Oscilloscope probes that have the compensation adjustment at the BNC end and some that have it at the probe end. Is there any difference in practice where the adjustment is?Bonus question, here's a bad probe at 10x (1x works fine), it show open from end to end. Any uses for it or garbage?

author: w2aew
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 10:05:42 pm
content: In practice, there is no difference in how you adjust the compensation of the probes - regardless of which "end" the adjustment capacitor is on. It's just a difference in the internal construction/design of the probe.As for the broken probe - look like maybe the internal 9M series resistor may have opened up. You can try to repair it, or "glue" the switch in the 1X position and only use it for those infrequent applications where a 1X probe is appropriate.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 10:25:41 am
content: Bad probe = BINOr paint it pink to remind you not to trust it.Would you know when it is appropriate to use a 1x probe?Again BIN

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 12:04:18 pm
content: That probe is probably now ac coupled to a few kHz with no clue of what the impedance or bandwidth is. So maybe useful in limited cases, but not for most stuff.

author: Lightages
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 04:00:37 pm
content: I would guess that although there is no theoretical difference in the position of the compensation trim cap that there is a practical one. With a switchable probe at least, if you are going to put accessible parts in the probe, then it is the least costly to add the trim cap there. I think that this also puts the trim cap in a vulnerable position in regards to disturbance from handling in regards to temperature changes and shock. The safer and more stable place for an adjustment is at the connector to the scope. The latter costs more money. Just my guess.

author: dom0
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 06:48:01 pm
content: Well, you can use a standard RG 174 BNC connector if you don't put the compensation network there, so...Also, temperature drift hardly matters for the compensation with a standard x10 probe.Quote from: tom66 on January 31, 2015, 12:04:18 pmI would keep it, it's probably just fine to use it as a probe for e.g. a frequency counter.

author: johnny_canuck
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 01, 2015, 02:38:33 am
content: Here's the difference:https://www.dfad.com.au/links/THE%20SECRET%20WORLD%20OF%20PROBES%20OCt09.pdfKen, VE3FIT