Metalwork - Lathe and Mill topics: July 2025

Sunday, 27 July 2025

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Hi Mike

It is quite obvious for Analog meters, but the same has happened to ones that read in base 10 digits; one range goes bad. Perhaps those use manual ranging. I'm not even a micro expert. I don't know how any of the auto-Ranging schemes actually work, so have no idea of how such a "failure" mode can happen, but is has happened and the nearly 50% error was …eventually… diagnosed and reported on another Forum.. The failure is in the meter..Not the radio!

End …don

From: Amateur-repairs@groups.io [mailto:Amateur-repairs@groups.io] On Behalf Of Mike Dinolfo via groups.io
Sent: Saturday, July 26, 2025 10:18 PM
To: Amateur-repairs@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Don Root:

Excellent point. And analog multimeters, in particular, typically switch between different circuits, with different resistances, for different measurements. The measurements might be quite accurate on some particular range(s) or measurement(s), but wildly inaccurate on others.

I have probably a half dozen analog multimeters that I've acquired over the years. Most of them (on voltage measurements, at least) tend to agree closely with each other. But there are exceptions. I have a Simpson 260 series 2 (1960's vintage) which is great- consistent measurements, and acceptable accuracy IMO. And a Simpson 240 (vintage 1960's I _think_) which I believe was mis-wired, possibly at the factory, and even after correcting the mis-wiring is only accurate to +/- 25% on some ranges. I keep it as an interesting item, but don't use it for measurements. If you don't have a laboratory-accuracy-traceable instrument, all you can do is compare one in-hand instrument's readings to that of another, and go with it.

Analog multimeters (as one example) might be quite accurate and consistent on certain ranges but unacceptably inaccurate on other(s).

"An individual with one watch knows the time. An individual with two watches is never sure."

Mike N4MWP

On 7/26/25 19:08, don Root via groups.io wrote:

Hi David , that verifies one range on DC .. good.. but what about all the others. We have seen where people trust the meter so much than they don't believe that it is ONE input range that is "out" by a factor of 2 maybe; not exactly a "calibration" problem, but…
---don---

From: Amateur-repairs@groups.io [mailto:Amateur-repairs@groups.io] On Behalf Of David VK2CZ via groups.io
Sent: Saturday, July 26, 2025 6:12 PM
To: Amateur-repairs@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Hi Tom,
Fully agree that petrology calibration costs are prohibitive for the average punter. I use what's called a 'transfer' method to validate voltage measurements.

This involves something as simple as say a lithium button battery, where you physically take that battery to a place that has say a 7.5 digit multimeter, log the reading, then compare it to your own multimeter..

David Burger VK2CZ

--
73 don va3drl

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Should you require a voltage precision of one part per billion:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Josephson_voltage_standard

On Sun, Jul 27, 2025 at 7:15 AM John Kolb via groups.io <jlkolb=jlkolb.digitalspacemail17.net@groups.io> wrote:

Good enough to check the accuracy of voltmeters used for servicing radios. The maximum error of the AD584K is 0.1% on the 10V output, only a little worse on the others. The accuracy comes from using the precise voltage measured and recorded on the calibration label as the true output voltage. In the past, on similar voltage standards, buyers have reporting receiving 2 or more units having identical labels.

John KK6IL

On 7/26/2025 10:53 PM, jahman via groups.io wrote:

Voltage Reference Standard, $15 - https://www.ebay.com/itm/134581471379

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Good enough to check the accuracy of voltmeters used for servicing radios. The maximum error of the AD584K is 0.1% on the 10V output, only a little worse on the others. The accuracy comes from using the precise voltage measured and recorded on the calibration label as the true output voltage. In the past, on similar voltage standards, buyers have reporting receiving 2 or more units having identical labels.

John KK6IL

On 7/26/2025 10:53 PM, jahman via groups.io wrote:

Voltage Reference Standard, $15 - https://www.ebay.com/itm/134581471379

Saturday, 26 July 2025

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Voltage Reference Standard, $15 - https://www.ebay.com/itm/134581471379

On Sat, Jul 26, 2025 at 7:12 PM David VK2CZ via groups.io <16240244c1=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

Hi Tom,

Fully agree that petrology calibration costs are prohibitive for the average punter. I use what's called a 'transfer' method to validate voltage measurements.

This involves something as simple as say a lithium button battery, where you physically take that battery to a place that has say a 7.5 digit multimeter, log the reading, then compare it to your own multimeter..

David Burger VK2CZ

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Don Root:

Analog multimeters (as one example) might be quite accurate and consistent on certain ranges but unacceptably inaccurate on other(s).

"An individual with one watch knows the time. An individual with two watches is never sure."

Mike N4MWP

On 7/26/25 19:08, don Root via groups.io wrote:

Hi David , that verifies one range on DC .. good.. but what about all the others. We have seen where people trust the meter so much than they don't believe that it is ONE input range that is "out" by a factor of 2 maybe; not exactly a "calibration" problem, but…

---don---

From: Amateur-repairs@groups.io [mailto:Amateur-repairs@groups.io] On Behalf Of David VK2CZ via groups.io
Sent: Saturday, July 26, 2025 6:12 PM
To: Amateur-repairs@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Hi Tom,

Fully agree that petrology calibration costs are prohibitive for the average punter. I use what's called a 'transfer' method to validate voltage measurements.

This involves something as simple as say a lithium button battery, where you physically take that battery to a place that has say a 7.5 digit multimeter, log the reading, then compare it to your own multimeter..

David Burger VK2CZ

--
73 don va3drl

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

[Edited Message Follows]

Dave-

They still sell them. Hearing aids, I think. Air/mercury, 1.35 v. I did not know they were especially stable and dead-on for voltage.

Tom ai4th

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Dave-

They still sell them. Hearing aids, I think. Air/mercury, 1.35 v. I did not know they were especially stable and dead on vor voltage.

Tom ai4th

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Hi David , that verifies one range on DC .. good.. but what about all the others. We have seen where people trust the meter so much than they don't believe that it is ONE input range that is "out" by a factor of 2 maybe; not exactly a "calibration" problem, but…

---don---

From: Amateur-repairs@groups.io [mailto:Amateur-repairs@groups.io] On Behalf Of David VK2CZ via groups.io
Sent: Saturday, July 26, 2025 6:12 PM
To: Amateur-repairs@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Hi Tom,

Fully agree that petrology calibration costs are prohibitive for the average punter. I use what's called a 'transfer' method to validate voltage measurements.

This involves something as simple as say a lithium button battery, where you physically take that battery to a place that has say a 7.5 digit multimeter, log the reading, then compare it to your own multimeter..

David Burger VK2CZ

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Mercury batteries used to be good DC voltage standards. OSHA made certain that resource for a voltage reference became unavailable some decades ago.

They were still considered a reasonably good standard when I was in college some 55 year ago.

Dave - WØLEV

On Sat, Jul 26, 2025 at 10:12 PM David VK2CZ via groups.io <16240244c1=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

Hi Tom,

Fully agree that petrology calibration costs are prohibitive for the average punter. I use what's called a 'transfer' method to validate voltage measurements.

This involves something as simple as say a lithium button battery, where you physically take that battery to a place that has say a 7.5 digit multimeter, log the reading, then compare it to your own multimeter..

David Burger VK2CZ

Dave - WØLEV

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Hi Tom,

Fully agree that petrology calibration costs are prohibitive for the average punter. I use what's called a 'transfer' method to validate voltage measurements.

David Burger VK2CZ

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Hi Kelly,

RE "At the semiconductor manufacturer where I work my Engineering Support ….."

Interesting. I expect your instruments had a nice cushy home in terms of temp, humidity, duct corrosives, and no typical abusive people trying to test the drop-test limits of the real world. I remember in 1966,67 using Tektronix 555, and then 556 scopes with the best differential amps and probes, and often getting them re-calibrated in the lab often particularly for common mode rejection, then wheeling them 1000- feet on a cobblestone like floor.

But I guess you are speaking about 50, 60 years later?

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

At the semiconductor manufacturer where I work my Engineering Support team is in charge of all 3 design/applications labs and the Test Floor. We're preparing for our annual calibration of equipment, which consists of a vendor checking each piece of equipment to see if it is with in spec. I was talking to a couple of other engineering technicians, one of whom is my manager and is in charge of the calibration, about checking with the vendor to see if we could arrange for a time where we could get some personal equipment calibrated at an affordable price. The thought is that our company has a national contract with them to calibrate the equipment in all of our facilities in the US and that might make them willing to pass the cost saving on to some individuals. We'll see what comes of that. There are a few pieces on my home work bench that I would like to get checked, just for personal comfort.

In my experience, almost every piece of equipment passes calibration every year. We have somewhere in the neighborhood of 1,500 pieces of test equipment to be calibrated yearly. Usually we only see around a dozen pieces that fail calibration and need adjustment or repair. That's less than 0.1% of our equipment that fails to pass calibration. I have very little worry that the equipment on my bench at home is out of calibration enough for me to worry about for my personal use, but knowing that they passed calibration would make me a little more comfortable when I use them.

73 de AC7EW

Kelly

From: Amateur-repairs@groups.io <Amateur-repairs@groups.io> On Behalf Of Tom ai4th via groups.io
Sent: Saturday, 26 July, 2025 7:15
To: Amateur-repairs@groups.io
Subject: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

How do folks assure the accuracy of their test equipment? DVM, VTVM, oscilloscope could all use a good voltage standard. Signal generator and oscilloscope need frequency standards. More obscure stuff like IC testers, LC meters, etc also need verification or calibration. In my case I have stuff spanning 50 yrs and manufacturers from around the world. How do you decide what you can trust and what needs repair/replacement?

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

We had a metrology department. NIST traceable calibration is expensive and out of range of he hobbyist.

Mike N2MS

On 07/26/2025 11:17 AM EDT Bob Isselhard K5INW via groups.io <robertisselhard=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

Excellent question. There is an entire industry devoted to calibration and maintaining standards of all kinds. It's called metrology. Let's hear from some folks here who work in the field.

On Jul 26, 2025, at 9:09 AM, Mike N2MS via groups.io <mstangelo=comcast.net@groups.io> wrote:

For frequency I use two GPS disciplined oscillators.

I bought have some HP Tek and Fluke equipment when our work lab closed down. It was calibrated in 1990 by NIST traceable labs. I also have modern test equipment.

If a measurement is questionable I compare readings on various pieces of equipment.

Mike N2MS

On 07/26/2025 10:14 AM EDT Tom ai4th via groups.io <alnath14308=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

How do folks assure the accuracy of their test equipment? DVM, VTVM, oscilloscope could all use a good voltage standard. Signal generator and oscilloscope need frequency standards. More obscure stuff like IC testers, LC meters, etc also need verification or calibration. In my case I have stuff spanning 50 yrs and manufacturers from around the world. How do you decide what you can trust and what needs repair/replacement?

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

I also have a GPSDO reference for the RF related stuff. Also a vintage rubidium standard that I drag out once in a while. It may be old but it got me into the green box in a couple of FMTs. But as Mike says, having gear to cross check with is a good idea. The higher end equipment that is falling into many of our hands now is usually known to hold cal very well. At least well enough for Ham work. If you can afford two having one or two high end pieces calibrated to serve as your standards you can use the cheaper stuff as your daily drivers.

On Sat, 26 Jul 2025 11:09:25 -0400 (EDT)
"Mike N2MS via groups.io" <mstangelo=comcast.net@groups.io> wrote:

> For frequency I use two GPS disciplined oscillators.
>
> I bought have some HP Tek and Fluke equipment when our work lab closed down. It was calibrated in 1990 by NIST traceable labs. I also have modern test equipment.
>
> If a measurement is questionable I compare readings on various pieces of equipment.
>
> Mike N2MS

--

73

-Jim
NU0C

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

'Fit for purpose' is fine.All calibrations come down to that. I would just like to be able to assess whether my measures are within2%, 20%, or 200% of nominal. Reproducibility is easier to check, but I want to know at some level how close to accurate the system is.

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

Excellent question. There is an entire industry devoted to calibration and maintaining standards of all kinds. It's called metrology. Let's hear from some folks here who work in the field.

On Jul 26, 2025, at 9:09 AM, Mike N2MS via groups.io <mstangelo=comcast.net@groups.io> wrote:

For frequency I use two GPS disciplined oscillators.

I bought have some HP Tek and Fluke equipment when our work lab closed down. It was calibrated in 1990 by NIST traceable labs. I also have modern test equipment.

If a measurement is questionable I compare readings on various pieces of equipment.

Mike N2MS

On 07/26/2025 10:14 AM EDT Tom ai4th via groups.io <alnath14308=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

How do folks assure the accuracy of their test equipment? DVM, VTVM, oscilloscope could all use a good voltage standard. Signal generator and oscilloscope need frequency standards. More obscure stuff like IC testers, LC meters, etc also need verification or calibration. In my case I have stuff spanning 50 yrs and manufacturers from around the world. How do you decide what you can trust and what needs repair/replacement?

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

For frequency I use two GPS disciplined oscillators.

I bought have some HP Tek and Fluke equipment when our work lab closed down. It was calibrated in 1990 by NIST traceable labs. I also have modern test equipment.

If a measurement is questionable I compare readings on various pieces of equipment.

Mike N2MS

On 07/26/2025 10:14 AM EDT Tom ai4th via groups.io <alnath14308=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

How do folks assure the accuracy of their test equipment? DVM, VTVM, oscilloscope could all use a good voltage standard. Signal generator and oscilloscope need frequency standards. More obscure stuff like IC testers, LC meters, etc also need verification or calibration. In my case I have stuff spanning 50 yrs and manufacturers from around the world. How do you decide what you can trust and what needs repair/replacement?

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

The WWV broadcasts are good time and frequency "standards". One can also use GPS as calibration sources. Of course, we are not running a metrology lab, but for our purposes WWV is plenty adequate. GPSDOs are not "that" expensive. Mine offers at times several parts in 10^11. WWV is modulated by the Doppler introduced by the dynamic ionosphere, but plenty good enough. I believe several kit suppliers offer voltage standards at reasonable prices. Just shop around online.

Dave - WØLEV

On Sat, Jul 26, 2025 at 2:14 PM Tom ai4th via groups.io <alnath14308=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

How do folks assure the accuracy of their test equipment? DVM, VTVM, oscilloscope could all use a good voltage standard. Signal generator and oscilloscope need frequency standards. More obscure stuff like IC testers, LC meters, etc also need verification or calibration. In my case I have stuff spanning 50 yrs and manufacturers from around the world. How do you decide what you can trust and what needs repair/replacement?

Dave - WØLEV

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

I know I'll catch a lot of flak over this, but here goes.

Other than a check now and then with something as simple as a 1.5V battery to check voltage on a meter, I don't calibrate my test gear. It's as good as it is in my application.

Since I'm not lunching missiles, don't have a government contract, or work for Rob Sherwood, close enough is good 'emuff for me.

And then there is cost!

Between shipping a 50 pound HP counter to a calibration shop, and provided they will even look at this old beast, I simply can't afford a traceable to NTS standards.

I've always wondered how Paul, from Mr Carlson's lab, calibrates or pays for his equipment to be calibrated that lines his service bench.

And that leaves me with this photo. Which one is right? In the overall course of life, both are good 'enuff for fixing a 50 year old Heathkit.

Mike, WB8VGE

www.theheathkitshop.com

On Jul 26, 2025, at 10:14 AM, Tom ai4th via groups.io <alnath14308=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

How do folks assure the accuracy of their test equipment? DVM, VTVM, oscilloscope could all use a good voltage standard. Signal generator and oscilloscope need frequency standards. More obscure stuff like IC testers, LC meters, etc also need verification or calibration. In my case I have stuff spanning 50 yrs and manufacturers from around the world. How do you decide what you can trust and what needs repair/replacement?

[Amateur-repairs] Calibrating test equipment?

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Wednesday, 2 July 2025

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

OK, please, enough is enough. TOPIC CLOSED.

Let's go back to radio repairs, please.

Thanks!

73 Jose EB5AGV

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

I thought this was the amateur repair group. I guess I signed up for a different group.

"It showed us we have to care for one another, because if we don't, who will? It taught us we have to create the future, or others will do it for us."

"I blame it on the magic mushrooms." - Ianto Jones

On Wed, Jul 2, 2025, 4:55 PM Lou WA5LOU via groups.io <loueverettsr=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

It is just inappropriate for the .io groups! I would hope language like that would not be permitted in any of these groups. We are Amateur Radio Operators. We should present higher values than that; setting a good example.

Lou WA5LOU

On Wed, Jul 2, 2025 at 4:50 PM Gareth Evans via groups.io <headstone255=yahoo.com@groups.io> wrote:
Perhaps it is the difference between real English and whatever you think is English over there,
for here in Brit, "Shit" is an everyday word and not at all considered to be nasty.

As an example, there is the complaint about the non-people-oriented management style
called, "Mushroom Management" given as, "Keeping you in the dark and pouring, 'chit' (sic)
on you twice a day.".

AAMOI, there's no difference in meaning between, "Shit", "Faeces" and "Poop"; it being
ridiculous to take offence at one of them but not at the others.

YMMV

Absit Invidia.

On Wed, Jul 2, 2025 at 08:03 PM, Donald KX8K wrote:
> Yes, let's please refrain from using terms like what was used. (the shi* word)
>
> On Wed, 2 Jul 2025 09:44:16 -0400, "Lou WA5LOU via groups.io"
> <loueverettsr=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:
> >
> >Why did you have to use a nasty word?

Virus-free.www.avg.com

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

Much worse than the initial use of the word in question have been the responses. Insulting and putting down individuals and entire nations or even continents. Over a word that we all hear every day. All from people who are supposed to be friendly, expert communicators. A simple, friendly request to not use that word would likely have had MUCH better results.

I hope you all have a nice day.

Will N4JBD

On 07/02/2025 4:54 PM EDT Lou WA5LOU via groups.io <loueverettsr=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

It is just inappropriate for the .io groups! I would hope language like that would not be permitted in any of these groups. We are Amateur Radio Operators. We should present higher values than that; setting a good example.

Lou WA5LOU

On Wed, Jul 2, 2025 at 4:50 PM Gareth Evans via groups.io (http://groups.io) <headstone255=yahoo.com@groups.io> wrote:

Perhaps it is the difference between real English and whatever you think is English over there,

for here in Brit, "Shit" is an everyday word and not at all considered to be nasty.

As an example, there is the complaint about the non-people-oriented management style

called, "Mushroom Management" given as, "Keeping you in the dark and pouring, 'chit' (sic)

on you twice a day.".

AAMOI, there's no difference in meaning between, "Shit", "Faeces" and "Poop"; it being

ridiculous to take offence at one of them but not at the others.

YMMV

Absit Invidia.

On Wed, Jul 2, 2025 at 08:03 PM, Donald KX8K wrote:

> Yes, let's please refrain from using terms like what was used. (the shi* word)

>

> On Wed, 2 Jul 2025 09:44:16 -0400, "Lou WA5LOU via groups.io (http://groups.io)"

> <loueverettsr=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

> >

> >Why did you have to use a nasty word?

http://www.avg.com/email-signature?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campaign=sig-email&utm_content=webmail Virus-free.www.avg.com (http://www.avg.com/email-signature?utm_medium=email&utm_source=link&utm_campaign=sig-email&utm_content=webmail)

You just can't beat the person who never gives up.

Babe Ruth

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

It is just inappropriate for the .io groups! I would hope language like that would not be permitted in any of these groups. We are Amateur Radio Operators. We should present higher values than that; setting a good example.

Lou WA5LOU

On Wed, Jul 2, 2025 at 4:50 PM Gareth Evans via groups.io <headstone255=yahoo.com@groups.io> wrote:

Perhaps it is the difference between real English and whatever you think is English over there,
for here in Brit, "Shit" is an everyday word and not at all considered to be nasty.

As an example, there is the complaint about the non-people-oriented management style
called, "Mushroom Management" given as, "Keeping you in the dark and pouring, 'chit' (sic)
on you twice a day.".

AAMOI, there's no difference in meaning between, "Shit", "Faeces" and "Poop"; it being
ridiculous to take offence at one of them but not at the others.

YMMV

Absit Invidia.

On Wed, Jul 2, 2025 at 08:03 PM, Donald KX8K wrote:
> Yes, let's please refrain from using terms like what was used. (the shi* word)
>
> On Wed, 2 Jul 2025 09:44:16 -0400, "Lou WA5LOU via groups.io"
> <loueverettsr=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:
> >
> >Why did you have to use a nasty word?

Virus-free.www.avg.com

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

Well, that explains a lot.

Alan

AK6MF

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

Perhaps it is the difference between real English and whatever you think is English over there,
for here in Brit, "Shit" is an everyday word and not at all considered to be nasty.

As an example, there is the complaint about the non-people-oriented management style
called, "Mushroom Management" given as, "Keeping you in the dark and pouring, 'chit' (sic)
on you twice a day.".

AAMOI, there's no difference in meaning between, "Shit", "Faeces" and "Poop"; it being
ridiculous to take offence at one of them but not at the others.

YMMV

Absit Invidia.

On Wed, Jul 2, 2025 at 08:03 PM, Donald KX8K wrote:
> Yes, let's please refrain from using terms like what was used. (the shi* word)
>
> On Wed, 2 Jul 2025 09:44:16 -0400, "Lou WA5LOU via groups.io"
> <loueverettsr=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:
> >
> >Why did you have to use a nasty word?

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

Yes, let's please refrain from using terms like what was used. (the shi* word)

Donald KX8K

On Wed, 2 Jul 2025 09:44:16 -0400, "Lou WA5LOU via groups.io"
<loueverettsr=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

>
>Why did you have to use a nasty word?

----------------------------------------------------
Some ham radio groups you may be interested in:
https://groups.io/g/ICOM https://groups.io/g/Ham-Antennas
https://groups.io/g/HamRadioHelp https://groups.io/g/Baofeng
https://groups.io/g/CHIRP https://rf-amplifiers.groups.io/g/main

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

On Tue, 01 Jul 2025 18:46:40 -0700, "Alan Majeski via groups.io"
<arcadiaresearchgroup=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

>
>Very funny Jim :)

I enjoyed it, too. I worked in engineering at the Kenworth factory in Ohio.

Donald KX8K

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

Lou, you have to forgive people that are lacking in education, and get their words out of the gutter.

Most people grow out of it.

Was that really funny? Anyone.??

don

From: Amateur-repairs@groups.io [mailto:Amateur-repairs@groups.io] On Behalf Of Lou WA5LOU via groups.io
Sent: Wednesday, July 2, 2025 9:44 AM
To: Amateur-repairs@groups.io
Subject: Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

Why did you have to use a nasty word?

Lou WA5LOU

On Wed, Jul 2, 2025 at 7:00 AM Gareth Evans via groups.io <headstone255=yahoo.com@groups.io> wrote:

On Wed, Jul 2, 2025 at 02:02 AM, Alan Majeski wrote:
> I find it interesting that there are still opinions as to what field an
> engineer should work in or not.

Field? Certainly not in animal pasture where the faecal droppings are up to
one's knees :-)

Which reminds me of the comment by a dyed-in-the-wool tradionalist radio ham ...

Amplitude Modulation (AM) is like a horse pulling two farm carts side by side
with a ton of animal droppings in each cart.

With Single Sideband (SSB)***** you don't have a horse and you've only got
one cart but you get just as much shit :-)

***** Yes, I know that SSB is a form of AM

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

Sanitation engineer vs. Aeronautical engineer...

Years ago my mentor made a joke about executive leadership, and their lack of comprehension regarding the difference between engineering and facility management.

Executive: "How is it that the project is under budget and yet the schedule keeps slipping to the right? I just looked up your site staffing report and there are over 400 engineers!"

Chief of Engineering: "Sir. Most of those engineers report to Sanitation, not R&D."

Executive: "What's your point?"

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

Why did you have to use a nasty word?

Lou WA5LOU

On Wed, Jul 2, 2025 at 7:00 AM Gareth Evans via groups.io <headstone255=yahoo.com@groups.io> wrote:

On Wed, Jul 2, 2025 at 02:02 AM, Alan Majeski wrote:
> I find it interesting that there are still opinions as to what field an
> engineer should work in or not.

Field? Certainly not in animal pasture where the faecal droppings are up to
one's knees :-)

Which reminds me of the comment by a dyed-in-the-wool tradionalist radio ham ...

Amplitude Modulation (AM) is like a horse pulling two farm carts side by side
with a ton of animal droppings in each cart.

With Single Sideband (SSB)***** you don't have a horse and you've only got
one cart but you get just as much shit :-)

***** Yes, I know that SSB is a form of AM

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

I would wonder what his idea of what FM deviation would be? Lol

Richard W4MCD

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

On Wed, Jul 2, 2025 at 02:02 AM, Alan Majeski wrote:
> I find it interesting that there are still opinions as to what field an
> engineer should work in or not.

Field? Certainly not in animal pasture where the faecal droppings are up to
one's knees :-)

Which reminds me of the comment by a dyed-in-the-wool tradionalist radio ham ...

Amplitude Modulation (AM) is like a horse pulling two farm carts side by side
with a ton of animal droppings in each cart.

With Single Sideband (SSB)***** you don't have a horse and you've only got
one cart but you get just as much shit :-)

***** Yes, I know that SSB is a form of AM

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Tuesday, 1 July 2025

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

Dave. Thank you. I'll check them out. I appreciate your help. Craig

Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS

On Monday, June 30, 2025, 3:57 PM, David Crowell via groups.io <ka1edp=yahoo.com@groups.io> wrote:

Hi Craig,

Re EICO 324 tuning.

I am able to tune my 324 to the frequency I need (HF range) with no problem. I have the output connected to an old freq counter.

Have you tried cleaning / lubricating the bearings in the variable cap? If this doesn't work, you could try attaching a vernier drive.

Here are a couple of lower priced ones I saw on eBay:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/256887310681

https://www.ebay.com/itm/276887948394

I used something like this on another rig with good results.

73,

Dave KA1EDP

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

Craig, I am glad to help, let me know how it works out.

Alan

AK6MF

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

Alan. I will research that hp series. Thanks again for the help and information. Take care. Craig

Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS

On Monday, June 30, 2025, 6:04 PM, Alan Majeski via groups.io <arcadiaresearchgroup=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

Craig

As I recall, HP used the same setup on their 200 series oscillators. You can fabricate one using a long shaft potentiometer and a rubber grommet.

make sure the potentiometer is the type with the metal housing held on by folded metal tabs.

make sure the grommet fits snuggly on the shaft of the potentiometer, I am sure you can see where I am going with this.

disassemble the potentiometer and discard the housing which holds the resistive wire element

cut the wiper end off of the shaft with a hacksaw, keep the shaft as long as possible, you can trim it later after the final fit.

file off the burrs and reinstall the shaft into the potentiometer collar and push the grommet onto the shaft at the end where the element used to be. The knob goes on the other end.

once you see how this works, it is a simple task to determine proper placement and drill the hole for mounting the home made vernier.

I hope this helps

73

--

Alan

AK6MF

Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

Very funny Jim :)

Alan

AK6MF

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

I am reminded of this old joke:

https://www.adamsmith.org/blog/miscellaneous/joke-of-the-day-4

On Tue, 01 Jul 2025 18:02:33 -0700
"Alan Majeski via groups.io" <arcadiaresearchgroup=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

> I find it interesting that there are still opinions as to what field an engineer should work in or not.
> Engineering is Engineering period.
> --
> Alan
> AK6M

--

73

-Jim
NU0C

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

I find it interesting that there are still opinions as to what field an engineer should work in or not.

Engineering is Engineering period.

Alan

AK6M

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

An electrical engineer designing to a price point might use the moving vane method. :D

On Tue, 01 Jul 2025 07:54:53 -0700
"Gary WB6OGD via groups.io" <winbladgary=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

> Sounds like a solution a Mechanical Engineer would come up with! Same kind of gadget is in my HP 8640B.
>
> An Electrical Engineer would add a varactor diode (or just any diode) and a potentiometer.

--

73

-Jim
NU0C

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

On Mon, Jun 30, 2025 at 06:34 PM, Jim Shorney wrote:

grounded metal vane on a rotating shaft

Sounds like a solution a Mechanical Engineer would come up with! Same kind of gadget is in my HP 8640B.

An Electrical Engineer would add a varactor diode (or just any diode) and a potentiometer. Also, that would give

you the option to easily add a "huff and puff" type frequency stabilizer. The old Eico would get actually useful.

73,

Gary

WB6OGD

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Re: [Amateur-repairs] Old test eqpt? Chuck it? Refurbish it?

Hi all,

The real Achilles heel of those analyzers is the flyback transformer. Long ago I had spare kits for them and, trust me, they sold like hot cakes!. Now it is just unobtanium. Another failure points are the OM-345, OM-350 and OM-360/370 amplifiers. But for those there are still some replacement assemblies sold online. I sold also the original ones for a long time and still have some of the models. When they fail, the error codes come in groups, sometimes all and every one.

All in all, I still have a 2955B and is a great instrument, even if the ones I use daily are the the R&S CMTs

73 Jose EB5AGV

El 01/07/2025 a las 9:18, jahman via groups.io escribió:

Well, you're in luck!

Marconi 2955 Communication Service Monitor
$1,990 - https://www.ebay.com/itm/284689545136

$1,950 - https://www.ebay.com/itm/356941529543

$1,750 - https://www.ebay.com/itm/356583617089

$1,523 - https://www.ebay.com/itm/286439999912

$1,340 - https://www.ebay.com/itm/386832700583

73 de Andrew/N5ASE

-0-

On Tue, Jul 1, 2025 at 2:56 AM maxwelloau via groups.io <maxwelloau=gmail.com@groups.io> wrote:

At an Amateur convention recently I picked up two Marconi 2955 units that had been stored in farmer brown's shed for years.

1) All self test failed. Required 4x 4k7 resistors + 2x 220uf 25V capacitors. Unit is in calibration when compared to a 2024 NATA calibrated 2955R and Agilent E4421B signal generator.

2) Full of millipede carcases. No corrosion except small section on rear panel, was fully operational (some scope waveform trigger problems). Old FW was updated but had to include the CAL chip all from another unit. Scope problem was edge connector cleaning. So some calibration was required and manually its a painful process but as my time is retired and worth Zero, its a labour of love.

A testament to the good design Marconi, their designers and the reliability of normal components like R, C, IC and relays. I marvel at the green CRT quality and both 100% usable after 30+ years.

End result is two units destined for the metal scrap bin are now usable and in fact more than very good. Sought after for anyone testing RF and radio equipment.

With the good info from groups.io and using the technician brain you cant beat repairable in my books.

maxwelloau

--   73 EB5AGV - JOSE V. GAVILA - La Canyada - Valencia (SPAIN)     http://agvradio.com  AGVradio     http://jvgavila.com  Personal WEB