[Milsurplus] TS-505 and TS-352?

[Fred Olsen]

Joe Foley wrote:

> Anyone have any opinions on either of the above
> mentioned VTVM's?

Joe, I don't remember enough specifics about the TS-505 VTVM to help, 
but the TS-352 is a VOM.  As with much of this gear the original vendor 
is usually preferred.  Second-source units are often low bid production 
by less desirable manufacturers.  My preference in a 352 would be a blue 
paneled one from Phaostron.


> What's the drill on changing the BA-31 batteries to
> something more common?

Again, I can't address the 505 but it's easy in a 352.

Purchase three holders for three each AA cells, of the side by side 
variety.  Good Keystone ones from a distributor have more class but 
cheap plastic from Rat Shack will work.  Get the kind with a solder lug 
on each terminal if available.  Mount them in the battery box with foam 
mounting tape so that all nine cells are parallel.  With some thought 
given to the layout of the jumpers you can end up with the end terminals 
free for the red and green wires.  Roll the other terminals sideways so 
that you can solder them together to series each holder, then add two 
jumpers between holders to series all the cells.  Clearly mark each cell 
position for polarity!  Save the original solder lugs, and the PL 0042 
series jumpers if you still have them, in case you want to reinstall BA-31s.

It works fine; my 352 has been in use this way for years.  With BA-31s 
going for at least $2.50 each, it's even cheaper if the meter sees 
regular use.

Good luck,
Fred
-- 
<><
--
Outgoing checked by Norton AV.