[R-390] HP 3589A and HP 140T

[Roy Morgan]

At 08:00 PM 8/21/2006, you wrote:
>Has anyone used either of these units as a spectrum analyzer for HF or MW? 
>I recall someone using these and am hoping that someone can let me know 
>how to use them, if they are worth using, etc.

Barry,

I've used the HP 8601A sweeper for aligning the Central Electronics 
wideband transmitters (as helper to W0YVA, who has the sweeper and is good 
at overhauling these things).  The 8601A covers from 100 kc up to 
110mc.  It's small, pretty easy to use compared to other larger HP units, 
but fairly hard to find because it's so useful and easy to use.

Of course a sweep generator plus a scope (and detector if needed) comprise 
a rudimentary spectrum analyzer system without some of the things a real 
spectrum analyzer does well.

I have a fancier, bigger sweep generator, the HP-8690B, that normally is 
found with microwave sweep heads plugged into it. Luckily, the hard to find 
low frequency plug-in is the one I have.  This thing has a slide rule 
readout the width of the unit, which is rack wide and 10-1/2 inches 
tall.  It's moderately complicated to use and somewhat confusing.  It's 
also a bear to fix if something is wrong with it.

The HP 3300A is a function generator, but with the right plug-in it will 
sweep 50/80 kc IF's just fine.  Actually, it goes from 0.01 Hz to 100 
kHz.  This is an older thing that may be available for not much money. The 
needed sweep plug in is the 3305A.  If you find a frame with a blank panel 
or another plug-in, it may be possible to get your scope sweep output to 
sweep the thing in a remote control mode.  If you can buy one at moderate 
price, don't pass it up. It will do all you need to align IF strips under 
100 kc.

Roy



- Roy Morgan, K1LKY since 1959 - Keep 'em Glowing!
NEW: 13033 Downey Mill Road
Lovettsville, VA 20180
Phone 540-822-5911
Cell 301-928-7794
Work: Voice: 301-975-3254,  Fax: 301-975-6097
roy.morgan at nist.gov --

Old address: 7130 Panorama Drive, Derwood MD 20855
Home: 301-330-8828