[Test-Equipment] HP-3478A DMM (was "Bench meter recommendation")

[Edward Knobloch]

Hi

I have an HP3478A and enjoy it, but am worried about having to eventually
replace the 3V Lithium battery that powers the calibration memory chip.
Obviously, i want to replace it before it loses the calibration data.

The battery is soldered in.  Should I solder another battery  temporarily
in parallel
with the existing battery while I unsolder it?  Any pitfalls to avoid?

Thanks,
Ed Knobloch



On Sat, 07 Apr 2007  "Miles B. Anderson, K2CBY" <k2cby at optonline.net>
writes:
> I disagree with the most recent post cautioning against used test 
> equipment.
> 
> About three years ago I bought a used HP 3478A on e-bay and managed 
> to pay
> only about $125 for it including postage. I've used it ever since 
> and
> couldn't ask for a better meter. It's probably off cal on the last 
> digit,
> but even so it's way more accurate than anything else I have in the 
> shop.
> 
> 3478As seem to go on forever, and the labs that replace them do so 
> because
> they are switching to automated test equipment rather than because 
> of
> defects. They are also in good supply and cheap at the price.
> 
<snip>