[Test-Equipment] HP 8640B questions

[bonddaleena at aol.com]

Hi. I have a pretty nice 8640B. Don't use it much, but last year while using it, I broke the FM slide switch. I thought it was an easy fix. NOT!
After removing the 'counter module', and not being able to even see the broken switch, I reinstalled the counter.
This was very difficult with my large hands! Must have been designed by Lucifer himself.

Now, I have another problem. I have NO output from the front N connecter on ANY setting of the attenuator. Nothing.
The counter works and I have a big, fat signal out on the rear BNC RF out connector. It is of course not adjustable in amplitude.
The output on the rear indicates the correct frequency (with an external counter) the same as the 8640B's counter.
I do have some nice attenuators that are good to over 1 gHZ, but would rather the generator function correctly.
I don't care about the FM mode, probably never use it anyway.

I was wondering if one of the miniature connectors on the bottom of the counter unit could have been damaged? 2 are the 'rigid' type and I tried many, many times to reinsert the counter assy, but had problems with the flexible coax connector preventing the unit from sitting flush. Wondering if the signal path went through the counter to the attenuator. Yes, I have a manual, but it's in a spot I can't get to right now, darn!

I have a very nice chap up in Mass. helping me on line, but thought I'd ask here as well.

Sorry to be so wordy, but...............

ron
N4UE