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Need a Function Generator

Former Member

I am on a tight budge and need some help on purchasing or renting a function generator. I currently have a used Tektronix 2465DVS oscilloscope and need a function generator to help me troubleshoot switch mode power supplies in computers. Thanks in advance for the advice

 

 

 

Mike Smith

  • Not sure quite how tight the budget is - I have a Rigol DG1022 which I consider to be very good for the money. You can get one for £268 (excluding VAT) which compares well with Agilents starting pice of £800+ for a not quite as capable instrument.

     

    The price compares very well with the cheaper instruments listed by Farnell. You can get Rigol stuff supported if you buy from a proper UK distributor but I have had no success in getting support for GW Instek stuff outside warranty and would advise you to stay away from it.

     

    MK

  • in reply to michaelkellett

    Hey Michael Kellett, I appericate this alot you have given me a general idea on what function generator I need. I found this on ebay. I wanted to get your opion on it, if you don't mind. I found a ATTEN ATF20B DDS function generator for $245.00 US. I don't mind if it's old and used or if it's better than 20MHZ as long as it's under $250.00. I am sorry, I didn't detail that part. I also don't mind renting to own also has long has it's under $50 a month payment. One more thing that I forgot to mention, that might help you to find the right function generator for the job. I am electronic engineer that wants to open up my own home repair shop for computer repair. I need a good function generator for testing the computer power supplies aka smps.  I have a list of a additonal items I am going to need, but not a used rework station for the job. That item is next on the list. I do have a weller WTCPT 60w and solderpult.

  • in reply to Former Member

    Mike - the reviews of the ATTEN ATF20B that I found on the web were mainly very negative. On that basis I wouldn't buy one unless you have the chance to try it with no obligation to buy to check that it does what you want.

    Just out of interest - why do you need a function generator to fix power supplies - I've palyed with a few in my time and while I would consider  a scope and DMM to be essential I've never felt the need for a function generator.

     

     

    MK

  • in reply to michaelkellett

    Hey Mike, I am sorry I didn't get back to you sooner. I was busy dealing with computer issues. I appericate your feedback on a function generator. I want to personal thank you again for your time and reponses. 

  • Have you thought about a Siglent SDG1000 series (Otherwise known as the low end LeCroy's) function generator? You could probably do 25Mhz for around 260GBP. Siglent makes decent stuff and is rebranded under LeCroys low end ranges. The 5082 is around 600GBP for the base model and can do 80MHz.

  • Switch mode power supply: most of them run on 50 to 200 kHz, So one super cheap function generator can do the job, but just make sure it have PWM function (Pulse width can manually change from say: 10% to 90%). build one up may be more fun, or: buy one for 10-60V Power: USC701-2001, 110-240V Power USC701-1001 from APCS.