$5 Scope to Curve Tracer Conversion with PCB Files
Added 2017-11-02 03:23:09 +0000 UTCHere are the steps involved to make a $5 oscilloscope into an extremely useful piece of test equipment. I share my design thoughts, schematics, and circuit board layouts with you in this video.
Patreon NEW LIST of Videos: https://www.patreon.com/posts/8239565
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Link to previous YouTube video: https://youtu.be/5eS8hx8lYF8
This is video #29, include this when requesting attachments.
Below are the attachments which include the PCB layout, component map, and the schematic for the power supply.
Comments
Well we must be using diffract sites. i have accounts with RS and Farnell, CPC and most of them in the UK, been ringing round and none of them stock them.
phil radford
2024-02-24 16:10:02 +0000 UTC@Phil-Radford. Answers for your questions on the forum: The fact that the final voltage rails are now at 17.5V (in the final build) instead of original 15V is because is better suited for the final product but I don't think is overly critical because for my build I use around 16V instead (due to my transformers secondary voltage limit) and works as normal. No issues there whatsoever. As for the 2 resistors because they are indeed kind of....a speciality but as a general idea when you need special components like in this always look at the big and well known component suppliers (on line) such as Farnell, Mouser, DigiKey, RS Components etc. There are the links for the 2 resistors. Both found and currently in stock at Mouser: for the 7.06K Ohms: -------> https://www.mouser.co.uk/ProductDetail/Vishay-Dale/RN60C7061DB14?qs=5SmAVrqc189T8878TwIV1g%3D%3D and for the 706 Ohms: -------> https://www.mouser.co.uk/ProductDetail/KOA-Speer/MF1-4DC7060F?qs=sGAEpiMZZMsPqMdJzcrNwjcgh9JB5BIJEv6Wv0GRwB8%3D Just order those and it should be fine. My build uses the very exact same resistors. I hope it helps.
Ovi4
2024-02-23 19:46:25 +0000 UTCLove the project. I have an old RCA W)-88A I want to do this with. Where is the rest of the project? I have searched a lot but can't find where you installed it all in the scope?
Tommy
2024-02-14 17:38:33 +0000 UTCThat is absolutely amazing work you have done Mr C
Richard Johnson
2022-11-26 19:58:39 +0000 UTCWish you all the best.. thank you
LoSaYa
2022-10-11 22:27:15 +0000 UTCSuccess! I found a dual output power supply board on aliexpress - SM-FLA17A for $4.29 that's about the same size as Paul's supply board. It's a switching supply so technically noisier but it seems to do fine. I also picked up an RCA scope Model 89353 - also called a model 54-45 that's very similar to the one Paul uses. Changing the slide switch on it was challenging and I was able to find places to mount the two PCB's just as Paul did.
Bruce Anderson
2022-02-12 17:21:04 +0000 UTCThis circuit is simple enough that you should be able to draw it with a sharpie on the copper board. sharpies act as etch resistant pens. If the traces get a little tight, you could always add a jump wire for those sections. Amazon, electrical supplies, tool supplies. Nothing special about them
Golf League Tracker
2022-01-28 20:27:37 +0000 UTCQuestions about DIY circuit boards. 1-How do you go about making these circuit boards if you don't have a laser printer? 2-Where do you get those SMALL drill bits at?
Kelly Van Buskirk
2021-11-23 06:13:41 +0000 UTCHas anyone identified the power supply transformer Paul has used that matches with the PC Board files?
Kurt Fleischer
2021-08-21 10:18:20 +0000 UTCLT1054 perhaps? TI or Analog depending on your bent. https://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/lt1054.pdf or https://www.analog.com/media/en/technical-documentation/data-sheets/LT1054-1054L.pdf
Michael Grey
2021-05-31 02:28:13 +0000 UTCI've tried twice and can't seem to get my board to etch near as good as you. Do you have any secrets??? Tips or hints.
Chris Jolly
2021-01-27 19:57:00 +0000 UTCThe XR1468CN is now rare as Hens teeth . Possible subs are Texas Instruments TPS7A39 or Linear LTC3265 . However , you will need to learn surface mount since these aren't made in DIP packages.
Timothy A Holder
2021-01-14 03:47:14 +0000 UTCHi Paul, here in Manila, we don't have access to vintage oscilloscope. What we have here is the DSO138 & the like oscilloscope. I wish that you feature a way to connect the curve tracer to that oscilloscope.
Allan C. Reyes
2020-12-03 09:10:20 +0000 UTCDoes anybody know if somebody has created a parts list or do I just need to build my own??? Found the XR1468CN's on NewEgg FYI.
Chris Jolly
2020-11-29 20:10:43 +0000 UTCThe 1468/1568 has almost become unobtainium since the post of this project.
Casey Scott
2020-11-13 17:42:11 +0000 UTCHello everyone. Have an old heathkit scope and decided to do this. I built the power supply and I'm having one issue. The transformer I used is 115 primary and 10 volt secondary. Tested before I install the xr1468 ic and the dc voltage is at 34vdc. (no load) Data sheet says max input voltage is 30vdc. Will the 34vdc blow the chip? I'm not an engineer. Is there a way to lower the input without a complete redesign or getting a new transformer? Thanks for any help.
David Elsea
2020-11-04 18:02:10 +0000 UTClook up a program called sprint layout. you could use it to edit his smd layout to through-hole fairly easily
Sean Guercio
2020-08-10 13:10:53 +0000 UTCI found a EICO 435 Scope has room inside for the curve tracer. similar sixe to the RCA 33a & RCA 33B. It has two Can multi capacitors. A 20-20-20 which I found a modern replacement from a Guitar restoration website. the second is a 40-40-300. This will be replaced with separate components. all are 450V.
Robert Hollingsworth
2020-05-08 15:21:27 +0000 UTCsoo good that you at the end of the video realizing/saying we need to this and that. from my point of view that brings a bit more of presence. thanks for sharing all of your knowledge.
Tobbe Gustafsson
2020-04-08 00:31:30 +0000 UTCI know this may be a dumb comment. I'm not as advanced as most of you. Is it possible to make a through hole design so someone like me could build this? I don't know how to do SMD.
jared petrovic
2020-03-28 20:58:15 +0000 UTCOk, it was the negative rail charge pump ripple at 2 MHz. A 0.1uF cap got rid of it. Now it's good.
Gianluca Tovo
2020-03-02 21:57:51 +0000 UTCIt was built on a breadboard with a 9+9 Vac trasformer. I tried to switch the capacitors on the two rails without success.
Gianluca Tovo
2020-02-28 23:47:43 +0000 UTCHi Paul, I realized the power source with the 1468 but it seems to have ripple on the negative out https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z3WuGtSI2wRGjqalPWuJPJTpR-Higdi3/view?usp=drivesdk it's that possible?
Gianluca Tovo
2020-02-28 23:35:08 +0000 UTCSorry but I cannot downoad the files, my fault or something wrong there?
Gianluca Tovo
2020-02-06 07:34:00 +0000 UTCAfter building the power supply I can't reduce negative supply bellow 18.5 volts with positive at 17.5. Everything seems right can anyone point me in the right direction to troubleshoot this.
lessthanzero
2019-09-28 17:07:25 +0000 UTCIt is incredibly helpful to have an original older unit side by side with the newly recapped and modified one.
Terry Maurice
2019-09-17 22:40:03 +0000 UTCPicked up a NRI 2500 to use as a curve tracer but found it has a fixed horizontal sensitivity of .1v / div. with 10 divisions. Any thoughts on modifications for a variable gain?
Robert Haymore
2019-05-17 03:47:49 +0000 UTCHi David. You will find that you may need to make a horizontal and vertical amplifier to use that scope. Other than that, it will work.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2019-05-05 00:36:54 +0000 UTCHi Paul, I have a Heathkit IO-1128 Vector Monitor for aligning CRT television sets. I am considering re-purposing it into your Curve Tracer project. But before I destroy a piece of Heathkit history, I would like to ask; can you think of a reason why I would not want to do this? Thanks and keep up the good work!
Ozy
2019-05-04 18:58:35 +0000 UTCThis is one that I am definitely going to build, because I always wanted a curve tracer. Now I just need a $5 'scope. :-)
Bruce Dow
2019-04-25 18:07:57 +0000 UTCAlso I wanted to mention here that when I was learning electronics troubleshooting I was taught to discharge capacitors at least 3 times with a pause of a few seconds between shorting. Mr. Carlson what do you think of this method?
AERVBlog
2019-03-12 00:00:41 +0000 UTCJust a little bit of FYI. I recently did a stupid and tested some components in a circuit with the curve tracer and did not make sure that the capacitors were fully discharged and poof, there went the font end of the curve tracer. I tore it all apart and pulled out the blown up TL074. That is when I remembered that I had used a TL084 instead. I was never able to get a really good trace when I aligned the unit but when I replaced the 84 with a 74 everything worked out just like Mr. Carlson's unit displayed. So I guess you can't use a TL084 instead of a TL074. All is good now.
AERVBlog
2019-03-11 23:58:38 +0000 UTCRosin flux is sometimes regarded as "liquid cancer" however no conclusive reports on this matter are found. Some reports highlight its direct relation to pulmonary diseases. Please read these: <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6707774" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6707774</a> <a href="http://www.hse.gov.uk/lung-disease/electronics-soldering.htm" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">http://www.hse.gov.uk/lung-disease/electronics-soldering.htm</a> and be careful.
Daniel Melendrez
2019-03-11 16:08:42 +0000 UTCDo you have a schematic for this replacement board? :-)
Staffan Hamala
2019-03-04 13:46:42 +0000 UTCThe LT3032MPDE has a completely different pinout
Staffan Hamala
2019-03-04 13:45:31 +0000 UTCJust realized the XR1468CN can not be found. I don't want to order from China (= too long delivery time,. taxes and so on = expensive). Also the China ones are probably fakes. Not sure if it matters here, but I have seen the difference between the fake (=China) XR2206 and the real one (available on youtube), so I'm a bit concerned with using China parts.
Staffan Hamala
2019-03-04 12:50:21 +0000 UTCI'm about to place an order for parts that I missed last time (I ordered everything in all parts lists for the curve tracer, wien oscillator, capacitor leakage tester and capacitor drain projects - but have now realized that some of the projects didn't have parts lists). I have one question. On the Power supply PCB, there are a few SMD resistors as well as SMD jumpers. Will 1206 size work?
Staffan Hamala
2019-03-04 12:41:34 +0000 UTCI am lost on the rerouting of the capacitors when I remove the can caps. Three of the 22 uf are labelled but not the 40s (really 39s in modern form) and the 6.8 (linked 10 and 20). Can somebody tell me the order? Maybe start with the 22 on the left side and then go clockwise. Thanks in advance.
Richard Weisman
2019-01-26 20:00:22 +0000 UTCIt would be a great candidate. I have one as well that may become a curve tracer for a different bench.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2019-01-21 17:36:43 +0000 UTCHi Paul, great project and one I need to get up and running sooner than later as I have an amplifier here which is giving me a hard time, so maybe this will help me to sort it! I have an option to purchase a Heathkit IO-21 scope - would this be a suitable candidate for the curve tracer? Many thanks.
Kiwi FM
2019-01-21 09:22:41 +0000 UTCHard to find in the USA also. I just got back from the Hamfest and nobody had any. I am going to use RS Pro #655-9621 bulbs. You may be able to find some of them.
Robert Calk Jr.
2019-01-19 15:38:12 +0000 UTCHi Wayne, could you give me symbol of IC that you used to build power supply?
WSlomo
2019-01-19 10:16:29 +0000 UTCWSlomo Hi Paul, I noticed big problem to buy 7380 bulb and also IC(XR1468CN or MC1468L or SG1468N) in Europe. When you prepare future projects could you give list of replacement component that also include parts available in EU please.
WSlomo
2019-01-19 10:14:31 +0000 UTCHi Simone, the DigiKey part # is: 1993-1117-ND
Mr Carlson's Lab
2019-01-15 11:29:42 +0000 UTCHi Paul, I'm building the Curve Tracer board, can you please tell me where did you buy your trimmer? I have 10mm trimmer here in Italy but the doesn't fit.. Thank you very much!
Simone Valmacco
2019-01-14 22:12:35 +0000 UTCHi Kelly. I joined the internal sync wires, and capped off (removed) the ext sync wires.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2019-01-13 14:50:04 +0000 UTCJust re watched the video and was wondering where the original wiring went that was connected to the vertical input and the sych switch? Did you remove it from the scope or just cut them and cap off?
Kelly Van Buskirk
2019-01-12 01:16:12 +0000 UTCI have had some good luck with eBay
IDIOT WITH A SOLDERING IRON
2019-01-03 18:59:30 +0000 UTCThis curve tracer is a bit of kit I could really use. I currently have a textronix 434 scope would you suggest this add-on to my current bench scope? Also my scope have a +15v -15v power supply in it already. could I tap off that or use a buck converter to get 17.5v rails?
IDIOT WITH A SOLDERING IRON
2019-01-03 18:58:45 +0000 UTCAny reason why +\- 17,5V was used? I have a finished +\-15V supply ready to go. Will it suffice?
Adriaan Diedericks
2019-01-03 09:01:13 +0000 UTCWhere might a person find these types of Oscilloscopes??
Kenneth Shostad
2019-01-02 06:48:23 +0000 UTCi have a 5" crt mini tv could that be used ?
Phill Jones
2019-01-01 20:31:14 +0000 UTCDo you think an old EICO 460 Oscilloscope would make a good curve tracer?
Wendell Jackson
2018-12-30 03:38:16 +0000 UTCAfter watching the video on items to stock up on, I found my answer. They are .47 uf. Sometimes I amaze my own self :)
Michael Calhoun
2018-12-18 04:59:24 +0000 UTCHi Paul, Finally found a nice RCA oscilloscope so I'm starting the build. First issue I ran into is the 4 caps you use to replace the .5 uf 1000 wvdc. I cannot locate them by the markings on the caps in the video. Tried researching the calculations to come up with .47 uf but no luck. Looks like we have to know if all the caps are connected in series/ parallel, or if just some are connected series/parallel, cant really see that in the video. It appears they are all connected series/parallel. I've tried doing the calculations for series/parallel, series + parallel = total capacitance but haven't found the correct numbers to come up with .47uf. Can you or anyone here offer any assistance? Thanks in advance, Michael
Michael Calhoun
2018-12-17 22:35:07 +0000 UTCHi Paul, I see from the excellent videos that the 7380 Lamp is vital to the circuit. I am based in the UK and can not find this filament part number this side of the Atlantic. Postage from the USA would end up with the small component costing more than the rest of the circuit put together. Is there an alternative I could use and if so what changes to the circuit would have to be made. Thank you for all the knowledge you are passing on to people like me.
Wayne Newton
2018-12-02 02:44:13 +0000 UTCThat would work great Simone.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-11-27 23:43:25 +0000 UTCHi, what do you think to use an Hameg HM207 scope to build a Curve tracer? thank you very much!
Simone Valmacco
2018-11-27 21:56:02 +0000 UTCIf the scope has an external horizontal input, it will work just fine.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-11-20 09:18:25 +0000 UTCPaul, I have a Tekronix T935a 35 mhz scope with dual trace. Would it be good with these circuits mounted externally? Thanks,Cory
CORY KUEBER
2018-11-19 21:26:43 +0000 UTCLots of variables here. 9-0-9 would make 18 Volts, then rectified and filtered to around 25 "no load Volts" So you would end up "with load" about 21 or 22 Volts. This is if they have wound them to your exact line Voltage. You may need to get this transformer, or the 10-0-10. It's hard to say, purchase both and experiment. The unregulated DC Voltage at the filter cap for the XR1468 should be about 5 to 7 Volts above the regulated output when loaded. There is a small margin here as the max Voltage allowed at the input of the IC is +- 30 Volts. You can make a larger supply if space isn't an issue. You can also use larger regulators like the 7815 and 7915 as well.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-11-19 17:33:35 +0000 UTCThats not a good idea without a shunt resistor. You are effectively creating what is called a "shunt regulator." Zener diodes directly to the rectified DC line is a bad idea without the proper series resistor.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-11-19 17:15:40 +0000 UTCRegarding the transformer, what current rating is required? Also, if all I have access to is a 12-0-12 transformer, could I use a zener clamp circuit on the transformer output (after the rectifiers) to bring the voltage down to the specified level?
SwapPart
2018-11-19 05:07:24 +0000 UTCHi Poul. Just a quick question, since I've finally made a successfull pcb. The transformer for the built, since it doesn't seem to be easy to get a 230/240VAC to 10-0-10, would it then be best to downgrade to a 9-0-9VAC or to go 12-0-12VAC ? Best regards Dennis
Dennis Andersn
2018-11-18 20:25:11 +0000 UTCHi Greg. Some digital scopes are really bad in X/Y mode. I have Tek scopes that don't do it well. The only thing I can say is, you would have to try it to verify. Some simple scopes won't even do X/Y.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-11-17 22:14:00 +0000 UTCPaul, I have to ask, as vintage scopes in AU are very over priced in Australia, could you use this with something simple like a DSO138 or DSO150 scope do you think ; with the device specifically configured for curve tracer operation only?
Greg Winfield
2018-11-17 21:28:25 +0000 UTCPaul is using a dim bulb tester as a current limiting device, in addition to the variac. If there is a short in the device under test, the lightbulb in the DBT will soak up most of the current, limiting the current available to damage the tubes or SS chips, while giving a visual indication that there is a problem. Seeing the DBT indicate a problem, the power can be shut off before there is time for serious damage to be done. Powering the device up without the variac would also carry a risk of causing the same damage, if it were done without a DBT.
Jonathan Hendry
2018-11-16 18:04:41 +0000 UTCI have lots of MC1468G
God 420
2018-11-16 16:23:13 +0000 UTCHi I'm new to your site although I have spent many a evening viewing your great videos and have built a few of your projects. I just completed the curve tracer which works very well except that my meter readout is much lower than what I see at the probe. A 5.1v Zener reads less than 3.5v but displays correctly on the scope. Also, unless I missed it, you haven't discussed the mods to your single trace scope to provide the horizontal and xy component. I'm currently using my 4 channel but would like to dedicate my old B&K to the task. Many thanks for all your great work.
Richard J Anderson
2018-11-15 05:25:04 +0000 UTCWhere do you find these $5 components? I'm an Ordained Minister and have a Senior Ministry in which I help others in need. One of the seniors I'm helping has an old hot tub that's malfunctioning. After removing the cover plate I found a rodent used the inside of the case for dog food storage. There are several resistors and a couple capacitors that are clearly burned out. I would like to buy one of these to convert into a signature tracer, to troubleshoot the circuit board, then replace the blown components...
Kenneth Shostad
2018-11-14 03:06:33 +0000 UTC12-0-12 would give 24 Volts AC end to end. When rectified, much higher. The target DC should be about 24 Volts. For this, you will need 16 to 18 Volts AC, this depending on the transformer design.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-09-24 21:17:33 +0000 UTCYou may experience crossover distortion with those OP-AMPs. I would stick to the original design.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-09-24 21:13:34 +0000 UTCI wonder if an LM325N or LM326N substitute acceptably?
Mark Oates
2018-09-24 20:55:42 +0000 UTCPart number for the Transformer? Footprint type? Correct me if im wrong, but Id think a center tap 24vac transformer (12v-0-12v) would work as well, since the IC can take up to 30v? But obviously the footprint wont match the pcb and id kinda like to have all this on a nice pcb. So any direction would be appreciated, Thanks.
Mark Oates
2018-09-24 19:29:00 +0000 UTCHi Clive. This can be fitted into, or externally added to almost any scope.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-08-20 02:43:11 +0000 UTCOops I think I missed an an earlier video.
Clive Mkulu
2018-08-19 08:58:06 +0000 UTCHi Paul, I have been here a little while after following you on youtube. Can this attachment be fitted externally to any scope? I see there are a few kits on Amazon but I don't trust them.
Clive Mkulu
2018-08-18 21:14:12 +0000 UTCBTW, if found this list of vacuum tubes/functions very interesting <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_vacuum_tubes" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_vacuum_tubes</a>
Stephen Martin
2018-07-29 23:10:24 +0000 UTCQ) An experienced old-timer (older than me haha), warned me NOT to use a Variac to test a device (tube or solid-state, or combo) applying low voltage AC and then increasing; which is what I thought they were for. Said tube plates could overheat, and ss chips could complain and get damaged. In the linked video, I saw you do exactly what I thought was appropriate. The old-timer is no fool, so maybe you could comment/adivse on what he might be talking about? (another video idea?) Or, maybe, the amount of time on the Variac at lower voltage should be considered? Thx.
Stephen Martin
2018-07-29 21:40:50 +0000 UTCViewed the video linked in the comments. Fantastic explanation on the schematic. So helpful.
Stephen Martin
2018-07-29 21:35:32 +0000 UTCAs long as the DC out to the main board doesn't exceed 17.5 Volts. The input to the regulator should not exceed 24-25 Volts. The more drop across the regulator, the hotter it will get.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-06-29 08:42:42 +0000 UTCHi sir Paul! if I build power supply of a curve tracer, 220v primary and 0,24v secondary with 500 mA, it just fine? Thank you.
Escabusa Roy
2018-06-29 03:34:03 +0000 UTCYes this will work on most scopes with an XY function. The IO-17 sounds like a perfect candidate :^)
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-06-14 02:08:43 +0000 UTCHello Paul, is this design for oscilloscopes that have the XY function? I have the old style analog with one vertical and one horizontal posts, no bells and whistles on the Heathkit IO-17 200 khz, this might have been built before Sputnik was launched :)
Emerald Pawn
2018-06-13 16:49:57 +0000 UTCLiquid paper.... It's that simple. Paint the liquid paper into the grove where the original line was, wait for the liquid paper to dry and scrape off the excess with your fingernail.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-06-02 03:29:42 +0000 UTCWhat's your method & materials for repainting the white line on knobs? I've got a couple on my current project that need new lines. Thanks!
Coyt Barringer
2018-06-01 02:56:07 +0000 UTCPaul, Thank you for your time first off love watching the videos. I am just getting started in electronics. with that being said I bought my first oscilloscope it is a digital 200Mhz 2 channel Hantek. It is what my budget would allow. My question is will this circuit work on it or do I need to find an analog scope for this? I have a bunch of different parts I would like to test to see what they are and their values. I have tried part number look ups it worked for some but not all.
Brandon Culver
2018-05-31 21:14:30 +0000 UTCHi David. External horizontal and vertical inputs on most older scopes will furnish enough gain through the internal amplifiers. The SB-610 is a monitor scope that "may not" have enough gain due to the lack of internal amplification. This can be solved by adding a simple triode amplifier if needed.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-05-25 14:22:05 +0000 UTCPaul, I read through all these comments and when it comes to identifying alternatives to the WO-33A that will work, I believe the two major requirements (based on your responses) is that it's capable of XY function and that it has enough vertical and horizontal amplitude sensitivity. I am trying to figure out how, when looking at a scope at a hamfest or online, I can make those determinations if there's no explicit X/Y mode (as some scopes have). For example, looking at the front of the W0-33A, I don't see any references to X or Y. Was it the fact that it has two separate inputs for vertical and horizontal that suggests it can do X/Y? What made you think the SB-610 might not have enough sensitivity? Or did you just happen to know this from having owned one? Thank you.
David Berlind
2018-05-25 14:09:48 +0000 UTCVery good David. Both the vertical and horizontal sections have to be "up to speed" so to say. The vertical bandwidth, and the horizontal time base both have to be quick.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-05-23 17:48:49 +0000 UTCHi Paul. Another question... I watched the prequel to this video and took copious notes.. .especially on how the oscilloscope works. I actually have an old book from RCA that explains the principles of o'scope operation and so your explanation really put it in more practical terms. Here's my question: are the old CRTs in TVs and computer monitors flipped 90 degrees realtive to how they're turned in a oscope? The reason I ask is that I'm guessing the speed of the travel of the dot is comparable to what is often discussed in TV and CRT monitor terms as the refresh rate (which more specifically is the vertical refresh rate). It occured to me that those devices are refreshing vertically but oscilloscopes are essentially refreshing horizontally. If so, could it be said that the MHz rating of an oscope is the equivalent of the horizontal refresh rate? Thank you.
David Berlind
2018-05-22 20:37:02 +0000 UTCPaul owns a purpose built Tektronix Curve Tracer. They go for about $3,000-$8,000 on ebay. This is for the Patreons to have the access to this kind of fantastic test tool. They (curve tracers) used to be very common on test benches such as the Huntron Tracker the smaller ones like this one.
Gary Bevis
2018-05-21 23:16:14 +0000 UTCHi Dave, there is specific protection for just that scenario. The only solution is to log into your Patreon account from your mobile device, and view it that way.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-05-21 11:29:21 +0000 UTCA shielded box would be a good idea Jason.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-05-21 11:03:22 +0000 UTCHey Paul.. quick question (covers all the videos).. do you have any idea how to download an unlisted YouTube video for offline-viewing? I travel frequently and that's when I consume your videos. But I can't find a way to get these. Perhaps you have another site where those of us who have donated can download the MP4s? Thanks. I am really looking forward to converting an old scope.
David Berlind
2018-05-20 17:55:23 +0000 UTCHi Paul, I’m doing a resto and just finished with my $10 swap meet find. I got a jetronics OS-8C/U. Boy this thing was well built and specified. Excited to cobble the boards to it and repurpose, but space is definitely at a premium. I may need to do a shielded project box external to the unit. Any advice? Thanks!
Jason Doerr
2018-05-15 19:14:01 +0000 UTC1 more question. What are the thumb wheel pots you use called? Can't seem to find the large adjustable pc mount 3 pin ones your using. Also the lamp is only available in 100 count. How important is the cp rating?
David Elsea
2018-05-09 23:36:34 +0000 UTCHi David. The SB-610 may work with more modifications. The horizontal and vertical sensitivity being an issue.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-05-08 01:48:09 +0000 UTCHi Paul, I have a question about the curve tracer. Can I use as my scope the Heath kit model SB-610? It is very light weight , seems to have all the controls of the scope you refurbished. It has horiz. and vert. inputs. Just not quite sure if it has everything It needs to be a curve tracer.
David Elsea
2018-05-07 21:03:45 +0000 UTCHi Carlos. Two independent 15 Volt regulators will be fine. The only reason I used the IC is because of space issues.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-05-03 07:21:11 +0000 UTCPaul, regarding the power supply for the curve tracer, does it has to be so accurate and tracking style or with a couple of linear regulators (+ve and -ve) would be fine? Tkn
Carlos Pechiar
2018-05-02 06:30:30 +0000 UTCthey sound like AU prices for old analog oscilloscopes over here in Australia. awesome video Paul I love seeing this old vaccuum tube tech ; so old ; yet still so relevant. tell me, aside from the lack of tube to display the info do you reckon you could make something like this again ; i know alot of the tubes are being re-made these days ; the traffo windings would be difficult depending on what its output was ; but the circuit is so so simple!
Greg Winfield
2018-03-06 09:32:23 +0000 UTCI have an old IO-4225 heathkit with an xy also, possibly the curve tracer kits online??
Moe Azalrad
2018-02-06 02:22:02 +0000 UTCHey, my max was $40 - I was even more surprised when it went for $400 :)
Tom Stone
2018-02-05 15:44:48 +0000 UTCYa I bid on that one. My max was $50, Cant believe it went for that much.
Kelly Van Buskirk
2018-02-05 00:55:29 +0000 UTCI just noticed the inflation rate on the $5 RCA WO 33A oscilloscope. One just sold on E-bay for $434.00 + shipping. Is this the Mr Carlson's Lab effect? LOL.
Martin Malia
2018-02-04 21:07:59 +0000 UTCI have a Tektronic 2235 with an XY input and want to use that scope if I build this project. Can you explain how to hookup the tracer to a scope with an XY input.?
Kelly Van Buskirk
2018-02-01 23:12:30 +0000 UTCWelcome Kelly!
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-02-01 15:12:28 +0000 UTCPossibly down the road.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-02-01 15:12:16 +0000 UTCYou're welcome Kelly!
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-02-01 15:11:50 +0000 UTCThanks for your EXECLENT videos
Kelly Van Buskirk
2018-01-31 20:43:34 +0000 UTCwas wondering if your tracer and power supply is available for sale as i really dont have the facilitys to make one.
Kelly Van Buskirk
2018-01-31 20:42:59 +0000 UTCPaul,
Kelly Van Buskirk
2018-01-31 20:41:57 +0000 UTCThe closest thing I've found that might be a good transformer for this application is DigiKey part # MT2213-ND It is PCB pin mounted, 115V primary, parallel 10V/series 20V and good for 55 ma the series configuration. Only $5. There are several others available with higher current ratings, but larger and more expensive. PIN dimensions may differ from Paul's PCB layout, however.
Patrick Briggs
2018-01-29 01:53:23 +0000 UTCI also found the XR2468CN nowhere to be found, however, I did find some MC1468L available on E*BAY.
Patrick Briggs
2018-01-29 01:40:52 +0000 UTCHi Blake. You can use this on a newer oscilloscope. Just make sure it's capable of the XY function.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-01-25 14:57:11 +0000 UTCCould this easily be used on a new oscilloscope? I've looked at some of the old analog ones on eBay and even the cheaper ones have an additional $30-40 in shipping and for the price of some of them I could buy a one of the portable MINI DS212 or just step up to a Rigol or Siglent for $300.
Blake
2018-01-24 14:54:42 +0000 UTCShould be just fine Michael.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-01-11 12:33:32 +0000 UTCI designed and built a very simple and small PC board for a transformer that I found on DigiKey. Also reworked the original Supply PC board to accommodate this "off board" transformer as well. Mine is going in a project box, so the small size is not that critical. Put it all together and the power supply seems to work well. I have about 16.5V +/- which should be adequate, I hope.
Michael Lynch
2018-01-08 14:50:34 +0000 UTCFor sure Michael, there is enough of a PIV rating for this application.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2018-01-07 12:31:25 +0000 UTCI have a pile of 1N4002 diodes, can these be used in the power supply in place of a the 1N4003-4007?
Michael Lynch
2018-01-07 03:14:16 +0000 UTCDid anyone come up with a part number for the transformer?
Larry { N7LUF }
2017-12-19 02:16:03 +0000 UTCNo problem. I understand.
AERVBlog
2017-12-06 13:54:40 +0000 UTCI look forward to seeing it, just make sure the schematics provided here, stay here. They are part of this course.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2017-12-06 13:04:20 +0000 UTCThanks for the video. Great job. I found one of these WO33A scopes at my transmitter site and am going to turn it into a curve/signature tracer. It will be on my Youtube channel.
AERVBlog
2017-12-04 21:14:50 +0000 UTCMotorola Tracking regulator. Now that I have mine :o) Here's a link to some NOS MC1568L +- 15V tracking regulators: <a href="https://www.ebay.com/itm/Motorola-Dual-15V-Tracking-Regulator-Fixed-Mixed-CDIP14-MC1568L/292238787002" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.ebay.com/itm/Motorola-Dual-15V-Tracking-Regulator-Fixed-Mixed-CDIP14-MC1568L/292238787002</a>
Michael Lloyd
2017-12-02 00:10:42 +0000 UTCIt couldn't hurt to change them, they are definitely on their way out.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2017-11-29 16:50:00 +0000 UTCHi Paul, one suggestion about the capacitors. I have bought a vintage hp power supply, model HP 6202B and would use it as my primary bench power supply... It seems work vey well but the filter capacitors looks as the gray electrolytics in the video. Should i replace them ? Capacitance looks ok on my extech EX330, but i do not know about esr...
Giacomo Spina
2017-11-26 00:18:12 +0000 UTCI'm surprised no one asked this yet, perhaps there is an answer somewhere that I've missed. But I'm having a hard time sourcing the XR2468CN from a reputable source. Any recommendations?
Drew Taurisano
2017-11-23 04:29:41 +0000 UTCHi Mark, The 4560 would be a great candidate for the curve tracer.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2017-11-17 04:55:23 +0000 UTCJust curious: My wife and I would like to convert an old O'scope to a dedicated curve tracer. I purchased a cheap Heathkit 4560 'scope on e-Bay for two reasons. It was cheap, and it was simple. My question is: if the 'scope works, would this very simple 'scope be a candidate for your curve tracer mod? Thanks!
Mark Day
2017-11-15 16:26:09 +0000 UTCGreat Bill! Glad you're here.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2017-11-07 09:14:02 +0000 UTCI need to gather some equipment! This course is a lot of fun! Just what I've been looking for.
Bill Keilholtz
2017-11-07 03:06:23 +0000 UTCI worked a while to repair electronics that used the XR1468CN. When you could no longer purchase these, a small card was created that replaced this. Basically a 7912 for -12V and a LM317 for + 12V that were adjusted for exactly the same voltage. Exactly 12.00V was not important in the device ...
Emil Almberg
2017-11-06 19:33:13 +0000 UTCHi Steve. A dual 1 Amp supply should suffice for most applications. This curve tracer would be fine in an external box, it will work with almost any scope.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2017-11-06 10:47:56 +0000 UTCPaul, very creative use of an old scope. Nicely done for sure. However it is not likely that I will find one just like yours to use. It seems like it could be, so I was wondering, now that you have the power supply included if this can be packaged and used as a small stand alone project in its own box and drive my scope as an bench accessory? I mean we did that on the bread board so why not? Also maybe the box could have outputs jacks from the power supply to use on the bread board projects. Would that be enough current to suffice for where we are going in the future?
Steve Crisp
2017-11-06 03:51:14 +0000 UTCI found one US source for a Motorola MC1568L at $5 each. Apparently the 1568 and 1468 are the same except the 1568 outputs will balance to within 1%. It also has greater operating temperature range. Looking around in the "new" department I found an LT3032MPDE for almost $13.00 each. Not exactly a good tradeoff.
Michael Lloyd
2017-11-05 23:59:24 +0000 UTCLet me see if I have this straight: you had no specs on the junque box diodes you were using in your CURVE TRACER project so you threw them on your CURVE TRACER to determine their specs? Hmmm. :-D
Peter Laws
2017-11-05 19:05:40 +0000 UTCHey Paul, as usual a very nice project, I enjoyed watching it very much. I have built something simmilar in the past but didn't think about putting it directly into a small scope which is the reason why that thing just got kicked around now and then and somehow disappeared some years ago. Right now I have two old scopes on the attic that wait for restauration, one is a Grundig and one an old AEG, both from the 60s with a whopping bandwidth of around 500kHz. Maybe i will repurpose one of those for that circuit as I think they are worth to be standing on the desk. Keep up the good work!
Ysjoelfir
2017-11-05 12:05:39 +0000 UTCThanks Victor!
Mr Carlson's Lab
2017-11-04 08:30:43 +0000 UTCGreat!
Mr Carlson's Lab
2017-11-04 08:30:15 +0000 UTCHi Elvis. The power supply has no doubler, just 2 half wave rectification circuits. I know the way the diodes are orientated looks similar to a doubler circuit, but is is not. The filter capacitors have enough capacitance at the current drawn to "fill the pot holes." About 25mA per rail.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2017-11-04 08:30:07 +0000 UTCLooking for a similar o-scope now.
richard scheetz
2017-11-03 15:53:10 +0000 UTCThank you very much Mr. Paul. I see you using a voltage doubler, can you tell me if these power supplies are good enough to work with the operation amplifiers? I mean ripple voltage and how it look on the scope.
Elvis Baketa
2017-11-03 09:02:20 +0000 UTCNicely done. Thank you keep up the great work and I look forward to the alignment video...Vic
Victor Miller
2017-11-03 03:47:54 +0000 UTCThanks Bruce!
Mr Carlson's Lab
2017-11-03 00:51:38 +0000 UTCPaul, once again you have exceeded expectations. I don't think I'll build this curve tracer, as I have a BK Precision curve tracer, which has served me quite nicely - especially with A/B matching transistors. Your earlier video on the curve tracer quite clearly explained how they work - voltage on one axis and current on the other. That was a duh moment for me. Glad to be a Patreon.
Bruce Davis
2017-11-03 00:02:47 +0000 UTCHI Charles. The transformer I have is "part numberless." I found one at Digikey, but haven't ordered it yet to measure up the pad size. If there is enough interest in this little power supply, I will adjust the pads to a known transformer and re-upload the layout. There is the option (as mentioned in the video) to use an "off board" transformer as well.
Mr Carlson's Lab
2017-11-02 22:17:48 +0000 UTCThe Hameg or Heathkit would both be fine. You will have an external digital display attached, so a graticule isn't necessary. Thanks for your kind words, and your contributions as well Ralf!
Mr Carlson's Lab
2017-11-02 22:13:12 +0000 UTCThanks Stephen!
Mr Carlson's Lab
2017-11-02 22:08:36 +0000 UTCThanks for that, just ordered 1/2 a dozen.
Eddie Bray
2017-11-02 19:58:59 +0000 UTCHi Bruce. You miss understand hombre; I was serious and if you review my previous comments you find I appreciate the actual caution. I anticipate the attention to detail as actual common sense indices of safe rather than sorry. I am happy that we move forward rather than cultivate a culture of fear. No education needed on my end, just a brief and purposeful mention as far as both of us are concerned.
Psient
2017-11-02 15:57:44 +0000 UTCPsient, talk with your lawyer, as Paul has. It's only a precaution, not personal to you.
Bruce Havourd
2017-11-02 15:01:58 +0000 UTCAnother excellent video. Thank you Paul!
Stephen Studley
2017-11-02 13:35:40 +0000 UTCWow what a blast!! Great video. Just wanted to say that as a novice, the cautionary notes are now a rote anticipation. However, it is refreshing to understand this video as produced by a electricenturion -- fighting battles against ignorance and for knowledge!!. No need to belabor the risks as if I were a child. Wipe the stuff off first, remind yourself to not inhale and move on.
Psient
2017-11-02 13:34:04 +0000 UTCGreat Video Paul! The Curve Tracer Project is about going to be the "X in One MultiTestDevice" that does all the things we need around BJT's, FET's, diodes etc. Thanks for sharing your thoughts during the design process! I've tried to collect a small oscope in my area for a while, but there was no usable or affordable out there. So I had to go either with the HAMEG HM312 or the Heathit IO-30S which I have on hand. Both are in similar conditions, working but needing complete re capping and alignment. Do you have any suggestion which one could be the best candidate for this application?
Reb Elba
2017-11-02 12:12:18 +0000 UTCI did not see a part number for the dual power transformer are source. also could this be made to be used with the china DIY scopes? I am enjoying your blog. and your circuits. thanks for something we can all learn from.
charles winsett
2017-11-02 12:01:00 +0000 UTC<a href="https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1pcs-MC1468L-MC1468-MOTOROLA-Encapsulation-CDIP-14/181047890229?hash=item2a274b9135:g:rqsAAOxyFrNRxGiU" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1pcs-MC1468L-MC1468-MOTOROLA-Encapsulation-CDIP-14/181047890229?hash=item2a274b9135:g:rqsAAOxyFrNRxGiU</a>
Staffan Ahlstrom
2017-11-02 07:53:58 +0000 UTCI looked on eBay and could not find one of these chips XR1468CN ,MC1468L ,SG1468N.
Cleveland Prescott
2017-11-02 05:22:09 +0000 UTC
