[sdiy] A Frequency Standard for Poor People?

[Magnus Danielson]

From: Glen <mclilith at charter.net>
Subject: Re: [sdiy] A Frequency Standard for Poor People?
Date: Wed, 17 Dec 2003 01:28:05 -0500
Message-ID: <4.1.20031217005655.02c961e0 at mail.charter.net>

> At 06:22 PM 12/16/03 , Magnus Danielson wrote:
> 
> >Indeed, only a few really need it, but if you can put your hands on one, it
> >may be very handy never the less. If we should list the items in order of
> >importance I would put them like this:
> >
> >1) DMM
> >2) Oscilloscope
> >3) Function generator
> >4) Frequency counter/tuner
> 
> Some people might disagree about the order of 1 and 2. The oscilloscope is
> far more versatile than the DMM.  However, most people will probably
> purchase the DMM first, because a typical DMM costs so much less than an
> oscilloscope.

A simple DMM is really an entry-level thing. You should have one. Oscilloscopes
is indeed a very usefull thing, but you can still do work without one and many
actually do that. Those that do eventually end up getting a scope one day, but
then they have learned many usefull lessons on the way usually and will be
able to step on for the next thing.

> We weren't talking about a 6-1/2 digit Agilent DMM, were we?  :)

No. Even if that's my personal preference... (HP actually) ;O)

> Oddly enough, I've never owned a function generator--at least, not yet. The
> closest I can get is to generate waveforms on my computer, and export them
> through the sound card.

You can always use a modular etc. But it is a good complementary tool once you
passed the DMM/Scope stuff.

> I wouldn't have a frequency counter, if it weren't for buying an older one
> used, at a huge discount.

It is also complementary, many can do without where as others would not dream
of not having one. Your needs varies both with the level you are at and the
experiences and techniques that you use. My point was to show a form of scale
of more and more speciallized and dedicated tools, where many people could stop
at the level where they feel necessary.

Cheers,
Magnus