01-29-2022, 06:48 PM
I used a Heathkit signal generator for years.
[Image: https://64.media.tumblr.com/6861d67d1a12...25a64f.jpg]
One had to let it sit for about an hour to warm up well for it to be at all stable. It was fairly accurate for rough alignment work, but I found a good work around. For fine work I used my Tecsun PL-600 digital readout radio to double check the frequency. For IF work I would tune the radio to double the IF frequency, and then set the signal generator to the correct frequency and listen to the harmonic to get the loudest signal. For instance, I would tune the radio to 910 KC and then tune the signal generator to 455 KC and be able to set it exactly. For general work it was fine using these work arounds.
I also purchased a modern signal generator
[Image: https://64.media.tumblr.com/8de05b2cdb1b...05747a.jpg]
It was not any more accurate than the Heathkit over its bands, and so I never use it.
The signal generator I use most is my EICO model 342.
[Image: https://64.media.tumblr.com/a5460038db65...867b95.jpg]
I was able to align it properly since it has adjustments for both ends of the scale on each band. Once warmed up it is very stable. I still use the Tecsun and the harmonic method for setting IF frequencies, just to get them right on instead for 10 or so KC either way. I also double check the frequency on the AM broadcast band just to be sure and get things exact, but find that the settings are tack on. For higher frequencies, aligning shortwave bands, I really don't have to double check, it is close enough so it comes out fine, but I still do.
I suppose my point is, don't be afraid of this older gear. Once you learn how to use it, and learn a few tricks, it will do the job fine.
[Image: https://64.media.tumblr.com/6861d67d1a12...25a64f.jpg]
One had to let it sit for about an hour to warm up well for it to be at all stable. It was fairly accurate for rough alignment work, but I found a good work around. For fine work I used my Tecsun PL-600 digital readout radio to double check the frequency. For IF work I would tune the radio to double the IF frequency, and then set the signal generator to the correct frequency and listen to the harmonic to get the loudest signal. For instance, I would tune the radio to 910 KC and then tune the signal generator to 455 KC and be able to set it exactly. For general work it was fine using these work arounds.
I also purchased a modern signal generator
[Image: https://64.media.tumblr.com/8de05b2cdb1b...05747a.jpg]
It was not any more accurate than the Heathkit over its bands, and so I never use it.
The signal generator I use most is my EICO model 342.
[Image: https://64.media.tumblr.com/a5460038db65...867b95.jpg]
I was able to align it properly since it has adjustments for both ends of the scale on each band. Once warmed up it is very stable. I still use the Tecsun and the harmonic method for setting IF frequencies, just to get them right on instead for 10 or so KC either way. I also double check the frequency on the AM broadcast band just to be sure and get things exact, but find that the settings are tack on. For higher frequencies, aligning shortwave bands, I really don't have to double check, it is close enough so it comes out fine, but I still do.
I suppose my point is, don't be afraid of this older gear. Once you learn how to use it, and learn a few tricks, it will do the job fine.
