Cheap Func. Gen. to Exercise an Old CRT O'scope

[jdutky]

I'm thinking of getting one of these inexpensive RF signal generators from eBay (https://www.ebay.com/itm/ADF4351-35M-4-4G-RF-Signal-Generator-PLL-Sweep-Frequency-Generator-Touch-Screen/283893337277) as a way of generating high frequency signals that can test the limits of my old Tektronix 475 and 475A oscilloscopes. The price is certainly right, but I'm not actually sure what these RF function generators do. Does anyone have experience with these?

I'd really like to have something that could produce a modulated sine wave (like Dave uses to demo scopes in the EEVBlog videos) but I'd be perfectly happy with just being able to generate sine waves in the 100-500 MHz range and see the rolloff on my scope at higher frequencies.

-- Jeff Dutky

[bob91343]

In my experience the cheapest way to get a generator like this is from a private party.  For instance I have a boat anchor generator that goes to 400 MHz, calibrated and leveled, with AM built in, that I don't use.  Surely there is someone local to you that has something similar to give or lend or sell to you.  PM me if you are near Los Angeles.

I don't think there is a better answer.  Of course the heavy tube units are electrical bargains but you need to consider the space they take.

Insidentally I recall seeing a rising output voltage with frequency until I realized the test cable wasn't terminated.