tempting 3458A but...

[notfaded1]

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1-pc-NOT-working-HP-3458A-Multi-meter/143463604365

What are the chances the A3 board needs to be replaced?  Or could just replacing U405 EL2018 maybe a be a fix... hard to guess?  All the seller will say error is:

- Self test failed & ACAL failure. Error message shown  (209,HARDWARE FAILURE ----TIMEOUT  UNABLE  TO READ A/D : 72 )

Does anyone know how old SN:2823A09836 is for a 3458A?

Bill

[Dr. Frank]

I estimate that it's from around 1995.
 

[MiDi]

First HP with A3black inside 
If you have luck, there is just something wrong with the fibre optical path...

[Conrad Hoffman]

I'm always afraid things like this could be missing a whole circuit board and you'd have no recourse.

[RandallMcRee]

I'm always afraid things like this could be missing a whole circuit board and you'd have no recourse.

Yeah, just that. In non-working condition you would think that an inside shot would be mandatory.

[guenthert]

Given the pictures, I'd be willing to give the benefit of doubt and assume it's complete.  I'd rather be afraid that even after 'fixing' it, it'll drift.  And what's a drifting (even if it'll be difficult to tell) long-scale meter worth to you?  But then, I'm no expert in fixing precision measurement tools and can't assume that I could fix it, when the current owner couldn't.

[ap]

My personal experience with used 3458As, and it has been many, early and later models, ball park 50% allone have an A/D drift issue... Other issues add.

[ScoobyDoo]

A fresh tested (but refurbished) A/D CNV (A3) board (03458-69503) would cost 755 euros + VAT.
There is also risk you need to solder new DALLAS SRAM back up batteries on A5 board (without loosing CAL constants)

[IanJ]

Hi all,

Before parting with a lot of money for this IMHO it's best to contact the seller and ask questions. If they respond accordingly it can help build up a level of trust.

Ask for photos of the internals.
Ask for the history of the unit, at the very least the most recent history.
etc...etc...

I did it with a faulty unit from the Phillipines from somebody I didn't know and it all turned out quite well.

Ian.