HP8564E Spectrum Analyser on the way.

[djsb]

I've got a HP8564E Spectrum Analyser (9KHz to 40GHz) on the way. It has an attenuator fault but works on the -20db range and passes all the start up checks (according to the auction blurb). I'm hoping I can eventually fix it. Cost me £630 including postage. Downloaded the service manual and I've watched this video



So I'm hoping the HP8564E has a similar layout. May do a gradual recapping job whilst I try to find the attenuator problem. Wish me luck as I may need it.

[tggzzz]

This one? https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/115054048559 But that shows the single bid price to be £750?

FWIW, I bought a metcal iron from that purchaser. Well packed, as described

[djsb]

Yes. I put in a cheeky offer and the seller made a counter offer which I accepted. Reconned that repairs and/or calibration would cost a fair bit so thought I'd put in a lower offer. After all I'm taking the risk of it being a large doorstop if I can't fix it. It is at least usable with the -20db attenuator.

[tggzzz]

Yes. I put in a cheeky offer and the seller made a counter offer which I accepted. Reconned that repairs and/or calibration would cost a fair bit so thought I'd put in a lower offer. After all I'm taking the risk of it being a large doorstop if I can't fix it. It is at least usable with the -20db attenuator.

That sounds reasonable. I was tempted, but already have a Tek 492 and HP8562B, and insufficient space for another

The 8565b I bought in a "general auction", condition unknown except for a photo that showed it was in cosmetically good condition. It turned out that it was allegedly from a bankruptcy sale, and was in good working order. I have subsequently replaced the PSU delayed action smoke generators (RIFAs), finding that the only ones that would fit were identical new types. They should last me out.

So, a "big" risk, but I could tolerate "losing" £350 - which I haven't.

Good things come to those that wait; I hope yours matches expectations.

BTW, internally they are a mechanical marvel, and you can see why they cost so much! There are a couple of pictures here https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/hp-vs-tektronics-design-philosophies/msg3153112/#msg3153112 which give a flavour of why I don't want to disassemble them more often than necessary!