Electronics > Repair
Wavetek 2520a 0.2-2,200MHz RF sig gen repair
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LogicalDave:
Tantalum caps need significant voltage derating; using 25V rated tantalums on an 18V line is a formula for long term failure.
Most manufacturers' rule of thumb for tantalums is to de-rate the voltage 50%, especially for MnO2 cathode tantalums.

It sounds like it is worth staying away from these older sig-gens unless you're ready to re-cap them; thanks for sharing
the detailed info; I was considering buying one and will probably now pass.

Some good white papers
https://sh.kemet.com/Lists/TechnicalArticles/Attachments/25/Derating_differences_Ta_KO_AO.pdf:
https://nepp.nasa.gov/files/24745/2013_n240_Teverovsky_ESTEC_Derating_paper.pdf
https://www.avx.com/docs/techinfo/VoltageDeratingRulesforSolidTantalumandNiobiumCapacitors.pdf
AndreH:
Hi all
I too have the Wavetek 2510 (.2 - 1100MHz)
I managed to invoke the auto calibration, but I don't understand the selections 10, 12, and especially 18. When I select 18, I receive error on codes LVL, UVU, which I don't quite understand since I don't have the manuals. I can get the instrument to go past its self check startup sequence and it then works fine, but I have to virtually 'kickstart' the instrument to get it to work.
AndreH:
Hi all
I too have the Wavetek 2510 (.2 - 1100MHz)
I managed to invoke the auto calibration, but I don't understand the selections 10, 12, and especially 18. When I select 18, I receive error on codes LVL, UVU, which I don't quite understand since I don't have the manuals. I can get the instrument to go past its self check startup sequence and it then works fine, but I have to virtually 'kickstart' the instrument to get it to work.
dazz1:

--- Quote from: AndreH on November 30, 2021, 06:43:22 am ---Hi all
I too have the Wavetek 2510 (.2 - 1100MHz)
I managed to invoke the auto calibration, but I don't understand the selections 10, 12, and especially 18. When I select 18, I receive error on codes LVL, UVU, which I don't quite understand since I don't have the manuals. I can get the instrument to go past its self check startup sequence and it then works fine, but I have to virtually 'kickstart' the instrument to get it to work.

--- End quote ---

Hi
You have a journey ahead of you.  Attached is the page from the manual explaining the purpose of the diagnostics routines.
Passing self-check at startup means not a lot.

Test 18 displays outputs from control loops.  If the outputs are out of range, you get error codes.  Chances are that you cannot complete a full calibration procedure to get the instrument within spec.  If you have followed this thread, you will know what you face.   

I cannot tell you to go to xxx component and replace that to solve your problems.  I can tell you:

* a operator and service manual are essential (too big to post or email)
* look for failed tantalums first
* take a copy of the nvram asap
* post a copy of the ROM and nvram contents for others that follow you (and I)
Almost everything in these instruments is replaceable, so it is likely that your faults can be fixed.

Good luck.

I am currently waiting for parts I need to build a nvram reader/writer.  I was hoping that the contents of the nvram would be created by the autocal procedure.  I was not quite right.  I suspect there is an undocumented keyboard entry command required to factory enable installed hardware features.    That would have allowed them to use the same nvram board to fit to any 2510 with any features installed.





AndreH:
 Thanks Dazz1. I noticed the name Artek manuals and I immediately ordered a copy. I received both the OM and the SM and I look forward to resolving my issue.

On switch on the LCD display displays flashing 'gibberish' By accident I noticed when I touch pin 36 on the uP the generator begins ts startup sequence and the display normalizes. It then stops at code 22. After spinning the dial it then stops at code 80. After spinning the dial again it completes the sequence and the unit is ready for use.

Everything seems copacetic. Frequencies and levels are fine. It's just on switch on that I have this issue. Initially there were various frequencies from 200kHz to 1.1GHz that were totally out. As an example, when I dial in 10MHz the output shows 30Mhz etc. After loading the 'factory' setting everything was perfect. I removed the NVRAM and drilled a hole to the positive of the battery. Battery voltage on the NVRAM measures 3.157V. The NVRAM seems fine. I soldered a wire to this positive pin and will monitor this voltage over time.

Anyway, I'll see if I can determine the problem.

Best regards

Andre
South Africa
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