In this episode (Part 1/3) Shahriar discusses methods for generating a pulse-width-modulated (PWM) signal entirely in the analog domain by employing operational-amplifiers (Op-Amps). A total of four op-amps from a single power supply are used in unity-gain negative feedback, astable positive feedback, integrator and open-loop comparator configurations. The theory of operation as well as measurement are also presented. This episode also includes a quiz. Please post your answers in the comment section.
As a final experiment, an ignition coil is used to generate in excess of 20k volts! The combination of the PWM circuit and the ignition coil provides a stand-alone fully analog high voltage power supply.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zep3ikgHutU
In this episode Shahriar dives into the detailed operation of a HeCd laser system. The laser head sub-components and principle operation is discussed as well as the teardown of the power supply and its primary sections. Various spectral measurements are performed on the laser output as well as the non-coherent emissions from the main laser cavity.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMSgEP4LfJ4
In this episode Shahriar takes a look at an inexpensive power sensor module with built-in battery and a tiny LCD screen. The instrument claims a large dynamic range of -60dBm to +30dBm!
A leaky internal battery prevents the unit form powering on initially. After analysis of the chemical leakage (using an Agilent Resolve Raman) as well as repair of the battery, the unit return to normal operation. A detailed teardown of the sensor is presented along with the theory of operation for the front-end RF circuits and sub-components. The unit is then measured against a R&S 3-Diode Path NRP power sensor. Although it does not perform nearly as well, it can be used within +/-2dBm accuracy. The unit is then measured against its highest claimed frequency of operation and input power.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kmxloZUzDeE
In this episode Shahriar reviews the very unique SAF Spectrum Compact V-Band portable spectrum analyzer. These battery powered devices do not require external down-converters, and a particularly useful tool for any field engineer performing microwave equipment installation, link troubleshooting, site planning and maintenance. The analyzers utilize a resistive touch screen, allowing the engineer to wear gloves when using the device. The Spectrum Compact can be used for high precision detection of existing interference on installed paths or available radio channels. Data logging of all spectrum scans is available with the Spectrum Compact device, and enhanced data processing and analysis are provided by SAF Tehnika designed PC software for your laptop.The instrument teardown reveals a multi-board design and each module's functionality and design is presented. The unit is then used in several experiments to track and analyze various V-Band RF signals. The review is organized as follows:
01:00 - Overview and model comparison
03:16 - Instrument design, overview power-on benefits
05:23 - Instrument GUI overview
09:56 - Full teardown and analysis of all modules
19:22 - Experiments with various unknown V-Band RF signals
29:43 - PC software overview and capabilities
31:30 - Concluding remarks
You can visit the manufacturer website here:
http://www.saftehnika.com/en/spectrumanalyzer
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o50-aLbdzsw
In this episode Shahriar presents the teardown of an Advantest TQ8325 Wavelength Meter. The principle operation of the instrument is explained along with a close up of the free space optics in operation. To verify the functionality of the unit, an infrared laser module is used as a CW coherent source. The impact of the laser diode's temperature variation on the output wavelength is measured using the wavelength meter.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMEbE6rOYKw
In this episode Shahriar repairs an Agilent PSA Series Spectrum Analyzer. The instrument generates many errors during self-alignment and produces no measurements below 3.2GHz. The block diagram of the unit is thoroughly presented and various possible failure points are considered. Based on the observation of the noise floor, the most likely cause is the second LO module. The measurement of the LO power indicates that the second LO power is fall below nominal.
The second LO signal (at 3.6GHz) is generated by a DRO PLL module which is locked to 600MHz. The PLL is functional, however the output power is below -20dBm. Teardown of the module reveals a simple design with a doubler and filter. The filter (which is discolored) shows a huge loss likely caused by RF losses due to trace degradation. Thinning the traces provides some improvement and the remaining loss is compensated with a two stage RF amplifier. With this modifications, the instrument’s alignment errors are partially resolved.
The next problem is with the input attenuator at the 20dB range. This problem is simply resolved by providing lubrication on the attenuator solenoids after disassembly. The instrument is then used for various measurements to verify its correct operation.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2BU5sVgHvQ
In this episode Shahriar reviews the new Keithley 2460 Source Measure Unit (SMU). The Keithley 2460 shares all the touchscreen GUI advancements of the 2450 SMU and offers up to 100W of power in full four-quadrant operation. The combination of the 2450 and 2460 SMUs from Keithley offer a wide range of applications.
After a brief teardown of the instrument, several experiments are devised to demonstrate the TSP scripting as well as KickStart software capabilities. The experiments include LED failure modes, Geiger counter setup, Op-amp based voltage regulator characterization, temperature controller, non-linear transconductance emulation and data collection application.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zT80zDZgOWU
In this episode (Part 4/4) Shahriar takes a look at the challenges associated with signal generation for the purposes of timekeeping. More specifically he digs deep into the workings of crystal oscillators and even takes apart some vintage crystals to reveal whats inside! He also shows how this type of circuits can be characterized and compares the performance of a crystal oscillator with that of a ring oscillator under temperature and power supply variations.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnPaQJrW1mQ