Monitor Scopes and RF generators...

[Sandy]

>
> Looking for information on monitor scopes and RF generators.
>
> For monitor scopes... are these really useful if you already have an
> o'scope?  Or, do they just give your eyes something to do during a QSO?
>

        Monitor "scopes, like the SB-610....are really an essential if you
regularly use any kind of linear power amplifier.  Most of these amplifiers
are best tuned using the two-tone generator in the SB-610, the 'linearity'
being observed on the "scope using the trapezoidal test pattern.  One can
tell right away if you are loaded up properly with no guesswork!
Amplifiers
deliver cleaner and better signals when tuned up this way!

> For RF generators... Heath made a bunch of 'em.  Which ones are
recommended
> for HF amateur work (xmtr alignment, etc.)?  Is there a cutoff between
solid
> state and tube-type models?  Are the tube-type ones worth getting?

        If you want to "make do", almost any small signal generator is
much better than nothing.  The premier small signal generator in my eyes,
is the very good, surplus URM-25D.  It has a wide range and calibrated
output, and is reasonably stable.  If you don't mind something bigger
and heavier, then the General Radio 1001A is my choice.  Both are
tube type generators.

73,
Sandy Blaize, W5TVW