Thanks. I've got a lead on an 8753B with a 50 ohm 3 GHz S parameter test set at a comfortable price. Gedas gave me a very succinct explanation of why an eternal test set is preferable from a hobbyist self repair perspective.
Having spent my career in reflection seismology, I am all too acutely aware of the problems caused by impedance mismatches.. Gedas linked some very helpful papers.which made clear that impedance matching is a significant headache. So I've got some mathematical chores to deal with.
One question I have is how difficult is replacing the N connectors on a 8753B with an external test set if they are worn out. Part of what I'm trying to do is is acquire a self sustainable bench. I want to have tools to fix things. I can't do anything about the problem of sourcing parts But first of all you have to have the tools to identify the fault. I've done it with "flint knives and stone axes'" but that is *very* tedious.
I'd greatly prefer to be an actively employed scientist, but that''s not possible in my field, so playing with electronics is the best alternative I can think of.
