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HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade?
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Hello all,
I have an HP 8551 spectrum analyzer I would like to offer for sale or trade. It works reasonably well, as I describe in more detail below, but I am starting to upgrade my home shop with more "modern" equipment. Cosmetically, the unit is clean, with some sticker residue on the display units. It comes complete with all the necessary interconnecting cables and the oval power cords. It weighs a TON. The RF unit alone is 90 lbs, so I can't really ship it, even in parts. However, I live in Charlottesville, VA, and I frequently travel up the north-east corridor, so if you live anywhere between here and Burlington, VT, I am willing to deliver if you can wait until March or so. Otherwise, perhaps we can make arrangements. Some photos are posted here: 851_1.jpg A screen shot of the analyzer showing the FM band with a dangling wire antenna and the input attenuator at 0 dB. Harmonic n=1. LO signal on left. 851_2.jpg A 1 dBm, 2.4 GHz signal at the input with RF attenuation set to 30 dB. n=2. 851_3.jpg Same signal displayed on band 4, which uses the 200 MHz IF, n=1. 851_4.jpg The FM band again, displayed on the orange-screened 851B. I would prefer not to part this instrument out, and to send all of it to a good, loving home. Please make me an offer. I don't have a good feel for price of this instrument particularly since shipping would normally be a dominant part of the cost. Alternatively I am willing to trade for any of the instruments below, in working or *repairable* condition. Of the highest interest are any of the 141T SA plug-ins listed. Any 8554/8555/8556 SA plug-ins for a 141T based spectrum analyzer, preferably in grey paint. 182T mainframe any 11664 A or B detectors a 8755C swept amplitude analyzer a sweeper covering ~MHz to ~2.5 GHz. So, if interested, please contact me off-list and let's discuss. Thanks and Happy Holidays! Dan 851B/8551B Spectrum analyzer. ---------------------------- 8551B: SN 625-00695 (RF unit) 851B: SN 526-00805 (Orange screen) 851B: SN 526-00339 (spare unit) What works: Mixer, at least at n=1, n=2 and n=3. I don't have sources to test higher harmonics. RF input attenuator Stabilized fine tune - with some care Trace centering is fine at or below 1 mc/cm, alowing one to quickly zoom in on a signal. Both 851B display units, with sharp and bright traces. Fine and course tuning Frequency vernier What doesn't work: Trace centering on the 3-300 MC/cm scales. The signal jumps around when switching scales, though it can still be tuned. I can't follow the manual procedure in section 3-34 to set the spectrum centering adjustment on the front panel. The tracking meter does not respond as it should. As a result, LO scale pointer is ~100 MC off on scales at or below the 1 mc/cm sweep and varies on the 3-300 mc/cm scales. May need to reglue the scale drum at some point, but it's ok for now The orange plastic filter in one of the 851s has cracks in it in the lower left corner just off scale. The tune knob had it's handle broken off, but I kept the original parts and was able to epoxy together a decent looking reconstruction, so it works now and looks ok. I can't figure out if the signal identifier works. It's supposed to shift the signal by n cm at 100 KC/cm, which it does, but when you press the "reference" knob, it should revert to the n=1 state. But instead the trace keeps moving off screen. I suspect this is related to the issues at large spans. What you get: A functional piece of history - the first calibrated spectrum analyzer from HP. A basic, working spectrum analyzer All interconnecting cables and oval power cords One ORIGINAL PAPER MANUAL for the 851B display section A spare 851B display unit (the orange one was originally paired with the 8551, judging from the stickers) Satisfaction of working with a wonderful instrument Herniated disks What you don't get: Any of the sources shown in the pictures The instrument rack, though that can be negotiated separately The 50 Ohm terminator on the back at the LO output. I only have a few of these and I need them, however it seems to work ok without it at the few frequencies I looked at. Paper manuals for the 8551B section - but these are available on-line. The right to return the instrument Medical insurance |
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Hi folks,
? ?Is there really ZERO interest in an HP 8551 spectrum analyzer? ?Given that I didn't even get any comments from this usually vocal group, and having found some replies to older posts that went into my spam folder, I figured I'd just ask again (copied below). ?Perhaps a few more people are back from the holidays as well. ? ? Please do let me know if the group?consensus?is that this thing is really just a useless boat anchor even by vintage instrument standards. ? ?Thanks and have a happy new year! ? Dan ________________________________ From: kaboomdk <kaboomdk@...> To: hp_agilent_equipment@... Sent: Saturday, December 22, 2012 12:48 PM Subject: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? ? Hello all, I have an HP 8551 spectrum analyzer I would like to offer for sale or trade. It works reasonably well, as I describe in more detail below, but I am starting to upgrade my home shop with more "modern" equipment. Cosmetically, the unit is clean, with some sticker residue on the display units. It comes complete with all the necessary interconnecting cables and the oval power cords. It weighs a TON. The RF unit alone is 90 lbs, so I can't really ship it, even in parts. However, I live in Charlottesville, VA, and I frequently travel up the north-east corridor, so if you live anywhere between here and Burlington, VT, I am willing to deliver if you can wait until March or so. Otherwise, perhaps we can make arrangements. Some photos are posted here: 851_1.jpg A screen shot of the analyzer showing the FM band with a dangling wire antenna and the input attenuator at 0 dB. Harmonic n=1. LO signal on left. 851_2.jpg A 1 dBm, 2.4 GHz signal at the input with RF attenuation set to 30 dB. n=2. 851_3.jpg Same signal displayed on band 4, which uses the 200 MHz IF, n=1. 851_4.jpg The FM band again, displayed on the orange-screened 851B. I would prefer not to part this instrument out, and to send all of it to a good, loving home. Please make me an offer. I don't have a good feel for price of this instrument particularly since shipping would normally be a dominant part of the cost. Alternatively I am willing to trade for any of the instruments below, in working or *repairable* condition. Of the highest interest are any of the 141T SA plug-ins listed. Any 8554/8555/8556 SA plug-ins for a 141T based spectrum analyzer, preferably in grey paint. 182T mainframe any 11664 A or B detectors a 8755C swept amplitude analyzer a sweeper covering ~MHz to ~2.5 GHz. So, if interested, please contact me off-list and let's discuss. Thanks and Happy Holidays! Dan 851B/8551B Spectrum analyzer. ---------------------------- 8551B: SN 625-00695 (RF unit) 851B: SN 526-00805 (Orange screen) 851B: SN 526-00339 (spare unit) What works: Mixer, at least at n=1, n=2 and n=3. I don't have sources to test higher harmonics. RF input attenuator Stabilized fine tune - with some care Trace centering is fine at or below 1 mc/cm, alowing one to quickly zoom in on a signal. Both 851B display units, with sharp and bright traces. Fine and course tuning Frequency vernier What doesn't work: Trace centering on the 3-300 MC/cm scales. The signal jumps around when switching scales, though it can still be tuned. I can't follow the manual procedure in section 3-34 to set the spectrum centering adjustment on the front panel. The tracking meter does not respond as it should. As a result, LO scale pointer is ~100 MC off on scales at or below the 1 mc/cm sweep and varies on the 3-300 mc/cm scales. May need to reglue the scale drum at some point, but it's ok for now The orange plastic filter in one of the 851s has cracks in it in the lower left corner just off scale. The tune knob had it's handle broken off, but I kept the original parts and was able to epoxy together a decent looking reconstruction, so it works now and looks ok. I can't figure out if the signal identifier works. It's supposed to shift the signal by n cm at 100 KC/cm, which it does, but when you press the "reference" knob, it should revert to the n=1 state. But instead the trace keeps moving off screen. I suspect this is related to the issues at large spans. What you get: A functional piece of history - the first calibrated spectrum analyzer from HP. A basic, working spectrum analyzer All interconnecting cables and oval power cords One ORIGINAL PAPER MANUAL for the 851B display section A spare 851B display unit (the orange one was originally paired with the 8551, judging from the stickers) Satisfaction of working with a wonderful instrument Herniated disks What you don't get: Any of the sources shown in the pictures The instrument rack, though that can be negotiated separately The 50 Ohm terminator on the back at the LO output. I only have a few of these and I need them, however it seems to work ok without it at the few frequencies I looked at. Paper manuals for the 8551B section - but these are available on-line. The right to return the instrument Medical insurance [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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Hi Dan,
I saw the pictures and love the unit. If I had the space I would take it. Unfortunately, my electronics bench is in a corner of my living room, and I have learned it is not good to test the limits of the wife. Mike On Friday, December 28, 2012 09:44:17 you wrote: Hi folks,dangling wire antenna and the input attenuator at 0 dB. Harmonic n=1. LO signal-- Mike McGinn KD2CNU Ex Uno Plurima No electrons were harmed in sending this message, some were inconvenienced. ** Registered Linux User 377849 |
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Hi Dan,
You might try donating it to a local tech school or amateur radio club. All of the folks I know that are into test equipment have long ago traded up from the 8551 to 141T's and then up to portable units, or 8569's, 8568's or the 8566B, or one of the Tektronix SA's. Although they are reasonable SA's for some hobby uses, there are better units available for decent prices. The old beasts just aren't worth the shipping cost apparently, hence the lack of interest in yours I suspect. Good luck with it, and Happy New Year! Steve WB0DBS On Dec 28, 2012, at 8:44 AM, Daniel Koller <kaboomdk@...> wrote: Hi folks, [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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They have a very nice display. A friend showed me one awhile back. But your biggest problem is finding some one local to pick it up. Cost more than it is worth to ship. Plus anything that big may not make it in one piece.
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Steve Daniel Koller wrote:
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Another problem with the 8551 (besides its' weight and therefore very high shipping cost) it it's use of a BWO. They have a limited lifespan, and new old stock are like hen's teeth. I got a nice one from the local estate sale of a ham about three years ago, and it had multiple reminders on it about not leaving it fully powered up for long periods of time. It also can with three random BWOs and two HP sweepers that also use BWOs.
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In talking with a few old timers I know from HP since then, the general consensus was similar. They didn't worry about it at the time because they could get new ones from Varian just down the road. -Dave ----- Original Message -----
From: "Daniel Koller" <kaboomdk@...> To: "hp agilent equipment" <hp_agilent_equipment@...> Sent: Friday, December 28, 2012 6:44:17 AM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Hi folks, Is there really ZERO interest in an HP 8551 spectrum analyzer? Given that I didn't even get any comments from this usually vocal group, and having found some replies to older posts that went into my spam folder, I figured I'd just ask again (copied below). Perhaps a few more people are back from the holidays as well. Please do let me know if the group consensus is that this thing is really just a useless boat anchor even by vintage instrument standards. Thanks and have a happy new year! Dan ________________________________ From: kaboomdk < kaboomdk@... > To: hp_agilent_equipment@... Sent: Saturday, December 22, 2012 12:48 PM Subject: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Hello all, I have an HP 8551 spectrum analyzer I would like to offer for sale or trade. It works reasonably well, as I describe in more detail below, but I am starting to upgrade my home shop with more "modern" equipment. Cosmetically, the unit is clean, with some sticker residue on the display units. It comes complete with all the necessary interconnecting cables and the oval power cords. It weighs a TON. The RF unit alone is 90 lbs, so I can't really ship it, even in parts. However, I live in Charlottesville, VA, and I frequently travel up the north-east corridor, so if you live anywhere between here and Burlington, VT, I am willing to deliver if you can wait until March or so. Otherwise, perhaps we can make arrangements. Some photos are posted here: 851_1.jpg A screen shot of the analyzer showing the FM band with a dangling wire antenna and the input attenuator at 0 dB. Harmonic n=1. LO signal on left. 851_2.jpg A 1 dBm, 2.4 GHz signal at the input with RF attenuation set to 30 dB. n=2. 851_3.jpg Same signal displayed on band 4, which uses the 200 MHz IF, n=1. 851_4.jpg The FM band again, displayed on the orange-screened 851B. I would prefer not to part this instrument out, and to send all of it to a good, loving home. Please make me an offer. I don't have a good feel for price of this instrument particularly since shipping would normally be a dominant part of the cost. Alternatively I am willing to trade for any of the instruments below, in working or *repairable* condition. Of the highest interest are any of the 141T SA plug-ins listed. Any 8554/8555/8556 SA plug-ins for a 141T based spectrum analyzer, preferably in grey paint. 182T mainframe any 11664 A or B detectors a 8755C swept amplitude analyzer a sweeper covering ~MHz to ~2.5 GHz. So, if interested, please contact me off-list and let's discuss. Thanks and Happy Holidays! Dan 851B/8551B Spectrum analyzer. ---------------------------- 8551B: SN 625-00695 (RF unit) 851B: SN 526-00805 (Orange screen) 851B: SN 526-00339 (spare unit) What works: Mixer, at least at n=1, n=2 and n=3. I don't have sources to test higher harmonics. RF input attenuator Stabilized fine tune - with some care Trace centering is fine at or below 1 mc/cm, alowing one to quickly zoom in on a signal. Both 851B display units, with sharp and bright traces. Fine and course tuning Frequency vernier What doesn't work: Trace centering on the 3-300 MC/cm scales. The signal jumps around when switching scales, though it can still be tuned. I can't follow the manual procedure in section 3-34 to set the spectrum centering adjustment on the front panel. The tracking meter does not respond as it should. As a result, LO scale pointer is ~100 MC off on scales at or below the 1 mc/cm sweep and varies on the 3-300 mc/cm scales. May need to reglue the scale drum at some point, but it's ok for now The orange plastic filter in one of the 851s has cracks in it in the lower left corner just off scale. The tune knob had it's handle broken off, but I kept the original parts and was able to epoxy together a decent looking reconstruction, so it works now and looks ok. I can't figure out if the signal identifier works. It's supposed to shift the signal by n cm at 100 KC/cm, which it does, but when you press the "reference" knob, it should revert to the n=1 state. But instead the trace keeps moving off screen. I suspect this is related to the issues at large spans. What you get: A functional piece of history - the first calibrated spectrum analyzer from HP. A basic, working spectrum analyzer All interconnecting cables and oval power cords One ORIGINAL PAPER MANUAL for the 851B display section A spare 851B display unit (the orange one was originally paired with the 8551, judging from the stickers) Satisfaction of working with a wonderful instrument Herniated disks What you don't get: Any of the sources shown in the pictures The instrument rack, though that can be negotiated separately The 50 Ohm terminator on the back at the LO output. I only have a few of these and I need them, however it seems to work ok without it at the few frequencies I looked at. Paper manuals for the 8551B section - but these are available on-line. The right to return the instrument Medical insurance [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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Dave Brown
Once the BWO has been replaced with the YIG upgrade kit thats no longer an issue- does this one have that upgrade applied?
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73 Dave, ZL3FJ Christchurch, NZ ----- Original Message -----
From: <d.seiter@...> To: "hp agilent equipment" <hp_agilent_equipment@...> Sent: Saturday, December 29, 2012 8:13 AM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Another problem with the 8551 (besides its' weight and therefore very high shipping cost) it it's use of a BWO. They have a limited lifespan, and new old stock are like hen's teeth. I got a nice one from the local estate sale of a ham about three years ago, and it had multiple reminders on it about not leaving it fully powered up for long periods of time. It also can with three random BWOs and two HP sweepers that also use BWOs. |
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Hi Daniel.
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If I remember correctly, and more and more lately I don't, the 8551 came with different front end modules for different frequency coverage's. What is the frequency range of yours? If it fits my needs I would be willing to pay for professional packing and the shipping charges to get it. Regards. Max. K 4 O DS. Email: max@... Transistor site Vacuum tube site: Woodworking site Music site: To subscribe to the fun with transistors group send an email to. funwithtransistors-subscribe@... To subscribe to the fun with tubes group send an email to, funwithtubes-subscribe@... To subscribe to the fun with wood group send a blank email to funwithwood-subscribe@... ----- Original Message -----
From: "Daniel Koller" <kaboomdk@...> To: <hp_agilent_equipment@...> Sent: Friday, December 28, 2012 8:44 AM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Hi folks, Is there really ZERO interest in an HP 8551 spectrum analyzer? Given that I didn't even get any comments from this usually vocal group, and having found some replies to older posts that went into my spam folder, I figured I'd just ask again (copied below). Perhaps a few more people are back from the holidays as well. Please do let me know if the group consensus is that this thing is really just a useless boat anchor even by vintage instrument standards. Thanks and have a happy new year! Dan ________________________________ From: kaboomdk <kaboomdk@...> To: hp_agilent_equipment@... Sent: Saturday, December 22, 2012 12:48 PM Subject: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Hello all, I have an HP 8551 spectrum analyzer I would like to offer for sale or trade. It works reasonably well, as I describe in more detail below, but I am starting to upgrade my home shop with more "modern" equipment. Cosmetically, the unit is clean, with some sticker residue on the display units. It comes complete with all the necessary interconnecting cables and the oval power cords. It weighs a TON. The RF unit alone is 90 lbs, so I can't really ship it, even in parts. However, I live in Charlottesville, VA, and I frequently travel up the north-east corridor, so if you live anywhere between here and Burlington, VT, I am willing to deliver if you can wait until March or so. Otherwise, perhaps we can make arrangements. Some photos are posted here: 851_1.jpg A screen shot of the analyzer showing the FM band with a dangling wire antenna and the input attenuator at 0 dB. Harmonic n=1. LO signal on left. 851_2.jpg A 1 dBm, 2.4 GHz signal at the input with RF attenuation set to 30 dB. n=2. 851_3.jpg Same signal displayed on band 4, which uses the 200 MHz IF, n=1. 851_4.jpg The FM band again, displayed on the orange-screened 851B. I would prefer not to part this instrument out, and to send all of it to a good, loving home. Please make me an offer. I don't have a good feel for price of this instrument particularly since shipping would normally be a dominant part of the cost. Alternatively I am willing to trade for any of the instruments below, in working or *repairable* condition. Of the highest interest are any of the 141T SA plug-ins listed. Any 8554/8555/8556 SA plug-ins for a 141T based spectrum analyzer, preferably in grey paint. 182T mainframe any 11664 A or B detectors a 8755C swept amplitude analyzer a sweeper covering ~MHz to ~2.5 GHz. So, if interested, please contact me off-list and let's discuss. Thanks and Happy Holidays! Dan 851B/8551B Spectrum analyzer. ---------------------------- 8551B: SN 625-00695 (RF unit) 851B: SN 526-00805 (Orange screen) 851B: SN 526-00339 (spare unit) What works: Mixer, at least at n=1, n=2 and n=3. I don't have sources to test higher harmonics. RF input attenuator Stabilized fine tune - with some care Trace centering is fine at or below 1 mc/cm, alowing one to quickly zoom in on a signal. Both 851B display units, with sharp and bright traces. Fine and course tuning Frequency vernier What doesn't work: Trace centering on the 3-300 MC/cm scales. The signal jumps around when switching scales, though it can still be tuned. I can't follow the manual procedure in section 3-34 to set the spectrum centering adjustment on the front panel. The tracking meter does not respond as it should. As a result, LO scale pointer is ~100 MC off on scales at or below the 1 mc/cm sweep and varies on the 3-300 mc/cm scales. May need to reglue the scale drum at some point, but it's ok for now The orange plastic filter in one of the 851s has cracks in it in the lower left corner just off scale. The tune knob had it's handle broken off, but I kept the original parts and was able to epoxy together a decent looking reconstruction, so it works now and looks ok. I can't figure out if the signal identifier works. It's supposed to shift the signal by n cm at 100 KC/cm, which it does, but when you press the "reference" knob, it should revert to the n=1 state. But instead the trace keeps moving off screen. I suspect this is related to the issues at large spans. What you get: A functional piece of history - the first calibrated spectrum analyzer from HP. A basic, working spectrum analyzer All interconnecting cables and oval power cords One ORIGINAL PAPER MANUAL for the 851B display section A spare 851B display unit (the orange one was originally paired with the 8551, judging from the stickers) Satisfaction of working with a wonderful instrument Herniated disks What you don't get: Any of the sources shown in the pictures The instrument rack, though that can be negotiated separately The 50 Ohm terminator on the back at the LO output. I only have a few of these and I need them, however it seems to work ok without it at the few frequencies I looked at. Paper manuals for the 8551B section - but these are available on-line. The right to return the instrument Medical insurance ------------------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Links |
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Max - not the 8551. It came with an 851 display on top. you can google
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it. will In a message dated 12/28/2012 2:08:58 P.M. Pacific Standard Time,
max@... writes: Hi Daniel. If I remember correctly, and more and more lately I don't, the 8551 came with different front end modules for different frequency coverage's. What is the frequency range of yours? If it fits my needs I would be willing to pay for professional packing and the shipping charges to get it. Regards. Max. K 4 O DS. Email: _max@... (mailto:max@...) Transistor site _ () Vacuum tube site: _ () Woodworking site _ () Music site: _ () To subscribe to the fun with transistors group send an email to. _funwithtransistors-subscribe@... (mailto:funwithtransistors-subscribe@...) To subscribe to the fun with tubes group send an email to, _funwithtubes-subscribe@... (mailto:funwithtubes-subscribe@...) To subscribe to the fun with wood group send a blank email to _funwithwood-subscribe@... (mailto:funwithwood-subscribe@...) ----- Original Message ----- From: "Daniel Koller" <_kaboomdk@... (mailto:kaboomdk@...) > To: <_hp_agilent_equipment@... (mailto:hp_agilent_equipment@...) > Sent: Friday, December 28, 2012 8:44 AM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Hi folks, Is there really ZERO interest in an HP 8551 spectrum analyzer? Given that I didn't even get any comments from this usually vocal group, and having found some replies to older posts that went into my spam folder, I figured I'd just ask again (copied below). Perhaps a few more people are back from the holidays as well. Please do let me know if the group consensus is that this thing is really just a useless boat anchor even by vintage instrument standards. Thanks and have a happy new year! Dan ________________________________ From: kaboomdk <_kaboomdk@... (mailto:kaboomdk@...) > To: _hp_agilent_equipment@... (mailto:hp_agilent_equipment@...) Sent: Saturday, December 22, 2012 12:48 PM Subject: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Hello all, I have an HP 8551 spectrum analyzer I would like to offer for sale or trade. It works reasonably well, as I describe in more detail below, but I am starting to upgrade my home shop with more "modern" equipment. Cosmetically, the unit is clean, with some sticker residue on the display units. It comes complete with all the necessary interconnecting cables and the oval power cords. It weighs a TON. The RF unit alone is 90 lbs, so I can't really ship it, even in parts. However, I live in Charlottesville, VA, and I frequently travel up the north-east corridor, so if you live anywhere between here and Burlington, VT, I am willing to deliver if you can wait until March or so. Otherwise, perhaps we can make arrangements. Some photos are posted here: _ pic/list_ () 851_1.jpg A screen shot of the analyzer showing the FM band with a dangling wire antenna and the input attenuator at 0 dB. Harmonic n=1. LO signal on left. 851_2.jpg A 1 dBm, 2.4 GHz signal at the input with RF attenuation set to 30 dB. n=2. 851_3.jpg Same signal displayed on band 4, which uses the 200 MHz IF, n=1. 851_4.jpg The FM band again, displayed on the orange-screened 851B. I would prefer not to part this instrument out, and to send all of it to a good, loving home. Please make me an offer. I don't have a good feel for price of this instrument particularly since shipping would normally be a dominant part of the cost. Alternatively I am willing to trade for any of the instruments below, in working or *repairable* condition. Of the highest interest are any of the 141T SA plug-ins listed. Any 8554/8555/8556 SA plug-ins for a 141T based spectrum analyzer, preferably in grey paint. 182T mainframe any 11664 A or B detectors a 8755C swept amplitude analyzer a sweeper covering ~MHz to ~2.5 GHz. So, if interested, please contact me off-list and let's discuss. Thanks and Happy Holidays! Dan 851B/8551B Spectrum analyzer. ---------------------------- 8551B: SN 625-00695 (RF unit) 851B: SN 526-00805 (Orange screen) 851B: SN 526-00339 (spare unit) What works: Mixer, at least at n=1, n=2 and n=3. I don't have sources to test higher harmonics. RF input attenuator Stabilized fine tune - with some care Trace centering is fine at or below 1 mc/cm, alowing one to quickly zoom in on a signal. Both 851B display units, with sharp and bright traces. Fine and course tuning Frequency vernier What doesn't work: Trace centering on the 3-300 MC/cm scales. The signal jumps around when switching scales, though it can still be tuned. I can't follow the manual procedure in section 3-34 to set the spectrum centering adjustment on the front panel. The tracking meter does not respond as it should. As a result, LO scale pointer is ~100 MC off on scales at or below the 1 mc/cm sweep and varies on the 3-300 mc/cm scales. May need to reglue the scale drum at some point, but it's ok for now The orange plastic filter in one of the 851s has cracks in it in the lower left corner just off scale. The tune knob had it's handle broken off, but I kept the original parts and was able to epoxy together a decent looking reconstruction, so it works now and looks ok. I can't figure out if the signal identifier works. It's supposed to shift the signal by n cm at 100 KC/cm, which it does, but when you press the "reference" knob, it should revert to the n=1 state. But instead the trace keeps moving off screen. I suspect this is related to the issues at large spans. What you get: A functional piece of history - the first calibrated spectrum analyzer from HP. A basic, working spectrum analyzer All interconnecting cables and oval power cords One ORIGINAL PAPER MANUAL for the 851B display section A spare 851B display unit (the orange one was originally paired with the 8551, judging from the stickers) Satisfaction of working with a wonderful instrument Herniated disks What you don't get: Any of the sources shown in the pictures The instrument rack, though that can be negotiated separately The 50 Ohm terminator on the back at the LO output. I only have a few of these and I need them, however it seems to work ok without it at the few frequencies I looked at. Paper manuals for the 8551B section - but these are available on-line. The right to return the instrument Medical insurance [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] ------------------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Links [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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On Fri, 28 Dec 2012 06:44:17 -0800 (PST), you wrote:
Hi folks,I'm one who works with the dark side of the Force, that is, digital. I have no spectrum analyzers at all, although it might be nice to get one one day (and I am sufficiently space limited to not want a 3 or 4 foot 19 inch rack that has it's own 5HP gasoline motor just to move it around....) However, I *may* represent a population of people who would fairly automatically say.... "not right now, don't need one, too large, and I don't have enough space." Now if someone had a really unreasonably cheap one for a Tektronix 7000 series scope, then I'd be interested. For those of you who don't know, unreasonably cheap is about 25 dollars.... I'm not holding my breath.... Harvey
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In theory, but I have yet to find one with the YIG mod. Or, to be more accurate, most people selling them only have the main unit, or it and a display, but none of the cables or filter- they don't even know if it works, let alone what it's internal config is. I honestly don't have the room for another set.
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-Dave ----- Original Message -----
From: "Dave Brown" <tractorb@...> To: "hp agilent equipment" <hp_agilent_equipment@...> Sent: Friday, December 28, 2012 1:18:20 PM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Once the BWO has been replaced with the YIG upgrade kit thats no longer an issue- does this one have that upgrade applied? 73 Dave, ZL3FJ Christchurch, NZ ----- Original Message ----- From: < d.seiter@... > To: "hp agilent equipment" < hp_agilent_equipment@... > Sent: Saturday, December 29, 2012 8:13 AM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Another problem with the 8551 (besides its' weight and therefore very high |
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Howdy. ? Nope, only one RF unit covering the range from 0.01 - 12.4 GHz (and higher with external mixers), in multiple bands.
Some of the 8551 units had a mixer diode that could be replaced via the front panel. ?This one does not. I suspect it's the 8552/3/4/5/6 you are thinking of. Dan ________________________________ From: Max Robinson <max@...> To: hp_agilent_equipment@... Sent: Friday, December 28, 2012 5:09 PM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? ? Hi Daniel. If I remember correctly, and more and more lately I don't, the 8551 came with different front end modules for different frequency coverage's. What is the frequency range of yours? If it fits my needs I would be willing to pay for professional packing and the shipping charges to get it. Regards. Max. K 4 O DS. Email: max@... Transistor site Vacuum tube site: Woodworking site Music site: To subscribe to the fun with transistors group send an email to. funwithtransistors-subscribe@... To subscribe to the fun with tubes group send an email to, funwithtubes-subscribe@... To subscribe to the fun with wood group send a blank email to funwithwood-subscribe@... ----- Original Message ----- From: "Daniel Koller" <kaboomdk@...> To: <hp_agilent_equipment@...> Sent: Friday, December 28, 2012 8:44 AM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Hi folks, Is there really ZERO interest in an HP 8551 spectrum analyzer? Given that I didn't even get any comments from this usually vocal group, and having found some replies to older posts that went into my spam folder, I figured I'd just ask again (copied below). Perhaps a few more people are back from the holidays as well. Please do let me know if the group consensus is that this thing is really just a useless boat anchor even by vintage instrument standards. Thanks and have a happy new year! Dan ________________________________ From: kaboomdk <kaboomdk@...> To: hp_agilent_equipment@... Sent: Saturday, December 22, 2012 12:48 PM Subject: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Hello all, I have an HP 8551 spectrum analyzer I would like to offer for sale or trade. It works reasonably well, as I describe in more detail below, but I am starting to upgrade my home shop with more "modern" equipment. Cosmetically, the unit is clean, with some sticker residue on the display units. It comes complete with all the necessary interconnecting cables and the oval power cords. It weighs a TON. The RF unit alone is 90 lbs, so I can't really ship it, even in parts. However, I live in Charlottesville, VA, and I frequently travel up the north-east corridor, so if you live anywhere between here and Burlington, VT, I am willing to deliver if you can wait until March or so. Otherwise, perhaps we can make arrangements. Some photos are posted here: 851_1.jpg A screen shot of the analyzer showing the FM band with a dangling wire antenna and the input attenuator at 0 dB. Harmonic n=1. LO signal on left. 851_2.jpg A 1 dBm, 2.4 GHz signal at the input with RF attenuation set to 30 dB. n=2. 851_3.jpg Same signal displayed on band 4, which uses the 200 MHz IF, n=1. 851_4.jpg The FM band again, displayed on the orange-screened 851B. I would prefer not to part this instrument out, and to send all of it to a good, loving home. Please make me an offer. I don't have a good feel for price of this instrument particularly since shipping would normally be a dominant part of the cost. Alternatively I am willing to trade for any of the instruments below, in working or *repairable* condition. Of the highest interest are any of the 141T SA plug-ins listed. Any 8554/8555/8556 SA plug-ins for a 141T based spectrum analyzer, preferably in grey paint. 182T mainframe any 11664 A or B detectors a 8755C swept amplitude analyzer a sweeper covering ~MHz to ~2.5 GHz. So, if interested, please contact me off-list and let's discuss. Thanks and Happy Holidays! Dan 851B/8551B Spectrum analyzer. ---------------------------- 8551B: SN 625-00695 (RF unit) 851B: SN 526-00805 (Orange screen) 851B: SN 526-00339 (spare unit) What works: Mixer, at least at n=1, n=2 and n=3. I don't have sources to test higher harmonics. RF input attenuator Stabilized fine tune - with some care Trace centering is fine at or below 1 mc/cm, alowing one to quickly zoom in on a signal. Both 851B display units, with sharp and bright traces. Fine and course tuning Frequency vernier What doesn't work: Trace centering on the 3-300 MC/cm scales. The signal jumps around when switching scales, though it can still be tuned. I can't follow the manual procedure in section 3-34 to set the spectrum centering adjustment on the front panel. The tracking meter does not respond as it should. As a result, LO scale pointer is ~100 MC off on scales at or below the 1 mc/cm sweep and varies on the 3-300 mc/cm scales. May need to reglue the scale drum at some point, but it's ok for now The orange plastic filter in one of the 851s has cracks in it in the lower left corner just off scale. The tune knob had it's handle broken off, but I kept the original parts and was able to epoxy together a decent looking reconstruction, so it works now and looks ok. I can't figure out if the signal identifier works. It's supposed to shift the signal by n cm at 100 KC/cm, which it does, but when you press the "reference" knob, it should revert to the n=1 state. But instead the trace keeps moving off screen. I suspect this is related to the issues at large spans. What you get: A functional piece of history - the first calibrated spectrum analyzer from HP. A basic, working spectrum analyzer All interconnecting cables and oval power cords One ORIGINAL PAPER MANUAL for the 851B display section A spare 851B display unit (the orange one was originally paired with the 8551, judging from the stickers) Satisfaction of working with a wonderful instrument Herniated disks What you don't get: Any of the sources shown in the pictures The instrument rack, though that can be negotiated separately The 50 Ohm terminator on the back at the LO output. I only have a few of these and I need them, however it seems to work ok without it at the few frequencies I looked at. Paper manuals for the 8551B section - but these are available on-line. The right to return the instrument Medical insurance [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] ------------------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Links [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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Howdy. ?In my brief poking around inside he RF unit, I did not notice anything that looked like a YIG, but I wasn't looking for it. ?I doubt it's got the mod though. ?
What is the failure mode of the BWOs? ?Do they simply stop working, or drift, or have reduced sweep span? ?I noticed the warnings in the manual to keep the span at less than 100 MC/cm whenever possible. ? ?Anyway, it still works for now! ? Dan ________________________________ From: "d.seiter@..." <d.seiter@...> To: hp agilent equipment <hp_agilent_equipment@...> Sent: Saturday, December 29, 2012 12:11 AM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? ? In theory, but I have yet to find one with the YIG mod. Or, to be more accurate, most people selling them only have the main unit, or it and a display, but none of the cables or filter- they don't even know if it works, let alone what it's internal config is. I honestly don't have the room for another set. -Dave ----- Original Message ----- From: "Dave Brown" <tractorb@...> To: "hp agilent equipment" <hp_agilent_equipment@...> Sent: Friday, December 28, 2012 1:18:20 PM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Once the BWO has been replaced with the YIG upgrade kit thats no longer an issue- does this one have that upgrade applied? 73 Dave, ZL3FJ Christchurch, NZ ----- Original Message ----- From: < d.seiter@... > To: "hp agilent equipment" < hp_agilent_equipment@... > Sent: Saturday, December 29, 2012 8:13 AM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Another problem with the 8551 (besides its' weight and therefore very high[Non-text portions of this message have been removed] [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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Hi Dan.
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Well It's like I said memory isn't what it used to be. That unit does not fit my needs. I'm looking for something that covers from about 500 kHz to 250 MHz and won't cost me three arms and four legs. Regards. Max. K 4 O DS. Email: max@... Transistor site Vacuum tube site: Woodworking site Music site: To subscribe to the fun with transistors group send an email to. funwithtransistors-subscribe@... To subscribe to the fun with tubes group send an email to, funwithtubes-subscribe@... To subscribe to the fun with wood group send a blank email to funwithwood-subscribe@... ----- Original Message -----
From: "Daniel Koller" <kaboomdk@...> To: <hp_agilent_equipment@...> Sent: Saturday, December 29, 2012 8:11 AM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Howdy. Nope, only one RF unit covering the range from 0.01 - 12.4 GHz (and higher with external mixers), in multiple bands. Some of the 8551 units had a mixer diode that could be replaced via the front panel. This one does not. I suspect it's the 8552/3/4/5/6 you are thinking of. Dan ________________________________ From: Max Robinson <max@...> To: hp_agilent_equipment@... Sent: Friday, December 28, 2012 5:09 PM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Hi Daniel. If I remember correctly, and more and more lately I don't, the 8551 came with different front end modules for different frequency coverage's. What is the frequency range of yours? If it fits my needs I would be willing to pay for professional packing and the shipping charges to get it. Regards. Max. K 4 O DS. Email: max@... Transistor site Vacuum tube site: Woodworking site Music site: To subscribe to the fun with transistors group send an email to. funwithtransistors-subscribe@... To subscribe to the fun with tubes group send an email to, funwithtubes-subscribe@... To subscribe to the fun with wood group send a blank email to funwithwood-subscribe@... ----- Original Message ----- From: "Daniel Koller" <kaboomdk@...> To: <hp_agilent_equipment@...> Sent: Friday, December 28, 2012 8:44 AM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Hi folks, Is there really ZERO interest in an HP 8551 spectrum analyzer? Given that I didn't even get any comments from this usually vocal group, and having found some replies to older posts that went into my spam folder, I figured I'd just ask again (copied below). Perhaps a few more people are back from the holidays as well. Please do let me know if the group consensus is that this thing is really just a useless boat anchor even by vintage instrument standards. Thanks and have a happy new year! Dan ________________________________ From: kaboomdk <kaboomdk@...> To: hp_agilent_equipment@... Sent: Saturday, December 22, 2012 12:48 PM Subject: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Hello all, I have an HP 8551 spectrum analyzer I would like to offer for sale or trade. It works reasonably well, as I describe in more detail below, but I am starting to upgrade my home shop with more "modern" equipment. Cosmetically, the unit is clean, with some sticker residue on the display units. It comes complete with all the necessary interconnecting cables and the oval power cords. It weighs a TON. The RF unit alone is 90 lbs, so I can't really ship it, even in parts. However, I live in Charlottesville, VA, and I frequently travel up the north-east corridor, so if you live anywhere between here and Burlington, VT, I am willing to deliver if you can wait until March or so. Otherwise, perhaps we can make arrangements. Some photos are posted here: 851_1.jpg A screen shot of the analyzer showing the FM band with a dangling wire antenna and the input attenuator at 0 dB. Harmonic n=1. LO signal on left. 851_2.jpg A 1 dBm, 2.4 GHz signal at the input with RF attenuation set to 30 dB. n=2. 851_3.jpg Same signal displayed on band 4, which uses the 200 MHz IF, n=1. 851_4.jpg The FM band again, displayed on the orange-screened 851B. I would prefer not to part this instrument out, and to send all of it to a good, loving home. Please make me an offer. I don't have a good feel for price of this instrument particularly since shipping would normally be a dominant part of the cost. Alternatively I am willing to trade for any of the instruments below, in working or *repairable* condition. Of the highest interest are any of the 141T SA plug-ins listed. Any 8554/8555/8556 SA plug-ins for a 141T based spectrum analyzer, preferably in grey paint. 182T mainframe any 11664 A or B detectors a 8755C swept amplitude analyzer a sweeper covering ~MHz to ~2.5 GHz. So, if interested, please contact me off-list and let's discuss. Thanks and Happy Holidays! Dan 851B/8551B Spectrum analyzer. ---------------------------- 8551B: SN 625-00695 (RF unit) 851B: SN 526-00805 (Orange screen) 851B: SN 526-00339 (spare unit) What works: Mixer, at least at n=1, n=2 and n=3. I don't have sources to test higher harmonics. RF input attenuator Stabilized fine tune - with some care Trace centering is fine at or below 1 mc/cm, alowing one to quickly zoom in on a signal. Both 851B display units, with sharp and bright traces. Fine and course tuning Frequency vernier What doesn't work: Trace centering on the 3-300 MC/cm scales. The signal jumps around when switching scales, though it can still be tuned. I can't follow the manual procedure in section 3-34 to set the spectrum centering adjustment on the front panel. The tracking meter does not respond as it should. As a result, LO scale pointer is ~100 MC off on scales at or below the 1 mc/cm sweep and varies on the 3-300 mc/cm scales. May need to reglue the scale drum at some point, but it's ok for now The orange plastic filter in one of the 851s has cracks in it in the lower left corner just off scale. The tune knob had it's handle broken off, but I kept the original parts and was able to epoxy together a decent looking reconstruction, so it works now and looks ok. I can't figure out if the signal identifier works. It's supposed to shift the signal by n cm at 100 KC/cm, which it does, but when you press the "reference" knob, it should revert to the n=1 state. But instead the trace keeps moving off screen. I suspect this is related to the issues at large spans. What you get: A functional piece of history - the first calibrated spectrum analyzer from HP. A basic, working spectrum analyzer All interconnecting cables and oval power cords One ORIGINAL PAPER MANUAL for the 851B display section A spare 851B display unit (the orange one was originally paired with the 8551, judging from the stickers) Satisfaction of working with a wonderful instrument Herniated disks What you don't get: Any of the sources shown in the pictures The instrument rack, though that can be negotiated separately The 50 Ohm terminator on the back at the LO output. I only have a few of these and I need them, however it seems to work ok without it at the few frequencies I looked at. Paper manuals for the 8551B section - but these are available on-line. The right to return the instrument Medical insurance ------------------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Links ------------------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Links |
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Dan,
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If you weren't on the other side of the US from me, I'd be glad to take it. Bill --- In hp_agilent_equipment@..., "kaboomdk" <kaboomdk@...> wrote:
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Based on warranty statements of other HP BWO gear, it looks like filament failure is the primary cause, maybe preceded by instability of some type. The Stewart BWOs had a warranted filament life of 18 months or 500 hours, which ever came first. The warranty was not honored if the returned tube was broken.
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-Dave ----- Original Message -----
From: "Daniel Koller" <kaboomdk@...> To: "hp agilent equipment" <hp_agilent_equipment@...> Sent: Saturday, December 29, 2012 6:23:00 AM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Howdy. In my brief poking around inside he RF unit, I did not notice anything that looked like a YIG, but I wasn't looking for it. I doubt it's got the mod though. What is the failure mode of the BWOs? Do they simply stop working, or drift, or have reduced sweep span? I noticed the warnings in the manual to keep the span at less than 100 MC/cm whenever possible. Anyway, it still works for now! Dan ________________________________ From: " d.seiter@... " < d.seiter@... > To: hp agilent equipment < hp_agilent_equipment@... > Sent: Saturday, December 29, 2012 12:11 AM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? In theory, but I have yet to find one with the YIG mod. Or, to be more accurate, most people selling them only have the main unit, or it and a display, but none of the cables or filter- they don't even know if it works, let alone what it's internal config is. I honestly don't have the room for another set. -Dave ----- Original Message ----- From: "Dave Brown" < tractorb@... > To: "hp agilent equipment" < hp_agilent_equipment@... > Sent: Friday, December 28, 2012 1:18:20 PM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Once the BWO has been replaced with the YIG upgrade kit thats no longer an issue- does this one have that upgrade applied? 73 Dave, ZL3FJ Christchurch, NZ ----- Original Message ----- From: < d.seiter@... > To: "hp agilent equipment" < hp_agilent_equipment@... > Sent: Saturday, December 29, 2012 8:13 AM Subject: Re: [hp_agilent_equipment] HP 8551 Spectrum Analyzer FS or trade? Another problem with the 8551 (besides its' weight and therefore very high [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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