7A13: Difference between revisions

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The '''Tektronix 7A13''' is a "differential comparator" vertical plug-in for [[7000-series scopes]], i.e. a fast differential amplifier with adjustable DC offset.  It is one of the first 7000 series plugins, released along with the first scopes in 1969/1970, and was made until the 7000 series was retired in 1992.
The '''Tektronix 7A13''' is a "differential comparator" vertical plug-in for [[7000-series scopes]],  
i.e. a fast differential amplifier with adjustable DC offset.   
It is one of the first 7000 series plugins.
It was designed by Bill DeVey and released along with the first 7000-series scopes in 1969/1970,  
and was made until the 7000 series was retired in 1992.


==Operation==
==Operation==
Older versions display the comparison (offset) voltage through a mechanical dial, newer versions (from 1976 on) through an LED panel meter. In addition, this voltage is brought out through a front panel connector so it can be measured externally.
Older versions display the comparison (offset) voltage through a mechanical dial,  
newer versions (from 1976 on) through an LED panel meter.  
In addition, this voltage is brought out through a front panel connector so it can be measured externally.


In differential mode, a +/-10 V common mode signal can be present at the inputs without attenuation.  Either input can be switched to the comparison voltage, which is settable to four digits by a 10-step switch and a 10-turn potentiometer.  In this comparator mode, the offset range is effectively 10,000 divisions.
In differential mode, a +/-10 V common mode signal can be present at the inputs without attenuation.   
Either input can be switched to the comparison voltage,  
which is settable to four digits by a 10-step switch and a 10-turn potentiometer.   
In this comparator mode, the offset range is effectively 10,000 divisions.


On the 1 mV/Div to 50 mV/Div ranges, the gate resistors can be disabled by an internal switch, raising DC input impedance to "approximately infinite" (as indicated by a front panel lamp).
On the 1 mV/Div to 50 mV/Div ranges, the gate resistors can be disabled by an internal switch,  
raising DC input impedance to "approximately infinite" (as indicated by a front panel lamp).


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===Repair issues===
===Repair issues===
The 7A13 uses twelve miniature relays similar to those used in the [[7A11]].  These are very rare.  The [http://www.amplifier.cd/Test_Equipment/Tektronix/Tektronix_7000_series_amplifier/amplifier_7A11.htm 7A11 repair report at amplifier.cd] describes a possible replacement with a modern component. See also the IK1ZYW link below.
The 7A13 uses twelve miniature relays similar to those used in the [[7A11]].  These are very rare.  The [http://www.amplifier.cd/Test_Equipment/Tektronix/Tektronix_7000_series_amplifier/amplifier_7A11.htm 7A11 repair report at amplifier.cd] describes a possible replacement with a modern component. See also the IK1ZYW link below.
Early 7A13 plug-ins were made with a mechanical counter for reading out the comparison voltage. 
The plastic gears in this counter don't age well.
The plug-in can still be used when the counter fails, by using an
external voltmeter to monitor the comparison voltage, Vc.
Later 7A13 plug-ins use an LED readout instead of the mechanical counter.
The LED readout is much less problematic.


==Links==
==Links==