
| Brand | TEKTRONIX GENERAL ELECTRIC |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Part Number | 1N3717 |
| Part Type | OSCILLOSCOPE |
The Tektronix General Electric 152-0125-00 TD-3A Tunnel Diode Oscilloscope is a vintage piece of test equipment that offers unique capabilities for electronic measurements. This oscilloscope, manufactured by Tektronix in collaboration with General Electric, utilizes a tunnel diode as its active element, providing features that set it apart from typical vacuum tube or transistor-based oscilloscopes of its time.
The TD-3A sports an intuitive CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) display, providing a sharp and detailed view of electrical waveforms. Its horizontal bandwidth ranges from 5 Hz to 5 MHz, making it suitable for measuring low-frequency signals as well as high-frequency oscillations. The vertical resolution is approximately 0.4 mV/div, enabling precise voltage measurements.
One of the most notable features of this oscilloscope is its ability to display and measure extremely low-level signals. The tunnel diode amplifier used in the TD-3A boasts an input impedance of 1 M and a gain of up to 100,000. This makes it ideal for measuring weak signals, such as those found in high-gain amplifiers or radio frequency applications.
The TD-3A also includes several useful functions, including DC coupling, AC coupling, and X-Y display modes. The DC coupling capability allows for direct measurement of DC voltages, while AC coupling enables the measurement of AC voltages by rejecting the DC offset. The X-Y display mode can be used for analyzing the relationship between two signals, making it a valuable tool for complex electronic systems.
The TD-3A Tunnel Diode Oscilloscope is housed in a sturdy steel case, ensuring its durability and protection. The front panel features easily accessible controls for various functions, making it user-friendly for engineers and technicians.
In summary, the Tektronix General Electric 152-0125-00 TD-3A Tunnel Diode Oscilloscope is a versatile and powerful test instrument that offers unique capabilities for measuring low-level signals and analyzing complex waveforms. Its vintage design and intuitive operation make it an intriguing addition to any electronic workshop or laboratory.
The Tektronix General Electric 152-0125-00 TD-3A Tunnel Diode Oscilloscope is an obsolete model of oscilloscope, which was produced by Tektronix in collaboration with General Electric during the late 1960s and early 1970s. This oscilloscope is known for its use of a tunnel diode as the active component, which provides unique features and limitations. Here are some pros and cons of buying this oscilloscope:
Pros:1. Unique features: The TD-3A offers some unique features that are not found in modern oscilloscopes. It can generate and display very short pulses, as short as a few nanoseconds, which makes it an excellent tool for studying high-speed electronic circuits. It also has a very high bandwidth, up to 1 GHz, which is impressive for an instrument of its age.
2. Historical significance: The TD-3A is a piece of electronic history, and owning one can be a rewarding experience for electronics enthusiasts and collectors. It represents a significant milestone in the development of oscilloscope technology.
3. Durability: Tektronix oscilloscopes are known for their high quality and durability. The TD-3A is no exception, and it can still provide accurate measurements even after decades of use.
Cons:1. Obsolete technology: The TD-3A uses obsolete technology, which can make it difficult to use and repair. Spare parts are no longer available, and it may be challenging to find knowledgeable technicians who can work on it.
2. Limited functionality: The TD-3A has limited functionality compared to modern oscilloscopes. It does not have many of the features that are common in modern instruments, such as automatic triggering, digital storage, or cursor measurement.
3. Expensive: The TD-3A can be expensive to purchase, especially if it is in good condition and fully functional. Prices for these oscilloscopes can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on their condition and rarity.
Conclusion:The Tektronix General Electric 152-0125-00 TD-3A Tunnel Diode Oscilloscope is a unique and historically significant instrument that offers some unique features and limitations. If you are an electronics enthusiast or collector, and you have the resources and expertise to maintain and use this oscilloscope, then it can be a rewarding addition to your collection. However, if you are looking for a modern, feature-rich oscilloscope for everyday use, then you may want to consider a more contemporary instrument.
Recommendation:If you are serious about buying a TD-3A, I would recommend doing thorough research before making a purchase. Look for a seller who is knowledgeable about the instrument and can provide detailed information about its condition and functionality. Consider joining online communities of oscilloscope enthusiasts, such as the Tektronix Users Group, to learn more about the TD-3A and connect with other owners. Finally, be prepared for the cost and challenges of owning and maintaining an obsolete oscilloscope. If you are not up for the challenge, then I would recommend considering a more modern instrument that better meets your needs and budget.
These were carefully un soldered from a working Tektronix 465 oscilloscope. 13 pf, ge tunnel diodes are rare and expensive. These parts are identical: 1N3717 or TD-3A 152-0125- us stock fast Au shipping, marked with Tektronix p/n 152-0125-00.