All Messages

DickGrier 19/01/2018
This sort of test instrument is important for a hobbyist or even professional electronics workbench. This one will meet most needs.. But, there are some caveats. 1. There is a well known design flaw in the generator. The built-in power supply converts 85-250VAC to the required DC voltage rails used by the internal electronics. The mains powered converter is inadequately isolated from mains voltage. The generator power supply has no direct connection to the ground (earth) of the AC main. The result is that a noticeable AC voltage is imposed between the generator ground connection and the physical AC mains ground. This impresses an AC voltage of between 36VAC (125VAC mains voltage) and about 90VAC (240VAC mains voltage). This can voltage can cause damage or even destroy electronics circuitry. There are YouTube videos that show how to remedy this situation. However, I understood the problem in advance and had what I think is a more cost-effective solution. I opened the generator case and disconnected both input power from the power connector and also the front panel power switch. I added a Triad N-48X isolation transformer (designed for 120V, but usable for higher mains voltages) so that the primary winding was connected to AC mains through the front panel switch. I connected the secondary winding to the internal power supply input and also jumped together the connections that had previously been connected to the front panel power switch. This removes the AC voltage that was imposed on the generator ground. Cost was less than US$20. 2. The software furnished on CDROM with the generator is useless. Instead, download the current version from the manufacturer's web site at en.feeltech.net. I found the English manual and software through the Download tab on that web site. 3. In some cases, you may want to add a USB isolator between the generator and your PC. A suitable isolator may be purchase through Banggood. This may improve the operational safety while using it.
1
Recommendations
Comments (0)