[volt-nuts] Keithley 2001 vs HP 3457A multimeters / Any problems to watch out for on Keithley 2001? (Todd Micallef)

[Brooke Clarke]

Hi Illya:

When I try to view your web page the message is:
Secure Connection Failed

-- 
Have Fun,

Brooke Clarke
http://www.PRC68.com
http://www.end2partygovernment.com/2012Issues.html
The lesser of evils is still evil.

-------- Original Message --------
> Aha! :)
>
> Hi David,
>
> First few sour points to make sure you got what to expect.
> * 520$USD is bit steep for 2001 from 90's you got, and VFD seem to be fairly faded according to auction pics.
> * It may be still have issues internally, even though showing reading does not reveal anything in first glance.
>
> 2001's are fairly capable DMMs and I personally dealt with no less than 7pcs of them over last years. Currently I 
> still own four units of same age as your win (judge from S/N). While they are worse than 2002/3458 in terms of 
> stability/noise, I would not trade my 2001's to fancy 3446X/34470 meters.
>
> Also 2001 support scan-card addons so you can easily expand DMM with scanner function, or even nanovolt-preamp if you 
> dedicated enough. I'm working on nanovolt support with 2001, but that's long story. Some details with DIY card I 
> covered here: https://xdevs.com/review/ema10/
>
> To get you ready:
>
> 1). It's bit tricky to setup and need little bit of time to get familiar with, but otherwise on par with modern 
> 34470/DMM7510 with bit worse resistance/current specs. No RS232, so bit more expenses to come for GPIB interfacing if 
> you don't have that already.
> As Todd pointed out already to my repair article, some bits of info are linked there, as well as firmwares and 
> documentation.
> Here's example test log with reading 1mV DC voltage with three meters : 2001,2002,3458. https://xdevs.com/datalog_tcomp/
> 2001 also using almost exactly same ACV TrueRMS converter as 8.5 Model 2002, so that's good too if you into AC stuff.
> I also have thread on EEVBlog: http://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/restoration-glory-of-keithley-2001-dmm/ in case 
> you missed it.
>
> 2) I never played with 3457A, but 2001 should offer better stability, less noise and more functionality in smaller 
> package. I do take 2001 with me to remote locations sometimes to do some testing, thanks to it's relatively small size 
> and weight.
>
> 4-5) You should update firmware to A08, which I hosted on links above, if you desire to have meter calibrated by 
> accredited lab, such as Tektronix service center. Otherwise they might charge you for replacing simple PLCC ROM. Your 
> digital board is older version, so you tied to A-version smaller firmwares w/o support of unobtanium nanovolt Keithley 
> 1801 preamp. You will not loose existing calibration on firmware update.
>
> 6) This is my favorite part. Here's what you have to do:
> * Receive meter, take the cover off
> * Remove transformer, carefully remove plastic cover of analog board (top side)
> * Get the board out.
> * Replace ALL electrolytic capacitors on it. Follow my article for details. This is requirement, believe me.
> * If you already see gunk, liquid from caps - carefully clean board, restore any damaged traces/parts. If it leaked 
> under ICs - you have to desolder them, clean in IPA thoroughly and solder back.
> * If your VFD too dim and you desire bright nice glow - you can buy Keithley 7001 switch with good screen from ebay 
> (they can be found for 100-150$) and swap VFD. Not worth to bother asking Tek for new VFD, they sell front panel board 
> only for ridiculous tag.
> * Replace caps on bottom digital board.
> * Install memory option if you like
> * You can deyellow plastic front panel with peroxide: https://xdevs.com/guide/plastic_bleach/
> * Enjoy the meter.
>
> I sent one of 2001's for official cal here in Taiwan, it was 500$ for full cal with data. Cheaper than 8.5 DMMs but 
> still bit pricey. To do user calibration you will need very stable 2V, 20V, 20kOhm and 1MOhm standards. Make sure you 
> have meter running at least for a week before sending to cal, to get everything stable.
>
> P.S. there is no much point in 8.5th digit from 2001, as it's just down in noise.
>
> BR,
> Illya
>
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