16-08-2026, 10:27 PM
(16-08-2026, 11:01 AM)Mark Hennessy Wrote:(16-08-2026, 05:49 AM)Mabo5 Wrote: It's a pity no-one knows how to wire this up, but it was worth a try posting it here as the responses to other radio-based queries are pretty good.
It's partly about liability.
If someone here gives you a wiring plan and you later receive an electric shock, how would they feel? Or worse, what if you - or someone acting on behalf of your family should the shock be fatal - decides to pursue the forum member for damages and compensation?
I feel it might be a good idea to remind folk of our disclaimer: https://golbornevintageradio.co.uk/forum/misc.php?action=help&hid=9
To be honest, there's quite a few things that leap out at me about this project.
For example, the neon lamps in all those switches won't come on at lower voltages. Might that be confusing? Probably best to leave the "N" terminal disconnected for the single-pole switches.
The panel meter probably needs a separate supply - is that being fed separately? How to ensure you don't accidentally swap them, which would result in the "full" mains going to your "DUT" (device under test)?
What about the isolation transformer? There is so much confusion about the use of isolation transformers in the vintage radio community - I've lost count of the number of threads I've contributed to over the years, and have been horrified by what some people believe and practice. The addition of an isolation transformer can actually make things less safe in certain scenarios. Generally, an RCD provides better safety, and an isolation transformer will only be needed when you need to connect grounded test equipment to certain areas of certain equipment - they are not a thing to use by default on the false assumption they make everything safe.
With all that said, I think you are correct to not just plough ahead with it. As frustrating as it might feel now, it's best to wait until your knowledge allows you to make your own informed decisions, with full understanding of the implications. Feel free to sketch something up for feedback, and I'm sure you'll get good advice about it, but asking others to do the design work for you is not really fair when there is so much at stake.
Hope that helps,
Mark
Hi Mark,
THank you for our reply.
Yes it does.
The design comes from an existing DBT; the schematic the chap can't locate as it was quite some time ago, and it was constructed with a Variac built in to the panel for his own practicality on the testing bench.
I was just pitching it here to see if it was 'straightforward' to an electrician...
I use a Variac via an Isolation Transformer for repairs and restoration but a DBT like this provides (IMO) some 'finer control'.
The AC powered panel meter itself the digital panel meter itself requires a direct AC mains voltage connection (typically 80V to 260V AC) to power its internal circuitry and illuminate the display, and comes with a 100A split-core current transformer.
Best Regards,
Peter






