16-11-2012, 09:25 AM
I was joking about using an EM80 as I'd have just as much trouble with that. I think part of the problem is using analogue devices when a digital 1 or 0 is the required output. I'd actually be more inclined to replace magic eyes with LEDs and a barograph driver then go the other way.
I don't really know any more about valves and their ways than solid-state stuff. I just find it easier as the tolerances are wider and valve equipment is physically easier to work on as it's bigger. In the same way I can do basic clock repairs but not watches.
Understanding is indeed dawning. I know what the problem is at least; it's the solution which is evading me. I'll try the battery trick when I get up and, if that works, will add a zener to an order I'm compiling. Then I'll have to work out just how to install it.
I've certainly heard of "The Art of Electronics." The prices don't seem as horrific as last time I looked and Amazon allowed limited viewing of the contents and I see what you mean about it being readable.
The only reason I'm persisting with this, apart from bloody-mindedness, is as a way of learning. I've been lucky in my previous dealings with LM317s and LM386s as they seem quite forgiving and their data-sheets seem more informative.
Obviously data-sheets are aimed at people who know what they are doing apart from the details of that particular device. I have just the same trouble with valve ones. For instance, I know a pentode has a Control Grid, a Screen Grid and a Suppressor Grid but when checking the pin-outs they tend to be labelled G1, G2 and G3 which leads to pondering.
Thanks also to Al for the encouragement and article. I've read it once but will do so again.
- Joe
I don't really know any more about valves and their ways than solid-state stuff. I just find it easier as the tolerances are wider and valve equipment is physically easier to work on as it's bigger. In the same way I can do basic clock repairs but not watches.
Understanding is indeed dawning. I know what the problem is at least; it's the solution which is evading me. I'll try the battery trick when I get up and, if that works, will add a zener to an order I'm compiling. Then I'll have to work out just how to install it.
I've certainly heard of "The Art of Electronics." The prices don't seem as horrific as last time I looked and Amazon allowed limited viewing of the contents and I see what you mean about it being readable.
The only reason I'm persisting with this, apart from bloody-mindedness, is as a way of learning. I've been lucky in my previous dealings with LM317s and LM386s as they seem quite forgiving and their data-sheets seem more informative.
Obviously data-sheets are aimed at people who know what they are doing apart from the details of that particular device. I have just the same trouble with valve ones. For instance, I know a pentode has a Control Grid, a Screen Grid and a Suppressor Grid but when checking the pin-outs they tend to be labelled G1, G2 and G3 which leads to pondering.
Thanks also to Al for the encouragement and article. I've read it once but will do so again.
- Joe
