08-27-2013, 09:39 PM
Honestly Eric, you really don't need a sweep generator for a proper alignment of a 40's or 50's FM radio. The manufacturer's alignment instructions usually assumed the service tech did not have a sweep generator and usually gave a procedure using a common AM generator.
That said, a sweep generator can allow you to optimize the IF bandpass and discriminator curve for optimum performance, but practically speaking you would never notice the difference in actually listening to the radio. The sweep generator with an oscilloscope will allow you to actually see the performance of the IF and detector, and as an educational tool it can be very valuable in understanding their operation.
If you are going to get a sweep generator, get the best quality you can afford. The Eico's and alike were cheap when new and had performance to match. Today for almost the same price, you can buy an older HP which cost thousands when new and now can be had for pennies on the dollar. ( the HP 8601A cost $2250 in the 1970's, about the price of a new compact car at the time ! )
That said, a sweep generator can allow you to optimize the IF bandpass and discriminator curve for optimum performance, but practically speaking you would never notice the difference in actually listening to the radio. The sweep generator with an oscilloscope will allow you to actually see the performance of the IF and detector, and as an educational tool it can be very valuable in understanding their operation.
If you are going to get a sweep generator, get the best quality you can afford. The Eico's and alike were cheap when new and had performance to match. Today for almost the same price, you can buy an older HP which cost thousands when new and now can be had for pennies on the dollar. ( the HP 8601A cost $2250 in the 1970's, about the price of a new compact car at the time ! )
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