07-20-2014, 12:55 PM
Yes, whatever works is good, but I'd also recommend picking up an RCA Triple Pindex. They are fairly small, cheap, and will show the pinouts on any three tubes at a time. It's not a substitute for a tube manual because it doesn't give characteristics, only pinouts, but it was designed for use on the bench.
Best of all it is cheap, doesn't require a wi-fi connection, and doesn't need to be recharged. Of course it also won't check e-mail or surf the web
This shows what one pindex looks like in use:
[Image: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v348/j...Pindex.jpg]
A quick search shows at least three places selling used copies for ~$10: Amazon, Abe books, and Alibris books. I'm sure they show up on eBay too, and they're also available at radio meets and hamfests if you keep your eyes open.
Best of all it is cheap, doesn't require a wi-fi connection, and doesn't need to be recharged. Of course it also won't check e-mail or surf the web
This shows what one pindex looks like in use:
[Image: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v348/j...Pindex.jpg]
A quick search shows at least three places selling used copies for ~$10: Amazon, Abe books, and Alibris books. I'm sure they show up on eBay too, and they're also available at radio meets and hamfests if you keep your eyes open.
John KK4ZLF
Lexington, KY
"illegitimis non carborundum"