Old Function Gens - Wavetek 116 vs Krohn-Hite 5200 - which one?

[toli]

Hi Guys,

I've been looking for a basic function generator for some time now. I only need couple of MH'z, and sine + square wave output.
A local shop has the Wavetek 116 (1MHz) and the Krohn-Hite 5200 (3MHz) both for about 50$.

The question is, which one of the 2 should I take? Or perhaps I should just buy one of these "toys" from eBay/get a very cheap new function gen (although I'm afraid this might cost a bit too much at the moment).

Any thoughts will be appreciated.

[firewalker]

Are both sweep capable? If yes go for the higher frequency.

Alexander.

[toli]

I don't know actually, as I didn't find any significant information on the KH 5200. The Wavetek 116 manual can be found on google quite easily here.

[GK]

~$100 gets you both; still cheaper than a single new unit on ebay.

With two units you'd be able to experiment with hetrodyning and measuring IMD of audio amplifiers and SSB radio transmitters, just for a start 

[toli]

I'm aware of that, but that's really not what I need this for. At work/school I have lots of more sophisticated stuff I can play with if I'd like. and there's no shortage of test gear over there I need just one for my own projects which I don't like to carry to work every time.

Does anyone have experience with any of these units?

[GK]

There is a big picture of the 5200 front panel here:

http://www.antiqueradios.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=197523

No need for a specification sheet - all of it functions can be deduced from the control legends. To answer a previous question, yes, it is sweep capable.
Keep in mind these are very old units (=>40 years). If that local shop isn't selling the KH-5200 with its service manual, and you can't find one on line for free download or for a modest fee, then that would probably be a good reason to opt for the Wavetek instead. Stuff this old often requires maintenence to keep going.
 

[toli]

I don't see the Wavetek being able to sweep, unless I use the VCG input which would probably allow it (although I've never used a unit with the VCG input). I do like the Wavetek being able to limit the number of cycles to 1/2/4/8/..., it's a nice option to have.

The point you raise about the servicing of these unit make a lot of sense. I guess I'll go for the Wavetek mainly because of this.

[toli]

One more option is now available. Its more expensive (~75$). Its the "Exact 126C". From the very limited info I found online it should have sweep option and a 3MHz BW.

I found this picture on Google but it doesn't show much:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jerryfi_99/2665650755/#
http://ragelse.com/i/B2w1bQ

Anyone familiar with this model or can find anymore info about it?

Edit:
According to this it should go up to 5MHz, but most of the other web-sites I could find only state 3MHz. Unfortunately I have to drive over there to see it, so I'd like to find out what I can before spending a couple of hours on the road.

[BeatleFred]

How about an HP-3312a? (available on Ebay)

[toli]

A. its more expensive (although has higher BW as well - so its ok).
B. Shipping to Israel + tax + a 220V->110V transformer will set me back about 100$ more.