On Wednesday, Apr 21, 2004, at 21:29 US/Pacific, Robert B. wrote:

>>>  I don't have much $ to blow on a fancy lab bench supply

Just how much do you have to spend?  For between $50 and $100 you can
get a pretty nice bench supply, with meters.  I've found my bench
supply to be unexpectedly useful; having voltage and current meters is
like having an extra two DMMs that are always connected, and can keep
you
somewhat out of trouble.  (see that little pic circuit start to draw
an amp of current?  Something's wrong!)  Also charges batteries, runs
hot wire cutters, shows motor run characteristcs, tests LEDs, and zaps
NiCds..

http://www.bgmicro.com/prodinfo.asp?prodid=PWR1166
http://www.elexp.com/tst_3003.htm
http://www.elexp.com/tst_1802.htm

BillW

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