Installing BG7TBL noise source as poor's man tracking generator

After finishing the modification to the BG7TBL noise source, and put it in a shielded box, it was time to place it inside the spectrum analyzer, so I could use it as a poor's man tracking generator.

Modifying BG7TBL noise source

I own an old IFR-A7550 1GHz spectrum analyzer. It works fine, but lacks tracking generator, so its usage is somewhat limited.

The tracking generator for my unit is difficult to find, and very expensive, so aimed by Iban, EB3FRN, I explored other solutions, for example a noise source.

Getting 1PPS signal from a Bluetooth GPS

Recently some new experiments have been added to the (large) TO-DO list. For some of them, a time reference signal will be needed. So why not to use GPS timing? I have some old GPS in the junk box, so I could try to get the desired 1PPS signal from one of them.

One of the units is a Fortuna On Clip Bluetooth unit. This unit has been with me more than five years. The bluetooth side died, but the GPS side was still working, so I keep it to use in a future, maybe with a microcontroller. Also, this unit has connector for external antenna, so it is ideal for me. But, does it has the 1PPS signal?

Transverter rework

I have spent this weekend to rework the 10 GHz transverter. After one year since I finished it (but only three months of operation) it was time to fix some minor problems it showed.