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The Metex MS-9150 is a vintage four-in-one bench system combining a frequency counter, function generator, DC power supply and digital multimeter. It can be a space-saving, inexpensive tool for education, audio and general electronics work, but it is not a modern precision or safety-certified test platform. A used example is worth considering only when its individual sections, connectors, mains configuration and documentation have been checked.

What is the Metex MS-9150?

“Metex 9150” normally refers to the Metex MS-9150 Universal System, also described as a multi-measurement station. It was marketed for teaching, servicing, design work and home workshops, putting four basic instruments in one chassis: a frequency counter, function generator, multi-output DC supply and digital multimeter. The product identity and principal specifications are documented by TEquipment.

Search results may also use MS 9150, MS9150 or, in some databases, RO-9150. Related units have appeared under Voltcraft, PeakTech and other distributor labels. Treat those as possible rebadged or related versions, not automatically identical products: compare the model label, rear panel, connector layout, ratings and manual before assuming interchangeability.

A radio-equipment database identifies the manufacturer as Metex Corporation of Seoul, although surviving documentation is largely archival rather than a current manufacturer support catalog (Radiomuseum).

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At a glance:

  • Counter: low-frequency channel A and a separate 50-ohm high-frequency channel B.
  • Generator: multiple analog waveforms, sweep and TTL output, specified to 2 MHz.
  • Supply: variable 0–30 V output plus fixed 5 V and 15 V outputs.
  • DMM: voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, inductance and diode functions, with a reported RS-232 interface.

MS-9150 specifications

These are the strongest surviving MS-9150 figures, principally from the TEquipment specification page. Vintage listings are not fully consistent, so use them as a baseline rather than a guarantee for every chassis.

Frequency counter

Specification Reported value
Channel A 1 Hz–20 MHz
Channel B 20 MHz–2.7 GHz
Channel A input impedance 1 MΩ
Channel B input impedance 50 Ω
Maximum input voltage 3 V
Channel A sensitivity 20 mV RMS sine wave or 100 mV peak-to-peak
Channel B sensitivity 40 mV RMS from 20 MHz–1.3 GHz; 70 mV RMS from 1.3–2.7 GHz
Time base Switch-selectable

That 2.7 GHz figure applies to frequency counting on channel B, not to signal generation, spectrum analysis or RF-power measurement. The 3 V maximum is a counter-input limit and must not be confused with the DMM’s high-voltage ranges.

Function generator

Specification Reported value
Waveforms Sine, square, triangle, skewed sine, ramp, pulse and TTL
Frequency 0.2 Hz–2 MHz
VCF input 0–10 V DC
Output impedance Selectable 50 Ω or 600 Ω
Output amplitude 2–20 Vpp open circuit; 1–10 Vpp into 50 Ω
Attenuator −20 dB
Sweep time 20 ms–2 s
Sweep mode Linear or logarithmic
Sweep width More than 100:1

Generator amplitude depends on load. A voltage specified open-circuit will be approximately halved by a matched 50-ohm load, so verify settings with the actual termination used in your circuit. The 2 MHz upper limit is a specification, not a promise of laboratory-grade waveform quality at that frequency.

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DC power supply

Output Reported rating
Variable 0–30 V, up to 2 A
Fixed 5 V, up to 2 A
Fixed 15 V, up to 1 A
Ripple 1 mV maximum on variable output; 2 mV maximum on fixed outputs
Mains options 110/120 V or 220/240 V AC, 50–60 Hz

Digital multimeter

Function Reported range
DC voltage 400 mV–400 V; 1,000 V range
AC voltage 400 mV–400 V; 750 V range
DC and AC current 40 mA–400 mA; 20 A range
Resistance 400 Ω–4 MΩ; 40 MΩ range
Capacitance 4 nF–400 nF; 4–200 µF ranges
Inductance Reported to approximately 40 mH
Other functions Diode test
Display 3¾-digit
Battery Single 9 V battery
Computer interface RS-232 reported

Size and weight: conflicting published data

Surviving sources disagree on physical dimensions and mass. TEquipment listings include approximately 14.5 × 6.5 × 12.5 inches and 39 lb, while another line gives approximately 14.5 × 14.0 × 7.0 inches and 37 lb. Radiomuseum lists about 380 × 185 × 370 mm and 20 kg. Do not rely on any one figure for shipping or bench planning; measure the actual chassis.

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Why online specifications conflict

Some pages combine data for the MS-9150, MS-9160 and other related universal systems. A surviving combined specification document distinguishes the MS-9150 generator (0.2 Hz–2 MHz) from the MS-9160 generator (1 Hz–10 MHz), which explains why 10 MHz generator figures are sometimes incorrectly assigned to the 9150 (combined MS-9150/MS-9160 PDF).

Another database entry gives an MS-9150 or related RO-9150 a counter around 5 Hz–1.3 GHz and different supply-current figures (Radiomuseum). Before buying, match the exact front-panel model, rear-panel markings and manual to the serialised unit. Do not silently substitute MS-9160 values for MS-9150 specifications.

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What it can realistically do

Audio and low-frequency electronics

The generator, counter and supply cover many classroom, audio and analog troubleshooting tasks. You can inject a sine or square wave, power a circuit, observe frequency response and check voltages without filling the bench with four separate boxes.

General servicing and education

Its integrated layout is useful when convenience matters more than resolution. The counter can check the generator’s frequency, while the DMM handles routine voltage, resistance, capacitance and diode measurements.

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Basic RF frequency checks

Channel B may be useful for a properly attenuated RF source within its sensitivity and input limits. It is not a GHz signal generator, spectrum analyzer or RF wattmeter. Never connect a transmitter output directly to the counter; use suitable attenuation, coupling and protection.

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What it does not replace

  • A modern high-count precision DMM.
  • An arbitrary waveform generator with contemporary modulation and waveform fidelity.
  • A regulated, well-documented modern supply for safety-critical or production work.
  • A spectrum analyzer, RF power meter or transmitter test load.
  • Modern USB software and driver support.

A hobbyist teardown reports amplitude variation, questionable waveform quality near the generator’s upper range and less-than-ideal supply stability. Those are individual observations, not certified performance tests (Majorres report).

Used-unit inspection and testing

Before you pay

  • Request photographs of the front, rear, model label, mains selector and every connector.
  • Confirm that the 9 V battery compartment and contacts are intact.
  • Ask whether all four sections work, not merely whether the display lights.
  • Check for the power cord, meter leads, BNC cable, RS-232 cable, software and manual.
  • Ask for calibration or repair history and any known connector or fuse damage.

An ended eBay listing shows why “powers on” is weak evidence: an MS-9150 sold for US$119.99 on February 21, 2026, after being tested only for power-on, with a damaged or missing connector reported (eBay listing). That is one transaction, not a market average.

Power-supply checks

  1. With no load, turn the variable output smoothly from zero upward and verify the 5 V and 15 V outputs.
  2. Apply an appropriate test load and check voltage regulation, current limiting and ripple.
  3. Watch for excessive heat, hum, smell, fan noise or unstable readings.

Function-generator checks

  1. Test sine, square and triangle waves at low, middle and high settings.
  2. Measure amplitude both open-circuit and with a 50-ohm load.
  3. Verify 50 Ω/600 Ω selection, attenuation, sweep and TTL output.
  4. Compare the displayed frequency with a trusted counter or oscilloscope at several points.

Counter checks

  1. Use a known low-frequency reference on channel A.
  2. Check a mid-band signal and observe gate-time behavior.
  3. Use a properly attenuated source on channel B; never exceed its 3 V maximum.
  4. Reject intermittent, erratic or wildly fluctuating readings until the input and time base are serviced.

DMM checks

  1. Compare DC and AC voltage with a trusted modern meter.
  2. Test resistance and capacitance using known components, then verify diode test.
  3. Test current only with a protected source, correct fuse and correct lead position.
  4. If logging matters, verify that RS-232 output and the required cable or software are actually available.
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Safety considerations

This is mains-powered vintage equipment. Inspect the cord, plug, fuse, insulation and enclosure before energising it, and confirm the mains-voltage selector where fitted. Do not infer modern CAT safety ratings from the DMM’s printed 1,000 V DC or 750 V AC ranges.

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  • The DMM’s 20 A input can create a dangerous short if connected across a voltage source.
  • The counter input is limited to 3 V, even though the separate DMM accepts higher voltages.
  • Do not use damaged leads, cracked insulation or corroded connectors.
  • An isolation transformer, where appropriate, does not replace safe probing practice.
  • Unknown calibration and aged input protection make high-energy measurements especially risky.

Manuals, schematics, software and accessories

An archive at Schaltungen.at references an MS-9150 operating manual, technical data and circuit diagrams for the supply, generator, counter, multimeter and display. It is an archive rather than a current official support portal; download files cautiously and scan them before opening.

A separate technical-data document covering the MS-9150 and related MS-9160 is available from ES Thailand. Keep operating instructions, specification sheets, schematics and software distinct: a manual explains controls, a schematic supports repair, and an old RS-232 program may not run on a current operating system.

Is the MS-9150 worth buying?

Buy one when you want four basic bench functions in one compact chassis, work mainly on low-frequency or general electronics, can test or repair vintage equipment, and the seller offers a complete unit at a price that leaves room for calibration and repairs.

Avoid it when you need certified modern safety, precision measurements, clean high-frequency waveform generation, current operating-system support, or dependable operation straight from the box. A failure in one section can leave you with a large, difficult-to-replace chassis rather than one failed inexpensive instrument.

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Historical Hungarian catalog prices of 92,000 and 117,900 forints plus VAT are period regional prices, not evidence of current value (issue 63; issue 62). A TEquipment page has displayed a US$499 list price, but that legacy listing is not proof of current stock, calibration, warranty or mains version; confirm those details directly (TEquipment).

Alternatives to a vintage universal system

Approach Main strengths Main trade-offs
MS-9150 Four functions, compact bench footprint, potentially low used cost Age, unknown calibration, mixed documentation, obsolete software and safety uncertainty
Separate modern instruments Better displays, support, replacement flexibility and clearer current specifications More cost, space and cables
Modern integrated system Retains the one-box concept with contemporary support Usually higher purchase cost; exact capabilities vary
Dedicated RF equipment Proper tools for GHz frequency, power or spectrum work Does not replace a general-purpose bench supply and DMM

Voltcraft, PeakTech, Tenma and other branded systems may be worth investigating as related vintage options. Confirm the generator and counter ranges, supply ratings, mains version, connectors and available documentation rather than assuming a visual match is electrically identical. Related branding and model confusion are discussed in surviving listings and a Mikrocontroller.net discussion.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.