THM420 Recall FAQs

What if I don't want to spend any time searching on the Web site, and I just want to pick up the phone and talk to somebody about what's going on with the THM 420?

Contact Tektronix for important instructions.

In the U.S., call 1-800-835-9433 and ask for the recall center or send an email request for information.

In other countries, contact your Local Tektronix Service Center or request information by sending an email to Tektronix.

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Is there any way I can keep using the THM 420 I have?

If you own a THM 420 TekWaveMeter that has not been modified, discontinue use of the product immediately. Your safety is our number one concern. Please contact us to discuss replacement of your THM 420 with a modified unit.

In the U.S., call 1-800-835-9433 and ask for the recall center or send an email request for information.

Local Tektronix Service Center or request information by sending an email to Tektronix.

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How do I know that the instrument I have is a THM 420?

On the back panel, you will find text that states: IDENT NO: THM420 (DMM/SCOPE).

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What if I think I remember sending in my THM 420 for modification, but I'm not sure?

Please look at the back of your instrument. If you see an "R" marked in pen or permanent marker, your instrument has been modified and is NOT affected by the recall. You may continue using your THM 420 safely. If there is no "R", enter the model's serial number in the Tektronix Serial Number Verification Tool to determine your model's eligibility for recall. The linked site provides detailed instructions for verifying whether your THM 420 has been modified, or whether you should stop using it immediately. For an immediate response to your concerns, please contact Tektronix for important instructions.

In the U.S., call 1-800-835-9433 and ask for the recall center or send an email request for information.

Local Tektronix Service Center or request information by sending an email to Tektronix.

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My THM420 has not been modified. What do I do?

Please contact Tektronix for a modified replacement unit

In the U.S., call 1-800-835-9433 and ask for the recall center or send an email request for information.

Local Tektronix Service Center or request information by sending an email to Tektronix.

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What if I don't want to give up my THM 420? I still use it frequently.

Contact Tektronix at the phone number listed above. You must stop using your THM420 immediately if it has NOT been modified.

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If I do get a replacement modified instrument, will it perform just like the THM 420?

A modified THM 420 will perform safely, but certain aspects of its performance will be altered. The modified product bandwidth is lower for certain ranges than the original units. The new specifications are stated below.

Voltage Input Bandwidth 20 mV/div to 1 V/div
Original THM 420: DC to 5 MHz
Modified THM 420: DC to 3.5 MHz

Voltage Input Bandwidth 2 V/div to 200 V/div
Original THM 420: DC to 3 MHz
Modified THM 420: DC to 3 MHz

Please contact Tektronix for additional information.

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Will Tektronix pay for the shipping costs if I send back my THM 420 for modification?

Yes, Tektronix will pick up all transportation costs associated with this recall.
Please contact Tektronix for additional information.

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Is there something I can do to the THM 420 myself to make it safe?

No. The unit(s) must be returned to Tektronix for proper modification.

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What do I do if I know of someone with a THM 420, but it isn't me?

Please refer that person to this Web site, or ask them to contact Tektronix for important instructions.

In the U.S., call 1-800-835-9433 and ask for the recall center or send an email request for information.

Local Tektronix Service Center or request information by sending an email to Tektronix.

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Haven't you recalled the THM 420 before?

Tektronix began its ongoing, voluntary recall program for the THM 420 TekWaveMeter in January 1997, when it was determined that certain customer applications of the product may cause it to fail, causing substantial internal damage to the meter and potentially exposing the user to risk of personal injury. The Safety and Recall Web site represents the most recent of Tektronix' efforts to contact users of the affected products.

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