Would this bother you?  Rigol 1054Z quality issue - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: retro_gamer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 07:51:50 pm
content: Hey everyone, I recently purchased my first scope and I noticed some strange marks in the plastic. It kinda looks like someone wiped it with acetone or something. It's much easier to see it in real life than in the photos.My question is would you try to exchange it for this issue or would you just deal with it? Everything else appears to be fine with the scope.I bought it from a website called Tequipment and their exchange policy kinda sounds like it's geared to make you jump through hoops and then hit you with a 15% restocking fee, so I'm a bit hesitant. Wish I got it from Amazon...

author: maginnovision
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 08:07:18 pm
content: If it bothers you I'd contact tequipment and see if they'll exchange it for you. Personally I wouldn't be too bothered by this but it's not my scope. The 15% restocking is often there so if they think you're trying to mess with them or abuse a policy they can charge you for it, I don't think it's mandatory. I've never returned anything to them though.

author: RoGeorge
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 08:21:09 pm
content: Since you are asking, it seems that it bothers you, so contact the seller.In the photo doesn't look much, but if the surface doesn't have the same gloss/granularity like it would be acetone damage, then chances are, in time, that area will accumulate dust and fingerprints grease hard or impossible to clean, and make it very visible and dirty like a floor scratch.Later edit:Just checked and my DS1054Z doesn't have that kind of surface finish damage.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 08:35:18 pm
content: If it was bought as new rather than refurbished then yes, I would ask for a replacement. I've bought a lot of stuff from Tequipment.net, I did have a problem with a return a few months back and complained to Evan (one of the owners) via PM here on eevBlog, the issue was corrected. You can message him using the name 'tequipment'.

author: retro_gamer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 08:52:41 pm
content: Yes it was purchased as brand new. I did file an RMA and the email I received says the box must be in perfect condition without any shipping labels and must be double boxed. But they didn't send it to me double boxed, they simply slapped the shipping label on the Rigol package and threw it in the truck. So the box is already not in nice condition from them.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 08:55:49 pm
content: Could be a molding defect.https://www.creativemechanisms.com/blog/what-cause-injection-molding-defects-and-how-to-fix-themI wouldn't bother with an RMA myself, usually just ask for a discount if this happens.

author: retro_gamer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 08:58:14 pm
content: Quote from: thm_w on May 26, 2020, 08:55:49 pmYeah, and I know these are kind of a lower end chinese made scope.. So I wasnt sure if defects like this were normal with them. I'd hate to go through the RMA process, and then receive another one with the same problem. Also in the future if I decide to sell this scope and upgrade to a better unit I feel like it would make it look like the scope was abused or something to potential buyers--I generally keep my stuff immaculate.

author: stafil
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 09:12:48 pm
content: I wouldn't bother, as it purely cosmetic and very unlikely to affect the functionality or longevity of the scope. But I think it's within your right to request and RMA.

author: RoGeorge
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 09:14:13 pm
content: Maybe your unit was a refurbished one.Mine came in a double box, but I bought it some years ago.Write to Rigol and ask if they are still using double box packaging for DS1054Z.LATER EDIT:My mistake, sorry.Only the power source (DP832) came in a double box, the DS1054Z came in a single box, just like yours.

author: janoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 09:17:39 pm
content: These sorts of defects certainly aren't normal fare even for a low end Chinese made scope. And Rigol isn't *that* low end manufacturer. You have got a dud unit that either got damaged somewhere or has some manufacturing defect which escaped the quality control. Which obviously can happen but it certainly isn't something common.If the unit is new, I would ask to have it replaced because who knows what else is damaged inside (esp. if it was due to some chemical spill). Also, if you get a problem with the scope during the warranty period, you will have hard time convincing the seller that it hasn't been you who has damaged it - and they will refuse to touch it under warranty. Some companies will do everything in their power to avoid having to honor the warranties. Such blemish also reduces the resale value.IMO, not worth the potential hassle down the road, just RMA it.

author: retro_gamer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 09:23:34 pm
content: I actually just called into Tequipment and talked to a guy named George. Super awesome guy and he assured me they will take care of me and make it right. I'll let you all know what happens and if everything goes smoothly.

author: TK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 09:55:54 pm
content: Rigol has a 30-day return policy, so there should not be any restocking fee charged by the distributor. When I purchased my unit from saelig, they took it back, no questions asked due to the 30-day policy.

author: Muttley Snickers
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 26, 2020, 10:32:23 pm
content: If customers don't bring even little concerns such as these to the sellers, distributors or manufacturers attention then they won't know any better. It could indicate that their quality control and monitoring procedures are in need of attention, you did the right thing by informing others.

author: retro_gamer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2020, 02:52:56 am
content: Quote from: Muttley Snickers on May 26, 2020, 10:32:23 pmThanks, I was a bit worried I was going to get bashed for being petty when I originally posted about this. This is a very welcoming community--very appreciated! I've also been a big fan of Dave forever and happy I finally joined the forum!Anyways, I received an email from the Tequipment RMA team and they've assured me that they have it in their notes that item was not double boxed on its way to me so they're not expecting me to double box it and they also said I can go ahead and stick my shipping label on top of the old one. I've already dropped it off and it's on the way back to them.

author: jxjbsd
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2020, 08:31:22 am
content: This is not the normal level of Rigol, and things made in China that exceed $ 200 will not be too bad. You can ask him to return or discount.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2020, 10:35:49 am
content: I am sure that Tequipment will make it right but you shouldn't have to have asked more than once. I'm curious, was the box the DS1054Z came in shipped from Portland Oregon? I ask because I suspect that Tequipment sometimes have Rigol gear drop-shipped from the manufacturer.

author: jmh
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2020, 02:18:18 pm
content: I can see very similar marks on my DS1104Z that arrived a few days ago from Telonic in the UK. It's very hard to see and personally does not bother me. Mine also arrived just in the Rigol box (mind you I was not expecting it any other way having not even thought about it!) which has some damage but not sufficient to get near the 'scope' which was all fine.

author: radoczi94
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2020, 07:14:55 am
content: I bought mine 2 years ago, it has the same defect. I didn't bothered to return it, just covered it with the obligatory "Do not touch" sticker.I think someone in the moldmaking shop f'ed up by not repairing the finish of the mold.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2020, 07:41:12 am
content: Quote from: thm_w on May 26, 2020, 08:55:49 pmThat's what I'm thinking. It's either plastic not flowing in the mould like it could or the mould itself wearing out. Neither is likely to be different in other oscilloscopes of the same age.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2020, 08:13:02 am
content: Quote from: retro_gamer on May 26, 2020, 08:58:14 pmThe new Keysight 1000X models also suffer from very visible sink marks. I'm actually surprised that nobody has commented on those before as it's a rather noticeable manufacturing defect in one of the most visible parts of the oscilloscopes.

author: TurboTom
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2020, 09:43:06 am
content: Just for curiosity's sake I had a close look at my 2015 DS1000Z and guess what: there are similay traces to @retro_gamer's findings visible. Maybe not to the same extent but they are there, on the angled top right surface. I've got to admit I didn't even notice these flaws before because they are more or less only visible if the affected surface is viewed at a glazing angle. Functionally, the plastic molding is of more than decent quality. The only sink mark that I can find is at the left foot that's practically invisible. I don't mind the imperfections since they don't affect function and (IMO) longevity at all and they simply don't bother me. Obviously, others may think differently. Anyway, it's amazing that even after five plus years, this scope provides such a good performance for the price.

author: RoGeorge
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2020, 10:21:53 am
content: That black case looks cheap AF, also ugly and hard to read.Horrible idea. KEYSIGHT, did you hear?

author: dcac
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2020, 11:33:36 am
content: My 1054z which was bought in 2015 has similar defects, perhaps not as noticeable as OP’s I actually didn’t even notice it until now when I looked with the light in the right angel. Only mentioning this as a replacement scope might not be very much better. Looking straight ahead on my 1054z it’s hardly noticeable at all though.Yeah that black Keysight does look cheap but perhaps that's just a marketing trick?

author: madires
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2020, 11:58:35 am
content: Here too. A slight imperfection in form of a horizontal stripe above the top four buttons at the right, only visible when looking at an angle.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2020, 12:35:22 pm
content: Quote from: RoGeorge on May 31, 2020, 10:21:53 amIt's not black, it's a "dark theme"... very fashionable!

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2020, 01:12:34 pm
content: Now I look at it, my DS1054Z has a similar mark but I bought it as an open box item so I make some allowance for that plus it's not very noticeable.

author: RoGeorge
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2020, 02:52:44 pm
content: That's a plastic case, not a theme, and its color is black, not dark. Dark is not a color.Unless brainwashed.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2020, 03:04:29 pm
content: Quote from: RoGeorge on May 31, 2020, 02:52:44 pmDesigners have to follow fashion.My theory is:a) Photoshop is grey because they want the UI to "vanish" and not make an image on the retina.b) Designers are used to using Photoshop and find anything else garish.c) Designers believe everybody else sees the world in their colors.d) Our user interfaces are vanishing and failing to make any image on the retina.e) GOTO aI've been in professional color studios and they paint the walls grey for the reasons given in (a). I wonder if the people who work there paint their homes grey?

author: noreply
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2020, 03:55:18 pm
content: Some information that might be useful when you want to 'fix' non uniform looking plastic mouldings as in your case.I use a silicon based liquid called ARMOUR ALLGet a small dab of it (spray it onto a cotton bud) and touch up the discoloured part of the plastic - just on the edge moving it into the 'good' part of the plastic. See if it improves the damaged area and if it blends into the remaining plastic moulding.What you are doing with ARMOUR ALL is applying a thin layer of silicon (can be thicker by applying more) over the plastic and this will act as a 'micro filler' in effect diffusing the visible imperfection and blending it with the rest of the plastic.If it works - enough to hide the imperfections - then apply more to cover the complete area as well as the rest of the moulding around the section in question. Once fully dry - you can 'buff' it with microfiber cloth.You never know - this might 'fix' the imperfection.But to your original question - I would try to exchange for new device - it should have not passed QA - especially if it’s on front of scope in predominate area.Good Luck

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2020, 06:55:32 pm
content: Quote from: RoGeorge on May 31, 2020, 10:21:53 amThe black case is a matter of taste. The sink marks are veritable manufacturing defects. Better control of your process eliminates them.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2020, 06:58:16 pm
content: Quote from: noreply on May 31, 2020, 03:55:18 pmI'd recommend against using silicone on plastics. In the car world they used to put it in "plastic restorers" but those gained a horrible reputation. The plastics get a nasty cheap shine and once on you'll never get it off again. It'll just spread further and further. Car parts treated with the stuff are considered ruined by many.

author: noreply
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 03, 2020, 12:09:53 pm
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on June 02, 2020, 06:58:16 pmTotally agree.BUTNot recommending to 'coat' the entire plastic case.I found good mileage - in applying a very fine (diluted dab) of silicon with a small cotton bud to the worst area - it has an effect of acting like a micro-filler to remove the apparent discolouration which is most likely 'rough' surface patch from the injection moulding process.In several cases (no pun intended) I managed to hide / eliminate some surface blemishes by using this method.It’s never a substitute for a new - not faulty device casing - but if you are 'stuck' it worth a try- however DO NOT coat the entire case with the silicon for the reasons outlined.

author: retro_gamer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2020, 12:36:33 am
content: Hey everyone. So it looks like Tequipment just refunded me instead of sending out a replacement unit.Before I buy another Rigol 1054z, is there any other scope I should be looking at? $500 is probably the most I'd like to spend.Thanks!

author: TK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2020, 02:25:02 am
content: Testequipment has the GW Instek GDS1054B on sale for $310 and you can apply the eevblog discount code and get another 6% off

author: fanOfeeDIY
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 07, 2020, 05:02:05 am
content: Quote from: retro_gamer on May 26, 2020, 07:51:50 pmThe pictures look imperfect molding of Jetting and Weld Lines. Typically happens of having not optimal temperature control during the molding.The Rigol probably do not make the plastic cases, so the company who supplies the molding case did not reject the imperfect molding and Rigol did not check to molding before assembling them.Most of the time, asking the replacement would come with better moldings.

author: fanOfeeDIY
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 07, 2020, 06:14:03 am
content: These models come up in the forum often in this price range?2chRIGOL DS1202Z-ESIGLENT SDS1202X-E4chRIGOL DS1054ZSIGLENT SDS1104X-EGWinstek GDS-1054B

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2020, 06:26:45 am
content: Quote from: fanOfeeDIY on June 07, 2020, 06:14:03 amYes?

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2020, 07:43:26 am
content: Quote from: fanOfeeDIY on June 07, 2020, 06:14:03 amLots, and the datasheets of each speak for themselves.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2020, 05:37:33 pm
content: Quote from: RoGeorge on May 31, 2020, 10:21:53 amI like black test gear, as I really dislike beige. But you are right that that scope looks cheap, but IMHO just because it doesn’t look like high quality, regardless of color. (Black is FAR less forgiving of surface defects than light colors.)Random factoid: really good looking black plastic is so hard to get right that a significant share of black plastic electronics are actually painted. (As are, of course, any matte finishes.)

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2020, 10:36:54 pm
content: I think the black gear looks cool on my workbench but it's way more difficult to read the printed markings on the black gear.

author: cliffyk
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2020, 12:50:06 am
content: Hurried production, removed from the mold too soon, too hot--very common on cheap imported crap, I would expect better from RigolTEquipment can be a real PITA, A company I worked for bought most everything from them and had numerous issues; don't know why they continued to buy from them. We once waited 8 weeks for them to ship a couple of Lecroy WJ354s that were supposedly "in stock", they had our UPS account # and when they did finally ship them they usedovernight delivery, to the tune of $500+ ! Bunch of A-Holes...

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2020, 07:06:39 pm
content: Quote from: Gandalf_Sr on June 08, 2020, 10:36:54 pmDoesn’t that ultimately depend on the font design and quality of the printing? (Among other things.)

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2020, 07:22:51 pm
content: Quote from: tooki on June 16, 2020, 07:06:39 pmThe same designers never had problems putting legible text on white test gear.

author: Johnboy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2020, 07:15:48 pm
content: Quote from: madires on May 31, 2020, 11:58:35 amSame here.I would not be surprised to learn that this cosmetic flaw is present to some degree on all of these units. However, if I hadn't read this thread, I would likely never have noticed it.

author: NoisyBoy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2020, 07:51:23 pm
content: You are probably right, as others on this thread had pointed out similar blemish with their Rigol scopes. I think that could be the reason why they chose to refund the purchase instead of sending out another unit.But I do think it's a reasonable expectation for a new scope to be blemish free.

author: TK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2020, 08:03:37 pm
content: Quote from: Johnboy on June 17, 2020, 07:15:48 pmEven on the MSO50K and the Siglent SDS2K+ scopes

author: Turrican3
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 25, 2020, 07:50:05 am
content: For the record, the exact same kind of (minor, personally speaking, if only because I would likely had never noticed without this thread) aesthetic flaw is present on my brand new Rigol 1054Z.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 12, 2020, 11:56:07 am
content: Quote from: Fungus on June 16, 2020, 07:22:51 pmSo they weren’t very good designers, and/or their printing technology isn’t good enough to maintain contrast? It certainly doesn’t mean it can’t be done.