Mechatronics Student Looking for an oscilloscope - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Rigel
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2013, 06:58:36 pm
content: I know there are hundreds of posts, but they get old fast or seem to get derailed.I am looking to build up my home lab. (so far I have a myDac from NI) and a bench supply (Mastech DC HY3005f-3)I was 90% sure that I was going to go with the Rigol DS2072 and I was deciding between a Rigol DG1022A and the DG4062 (around $200 more).The other 10% was considering the Rigol1104Z-s Simply because it comes out to a lower price point and as a student leaving cash in my pocket is also desireable.That being said I do not mind spending a bit more money now to get something that will last me longer.I kept reading that Agilent makes good products but they were more pricey. I also read that they have pretty good discounts for students.NOw comes my delima, I got a student price quote for a agilent dsox 2002a which is $160 more than the DS2072.I do like that the agilent I can upgrade to the MSO, and I am going to see what they can do price wise on the function generator for me. I know the built in function generator would most likely not be as good as the Rigol two I mentioned above but it maybe good enough for now.I would appreciate any comments or advice.

author: Maturola
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2013, 07:10:00 pm
content: Share a little bit more of what you think you will be doing most of the time, What type of work and design? voltage levels? what Serial protocols would be more commons on your application?The more you share about your needs, the better more focused answer we can provideWith the limited info, I can give you my best guess and it would be to stick to your first choice. get the DS2072 (hack it to higher bandwidth), that's a great DSO for the money and it will last you a while. It will cover 95% of everything you will be doing at home. Get a PC base Logic Analyzer for about $200 or less (this forum like the saleae logic analyzer, hardware is not that impressive, but software really shine).

author: Rigel
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2013, 07:20:17 pm
content: Thank you for the prompt response.I will most likely be a student for the next 3 years. Currently we are focusing on Micro-controllers (HC11) I know I will be working on a major project driving a DC motor using the HC11 interfacing a keypad, (when number 1 is pressed 10% speed), reverse directions stop etc. Next Semester we get more heavily into sensors and PLC's.I am going to be continuing on my education into Electrical engineering. I am thinking of maintaining my focus on Control systems, But there is allot of time between now and graduation with some work experience. I am an older mature student I do not have a background in electronics. (Bar manager, computer (software) telephone techsupport.) I was also a carpenter apprentice for a couple of years.I am looking at building a oneTesla at home to supplement my learning as I learn much better hands on.*** EDIT ***The scopes I am using at school are currently 2 channel, I have had someone recommend I look at 4 channel scopes? They seem to be significantly more money.Also I am hoping to buy sooner rather than later, do you think it is worth it to wait for the DS2072A model? I live in Canada.

author: Maturola
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2013, 11:17:25 pm
content: in that case, I would really save the money for other "toys" and get the DS1052E or the DS1102E, they are about $400 US and they will work for everything you will do in the next 3 years.I would use the money for other projects like maybe a Toaster Reflow oven with a PID controller, a microscope, soldering station.Check out this video if you haven't yet - EEVblog #168 - How To Set Up An Electronics Lab - ()