Buying my first oscilloscope - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 02:22:39 pm
content: Hi!I've been doing some hobbyist electronics for a good while now, and want to expand my capabilities a bit by adding a DSO to the bench. It's for general use in a variety of basic electronics, and also perhaps future troubleshooting in retro computers or similar circuits. Also intending to use it to educate my kids in electronics as they seem to be sparking an interest in it.I've singled out 2 scopes which is locally available here in the Philippines. I know there are nice alternatives from Siglent and Keysight, but I am unable to find them for sale here locally, and importing becomes prohibitively expensive (shipping + customs cost outweigh the value of the scopes at the price point I'm in)I've gone for 4 channel scopes, as I would like to have the capability to analyze digital signals in the future, like a serial bus or similar. Right now, I would probably be happy with a 2 channel basic scope, but I figure if I get a 4 channel right off the bat, then I wont have to upgrade it later.The two I have chosen is:RIGOL DS1054ZandHantek DSO4104CThe biggest difference between them is that the Hantek has a signal source/function signal generator, while the Rigol has a massively bigger memory depth. The rigol is a 50 MHz 4 ch scope which can be easily hacked to 100 MHz, and the Hantek is a 100 MHz 4 ch scope which is a bit more complicated to hack, but can be hacked to 250 MHz. For my use, 50 MHz is probably enough, even more so 100 MHz.So, any tips on what to choose? Both are at the exact same price here, maybe about 5-10 USD difference.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 02:38:22 pm
content: a) Definitely get 4 channels.b) I don't know much about the Hantek but...* It seems to have less features than the Rigol (at a quick glance)* Only 64kpts memory* 1GSample/sec on a 250 MHz bandwidth, 4-channel 'scope doesn't add up.*https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/hantek-oscilloscopes-any-opinions/msg2404695/#msg2404695Bottom line: I'm gonna say "Rigol".

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 02:45:57 pm
content: Hanteks have a very bad reputation for unfinished software, but in the video below the user seems pleased with it, despite it seems to be a very basic oscilloscope.However, that is in contrast with the thousands of people that vouch for the Rigol.My vote would be for the Rigol as well (I have one of its more featured cousins).

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 02:51:37 pm
content: Quote from: rsjsouza on August 05, 2020, 02:45:57 pmPut it this way: The Rigol is 100% risk-free.

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 03:09:35 pm
content: I watched that exact video and went out and saw there was a 4 channel version of the Hantek available, which is why I was considering that scope. However, I also see that this youtuber lists the Rigol as the scope he is actually using on newer videos, which leads me to think that he prefers to use the Rigol over the Hantek. As for the function generator, I suppose I could easily buy a standalone one and it will do the same job, so I think it's not as important as the memory depth, which is in another league on the Rigol. So on paper it seems that is the way to go, I just dont know exactly what difference it makes in practical use to have a high memory depth vs a low memory depth in a DSO, due to lack of experience with scopes, but my gut feeling is that having a low memory depth is something I'd regret at some point when I gain experience using the scope.So the general consensus on these two scopes, at this same price point, is that the Rigol would be the better scope? It is the best selling scope for a reason I guess.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 03:13:28 pm
content: The Rigol has its limitations but is very well proven. That'd be my choice.

author: rf-loop
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 03:30:34 pm
content: Quote from: Skauber on August 05, 2020, 02:22:39 pmBecause you have made decision your scope is one from these two without any others then Rigol like 7-0. Memory alone give enough reasons. If I need select between only just these two named scope without exceptions I do not even look Hantek. Also it need ask why it is so slow, 2kwfm/s.And because it is your first scvope. With Rigol you can ask what ever question and here is lot of peoples who know this Rigol details and deeply.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 03:31:20 pm
content: Quote from: Skauber on August 05, 2020, 03:09:35 pmYou can press 'stop' to freeze the signal then zoom in on points of interest.You say you're interested in serial decoding so things like this are important.

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 03:42:51 pm
content: Ok, yeah I get the point on the Rigol.It would be the better choice between these two.Unfortunately the choice in scopes here is quite limited. I would also have considered the Siglent SDS1104X-E if it had been available here, but I havent been able to find it locally. I checked the price to import it, but it would add 200-300 USD on top of the scope, so that wouldnt make sense at all.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 07:36:38 pm
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on August 05, 2020, 03:13:28 pmBut the Rigol DS-1054Z is old. Nowadays the GW Instek GDS-1054B is a much better choice (higher performance platform) and it costs about the same. You'd be silly to buy the Rigol 1054Z nowadays.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 09:10:43 pm
content: Quote from: nctnico on August 05, 2020, 07:36:38 pmNico, FFS. I really appreciate that you have hands-on experience with the GW and is willing to share it here, but your sentence is completely dumb considering the boundary conditions.Let me fix that for you:Considering import taxes, freight, red tape, delays (especially due to Covid) and lack of warranty (typical on imported products), it would be silly to get a GW Instek.To the OP: I don't know how is Philippines, but I am from Brasil and the factors above are a huge penalty to import anything.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 09:31:56 pm
content: Quote from: rsjsouza on August 05, 2020, 09:10:43 pmThat is utter rubbish. After all, what is the difference between buying a device which costs about the same from manufacturer A or manufacturer B? The import taxes are the same! There can be a difference when it comes to local availability but the OP is likely able to figure that out and make a decission. It is not a good move to rule out certain brands based on a wild assumption. The Philippines is in Asia and you are in South America; the situation can be completely different. There is a lot of electronics manufacturing going on in the Philippines so likely the test equipment market is better. IIRC I have bought one or two pieces of test used equipment from the Philippines myself.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 09:53:15 pm
content: For fuck's sake nctnico, OP even said other options aren't viable due to added costs. Besides, when you always give the same advice, you don't give advice at all. At that point you're just a noise source.Quote from: Skauber on August 05, 2020, 03:42:51 pm

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 09:56:44 pm
content: Quote from: Skauber on August 05, 2020, 03:42:51 pmhttps://www.galleon.ph/industrial-scientific-c882/lab-instruments-equipment-c2062/meters-c2088/siglent-sds1104x-e-100mhz-digital-oscilloscope-4-p30888264

author: Martin72
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 10:06:00 pm
content: Rigol DS1054Z is a well known scope, "too old" I wouldn´t sign this.It´s the standard for priceworthy and usable 4-ch scopes untill now."Biggest" opponent to it is the siglent 1104X-E.Hantek, sorry, stays for crap, my opinion.GW Instek I don´t know except some real cheap function generators we got from them, so I couldn´t say a word to it.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 10:16:39 pm
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on August 05, 2020, 09:53:15 pmDidn't it occur to you that the OP likely did not consider models he/she is unaware of? After the all the OP didn't mention GW Instek specifically so my suggestion to consider it is on-topic given the information provided.I guess stating the DS-1054Z is old touches some sensitive toes here

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 10:24:12 pm
content: Quote from: nctnico on August 05, 2020, 10:16:39 pm"People don't like my shit fanboy "advice". It must be their long toes!"

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 10:26:31 pm
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on August 05, 2020, 10:24:12 pmKeep on smoking the good stuff. If you really followed what I've posted about test equipment you'd know I don't really have a favourite brand (except for a soft spot for Tektronix). There is no use to advise people based on fan-boyism; just stick to the facts. I have owned and used many oscilloscopes from many brands so I do have some actual insight on strong points / weak points.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2020, 10:49:44 pm
content: Quote from: nctnico on August 05, 2020, 10:26:31 pmDon't add insult to injury by supposing anyone is stupid enough to believe that nonsense. Most people on this forum instantly know who is referred to with "that GW-Instek fanboy". If you were somewhat useful and stuck to the facts there wouldn't be much of a problem but you keep tirelessly spouting the same repetitive garbage in thread after thread, single-handedly lowering the SNR to dreadful levels. Even tautech is making himself more useful by actually posting a helpful link. People shilling their own wares for financial gain I get but this is just an unhealthy obsession.For experience with different hardware and platforms to be useful you need nuance and somewhat neutral reporting. If the result is a record on repeat and the same output no matter the input all the experience in the world is worth nothing.

author: Elasia
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 12:23:45 am
content: Will you lot knock it off?If all you can source is a rigol or hantek.. then rigol hands downIf you can source a siglent or a gw instek then i'd take either one of thoseIf you cant immediately find a source that doesnt mean you are out of luck, contact them directly and ask who their region distributor is for your location.. this goes for any product.. i end up sourcing odd ball stuff all the time you just wont find easily even though its sold everywhere and popular.. best case just call the mfg and they can usually direct you to stock

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 12:34:01 am
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on August 05, 2020, 10:49:44 pmYou're barking up the wrong tree.Play the ball and not the man.Datasheets and feature set are what should be focused on albeit that many DSO buyers only focus on their current needs based on some often limited level of experience and give zero consideration to their future needs or personal growth. Sadly those without the experience so often overlook what their future needs could develop to.Manufacturers don't give a damn as they would rather have 2 sales than one.Under $500 the SDS1104X-E is hard to beat, period, and that's plainly obvious from studying datasheets.How long that will last is anyone's guess but if a buyers budget is constrained to some lower level the GWI is probably a reasonable choice albeit AFAICT it uses a single ADC so will suffer low sample rates with all channels ON like the 1054Z does yet that the 1045B can apparently be hacked to 200 MHz does say something about the quality of its front end design.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 12:42:30 am
content: Quote from: Elasia on August 06, 2020, 12:23:45 amThe fanboy and shill retards have been told off numerous times but they'll start anew the next time someone asks for help.If OP can find an affordable SDS1104X-E that'd be a good option. A DS1054Z is still very much worthwhile too. It's not as nimble as the Siglent but availability or price could make it the better choice.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 12:47:39 am
content: Quote from: tautech on August 06, 2020, 12:34:01 amIf the man keeps shitting on the field he gets called and probably kicked out eventually. People shouldn't go crying when others call them out. It's not as if it's the first time, or even the twentieth. It's always the same people ruining a good thing.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 01:09:08 am
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on August 06, 2020, 12:47:39 amSo ?What real brand/model experience do you offer in return so to engage in a civil discussion about a particular piece of equipment ?To dismiss a members contribution based on their real experience is arguably worse than them providing a consistent POV.The OP has obviously done some homework but like many maybe not enough. There are plenty of threads where posters decisions have been changed after more information was provided however regional brand representation is sometimes lacking so buyers need be comfortable with a brand before they shell out hard earned dosh.I get this all the time and just took a call while typing this post to be sussed out by a buyer before they decide to purchase.

author: TK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 01:27:42 am
content: My current scope is a GW Instek 1054B, I tried them all... Rigol, Siglent, Keysight, Agilent, HP... you name it...In my opinion, The Best Budget scope (4-channels) is GW Instek 1054B, the next best is Rigol DS1054Z

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 01:28:36 am
content: Quote from: tautech on August 06, 2020, 01:09:08 amMember's recommendations based on blind brand loyalty or personal financial gain are dismissed as they're unreliable and consequently worthless. Providing OP with alternatives that are actually available in his country is helpful. If a SDS1104X-E is available at reasonable cost that's a better option than the Rigol or Hantek. If the Siglent isn't attainable the Rigol is well proven and still more than capable enough.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 01:30:39 am
content: Quote from: TK on August 06, 2020, 01:27:42 amCan you list some pros and cons of the relevant options?

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 01:57:55 am
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on August 06, 2020, 01:28:36 amEquipment choice should be made from technical discussion yet you always try to put some twist on it.That I have a fairly good knowledge of the of capabilities of models I represent seems to escape you and cloud your judgement.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 03:16:02 am
content: Quote from: tautech on August 06, 2020, 01:57:55 amI remarked you were actually useful in this thread but it seems you recognise yourself in the behaviour described and have taken offense. The problem is that both you and nctnico rarely keep the discussion objective and technical. If you did, there wouldn't be a problem. Instead, the conclusion is already drawn and you just need to concoct some reasoning for choosing your respective brands. Rather than presenting useful information so OP has good information to go on, personal agendas and therefore the brand of choice is endlessly pushed. Conversely, FUD is spread about competitors and tiny details are enlarged to hilarious proportions for the sake of scoring points.The result is a massive amount of noise and very little of value. Sensible people with valuable experience and input are driven away because they don't like the attitude and noise. Instead of getting what they need to make an informed decision, people asking for help are inundated with biased propaganda and FUD. As a dealer you should have a wealth of information with which to help people and so many other brand and shop representatives manage to do just that. The Keysight and Keithley representatives on here are absolute stars, respectful and helpful. That's great stuff. You have your moments but somehow that never lasts and the shilling continues. Siglent generally makes decent kit but I don't think anyone could run a more more effective campaign to undermine the brand if they tried. I'm not a moderator but of it were up to me I'd have kicked the noise sources out long ago. Pretending to help people for personal gain is detestable.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 03:26:46 am
content: Quote from: nctnico on August 05, 2020, 09:31:56 pmYou are out of touch with reality.Quote from: nctnico on August 05, 2020, 09:31:56 pmMy comments are based on what was already reported by OP:Quote from: Skauber on August 05, 2020, 02:22:39 pmQuote from: Skauber on August 05, 2020, 03:42:51 pmWhich is a much more authoritative statement than your wild out of touch assumptions. Iknowthat in many countries a distributor that goes through all the red tape to import a product can have better price than a direct import from a private citizen. Not to mention the lower risk regarding warranty, returns in case of defects, etc. Or do you think everybody around the world accepts returns, free shipping, free returns, exchanges...Your wild assumption that correlates manufacturing output and availability of equipment for the general public is also unfounded (hint: Brasil has a larger output than Philippines).The decision was made simple by the boundary conditions, but you dismissed it as being silly with a feeble justification. That is way too simplistic.To the OP: sorry about the noise in your thread - it is nothing personal. By the way: I have no relationship with Rigol or any other brand or even a distributor.

author: wizard69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 05:40:36 am
content: Nothing is 100% risk free!As for new manufactures if somebody isn't willing to take a risk new options would never come to market. Further if nobody buys a product there is no way for the manufacture to address comments and complaints. I know nothing about Hantek, literally just hearing about them a few weeks ago but sometimes it is worth taking a leap of faith and hope that the manufacture can grow into something competitive.Quote from: Fungus on August 05, 2020, 02:51:37 pm

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 06:30:23 am
content: Quote from: tautech on August 05, 2020, 09:56:44 pmYep, I know of Galleon, it's basically an international dropshipper here in the Philippines. You order it there, they have it dropshipped from origin country and handle all the import fees and what not for you, and then they just factor that into the purchase price. In the link you posted, it will cost 37,000 Philippine pesos, which is730 USD!The Rigol can be bought locally for 400 USD....Quote from: nctnico on August 05, 2020, 07:36:38 pmI have seen the GW Instek, unfortunately not locally available, so it would cost 7-800 USD including import. Philippines is terrible when it comes to market for test gear, most electricians here still run around with analog multimeters which they paid less than 10 USD for....Quote from: Elasia on August 06, 2020, 12:23:45 amYes, I have done this as well. The problem is that these "local sources" often is outside the country for brands which aren't popular here, often Singapore. So import costs become an issue. And in other cases where there indeed is a local distributor, they only sell through commercial resellers who usually only sell to companies, and they're usually fairly overpriced. Example could be something like gear cost 400 USD, import could be 7-800 USD, such a reseller could be 600 USD.. It's rarely worth it for a hobbyist, and the market for such things here in the Philippines is very limited. A company can justify the cost since they are likely earning a profit on the equipment anyway. The used market here is also quite ridiculous, used test gear like old analog 50 MHz scopes can be sold for 300 USD or more...I believe that my best option here is the Rigol. I will hack it to get the full features and 100 MHz BW. If it was possible, I would like to have the Siglent, but I'm not willing to pay double for it over the Rigol, I think if I was gonna go up in the 800+ USD range, I'd probably find a better Rigol model than a entry level Siglent.

author: wizard69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 06:42:17 am
content: The thread has gone a bit downhill but I will add my perspective. Don't settle for anything less that 100MHz capability if you expect to do digital in the future. If your interest are more towards audio then you can get by with a lot less bandwidth.When it comes to "first scope" questions I always suggest looking into the used market. I'm not sure if that even exists in the Philippines. At least here in the USA used scopes can run from free to a couple of hundred dollars and be perfectly capable of handling what you describe. I've never seen the value (except for possibly a DMM) in buying brand new equipment getting started in the electronics world.I say this because even if your interests in electronics wanes or the time to invest in it becomes limited you can always find a use for a multi meter to fix things around the house or in the car. Combine that with the features set, ruggedness, reliability and low cost of a modern handheld DMM and you can see the value there. Entry level electronics can easily be handled by used scopes (and other hardware) until you are confident in what you need going forward. The fact is a good scope, to handle digital systems well, is still a big investment these days.Quote from: Skauber on August 05, 2020, 02:22:39 pmIt really depends upon how deep of a dive you want to take into digital circuits. For "basic electronics" (in this case I'm thinking audio and maybe broadcast radios), you really don't need a scope with a huge number of features and bandwidth into the UV range.So if you look at it this way bandwidth might not be as important as other features. By the way a scope that "feels right" that is has a user GUI that doesn't cause you to swear is a great feature and probably should be a consideration in scope selection.QuoteIt might pay to ask around if you can find anyone with such interests as they may be able to direct you to local suppliers that you might not know about. Also if the concept of Ham radio exists in the Philippines try finding a local club as those guys will likely know about the local new and used equipment market.QuoteWell yeah but here is the problem, can you for certain say where your interest or your kids interest will be in 5-10 years? I'm still a big fan of suggesting that people go cheap as possible for their first scope if they are relatively new to the hobby. There are many reasons but the some of the bigger ones revolve around where your interests develop and the cost of setting up everything else required for a lab.for example say your interests turn towards motor control and CNC systems, an ideal scope for that interest might have isolated input channels and other features a more mainstream scope will not have. It could be a totally different buy compared to what you might want for microprocessor development (there is huge overlap here but you get the idea).QuoteThis is always difficult to answer as I know what I would buy if I was to buy a new scope and it would not be either of these. That mainly because at my age I have a pretty good idea of what I want. I'd want more bandwidth per channel, advanced serial bus triggering, function generator capability and "logic analyzer" capability. I already have a function generator but another would be great and I don't have a logic analyser and serial debug capability. So I'd be going up the cost ladder for either brand. Honestly I think either would be good enough for a getting started scope. This especially if you accept that you may need an upgrade in 5 years. I would spend a little more time looking though, for example the brand "Owon" was not mentioned.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 06:48:19 am
content: Quote from: nctnico on August 05, 2020, 10:16:39 pmIt is when you recommend the Instek instead.Hint: They're about the same age.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 06:52:47 am
content: Quote from: TK on August 06, 2020, 01:27:42 amI agree,ifyou can get one at a decent price.There's nothing wrong with the Rigol though, buying one isn't a huge mistake. It's stable, it's very well built, itwillshow you wiggly lines on screen, no major features are missing.

author: wizard69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 06:56:05 am
content: Quote from: Skauber on August 06, 2020, 06:30:23 amCan you fly to Singapore and pack a new scope in your luggage? how much would they hit you for at the airport if they even charge for such imports?QuoteSounds like a business opportunity. Obviously there are people importing the Rigol.By the way for a electrician an analog multimeter is not a bad choice, the biggest problem is that such meters are not rugged.QuoteRigol does sound like a good possibility. Still I'd look into other manufactures like Owon just to cover all of your bases.As for the state of things in the Philippines it certainly sounds like a business opportunity to me. Start small and go on from there.

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 07:26:05 am
content: Owon is available, but it's only those single board cheaper entry level models of up to 200 MHz/1GSa/s, and no 4 channel available. They do have headless USB scopes available, but I dont want to rely on a computer for using the scope. I do have a cheap handheld oscilloscope with 20 MHz and 100MSa/s that has served well enough for simple PWM signals and such, it has served well in some automotive applications and such since it's so portable and battery powered, but it is very limited in features.As for business opportunity in scopes, perhaps it could be, but I suspect the market for such is quite limited here. We do have RS Online we can buy from, but it is on another price level for amateur hobbyists. The used market is overpriced, that was the first I checked when I started looking for scopes, but for whatever reason people here seem to think they can sell used gear for almost the same price as new stuff. I've seen 80 MHz analog 2 channel scopes with broken knobs being sold for 250 USD, which blows my mind.....

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 07:31:49 am
content: Here's an example:https://www.carousell.ph/p/kenwood-100mhz-readout-oscilloscope-cs-5170-p18000-each-274164881/?t-id=m8erpT2WAk_1594738750229&t-referrer_browse_type=search_results&t-referrer_request_id=I7hxC8IlfZNa3cI5&t-referrer_search_query=oscilloscope&t-referrer_sort_by=popular18000 PHP = about 350 USD.. The Rigol is 400 USD.. And you can see on the pictures where it is turned on, the screen is skewed, so there is problems with it. Also, no probes included... Really not worth it..

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 07:33:45 am
content: Two more, 110 USD eachhttps://www.carousell.ph/p/kenwood-100mhz-readout-oscilloscope-cs-5170-p18000-each-274164881/?t-id=m8erpT2WAk_1594738750229&t-referrer_browse_type=search_results&t-referrer_request_id=I7hxC8IlfZNa3cI5&t-referrer_search_query=oscilloscope&t-referrer_sort_by=popularhttps://www.carousell.ph/p/vintage-oscilloscope-old-model-238760202/?t-id=m8erpT2WAk_1594738750229&t-referrer_browse_type=search_results&t-referrer_request_id=I7hxC8IlfZNa3cI5&t-referrer_search_query=oscilloscope&t-referrer_sort_by=popularUsed doesnt seem like a viable option here..

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 07:37:10 am
content: Quote from: Skauber on August 06, 2020, 06:30:23 amOh that is too bad.You could contact Siglent directly and investigate the full import costs with them......they told me so:sales@siglent.com

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 07:43:25 am
content: @SkauberFrom Siglent HQ:Our customer in Singapore has office in Philippine.Genetron Singapore Pte LtdAdd:178 Paya Lebar Road, #04-06 Singapore 409030Tel:65 6746 0406Email:sales@genetroncorp.comUrl:www.genetroncorp.com

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 07:58:12 am
content: I checked the store for Genetron, the cheapest scope they have is 800 USD. It seems to be geared more towards professional and commercial customers requiring more higher end gear. I have emailed Siglent to see if they have any local reseller options here, and if I can get the SDS1104X-E at a reasonable price, I'll wait and see what they say.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 08:03:31 am
content: Quote from: Skauber on August 06, 2020, 07:58:12 amBest of luck.There are always costs associated with importing but right now with C virus, airfreight is cost prohibitive and by sea takes so much longer but the advantage are costs are low. Still it adds some $50/unit here in NZ.

author: tv84
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 08:27:05 am
content: @Skauber,As you can read in thousands of pages, in this forum, the DS1054Z is a great scope. There are newer/better models but, as in your region they are prohibitively expensive and/or unobtainable, you are not doing a bad choice by still buying that model. Many here still use it and defend it, despite also having other higher scopes.I think your options are a no brainer.Edit: Just to add this: The Rigol can be bought now in Europe for aprox. +400 USD! So you're buying at a price better than what is available in Europe. Also, to be in 2020 still discussing if the DS1054Z is a viable option to buy (by all the gurus here) is another proof of its value.

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 08:37:32 am
content: Here, importing isn't really a big problem, until you reach about 200 USD in value. When that happens, the import costs will often make the price too high. The cost of shipping at that point often becomes irrelevant..If the world was normal, traveling to Hong Kong or Singapore for a short vacation and bringing a scope home could be an option, I'd have to check with the customs what's allowed to bring home in the luggage in terms of stuff bought during vacation, but in the world today with travel restrictions everywhere, it's not really an option.Unless Siglent comes back with a competitive price option on their scope compared to the Rigol, I'll spring for that one. "Nice to haves" would be logic analyzer and function generator, but I think I'll just get standalone equipment for those, instead of getting it internally in the scope.

author: Elasia
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 09:09:27 am
content: Ouch that sucksIn your case i'd suggest sticking to the entire rigol line of products as you expand, all of their gear is good.. people here fight over the minor details as you can see which is usually an optionMakes you wonder how they are coming in that cheap... technically siglent should be the same as them

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 10:21:49 am
content: Quote from: Skauber on August 06, 2020, 07:26:05 amYes, having to rely on a PC is mostly viable in a lab environment and, in my particular case, if the bench area can accommodate it (mine is very small).I have a Owon VDS1022I and it is a well built and very cheap basic scope (around 100USD depending on the Aliexpress coupon) but, as soon as you go higher on their line of USB scopes, the price/performance becomes prohibitively unfavourable.Quote from: Skauber on August 06, 2020, 07:26:05 amBelieve it or not, this happens here in the US as well, but mostly with a particlar brand: Tektronix.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 10:58:43 am
content: Quote from: rsjsouza on August 06, 2020, 10:21:49 amYou can get very small laptops/netbooks for not much money. I just got one with a 10" touch screen to go with my Analog Discovery 2.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 03:22:36 pm
content: Quote from: Fungus on August 06, 2020, 10:58:43 amOh yes, I do have two netbooks. Still they take a significant size for my bench - I am stuck together with the washer/drier/brooms/rags...(ancient image attached; nowadays it is much messier)

author: TK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 03:43:36 pm
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on August 06, 2020, 01:30:39 amGW Instek GDS1054B: for me it was 10% cheaper than the Rigol DS1054Z. It is more responsive (it has the Zynq FPGA + ARM, same as the Siglent SDS1104X-E), now includes serial decoding including CAN and LIN, can be hacked to 100MHz, you can install APPS (data logging, digital filtering, etc), the multi-function knob has a dedicated select button, independent vertical control for each channel. Cons: display UI is not as good as the Rigol, display looks smaller compared to the Rigol due to the huge case size, but depth is thin, takes extra width space, but not depth, serial decoding limits the acquisition memory to 100Kpts (need to check new firmware 1.28 and see if the limitation is still there).

author: marcus h
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 04:13:09 pm
content: Quote from: rsjsouza on August 06, 2020, 03:22:36 pmThanks for posting this.Now I don't feel so bad about my small hobby room anymore.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 09:01:26 pm
content: Quote from: TK on August 06, 2020, 03:43:36 pmThat's what a useful post looks like.

author: Martin72
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 09:34:32 pm
content: QuoteDigital filters are included by the rigol, since several fw-updates before.

author: TK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2020, 11:50:05 pm
content: Quote from: Martin72 on August 06, 2020, 09:34:32 pmDS1054Z?

author: Martin72
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 05:12:53 am
content: Yes,Highpass, lowpass, bandpass and so on.And, apart from the 5000, they´re working....

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 06:43:57 am
content: Well, Siglent just quoted me950 USDfor the SDS1104X-E, so that is nowhere near competitive to the price of the Rigol, and there's just no way I'm paying that much for the Siglent...

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 07:56:08 am
content: Quote from: Skauber on August 07, 2020, 06:43:57 amOuch, that sucks !Did you contact Genetron ?I looked at their website yesterday but only saw LeCroy rebrands of Siglents so sent the factory a message asking if they actually sell real Siglents and they apparently do although you can't find mention of any on their website.Might be worth popping them a message to see what they can do on price.Good luck.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 08:09:17 am
content: Quote from: tautech on August 07, 2020, 07:56:08 amLet it go tautech... Rigol won!

author: avlijas.sladjan
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 08:16:14 am
content: Rigol RIGOL DS1054Z is >250MHz scope after upgrade

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 08:18:48 am
content: Quote from: avlijas.sladjan on August 07, 2020, 08:16:14 amNope !

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 08:50:59 am
content: Quote from: avlijas.sladjan on August 07, 2020, 08:16:14 amNo, more like 140MHz (usually).

author: avlijas.sladjan
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 09:32:05 am
content: On my rise time is 1.35, max 1.4nS, with 50ohm load (T BNC). Maybe I have luck

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 09:39:46 am
content: Quote from: avlijas.sladjan on August 07, 2020, 09:32:05 amSome people have had near 200Mhz but I never saw one that high.How old is your 'scope? Maybe they've started sharing components with the new 200MHz DS1202Z model.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 09:51:29 am
content: Quote from: TK on August 06, 2020, 03:43:36 pmThanks for your comparison, TK. That is the first time I see real experience with the actual units being shared here.To me the 100kpts for decoding would kill the GDS1054 for me, which may explain why this was not offered for many years after this model was released (people had to hack its bigger brother firmware). Hopefully this can be solved via software.

author: avlijas.sladjan
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 10:56:37 am
content: My is about 4 year old. I was think that is normal BW for this scope after upgrade. But 140MHz will be also good for price, and for me this is best buy scope ever.Now I also find similar result here:https://hackaday.com/2016/10/05/choosing-a-scope-examining-bandwidth/

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 12:28:42 pm
content: 240MHz might be bad with only 1GSample/sec shared across all channels.

author: avlijas.sladjan
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 01:05:49 pm
content: Yes, it is useless. But for 1ch is ok.

author: TK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 02:47:09 pm
content: Quote from: rsjsouza on August 07, 2020, 09:51:29 amlatest firmware 1.28 eliminates the 100kpts limitation and you can set the max 10mpts. I see some slowdown in the refresh rate but can capture and decode full memory. Will run more tests with SPI at 45MHz and report back

author: uargo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 05:15:06 pm
content: Let's see, here are 2 different discussions:1º- which oscilloscope can be bought in the Philippines? If only the Rigol or the Hantek has a good price, the choice is clear Rigol, by the amount of memory. Rigol is not the best oscilloscope, but at 400usd it is very well priced and is a good option.2º-What is the best oscilloscope in this price range?Rigol ds1054z is fine but today a little slow and there are already better ones, even so it is not a bad option to start.GW Instek GDS1054B vs Siglent sds1104x-e, in Europe they have the same price, but the characteristics are the following:GW Instek GDS1054B:1 ADC at 1GS = 250ms in 4 channelsWfms / s: 50,000Screen 7 "Serial decoder: in the new version of software yes, but I'm not sure if it's free??? and use all secuence memory for decode??? MODIFIEDPossibility of signal generator: NOPossibility of logic analyzer: NOBodePlot: NOSiglent sds1104x-e:2 ADC at 1GS = 500ms in 4 channelsScreen 7 "Wfms / s: 400,000Serial decoder: YES, Serial / RS232, I2C, SPI, LIN, CANPossibility of waveform generator: YES, needs expansionPossibility of logic analyzer: YES, needs expansionBodePlot: YES, you need any Siglent waveform generator or expansionAnother good option is the Micsig TO1104 Plus, it is a bit more expensive but it has a battery and it is totally portable, 4 channels, 100Mhz, 28MBs, 80,000 Wfms / s, 8 "touch screen

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 07:30:41 pm
content: Yeah, I even asked the guy who quoted me the 950 USD for the Siglent, why on earth is it almost double the price here in the Philippines compared to the US and other markets? Just got some BS back about having to pay freight, it being ex works, import costs, yada yada.. If I bought it on Ebay with the global shipping program, I'd get it for 600 USD or so as they do the imports and include the customs in the shipping cost. While it is a better scope than the Rigol from what I can see, I dont think it is 200 USD, or 50% the value, better than the Rigol, so it wouldnt make sense to pay the premium for it.

author: TK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 08:56:50 pm
content: Quote from: uargo on August 07, 2020, 05:15:06 pmGDS 1054B now has serial decoding. 400,000 wfm/s for Siglent is wrong.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 09:14:51 pm
content: Quote from: TK on August 07, 2020, 08:56:50 pmWaveform capture rate up to 100,000 wfm/s (normal mode), and 400,000 wfm/s (sequence mode)

author: TK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 09:26:14 pm
content: Quote from: tautech on August 07, 2020, 09:14:51 pmHere we go again...

author: Martin72
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2020, 09:34:28 pm
content: Again ?

author: uargo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 12:14:10 am
content: Quote from: Skauber on August 07, 2020, 07:30:41 pmIn europe the rigol ds1054z costs € 400 and the siglent sds1104x-e costs € 500, in this case the Siglent is worth it.In your case it may not, but don't worry the Rigol DS1054z is a good first oscilloscope.

author: uargo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 12:30:21 am
content: Quote from: TK on August 07, 2020, 08:56:50 pmI was guided by the characteristics and according to its datasheet:Siglent SDS1104x-e:SDS1104x-e - 100Mhz - 523€https://www.batterfly.com/shop/es/testandmeasurement/oscilloscopi/siglent-sds1104x-e1 - 4 channels 100MHZ (hackable at 200MHz)2 - 80,000wfms / s in normal mode and 400,000wfms / s in sequence mode3 - Serial decoding: YES, Serial / RS232, I2C, SPI, LIN, CAN. FOR FREE, , use all secuence memory mode for decode = YES4 - 2 ADC of 1GS - 500MS in 4 channel mode5 - 7 "screen6 - Possibility of waveform generator: YES7 - Possibility of logic analyzer: YES8 - Bode Plot: YESneed Siglent SAG1021 25MHz function/arbitrary waveform generator or any other waveform generator from Siglent9 - WIFI possibility: YES10 - Web remote control: YESAnd this is not said by me, the manufacturer's website says it.https://www.siglent.eu/product/1139249/siglent-sds1104x-e-100mhz-four-channel-oscilloscopeGDS-1054B:GDS-1054B - 50Mhz - 500€https://www.batterfly.com/shop/es/testandmeasurement/oscilloscopi/gwinstek-gds-1054b1 - 4 channels 50MHZ (hackable at 100MHz)2 - 50,000wfms / s in normal mode3 - Serial decoding: YES, Serial / RS232, I2C, SPI, LIN, CAN. ¿FREE, not sure?, use all secuence memory mode for decode???4 - 1 1GS - 250MS ADC in 4 channel mode5 - 7 "screen6 - Possibility of waveform generator: NO7 - Possibility of logic analyzer: NO8 - Bode Plot: NO9 - Possibility WIFI: NO10 - Web remote control: NOAnd this is not said by me, the manufacturer's website says it.https://www.gwinstek.com/en-GB/products/detail/GDS-1000Bhttps://www.gwinstek.com/en-GB/products/downloadSeriesSpec/173https://www.gwinstek.com/en-GB/products/downloadSeriesDownNew/1743/135100Mhz version but much more expensiveGDS-1104B - 100Mhz - 732€ -https://www.batterfly.com/shop/es/testandmeasurement/oscilloscopi/gwinstek-gds-1104bI have no problem with you trying to prove otherwise, but attach evidence, as I have done.

author: TK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 01:47:11 am
content: Quote from: TK on August 07, 2020, 02:47:09 pmI checked today and limitation still is there... it gives OVERFLOW error when selecting acquisition memory over 100Kpts. I think it all depends on how many packets are captured.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 10:10:32 am
content: Quote from: uargo on August 08, 2020, 12:30:21 amActually 300Mhz:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/possible-gw-instek-gds-1000b-hack/TEquipment has them for $310:https://www.tequipment.net/Instek/GDS-1054B/Digital-Oscilloscopes/?search=truePlus it has separate channel controls, a separate button for menu selections (not push the twisty knob), nicer UI generally.

author: uargo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 10:16:12 am
content: Quote from: Fungus on August 08, 2020, 10:10:32 amReally man??? 1 ADC at 1GS divided for 4 channels at 300MHZ??? with only 1 channel beyond about 30MHz you do not distinguish square, sinusoidal or triangular signal, I see the fantasy that the oscilloscope wants to show, but not realityThe price in EUROPA is 500€This is true: Plus it has separate channel controls, a separate button for menu selections (not push the twisty knob), nicer UI generally.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 10:57:02 am
content: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/possible-gw-instek-gds-1000b-hack/The price in EUROPA is 500€You can get one cheaper if you try.eg. If I use the EEVBLOG discount at Tequipment and add shipping + 21% IVA it comes to about 425 Euros.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 11:09:47 am
content: Quote from: uargo on August 08, 2020, 10:16:12 amWith 250MSamples/sec I can see three harmonics of a 30Mhz waveform, easily enough to distinguish between those three.If I use the full 1GSamples/sec. of my Rigol DS1054Z I can see approx 10 harmonics...

author: uargo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 11:17:57 am
content: Quote from: Fungus on August 08, 2020, 11:09:47 amreally? can you put here a capture from a scuare signal at 30Mhz from your scope, an another with 30Mhz triangular signal? please

author: uargo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 11:21:18 am
content: Quote from: Fungus on August 08, 2020, 10:57:02 amYou can get one cheaper if you try.eg. If I use the EEVBLOG discount at Tequipment and add shipping + 21% IVA it comes to about 425 Euros.465€ to my home, in Spain, the Siglent is better an cost 497€https://www.batronix.com/shop/oscilloscopes/Siglent-SDS1104X-E.html

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 12:20:56 pm
content: Quote from: uargo on August 08, 2020, 11:17:57 amWhere did the sine wave go?

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 01:58:47 pm
content: Quote from: tautech on August 07, 2020, 09:14:51 pmHas this "up to" ever been shown to materialise in real life? Waveforms have been proven to be difficult for manufacturers, Keysight mostly excluded.

author: Martin72
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 06:39:50 pm
content: Feed in 10Mhz sinewave, set timebase to 50ns/Div, change vector to dots and leave every measure parameter off, then you got the maximum updaterate.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 10:32:34 pm
content: Quote from: Martin72 on August 08, 2020, 06:39:50 pmWhich I guess should be interpreted as "usually you don't" or "you rarely do". How much of a problem that really is is another discussion.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 10:38:45 pm
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on August 08, 2020, 01:58:47 pmSo you might think so maybe study this post:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/siglent-sds2000x-plus-coming/msg3134086/#msg3134086

author: Martin72
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2020, 10:40:20 pm
content: QuoteHm ?These are the settings for getting the maximum rate, beyond and before it would be less - And none of the other brands guarantee a "stable" updaterate, instead they disclaim the maximum too.

author: MathWizard
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2020, 04:31:56 am
content: I went with the SDS1104X-E, and it can do a lot of stuff. For day to day use it's great for me. Someday I'll probably save up for the 2x2 2GSa/s version.I must say I like the idea of the Hantek w/ a singnal gen, and DMM ? If it actually works to it's spec's, that would be great for lot's of users. I'd like to have 1 just to play, same with the handheld DSO's, real ones.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2020, 04:31:00 pm
content: Quote from: tautech on August 08, 2020, 10:38:45 pmThere's no Siglent in there.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2020, 04:38:38 pm
content: Quote from: Martin72 on August 08, 2020, 10:40:20 pmA lot of manufacturers seem a lot more optimistic than some others, looking at how often you actually come anywhere near the specified maximums. Again, I'm not sure how relevant the waveform update rate is but some brands seem intent on closing the gap through what's mostly marketing.

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2020, 07:00:09 am
content: Thanks for all the feedback here! It helped me make a good decision for my first scope. I will go for the Rigol and unlock it with Riglol. It will serve my needs for the foreseeable future. I plan to add a logic analyzer and a function signal generator as standalone gear to overcome the fact that the scope doesnt have it built in. With the limitations on availability here in the Philippines, I think this would be the best scope for the price if you're going for a 4 channel scope.

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2020, 11:40:33 am
content: Quote from: Skauber on August 11, 2020, 07:00:09 amI think it should serve you well.

author: Gandalf_Sr
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2020, 12:46:15 pm
content: @SkauberI think the DS1054Z upgraded using Riglol is going to be a good choice for your first scope; I own one and it works just fine. Mine shows a viewable trace at 200 MHz but the -3dB point is probably more like 140 MHz.For a logic analyzer, I'd consider the following:- $7. Search eBay for "24MHz Logic Analyzer" and find a Saleae clone that can be used with Sigrok (free)- $110. Search eBay for "DSLogic Plus" and use with Sigrok although they have their 'own' software that is a port from Sigrok- $40. Search eBay for "Bus Pirate" and use with TeraTerm -guide from Sparkfun hereor there isa console hereThe first 2 above are listen only for logic busses. The Bus Pirate has a clunky UI but it can talk to the bus too - it can do some cool stuff e.g. scan an I2C bus and report responses, by address, from all devices found on the bus.

author: rsjsouza
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2020, 02:35:01 pm
content: Congratulations on your decision, Skauber. Enjoy!Your first piece of equipment does not mean you are married to it

author: mawyatt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2020, 02:37:33 pm
content: Quote from: Gandalf_Sr on August 11, 2020, 12:46:15 pmJust got a Silgent SDS2102X Plus (wanted the 2104 but was backordered) and very impressed with this instrument, this is kinda my personal 1st real DSO (have a couple Tek 2465, and old LeCroy (not mine)). One of the things I'll need to do later on is evaluate the output/inputs to ADC/DACs, the Siglent Logic analyzer is pretty expensive realitive to the scope prices. Are there other logic analyzers (or DIY) that will work with this scope, probably useful for the mentioned Rigol also? I need to view the analog waveform in synch with the digital.Best,

author: Mr. Scram
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2020, 03:14:38 pm
content: Quote from: mawyatt on August 11, 2020, 02:37:33 pmThe Siglent logic analyzer is really expensive for what it is. I don't think anything else will be compatible but you could use an external logic analyzer and trigger both at the same time. If that's not good enough you could consider a recent Saelae logic analyzer. Those do analogue waveforms too and provides better bang for buck than an expensive accessory.

author: tv84
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2020, 04:19:54 pm
content: Quote from: mawyatt on August 11, 2020, 02:37:33 pmAfter upgrading it with a 500 MHz license, I would be interested in knowing if you can get 500 MHz in one channel.

author: mawyatt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2020, 04:29:57 pm
content: Quote from: Mr. Scram on August 11, 2020, 03:14:38 pmThanks for the reply and info on the Saelae.Gandalf_Sr above did an nice DIY analyzer for the Rigol and wondering if anyone has done this for the Siglent? The Siglent analyzer connector I haven't seen before, maybe a custom type to prevent using another analyzer.Yeah, had thought about getting a inexpensive analyzer and configuring some sort of trigger between the scope and analyzer, that's an option.Best,

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2020, 11:48:19 pm
content: Quote from: mawyatt on August 11, 2020, 02:37:33 pmFollow along from here:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/siglent-sds2000x-plus-coming/msg3025764/#msg3025764A few pages later member TK found some that apparently work.

author: TK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2020, 12:11:10 am
content: Quote from: tautech on August 11, 2020, 11:48:19 pmI made one using a custom made PCB adapter and vintage HP / Agilent woven ribbon cable and logic analyzer POD... still have some available.

author: mawyatt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2020, 01:33:37 am
content: Quote from: tv84 on August 11, 2020, 04:19:54 pmThat will need to wait awhile for the BW upgrade, I'm not a software type and have limited linux knowledge. The possibility of hosing the scope is something to be concerned about, and we have some work to get done before placing the scope at riskI have tried to follow the many threads on upgrading the scope, it's pretty difficult to get the simplest and most likely successful approach selected with the many various approaches mentioned. I'm sure with the help of the many folks here this will eventually be successful, but just a little risk adverse at the moment.Best,

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2020, 05:21:32 am
content: Received my Rigol today, and I am very happy with the purchase. Very nice build quality, and it works very well. Something had me a little puzzled though, in a positive way. When I checked the installed options on it, everything was marked "Official" except the 100M bandwidth option, so I had 24M memory depth, all decoders, all triggers and the recorder already installed out of the box. Is this normal? I thought these were stuff you had to pay extra for..I did go to Riglol and added the 100M B/W option, so that one is also good to go.There was also a calibration sheet included, where next calibration is due in Feb 2021, I realize this is mostly for commercial use, but for hobbyist use, is there any calibration intervals we need to respect on these?

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2020, 06:08:07 am
content: Quote from: Skauber on September 17, 2020, 05:21:32 amThey've been free for the last year or so.Quote from: Skauber on September 17, 2020, 05:21:32 amThese 'scopes are sensitive to temperature so do self-cal in summer and winter and before anything important.OTOH they're not very accurate anyway (spec says about 5%) so just accept that number and view all measurements as ballpark/approximate. It's what most people do.Oscilloscopes are more for looking at the shape of things than their exact amplitude.(horizontal is usually quite accurate though)

author: Skauber
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2020, 06:32:36 am
content: Ok, sounds good. The temperature here is about the same all year round, the joy of a tropical country, but will do a self cal every 6 months or so.