Assessing second hand Oscilloscope Rigol DS1074Z before buying - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: DiyHobbist
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 22, 2016, 11:39:40 pm
content: I am in the process of buying a second hand oscilloscope from a friend of a friend.The seller says the scope is in very good condition as it has hardly been used, and I trust him.However, I want to do some stress tests in order to ensure it1. is in good shape as claimed;2. has not any damage, say for example, some improper use.what would I need to check?In point 2., by damage I mean something which is not apparent at first sight, but is negatively affecting the functioning of the device, and say for example, has diminished its accuracy.As I am a beginner, I don't really know if my hesitation is grounded or not.I need to know if this is a bargain as it seems or not.Should you need any further information, please let me know.Thank you very much to all for your time.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2016, 12:10:55 am
content: Run the instruments Self Cal.

author: vk6zgo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2016, 05:23:50 am
content: Check its mechanical integrity.Are there any cracks in the case,are the bnc connectors damaged/wobbly?Are the knobs loose/cracked/wobbly?

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2016, 06:45:26 am
content: If they sell more than 75% price of new item... buy new item... 2nd hand items window shopping rule..

author: DiyHobbist
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 23, 2016, 11:04:54 am
content: Quote from: vk6zgo on February 23, 2016, 05:23:50 amNo there is no apparent fault. It looks spanking new from the outside.

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2016, 11:33:05 am
content: Quote from: Mechatrommer on February 23, 2016, 06:45:26 am75% of the price of a DS1074Z is still more than a brand new DS1054Z....and it'sexactlythe same 'scope. Zero hardware difference. None.(apart from a single, modifiable number in the flash memory that sets the bandwidth on power-up)

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2016, 11:40:04 am
content: Quote from: DiyHobbist on February 23, 2016, 11:04:54 amIf the price is right then look at it as a pre-tested DS1054Z.Plus you might get to try it for a week and see if all the people moaning about "firmware bugs" are exaggerating or not.(be sure to report back on that one...)

author: DiyHobbist
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 23, 2016, 01:01:17 pm
content: Quote from: Fungus on February 23, 2016, 11:40:04 amIf i buy it, I will certainly let you know about the firmware bugs.

author: DiyHobbist
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 23, 2016, 01:31:24 pm
content: Quote from: Fungus on February 23, 2016, 11:40:04 amA week's trial is agood idea. I'll see if the seller agrees on that. Thanks!

author: John.Paul
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 25, 2016, 07:44:24 am
content: Hi!It makes more sense to buy an used oscilloscope. I'm not sure how convenient it would be to have a trial with a brand new scope- it's great if the seller agrees though! There are websites that sell used oscilloscopes that are still in great condition and good value for the money. Or you could try out oscilloscope rentals that offer scopes from Agilent, Tektronix and other quality brands to choose from.

author: vince53
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 01, 2016, 01:05:59 am
content: "Why are you selling it?" is always one of my key questions.Vince