Philips PM 3240 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: Bskitter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 09:27:55 am
content: Hey Guys, So I am computer Science Major but really love playing with electronics.I have come to the stage where I want to get an proper oscilloscope, I have been using a pocket scope but it is really not great.I dont have an exact use for it but I would love to just start playing with one and learning the basics.I a very limited knowledge but I learn fast when having a hands on approach.I have been looking on ebay for a cheap Scope and came across a Philips PM 3240.ManualWhat do you guys have to say about this model is it appropriate for a beginner ?

author: grumpydoc
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 09:35:32 am
content: It will be fine if working but don't pay too much for it and be warned that these Phillips 'scopes weigh a ton.What is your budget?

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 09:36:22 am
content: It is, but it won't be long till you desire a DSO.So think carefully if the investment now will affect when you'll want to go the next step.

author: Bskitter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 10:07:19 am
content: Thanks for the feedback guys.My Budget is about 50 Euros excluding shipping.

author: TinkerFan
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 10:09:44 am
content: Quote from: tautech on April 15, 2016, 09:36:22 amIt has a delayed timebase, which could save a DSO (That's how I do it), but if you need an FFT or so you're screwed. In that case I would get a cheap Hantek PC-based DSO (~80$) in addition, just for the extra functionality (some of you will hate me for that, but for hobby projects one of those is just fine). That is porbably still cheaper than a Rigol.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 10:19:35 am
content: Quote from: TinkerFan on April 15, 2016, 10:09:44 amYep, saw that. My first CRO had one too but once you've had a DSO, well........What the OP buys will be his decision, all we can do is provide him/her with enough info to do so.

author: tggzzz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 10:28:54 am
content: Provided it works, the Philips will be much better than having no scope. The 50MHz is slightly lower than desirable for logic, but usable if you aren't verifying signal integrity and don't need to see short pulses.It has the advantage that it is simple and easy to learn how to use it, unlike more complex scopes.With a little ingenuity and discipline, I expect you will be able to do what you need for a while - and then you will be in a better position to understand what you need next.By "ingenuity and discipline" I mean use exactly the same thought processes that you would use in software development without an all-singing-all-dancing IDE. Basically, develop in small steps, know your tools, and use each of their advantages to counteract other tools' disadvantages.

author: kayvee
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 11:06:34 am
content: Have you been checking on Gumtree locally? It'll save a bundle on freight.There's a recent listing for a 300MHz Le Croy for R2500, and a 100MHz Iwatzu for just R 10500Just don't buy the latter.No, neither are my listingsEDIT: The LeCroy has been sold. Keep an eye out, sometimes there are some reasonable ones to be had.

author: Bskitter
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 11:26:42 am
content: Thanks all again !Kayvee ! Shot for the update man BUT i am studying in Europe and now have the luxury of using ebay

author: TAMHAN
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 06:21:06 pm
content: The LeCroy 9300 series, well, their reputation is vitriolic (GUI said to SUCK). But, to be honest, I love the shit out of my 9354AM, find its GUI super sensible and use it much more than both my Iwatsu CombiScope (which i used to love as it served me for more than 15 years now) and my Tek TDS754D color DPO.