Tek 2430A on the blink - thinking of new Rigol - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: metrologist
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 12, 2016, 05:19:30 pm
content: The Tek started failing some self test errors (WP, PA, CCD) and the display would not come on. Sometimes it works for a while.What would I be missing if I just replaced this with a Rigol DS1104Z? Would I really notice it's lower bandwidth?If I could afford it, I'd love to get a DS2202A, with the options. Is there any convincing me that it would be worth it?Any comments on Rigol's long-term reliability?As it is, I am considering selling off this wanky scope, my Tek 496 SPA, and HP 8901 just to get the funds to replace the scope. I need a scope.Thanks!

author: CustomEngineerer
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 13, 2016, 12:32:43 am
content: Only you can answer the question of if you will notice the lower bandwidth. It depends what you are doing with it. As far as wanting the DS2202A, you could get the DS2072A for $500 less and "unlock" it to be the same as the DS2302A (or even the DS2202A if you really wanted). Plus you could "unlock" all the options at the same time for free.Edit: Also, if you are trying to save money, the DS1054Z can be unlocked into the DS1104Z. There's really no reason to buy the DS1104Z or DS2202A, unless you have a moral objection to unlocking the scope without paying. Rigol doesn't seem to care.

author: metrologist
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 13, 2016, 01:22:07 am
content: I guess my question really should have been, what can the 2430A do better than the DS1104Z? For example, does it really have a faster rise time? I do want to capture fast events.The main point is to determine if I should spend the resources fixing it vs. just buying a new scope. The features of the Rigol are obvious, otherwise, but I have also read hints that there are better/cheaper ways to do the same thing (i.e., logic decoding). I do not have one so cannot really asses how the stuff I'm used to will perform.Note that I used to work as a tech in the RF/microwave industry when this equipment was in mainstream use, but career and interests have wandered over the past many years, so I have been getting back into it and all the new tech seems so fabulous.I'm also having second thoughts on selling the 496 and 8901B. O0Thanks for any advice.

author: metrologist
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 07:31:14 pm
content: What am I missing in the DS4024? On sale Tequipment is giving software and upgrades on several of their models. Why do I do this to myself. I cannot afford such things

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 09:00:34 pm
content: Might you consider this promo:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/siglent-special-offers-on-the-sds2000x-series/http://www.siglentamerica.com/qyxwxx.aspx?id=4647&sid=216

author: Fungus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 09:08:19 pm
content: Quote from: metrologist on April 13, 2016, 01:22:07 amThe rise time on the Rigol is 3.5ns. What is it on the 2430A?

author: LazyJack
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2016, 09:33:52 pm
content: Before throwing out the Tek. Check if it is not the nvram failing. That could throw all kinds of strange errors. I've been experimenting with the 2440, and was able to produce the strangest errors, including complete blank screen, with a corrupted nvram, even though test 6000 for the ram did not fail! Replace the battery or the two ds1230, i'm not sure which one your scope has.

author: rf-loop
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 16, 2016, 06:40:35 am
content: Quote from: Fungus on April 15, 2016, 09:08:19 pm2.3ns or better.