SDS5034X or RTB2k-COM4 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / testgear

author: tcsaba101
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 16, 2020, 11:55:25 am
content: I have the budget for a SDS5034X scope.But the recent -40% promotion of RS offers the RBT2k-COM4 20% higher priced than Siglent, stuffed with a lot of options.Siglent has also options built in:https://www.batronix.com/shop/oscilloscopes/Siglent-SDS5034X.htmlRS options:https://www.batronix.com/shop/oscilloscopes/Rohde-Schwarz-RTB2K-COM4-SP.htmlI can afford the increased budget, but I can't make the choice between them:RS: 10 bit, Logic analyzer option included,Siglent: Bigger memoryNow I have a Rigol DS2072A The use is for mainstream MCU digital and analog developments for IoT devices.I also have a Saleae Pro8 for logic debug.I am studying the rewievs and datasheets, but can't make a valid choice.

author: TurboTom
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 16, 2020, 12:26:33 pm
content: Both the mentioned options are better and of more modern design than the DS2k. But the question is how much so. IMO, if working okay, updated to the latest firmware and hacked to its full features and 300MHz bandwidth, the DS2000A isn't a bad scope. In combination with a logic analyzer, there's little that it cannot do that the other two candidates can (except maybe a decent FFT and a proper mathematical function of a derivative).I would actually think twice if I'ld replace it with one of the mentioned instruments, especially considering that the R&S cannot be considered a really new design anymore and it lacks internal 50R termination at the inputs (depends if you need them or not, feed-through terminators are a work-around but not as good as a properly designed internally terminated scope input -- and I question that either the DS2000A or the SDS5000X inputs are of that caliber...).My approach would be to question myself "what do I expect from the new scope that my current one cannot do".But even an answer like "I just want a new scope", may be a valid reason, if it makes you feel more comfortable during your work...which of course doesn't make the choice between the two option easier...

author: tcsaba101
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 16, 2020, 08:15:49 pm
content: Quote from: TurboTom on December 16, 2020, 12:26:33 pmThanks Tom, you are right! This is the main question!This is the wish-list in order of importance:I need definitely 4 channels, the most important.Logic inputs. with I2C, UART, SPI, etc protocol decoding on screen.Handling by mouse/touch most of the features.Big screen.Features what makes the setup, adjusting, measurement more easy. (laziness of browsing Menus)I not yet hacked the DS2000 because I was not missing it till now. But good to have the 300M BW upgrade.The story behind:I have applied for IoT development support to the government in July and I had to make a budget plan quickly.I have included in the plan to purchase the SDS5034X and a Picoscope 5443 MSO.Now I have got 60% support on that plan.If you wish something ..and you get it, then you must handle it!What are the choices:If I do not buy, I loose the amount of support.If I buy a similar type but higher price I can keep the support but I have to finance the surplus.