Oscilloscope Experts?

metroplex

Golden Member
Jul 24, 2001
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I am using a Tektronix THS730A handheld oscilloscope at work...

I'm about to shell out $330+ for its Wavestar software so I can get the full version for use with the 730A... but I need some professional 2nd opinions on this unit. I don't have much experience purchasing oscilloscopes... I can always get a better model if necessary but portability IS necessary, and datalogging/acquisition is also a must. Any ideas? I don't need to run it like a black box... it just has to be able to capture waveforms and data into a format a PC can read, and convert it into pretty graphs/tables.

So do I keep this current 730A, buy the software, or get a different oscilloscope + software?
 

ScottMac

Moderator<br>Networking<br>Elite member
Mar 19, 2001
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I am not directly familiar with that specific model from Tek.

If the ultimate destination is a PC, for whatever reason, perhaps you should look for a Pod: basically an oscilliscope interface for your PC (the PC becomes the oscilliscope logic and display, complete with storage).

They generally connect through the USB port, and I believe they are good upwards to 100MHz.

If I can find an ad for one I'll re-post or edit with the company name and model number.

What I'm thinking is that for the price of the Tek, you could buy a mini-laptop and Pod ... maybe even less expensive, depending on your needs. Many of the Pods can output to a spreadsheet or .csv file for database integration.

Good Luck

Scott