Oscilloscope for Sale - Compare Prices & Suppliers

What is an oscilloscope and how does it work?

Is an electronic instrument used to display and analyze various types of electrical signals. It works by capturing and displaying the voltage over time of an electrical signal graphically on a screen. The vertical axis of the display represents the voltage, while the horizontal axis represents time. The signal is usually displayed as a series of peaks and valleys, which can be analyzed to extract information about its frequency, amplitude, and other characteristics. Oscilloscopes are commonly used in electronics, telecommunications, and other fields where the analysis of electrical signals is required.

What are the key features to look for when buying an oscilloscope?

Is a device used to measure and analyze electronic signals. When buying an oscilloscope, there are several key features to consider:

Bandwidth: The bandwidth determines the highest frequency that the oscilloscope can accurately measure. A higher bandwidth means that the oscilloscope can measure faster signals.
Sample rate: The sample rate determines how many data points the oscilloscope can take in a given time. A higher sample rate means that the oscilloscope can capture more detail in the signal.
Number of channels: The number of channels determines how many signals the oscilloscope can measure at once. A two-channel oscilloscope is the most common, but some applications may require more channels.
Display: The display should be clear and easy to read, with adjustable brightness and contrast. Some oscilloscopes may also have a touch screen display for easier navigation.
Triggering: Triggering allows the user to set a threshold for the oscilloscope to start measuring the signal. This is important for capturing specific events or signals.
Probes: Probes are the devices that connect the oscilloscope to the circuit being measured. Quality probes are important for accurate measurements and signal integrity.
Software: Some oscilloscopes come with software that allows for more advanced analysis and data logging. This can be useful for more complex applications.

Overall, it's important to consider the specific needs of your application when choosing an oscilloscope, and to balance features with cost.

What is the difference between analog and digital oscilloscopes?

An oscilloscope is a device used to analyze and display electrical signals. There are two main types of oscilloscopes: analog and digital.

Analog oscilloscopes use a cathode-ray tube (CRT) to display the waveform on a screen. The input signal is amplified and then used to deflect the electron beam on the CRT. The resulting image can be used to measure various aspects of the waveform, such as amplitude, frequency, and phase.
Digital oscilloscopes, on the other hand, use an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) to sample the input signal and then display it on a screen. The sample data is stored in memory and then processed by digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms to display the waveform. Digital oscilloscopes offer several advantages over analog oscilloscopes, such as the ability to capture and store waveforms, and the ability to perform more advanced signal analysis.

Overall, the main difference between analog and digital oscilloscopes is the way they display and process signals. Analog oscilloscopes use a CRT to display waveforms, while digital oscilloscopes use an ADC and DSP algorithms to process and display waveforms.

What is the bandwidth of an oscilloscope and how does it affect my measurements?

Bandwidth refers to the range of frequencies that the oscilloscope can accurately measure. The higher the bandwidth, the more accurate and detailed the measurement will be. If the signal being measured has a frequency beyond the bandwidth of the oscilloscope, the signal will be distorted or attenuated, leading to inaccurate measurements. Therefore, it is important to choose an oscilloscope with a bandwidth that is appropriate for the signal being measured.

What is the sample rate of an oscilloscope and why is it important?

A sample rate of an oscilloscope refers to the frequency at which the device measures and records the input signal. It is important because it determines the accuracy and detail of the waveform displayed on the screen. A higher sample rate allows for a more precise measurement of the signal's shape and timing, while a lower sample rate can lead to inaccurate or distorted readings. Therefore, the sample rate is a crucial factor to consider when selecting an oscilloscope for a particular application.

What is the input impedance of an oscilloscope and why does it matter?

An oscilloscope's input impedance refers to the resistance that the oscilloscope presents to the circuit under test. It essentially measures how much current the oscilloscope will draw from the circuit being measured. The input impedance of an oscilloscope is typically either 1 megaohm (1MΩ) or 50 ohms (50Ω), and it matters because it can affect the accuracy of the measurements taken by the oscilloscope.

If the input impedance is too low, the oscilloscope will draw too much current from the circuit being measured, which can affect the voltage levels observed on the oscilloscope. On the other hand, if the input impedance is too high, the oscilloscope will not draw enough current from the circuit, which can lead to inaccurate voltage measurements. Therefore, it is important to choose the correct input impedance for the specific application to ensure accurate measurements are taken.

How many channels do I need in an oscilloscope?

An oscilloscope can have a varying number of channels, ranging from one to four or more. The number of channels needed depends on the type of signals being measured and the complexity of the system under test. For simple applications, a single-channel oscilloscope may suffice, while more complex systems may require a four-channel oscilloscope to capture multiple signals simultaneously.

What is the price range for oscilloscopes in Australia?

Prices in Australia can vary widely depending on the brand, model, and features. Entry-level oscilloscopes can be purchased for as low as $100, while high-end models can cost several thousand dollars. The most popular brands of oscilloscopes in Australia are Tektronix, Keysight, and Rigol. It is recommended to research and compare prices before making a purchase to ensure the best value for the desired features and functionality.

What are some reputable brands of oscilloscopes available in Australia?

An oscilloscope is an electronic instrument used to measure and display waveforms of electrical signals. In Australia, there are several reputable brands of oscilloscopes available, including:

Tektronix: Tektronix is a leading manufacturer of oscilloscopes, offering a wide range of models from basic to advanced. Their oscilloscopes are known for their accuracy, reliability, and ease of use.
Keysight Technologies: Keysight Technologies is another well-known brand of oscilloscopes. They offer a range of scopes for different applications, including digital and mixed-signal oscilloscopes.
Rigol Technologies: Rigol Technologies is a Chinese company that produces high-quality oscilloscopes at an affordable price. Their scopes are popular among hobbyists and professionals alike.
Fluke Corporation: Fluke Corporation is a US-based company that produces a range of test and measurement equipment, including oscilloscopes. Their scopes are known for their accuracy and durability.
GW Instek: GW Instek is a Taiwanese company that produces a range of test and measurement equipment, including oscilloscopes. Their scopes are popular among engineers and scientists for their accuracy and reliability.

Overall, there are many reputable brands of oscilloscopes available in Australia, each with its own unique features and capabilities. When choosing an oscilloscope, it's important to consider your specific needs and budget to find the best option for you.

Oscilloscope Suppliers

Oscilloscope Buying Guide

Oscilloscope Costs and Supplier Insights