Need pointers on Oscilloscopes

On 6/8/2006 at 8:28 PM Wolfe, Julian wrote: What do you plan to use the oscilloscope for? Do you need a lot of bandwidth (usually means $$$); do you need a storage scope? ($$$) Are you in the market for a DSO? ($$$$) Are you looking for a lab scope with plug-in modules or just an all-around basic unit? A number of folks find that the older Tek all-vacuum-tube scopes can be quite exceptional for low-speed analogue use. If I were looking for an inexpensive used scope for nonspecific general-purpose use, I might consider one of the more ubiquitous models, like the Tek 465. Bandwidth (depending on model) is a useful 100-200MHz, triggering and delayed sweep are usuually rock-solid; a regular workhorse. Occasionally, you can find an exceptional deal in a Tek or HP scope that's been mounted on a rack panel. (Just drill out the spot-welds and add some feet). If possible, find a scope that's been calibrated regularly. Don't forget the probes--a cheap probe can really degrade operation, so make sure that the probes are intended for use with the unit and not somone's generic piece of wire. Make sure that all of the indicators work, the display can be focused and there are no burn marks on the screen and the controls and switches aren't noisy. Most scopes have a calibration test function, so you can at least get a ballpark idea of the thing's operation. Stick with a brand name unit--Tektronix, HP, LeCroy, etc. There will be a larger community of users (and hence more replacement parts) for those. Cheers, Chuck