Need microprocessor trainer, oscilloscope advice?

On Aug 29, 2006, at 7:53 PM, John D. Reeve wrote: Don't worry, you don't need much bandwidth for troubleshooting older TTL logic...a 35MHz or 50MHz scope will do fine. I recommend a Tektronix 453...They're small, cheap, reliable, and very capable. Don't be fooled; it's a high-end professional oscilloscope, but it's old...hence cheap. Like computers, they don't become less capable with age, but unlike computers, we still do the exact same thing with oscilloscopes now that we did 75 years ago...graph voltage against time on a display. Today's 'scopes do things like FFTs and limit testing, but 99% of most peoples' needs (whether they believe it or not) will be met just fine with an old Tek 453 or 465. You can probably pick a 453 up on eBay for less than $75. If you can afford more than that, look for a Tektronix 465 or 475. (or 475A, etc) Check out these URLs for very good info on the 453: http://www.diyguitarist.com/TestEquipment/Tektronix453.htm http://www.reprise.com/host/scopes/default.asp I've had a 453 (still have it), a 475 (a friend has it now), and my current Tek scopes are a 2465A and a TDS-3012. I also have an HP 54111D, but it hasn't seen much use since I got the TDS-3012. For trainers...a Heathkit ET-3400 is small, cheap, and fun. HP made a REALLY nice one built around the 8085, but they tend to be not so cheap...I have a spare one that I'm about to put up on eBay. -Dave -- Dave McGuire Cape Coral, FL