How to Choose an Oscilloscope

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Easy & Responsive Operation

Many people don't use a oscilloscope every day. Intuitive controls allow even occasional users to feel comfortable
with the oscilloscope while giving full-time users easy access to the most advanced features.

*It should be responsive, reacting quickly to changing events.
*AUTOSET and/or DEFAULT buttons will make for instant setup.
*Frequently used adjustments should have dedicated knobs.
*There should be support for your own language, with templates for the dials.

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Connectivity and Expansion

Standard interfaces can include GPIB, RS-232, USB, Ethernet,
and links to network communication moduels.

USB is useful for USB flash drives to store waveforms,
captures and settings. PictBridge lets the oscilloscope
act like a digital camera. VGA connects to an external
monitor.

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Connecting an oscilloscope to a computer directly or transferring data via portable
media allows advanced analysis, and simplifies documenting and sharing results.

*Consider an oscilloscope that allows you to access a Windows desktop and provide
network printing and file sharing resources.
*Is it helpful to provide internet access, and share measurements with colleagues
real-time?
*Check if it can run third-party analysis, documentation and productivity software.
*Can it meet your needs as they change?
-Memory to channels to analyze longer record lengths
-Application-specific measurements and application modules
-A full range of probes and modules
-Accessories like battery packs and rack mounts
-Software to control the oscilloscope from your PC, take automated measurements,
waveform data logging and export waveforms live.

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LAN, display, and printer interfaces enable you to integrate your oscilloscope with the
rest of your working environment.
*Video port to export the oscilloscope display to a monitor or projector.
*USB device port for easy connection to a PC or direct printing to a printer.
*USB Host port-quick and easy data storage, printing and connecting a USB keyboard.
*Ethernet port for network connection, plus compatible software to capture screen
shots, waveform data and measurement results.