Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] oscilloscope for CNC

On Sat, 28 Jun 2003 09:30:47 -0000, you wrote:

>Hi everyone,
>
>I have a bit of extra money and am considering upgrading my digital
>meter to an oscilloscope :-)
>
>Anyone has any suggestion for the features I should look for, and
>perhaps even the model? I have been using steppers to date, and will
>likely upgrade :-) to servo or pseudo-servo later.

dual channels, triggered sweep (a/b delayed is best). On screen
readout is a plus, but expensive. Minimum of 50 mhz bandwidth, 100 or
more is preferred.

Much depends on what you plan to use it for. Microprocessor work
needs more bandwidth and more channels. Television/audio repair is
generally fine as is.

Tektronix is good, Hewlett Packard is good, but there's an odd logic
to the design. Kenwood (!) is also good, the CS series scopes can be
available.

I would consider a Tektronix 2000 series if you want portable, a
Tektronix 7000 series if you want mainframe and plugins, and perhaps a
5000 series Tektronix if you want something that was further down the
food chain and less money.

Stay clear of the tektronix 500 series, they are almost all vacuum
tube monstrosities from the '60s and '70s. You will probably not be
able to find tubes nor parts easily, and they will attempt to heat a
large automotive garage in use.

I'd recommend getting none of these new. Roughly what area are you
in? Simply because there are some resources in the Atlanta, Ga. area
that sell good oscilloscopes (he might even ship). You are talking
about 300 or so before shipping for a tektronix 2000 series, which
meets the minimum specs I laid out above. They are used. You might
also try the larger hamfests, which listings can be found at
www.arrl.org there's a hamfest link on their page.

If you want small and cute, try www.allelectronics.com for a single
channel digital hand held scope. Runs off batteries, 10 mhz, 2
memories, one channel. It should be under the test equipment category
if they still have it. Roughly 160, or so, IIRC, It's a 10 Mhz scope
made by Velleman. I wouldn't recommend it for a primary scope, but
then again, I'm picky.

Feel free to email me off list with more information, if you wish.

Harvey

>
>Thanks
>
>Tanya
>
>