Any experience of this PC interface oscilloscope?

[rogb]

I would like to to learn some scoping but am a little wary of this sort of used ex-bench kit from ebay.

Are these new PC based interfaces OK for basic amp troubleshooting and tweaking?
Thanks
Rog

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Hantek-PC-Bas ... 1c387f00b0

[rogb]

Nobody tried a PC scope interface?

[Phil_S]

I'm not an expert on o'scopes...

If you root around on various forums, I think you'll find discussions of USB scopes. As I recall, those in the know seem to feel these gizmos are not a good choice for our high voltage work even with attenuating probes. I don't know about you, but I'm disinclined to hook up my PC (or the interface device) to an amp with B+ of 400v.

The risk, as I see it, omitting the question of blowing up your PC, is that you are already spending a fairly hefty sum for that Hantek. If it works, then great, but if it doesn't then you've throw away your money. Probably, you can find a low-end (20MHz dual channel) used scope in good operating condition, and for probably 2x the cost you might be able to buy a new one if you look hard.

[exocet]

It looks pretty good to me.

Can't see any risk in blowing up your computer as all HV interfacing is contained within this external unit. There's only a USB interface to the computer.

No idea how it performs though but I'd be surprised if it were rubbish.

[rogb]

Thanks, I appreciate the advice.

A lot of the used CRT scopes I have seen on ebay UK are "no returns", which seems a massive risk.

My friend said he uses a Tektronix digital at work. They only use the best so these must be good!

[gingertube]

In my day job we have quite a few oscilloscopes, everything from an Agilent 8GSPS Digital with 1.5GHz Analog bandwidth on down.
One of the oscilloscopes we like (and therefore have a few of them) are hand held battery powered Hantek units. WE design and build airborne survey equipment and they are great for servicing gear in the aircraft.

So the brand is reliable.

Cheers,
Ian

[rogb]

In my day job we have quite a few oscilloscopes, everything from an Agilent 8GSPS Digital with 1.5GHz Analog bandwidth on down.
One of the oscilloscopes we like (and therefore have a few of them) are hand held battery powered Hantek units. WE design and build airborne survey equipment and they are great for servicing gear in the aircraft.

So the brand is reliable.

Cheers,
Ian

Thanks mate, that's good to know. I may give it a shot after Christmas if nothing else comes up.