Best Tektronix Oscilloscope (With Reviews)

A very usual sight in a lab is the presence of a device known as an Oscilloscope. This machine is used to measure the varying voltages in the flow of electric current.

The ups and downs in the movement of voltage are shown in the form of a two-dimensional graph on its screen.

This equipment is extremely common in the electronics lab. It can come in different shapes and sizes with varying features.

However, amongst a variety of different brands, Tektronix is a well-known name that has consistently produced good quality oscilloscopes. Let’s look at the top 6 Tektronix oscilloscope reviews.

Why Tektronix?

As we have mentioned before, Tektronix is a reputed brand when it comes to producing good quality oscilloscopes.

Oscilloscopes are mainly of two types. The first one is the analog type, and the second one is the digital type.

As you can tell by the name, the digital oscilloscope is more modern and advanced. Tektronix produces both of these types.

Its current ranges include Digital oscilloscopes that can be varied into digital phosphor oscilloscopes (DPOs), mixed domain oscilloscopes (MDOs), digital storage oscilloscopes (DSOs), mixed-signal oscilloscopes (MSOs), and digital sampling oscilloscopes.

All of these different types have some unique features and functions that make them the best in the market.

Tektronix oscilloscope comparison

Last update on 2024-04-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best Tektronix Oscilloscope Review

Now that you know why Tektronix is the best, let’s look at the 6 top Tektronix Oscilloscope Reviews:

Tektronix TBS1052B-EDU 50 MHz

One of the best productions from Tektronix is the TBS1052B Digital Storage Oscilloscope. It is available in a variety of different frequencies.

However, the price varies along with the rise in the frequency compatibility. But in terms of service, the price is worth the value.

To start off on its variety of features, the first that needs to be mentioned is its colored display. It is an active TFT display that has a dimension of 7 inches.

All the variations in the voltage of the electric current are neatly displayed on this monitor.

Moreover, the machine does not come with a cooling fan, which reduces its amount of noise production.

Another great feature of this equipment is its ability to showcase 2GS/s on all of its channels in real-time. This data can also be recorded at a speed of 2.5 kpts per channel.

Along with this, the machine is fully safe and is rated by CAT II. To top all these off, the monitor displays data in the most user-friendly interface. You can even zoom in on it.

Tektronix TDS2024C 200 MHz

Although the second pick on our list is an analog model from Tektronix, it is quite a saver when it comes to its affordability. Despite being analog, this equipment is loaded with various features.

For example, the machine has four separate channels, each of which can handle a frequency of up to 200MHz. Not only this, but it can also be safely used in any kind of lab environment.

To add to this product’s list of features, we must mention how it will help you a great deal in designing various types of electrical appliances, assembly lines, and so on.

Moreover, if you are an engineering student, you can use this machine to carry out your lab tests.

Not only this, but you can also even use it to repair broken electronic machines. And to top it off, this equipment is fully portable and easy to carry.

Just like the first pick on our list, this one can also showcase real-time data at a speed of 2GS/s per channel. On top of this, you can even record the data at a length of 2.3kpts.

Moreover, it has an LCD enabled color monitor that displays the variation in waveforms. Along with that, it also shows you the width of the pulse and the rise and fall of the triggers.

Related Guide: Check out the best oscilloscope under $1000 reviews.

Tektronix TDS2014C 100 MHz

The next pick on our list is another amazing digital oscilloscope from Tektronix. You can call this one the digitized version of our second pick due to the similarity of their features.

However, one difference that stands between the two products is their frequencies. This product is compatible with a frequency of 100MHz.

Apart from this, this device also features four channels, which help in the reading of voltage related data.

Another great feature of this particular model from Tektronix is its portability. This machine is light and can be very easily carried off to other parts of the lab.

Moreover, you can put this equipment to use for various purposes. Such as, you can design different types of electrical devices using it, repair broken devices, and so on. It can also help you in conducting lab tests.

Just like the previous model mentioned as our second pick, this one also displays real-time data at a speed of 2GS/s per channel.

You can even record it at a length of 2.5kpts per channel. The monitor displays detailed information about the waveforms.

Moreover, the monitor is fully digitized and comes with an LCD display. It has an anti-glare surface that prevents your eyes from strain.

Tektronix TBS2104 100MHz

This model from Tektronix is quite unique in terms of its features and functions. The device is completely digital and comes with an extremely wide 9-inch display.

This monitor is fully colored with WVGA technology. Therefore, you can view all your data in a detailed, neatly organized manner.

Not only this, the device comes with 15 horizontal grids, which is capable of showcasing 50 percent more signal.

To top it all off, all of its 2-4 channels have the ability to display data at a speed of 1 GS/s, along with a record length of 20M.

Also, the interface of the monitor is quite user-friendly and is fully compatible with differential, active, and current probes.

The equipment also features automatic scaling and units that help you to take your readings in a more convenient manner.

And the most extraordinary feature of this device is its wi-fi connectivity. This allows you to share your data and upload it online.

You can also insert your USB drive into its USB ports and carry the data analyzed by the machine.

Tektronix TDS3054C

Although the TDS3054C is an analog model from Tektronix, it is packed with features that make it quite desirable to anyone wanting to carry out diversified experiments in a lab.

To start off, it has an anomaly detection feature that warns you off against any wave alert or fault in the system. Moreover, the machine is enabled with four different channels.

Another great feature of this model is its optional limit testing ability. You can also check your appliances through advanced analysis and telecom mask test.

Moreover, the device is equipped with video modules. It also has amazing battery power that can last for a long time without running into any sort of unnecessary trouble.

Each of its four channels can record at a length of 10K per channel. To top it off, the device is compatible with a frequency of 500 MHz and can display data at a speed of 5GS/s.

Not only this, even if the voltage is frequently changing, the machine can detect it and display the changes on its monitor efficiently.

Lastly, it has some front panel controls that give you the ability to regulate the machine.

Tektronix MDO3104 1 GHz Mixed Domain Oscilloscope

Although this model is the last pick on our list from Tektronix, in terms of its features, it is no less than the other picks mentioned on this list. Till now, we have only reviewed digital and analog oscilloscopes.

But this one is a bit different from the rest as it is a mixed domain Oscilloscope. A mixed domain one is compatible with a range of frequencies and integrated with various features of both the analog and the digital model.

First and foremost, this machine is equipped with 1GHz analog channels. It can record data at a length of 10M per channel.

Moreover, you can analyze the spectrum of different voltages. Not only this, but the detection of anomalies is also quite easy. As soon as the machine sees an abnormality, its FastAcq technology quickly detects it and alerts the user.

You can easily look for your waveform data with the help of the swift navigation of this equipment.

Not only this, it is enabled with wave inspector controls that let you search and control the desired data you want to use.

The device is also capable of generating arbitrary functions and analyze logic. You can even make good use of its protocol analyzer and digital voltmeter to study your electrical appliances properly.

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What to Look for Before Buying Tektronix Oscilloscope?

Although you might know by now what an oscilloscope is, and what purpose it’s used for, you might still be unsure of the features to look for before purchasing an oscilloscope.

To help you diffuse your confusion and reach a deductive conclusion, we have prepared a list of the top characteristics to look for in order to end up with a good quality oscilloscope:

Frequency Scope

The frequency that an oscilloscope can measure is very important to prove its effectiveness. Now, what is this frequency used for?

Well, the frequency mark on your device tells you how much of voltage it can endure while examining electrical appliances.

You must keep in mind that the appropriate bandwidth of a good oscilloscope is five times higher than the maximum frequency of the equipment you are going to use it on.

Although the ones that can measure a high frequency are expensive, it is absolutely worth the deal due to its accurate readings.

Equivalent and Real-Time Sampling

Another important criteria to look for while purchasing an oscilloscope is its sampling rate.

Usually, the digital ones are equipped with two different types of sampling mechanisms, namely equivalent-time sampling (ETS) and real-time sampling (RTS).

Each has its own use. While ETS is used to measure stable signals, RTS is used in case of fluctuating signals.

The sampling rates mentioned on the package of the product indicates the availability of these two types of sampling mechanisms.

Storage Capacity

The higher the number of sample points stored by an oscilloscope, the greater is its memory.

Now, why is the storage capacity of an oscilloscope important? It is because the memory is able to capture the important data measured by the device, which can be viewed later on.

Sometimes if the memory of the scope is full, the oscilloscope might slow down. This will reduce your reading speed and productivity. So, make sure to buy a device with high memory.

Type of Oscilloscope

Two main types of oscilloscopes are currently available in the market – digital and analog. Just by the names, you can tell that one is a modern version of scope, while the latter is an outdated version.

Therefore, if you are only a hobbyist and occasionally work with electrical appliances, you can buy an analog scope. It will save you some money as well.

However, if you are looking for accurate readings, state of the art features and most importantly, consistency over regular use, you must go for a digital oscilloscope.

Monitor’s Resolution

The higher is the resolution of an oscilloscope, the more accurate its readings will be. For example, a resolution of 12-16 bit will give you a reading that has an accuracy of 1 percent.

This type of resolution is usually present in analog signals. On the other hand, digital signals have a resolution of 8-bit that provides you with an accuracy rate of about 3 to 5%.

Number of Channels

The most common number of channels present in an oscilloscope is two to four. Although this is good enough and can provide you with accurate readings, you will have to use a logic analyzer to interpret its readings properly.

Therefore, we recommend you to buy a mixed-signal oscilloscope. The specialty of this specific type is its ability to study an activity separately without being obstructed by the number of channels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the benefit of buying a mixed-signal oscilloscope?

A mixed-signal oscilloscope can analyze various types of signal types like digital, analog, and serial simultaneously.

How is a digital oscilloscope different from a stroboscope?

A digital oscilloscope is different from a stroboscope in terms of its ability to convert the input signal into a digital one that can be saved and viewed later via an LCD monitor.

How does an analog oscilloscope show its signals?

The analog oscilloscope displays its signals on a cathode ray tube in the form of waves.

What is the power source of an oscilloscope?

An oscilloscope can be run by a battery, a built-in generator, or even a power wire.

Is it better to purchase a digital oscilloscope instead of an analog one?

Yes, because a digital scope is more capable of providing accurate readings due to its modern features.

Conclusion

By now, you are well aware of what an oscilloscope is, how to purchase a good one, and what qualities separate a Tektronix oscilloscope from the rest.

We highly recommend the oscilloscopes from Tektronix and assure you that you won’t be disappointed.

Therefore, the next time you go out to purchase an oscilloscope, just refer back to this review of the Tektronix Oscilloscope.