I am looking for a good PC-based oscilloscope (that is, one that
connects using USB and the relevant software). I do not need high
performance (signals up to 1KHz), just something reliable and not
expensive.
Any suggestions/ideas?
An O-scope is an investment, and an important one at that.
Contrary to popular belief, the PC is not the be-all and end-all of
test equipment needs in the lab. You would do lots better to track down
a real O-scope in the 'used' arena, such as a Tektronix 453, 454, 465,
475, etc. Any of them will give you far better performance than any USB-
based device, and probably at a cheaper price.
I should add that the 'scopes mentioned above are all portable (or
'luggable' if you like) units. If you want something for your bench, I
would suggest hunting up a Tektronix 7603. Big display, very readable,
and can often be found at ham radio swap meets, surplus test gear
suppliers, or Greed-bay.
For a listing of ham radio events in your area, you can search
here:
http://www.arrl.org/hamfests.html
Happy hunting.
