New and Used Oscilloscopes

Oscilloscopes are essential tools for visualizing and analyzing electronic signals in real-time. Used in industries such as engineering, telecommunications, automotive, and aerospace, these instruments help diagnose circuit behavior, detect anomalies, and measure signal properties like voltage, frequency, and waveform shape.

At ValueTronics, we offer a wide selection of new and used oscilloscopes from top manufacturers like Tektronix, Keysight, Rohde & Schwarz, and Rigol. Whether you need a basic model for troubleshooting or an advanced digital oscilloscope for high-precision analysis, we provide cost-effective solutions for every application.

Browse our selection to find the right oscilloscope, or reach out to our team for expert guidance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is an oscilloscope used for?
An oscilloscope is used to capture and display electrical signals, allowing engineers and technicians to analyze how signals change over time. Common applications include troubleshooting circuits, testing electronic components, and measuring signal characteristics such as voltage, frequency, and noise. Oscilloscopes are widely used in industries like telecommunications, automotive, aerospace, and research to ensure system performance and reliability.
How do I choose the right oscilloscope for my application?
Choosing the right oscilloscope depends on factors like bandwidth, sample rate, channel count, and intended use. For basic troubleshooting, a lower-bandwidth digital oscilloscope may suffice, while high-speed signal analysis requires a higher bandwidth model. Engineers working with RF signals may need advanced features like spectrum analysis and deep memory storage. Consider your signal characteristics and measurement needs to find the best oscilloscope for your application. If you're unsure, our team at ValueTronics can help you select the ideal model.
What is oscilloscope bandwidth?
Oscilloscope bandwidth refers to the maximum frequency a scope can accurately measure. It determines how well the oscilloscope captures high-speed signals without distortion. As a rule of thumb, the oscilloscope’s bandwidth should be at least five times the highest frequency of the signal you’re measuring to provide accurate waveform representation. Higher bandwidth is essential for applications involving fast digital circuits, RF signals, and high-speed data communication, while lower-bandwidth models are sufficient for basic circuit testing and troubleshooting.
What are the different types of oscilloscopes?
Oscilloscopes come in several types, each suited for different applications:

Digital Oscilloscopes: Capture and store waveforms for later analysis, making them ideal for most modern testing needs. They also provide advanced visualization of signal behavior, which is useful for analyzing complex waveforms.

Mixed Domain Oscilloscopes (MDO): A type of digital oscilloscope that captures and displays signals in both the time and frequency domains, making them ideal for RF and mixed-signal analysis.

Mixed Signal Oscilloscopes (MSO): Combine analog and digital signal analysis, making them ideal for embedded system testing.

Handheld Oscilloscopes: Portable models designed for fieldwork and on-site troubleshooting.

Analog Oscilloscopes: Older models that display signals in real-time without digital processing.

Each type offers unique advantages depending on your testing requirements.
What does an oscilloscope measure?
An oscilloscope measures and visualizes electrical signals, displaying how they change over time.

Key measurements include:
Voltage (Amplitude): The strength of a signal.
Time (Period & Frequency): How often a signal repeats.
Waveform Shape: Identifies signal characteristics like distortion or noise.
Rise and Fall Time: The speed at which a signal transitions between voltage levels.

These measurements help engineers diagnose circuit issues, test signal integrity, and analyze performance in applications like electronics design, telecommunications, and automotive systems.
How accurate are oscilloscopes?
Oscilloscope accuracy depends on factors like bandwidth, sample rate, resolution, and probe quality. Higher-end models from trusted manufacturers offer precise measurements with minimal error. Regular calibration and proper settings further improve accuracy, ensuring reliable signal analysis. For the most accurate results, choose an oscilloscope with specifications that match your application’s requirements and use high-quality probes.