I have turned away from PC based test equipment because my PC changes
every few years and my applications become "Legacy Applications" that
either die or require an expensive upgrade.

The older test equipment still works as good as it ever did. Pick a
readily available scope (EBAY?) and read the specs. Compare it to the
other candidates.

Chances are that a Tektronix 453 with a bright screen will do
everything you want for less than $100 including shipping.
It just gets better from there.

Considering they are now 40 years old and still useful is mind
boggling!

Pick one, buy it, learn it. If it does not meet your expectations you
can usually get something out of it on Ebay & buy another.

On Thu, 07 Sep 2006 23:03:43 -0400, jawod wrote:

Being relatively new to ham radio, I am considering some form of
oscilloscope. I am intrigued by PC-based systems (eg., BitScope Pocket
Analyzer)

I've read a few NG posts about used HP scopes and a few negative remarks
about PC scopes.

My question:

Given my neophyte status and the likelihood that I would use a scope for
anything more the basic / with learning, moderate/ complexity,
... is the PC-based scope a good choice for me?
Cost is under $400, not incl. a $40 analog probe.

John
AB8O

PS, apologies for cross-posting to two groups...just trying to get some
good answers!
John Ferrell W8CCW