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.


If you are willing to go the Ebay route, and your budget is in the $400
range, you can pick up a seriously nice analog scope. I have a pair of
Tektronix 2245As in my lab that cost me quite a bit less than that each.
If you really need a DSO then that puts the price up a bit.
If your need is for something small and portable, then some of the newer
stuff is probably the only option, but I doubt you will get the same
level of performance/price.

Welcome to the hobby, BTW! I'm really pleased to see your interest in
getting the test equipment side in motion.
I am QRV on most bands from 160m to 10Gigs, and the majority of my gear
is homebrew. I have been a ham for almost four decades, and over that
time have spent a lot more on test gear than I have on commercial
radios. Having the gear to check out my creations goes a long way to
having the confidence to actually put them on the air and make contacts.

There is an old piece of wisdom that HP can't make a 'scope, and Tek
can't make a spectrum analyser. My experience supports that.

Maybe that doesn't answer your question directly, but I hope that helps
in some way.

GL & 73, Alf NU8I
Scottsdale AZ DM43an
160m 10Gigs