Even though it’s an old device, the Rigol DS1054Z oscilloscope continues to provide incredible results for many professionals in diverse working fields. Because of that reason, it isn’t odd to use that device as a base platform to compare it with other oscilloscopes.
In this case, we’ll dive deep into a debate that has been going on for a while: which is the better pick between the Rigol DS1054Z VS Siglent SDS1202X-E oscilloscopes? Well, here, we will find an answer to that question.
Naturally, we have to check each of the units individually first to see what they are capable of doing. In the end, there’ll be a conclusion on the matter.
RIGOL DS1054Z VS SIGLENT SDS1202X-E
Last update on 2024-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Rigol DS1054Z
The popularity of this oscilloscope isn’t only due to a single feature, but rather a conglomerate of them. From an incredible design to many controls and outstanding features, this device is suitable for professionals and beginners. Do you want to find out how this machine works? Let’s see.
Design
By featuring a plastic build, this device is a lightweight unit with only 6.60 pounds. Although it isn’t the most portable unit, the oscilloscope is not a burden either. You can find a location for the unit and adjust the angle as needed, so it’ll look more comfortable for you.
The color design is grey, and some specific buttons have colors like blue or yellow to differentiate them from the rest. Undoubtedly, the clean finish and helpful colors that work as guidelines, this oscilloscope is as user-friendly as it is stylish.
There are other additions to operate the device properly. For example, the unit comes with a power cord, two probes, and a software CD.
Digital and Controls
There’s no denying that most customers choose this unit because of its remarkable display. By featuring UltraVision technology, the oscilloscope offers an incredible, highly informative 7-inch screen. The resolution is outstanding, as it works at 800×480 pixels for better visuals.
WHILE you won’t have much trouble with the unit, the buttons may be a little bit hard to figure out at first. If you’re having issues, refer to the guidelines included, as they’re a lot of use due to their quality.
Specifications
The Rigol DS1054Z oscilloscope works with four channels, with a 50MHZ bandwidth that could upgrade to 100 MHz. Additionally, the memory depth, which is 12 Mpts, could also upgrade, reaching 24Mpts in total. As for the sampling rate, this unit delivers 1GSa/sec.
Thanks to the four-channel functionality, users will be able to improve the signals and logic data offered by the oscilloscope. The channels are quite useful when it comes to receiving accurate and precise data for every single one of the tasks you need the scope to do.
Even though some users may not even need the four channels, having them available is certainly an advantage if you want to do bigger projects.
Related Guide: Automotive Oscilloscope
2. Siglent SDS1202X-E
Why would you consider buying the Siglent SDS1202X-E? Well, there are many reasons many people would prefer this device over others. In this section, we’ll try to shed some light on why this oscilloscope is a must-have tool.
Design
This device has a simple layout, with fewer but enough buttons for many operations, as well as the use of different colors for those buttons. In total, the unit weighs 5.51 pounds, and the legs attached secure a steady position over the benchtop.
Once set up, the unit works delivering low background noise, unlike many other oscilloscopes. If you don’t have any experience with these tools, the Siglent SDS1202X-E works as an introductory instrument to get you started.
Display and Controls
The basic organization of the control panel helps you get familiarized with the device quickly. Making vertical or horizontal adjustments, or simply setting up the triggers are pretty easy operations, and the response time is outstanding too.
This unit offers a waveform capture rate of 100,000 wfm/s in normal mode, while in sequence mode, it goes up to 400,000 wfm/s. Free serial decoding includes IIC, SPI, CAN, UART, and LIN.
For true measurement and math operations, the unit is capable of using the 14 Mpts of memory available. After getting the results, the oscilloscope will display the data on a large 7-inch LCD display, which has 800×480 of resolution.
Specifications
This device is a digital oscilloscope with 2 channel build. The bandwidth offered is 200 MHz, a little bit higher than the regular scope in a similar price range. As for the real-time sampling rate, this instrument delivers up to 1GSa/use.
Another incredible addition in this unit is the co-processor hardware, which will provide accurate measurements in a quick time.
So, Which Is the Best Oscilloscope?
Trying to please everyone’s interest isn’t easy, that’s why the answer to the question varies depending on who you ask. Which device is the better pick? It’s a debate that has been going around for years, and the conclusion remains unclear.
You see, while the Siglent SDS1202X-E offers two channels, the Rigol DS1054Z has a structure with four channels instead. The option to keep track of different signals at once helps to deal with troubleshooting, which is useful for plenty of operations.
However, when compared, the Siglent SDS1202X-E has a better response time, and much more processor power available. If the dual-channel structure of this oscilloscope isn’t an issue for you, then perhaps you won’t need the Rigol model.
As you can see, the channels are a decisive factor when it comes to these two oscilloscopes. Yes, the bandwidth difference is huge too, but both units don’t do well with signals over 100 MHz, so there’s no need to argue about that.
Rigol DS1054Z VS Siglent SDS1202X-E
During our Rigol DS1054Z VS Siglent SDS1202X-E discussion, we’ve talked about the pros and cons of each unit. In all fairness, they both work well for different purposes.
While the Rigol DS1054Z is appealing because of the four-channel build, the Siglent SDS1202X-E could be better because of its power capacity.
Ultimately, it’s your decision to choose which one matches your expectations.