Buying an oscilloscope – What oscilloscopes are used for and how to find the right device
An oscilloscope is far more than just a technical measuring instrument – it's a crucial tool for diagnosis, analysis, and troubleshooting in the electrical and electronic fields. If you're thinking of buying an oscilloscope , you should understand what it does, what it's used for, and which criteria are essential when making a purchase. In this blog post, we'll clearly explain how oscilloscopes work, the areas in which they are used, and how you can make an informed purchase decision based on specific models. Finally, we'll compare two recommended oscilloscopes from auto-diagnostik's product range.
What is an oscilloscope and how does it work?
An oscilloscope is a measuring instrument used to display electrical voltages over time. Traditional measuring devices like multimeters only show you a single, instantaneous value, i.e., a static measurement. The oscilloscope, on the other hand, visualizes voltage waveforms dynamically: On the display, you see the voltage along a time axis, allowing you to analyze signals in real time – including their frequency, shape, amplitude, and any interference.
Inside a digital oscilloscope, the input signal is captured by an analog-to-digital converter and converted into digital values. This data is then displayed on a screen, usually as a waveform. Depending on the model, additional functions such as triggers, measurement tools, or memory options can be activated to examine signals in even greater detail.
Why should you buy an oscilloscope?
Purchasing an oscilloscope makes particular sense if you work in fields where electrical signals need to be viewed, analyzed, or tested. These include, but are not limited to:
- Automotive electronics and diagnostics
- Electronics development and testing
- Repair of control units, sensors or actuators
- Research, teaching and training
- Industrial plants and automation
Especially in the automotive sector, where sensors, actuators, and control lines generate complex electrical signals, an oscilloscope provides crucial information about function, malfunctions, and system behavior. Without this visualization, many fault patterns would remain hidden or be difficult to identify.
Oscilloscope vs. Multimeter – What are the differences?
A multimeter is an essential basic instrument that measures voltages, currents, or resistances. However, it only provides instantaneous values and cannot display changes over time. An oscilloscope greatly complements this function: it shows how a signal changes over time, makes interference visible, and allows for in-depth analysis of signal waveforms and parameters. If you want to know more about electrical processes than just a single measurement, an oscilloscope is indispensable.
Important criteria when buying an oscilloscope
Before you buy an oscilloscope, you should pay attention to some technical aspects that determine the device's applications and performance:
- Number of channels: More channels allow for the simultaneous measurement of multiple signals.
- Bandwidth: It determines how high frequencies can be represented correctly.
- Sampling rate: A high sampling rate ensures more accurate signal reproduction.
- Display and operation: A large, easy-to-read display and intuitive operation make it easier to use.
- Additional features: Trigger, FFT analysis, memory, automatic measurement and other functions expand usability.
Depending on the application – whether simple diagnostics, complex electronics development, or mobile use – the focus can shift to different criteria. For diagnostic purposes in the automotive sector, for example, two channels and a solid bandwidth are particularly helpful.
Recommendation 1: Hantek DSO2D15 – Oscilloscope with signal generator
If you're looking for a versatile oscilloscope with an integrated signal generator, the Hantek DSO2D15 is an excellent choice. This 2-channel digital oscilloscope features a built-in AFG (Arbitrary Function Generator), allowing you to generate test signals for targeted diagnostic or functional testing.
With two channels, you can simultaneously measure, compare, and analyze multiple signals. The bandwidth and performance of the Hantek DSO2D15 cover typical requirements in automotive diagnostics and electronics testing. The integrated signal generator allows you to simulate signals, which is particularly helpful for functional tests, calibrations, or when testing sensor outputs.
This model is ideal for workshops, technical training, and areas where diagnostics, testing, and simulation of electrical signals are required. If your applications include both measurement and signal generation, this oscilloscope is a highly versatile solution. 
Recommendation 2: Hantek TO1112D – modern touchscreen oscilloscope
An alternative and modern option if you're looking to buy an oscilloscope is the Hantek TO1112D Touch Screen Oscilloscope . This model offers a generous 110 MHz frequency range and intuitive operation via a touchscreen, allowing for direct and convenient interaction with the measurement waveforms.
The Hantek TO1112D features advanced trigger functions, high sampling rates, and versatile measurement tools. The touchscreen facilitates zooming, panning, and highlighting of signals, which is particularly helpful for complex measurement series or detailed analyses. This user-friendly interface makes the instrument ideal not only for workshops but also for educational institutions, research facilities, and prototype evaluation.
With two channels, diverse measurement options and a high bandwidth, this oscilloscope is ideally suited for professional everyday use in diagnostic centers or for users who value comfort and modern operating concepts. 
Comparison of the two oscilloscopes
The decision of which oscilloscope to buy depends heavily on your individual requirements. Here's a brief overview of the strengths of both devices:
- Hantek DSO2D15: With integrated signal generator, ideal for diagnostics and functional or system tests, versatile and particularly suitable for technical testing.
- Hantek TO1112D: Modern user interface with touchscreen, higher bandwidth and convenient operation – particularly suitable for extensive measurements and detailed analysis tasks.
Both devices offer solid measurement quality, two channels, and a wide range of applications. The TO1112D particularly excels in terms of ease of use and display, while the DSO2D15, with its signal generator, opens up additional testing possibilities.
Buying an oscilloscope – an investment in diagnosis and analysis
Buying an oscilloscope means acquiring a tool that goes far beyond simple measuring instruments. Whether in vehicle diagnostics, electronics development, industry, or education: with an oscilloscope, you can visualize and analyze electrical signals and systematically isolate faults. These capabilities are indispensable, especially in the modern world of electronics and automotive applications.
If you're looking to buy an oscilloscope, the Hantek DSO2D15 and the Hantek TO1112D Touch Screen Oscilloscope are two devices that will provide excellent support for your diagnostic tasks. Both offer solid performance, versatile applications, and are field-tested. Depending on your focus – be it ease of use, measurement budget, or additional signal generator functions – you'll find the right solution for your needs here.
Choose an oscilloscope that suits your needs now and benefit from in-depth diagnostics, analysis and reliable troubleshooting in your projects and areas of responsibility.