Unlike other models that struggle with multi-channel inputs or flexible software, the Earth People FPGA Digital Storage Oscilloscope DSO 100M shines with its open-source design and four channels. I’ve used it in complex signal analysis, and its FPGA-based architecture allows full customization—something no other open-source scope offers at this level. Its detailed schematics and Verilog code make it perfect for tinkering, learning, or developing new features.
What keeps this scope ahead is its 80MSPS per channel sample rate and full Windows-compatible software, giving you high-quality data and easy control. While some open-source options like the DSO 138 kits are great for basic experimentation, they lack multi-channel support and advanced storage or modification capabilities that the DSO 100M provides. And the LABRADOR USB Scope, though versatile, doesn’t offer the same level of open hardware customization or detailed documentation.
Top Recommendation: Earth People FPGA Digital Storage Oscilloscope DSO 100M
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out with its four-channel real-time sampling at 80MSPS per channel, making it ideal for complex and multi-signal projects. Its open-source FPGA code and C# application enable deep customization, perfect for learning and tinkering. Detailed schematics and source files provide transparency, unlike closed systems or DIY kits that only offer basic features. It’s the most flexible and comprehensive option tested.
Best open source oscilloscope: Our Top 5 Picks
- DSO 138 Oscilloscope Kit with Probe, 2.4″ TFT, 1Msps – Best Budget Oscilloscope for Students
- DSO 138 DIY Oscilloscope Kit 2.4″ TFT 1MSPS with Probe – Best DIY Entry-Level Oscilloscope
- DSO 138 DIY Oscilloscope Kit 2.4″ TFT, 1MSPS, Handheld – Best Value
- Earth People FPGA Digital Storage Oscilloscope DSO 100M – Best Premium Option
- EspoTek Labrador USB Oscilloscope & Signal Generator – Best High-Precision Oscilloscope for Engineers
DSO 138 Oscilloscope Kit with Probe, 2.4″ TFT, 1Msps
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Easy waveform capture
- ✓ Open source customization
- ✕ Assembly required
- ✕ Limited bandwidth
| Display | 2.4-inch color TFT LCD |
| Sampling Rate | 1 Megasample per second (Msps) |
| Processor | ARM Cortex-M3 (STM32F103C8) |
| Waveform Storage | Non-volatile memory retains waveform after power off |
| Trigger Modes | Automatic, regular, and one-shot with rising or falling edge trigger |
| Waveform Parameter Measurement | Frequency, period, pulse width, duty ratio, MAX., MIN., AVG., Peak-to-peak, virtual values |
Imagine you’re working late into the night, trying to troubleshoot a tricky signal glitch on your DIY electronics project. You reach for this DSO 138 oscilloscope kit, and within minutes, you’ve got the case assembled and the waveform display up on its bright 2.4-inch TFT screen.
Its compact size makes it easy to handle, and the pre-soldered components save you time. You’re impressed by how responsive the display is, showing clear waveforms with detailed parameters like frequency, pulse width, and duty ratio.
The waveform hold function lets you freeze that tricky signal, so you can analyze it without it disappearing.
The included 1Hz test signal is handy for quick calibration, and the automatic, regular, and one-shot modes make capturing transient events straightforward. You can trigger on rising or falling edges, which is super useful when you’re chasing elusive glitches.
The open-source aspect is a big plus—you can explore the firmware, add features, or customize it for your projects. The adjustable vertical displacement helps you compare signals or focus on specific sections of the waveform.
While the case comes unassembled, the instructions are clear enough to keep the process manageable even for beginners. Overall, this scope is a surprisingly capable tool for hobbyists and tinkerers who want a budget-friendly, open-source solution that doubles as an ARM development board.
DSO 138 DIY Oscilloscope Kit 2.4″ TFT 1MSPS with Probe
- ✓ Easy to customize software
- ✓ Bright, clear display
- ✓ Great for learning electronics
- ✕ Assembly required
- ✕ Limited bandwidth for complex signals
| Display | 2.4-inch color TFT LCD |
| Sampling Rate | 1 Megasample per second (1MSPS) |
| Processor | ARM Cortex-M3 |
| Input Voltage Range | Not explicitly specified, but suitable for low-voltage electronic signals |
| Connectivity | Not explicitly specified, but likely includes standard probes for signal input |
| Additional Features | Open source software development capability, customizable for functions like millivoltmeter and data recorder |
Ever spent ages trying to understand how your signals behave, only to realize your scope is just a glorified paperweight? That was me before I got my hands on the DSO 138 DIY Oscilloscope Kit.
The moment I powered it up and saw that vibrant 2.4-inch color TFT display flicker to life, I knew this was different.
This kit is a real game-changer because it combines the fun of building with practical measurement tools. The build process is straightforward but engaging—perfect if you love tinkering.
Once assembled, the ARM Cortex-M3 processor handles signal analysis smoothly, and you can observe audio waves, switch power signals, or even infrared data in real-time.
The display is bright and clear, making waveform analysis comfortable even after hours. Plus, the kit’s software flexibility means I could customize it into a millivoltmeter or data recorder.
It’s like having a mini lab in your hands, ideal for students or hobbyists who want to understand the inner workings of oscilloscopes.
Using it, I appreciated how responsive the probe was, giving me accurate readings without much fuss. The open-source nature allows for software tweaks, which is great for learning or expanding its capabilities.
But, of course, assembly takes some patience, especially for beginners unfamiliar with electronics.
All in all, this DIY scope packs a punch for its size and price, making signal measurement accessible and educational. Just be ready to get your soldering iron warm, and you’ll have a versatile tool that’s satisfying to build and use.
DSO 138 DIY Oscilloscope Kit 2.4″ TFT, 1MSPS, Handheld
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Easy waveform capture
- ✓ Open-source flexibility
- ✕ Limited input channels
- ✕ Small screen size
| Display | 2.4-inch color TFT screen with digital waveform parameter display |
| Processor | ARM Cortex-M3 (STM32F103C8) |
| Sampling Rate | 1 Megasample per second (1MSPS) |
| Waveform Storage | Non-volatile memory retains waveform after power off |
| Trigger Functionality | Rising/falling edge trigger with previous waveform observation |
| Input Signal Source | Includes 1Hz / 3.3V square wave test signal |
Instead of lugging around a bulky, overpriced oscilloscope, you get this tiny DSO 138 sitting comfortably in your hand. It’s like having a pocket-sized lab, with a vivid 2.4-inch color TFT display that instantly makes waveform analysis more engaging than your typical beige box.
The moment you power it up, you’ll notice how smoothly the ARM Cortex-M3 processor handles real-time signals. Its ability to freeze waveforms at any time with the HOLD function is a game-changer, especially when you’re trying to catch that elusive glitch or transient.
The inclusion of a 1Hz square wave test signal makes initial calibration straightforward, saving you time right out of the box.
Using the scope feels intuitive thanks to its automatic, regular, and one-shot modes. You can easily capture specific moments, thanks to the rising or falling edge trigger options.
The waveform storage feature is handy—your signals stay saved even after powering down, which is perfect for comparing measurements or building a project over days.
The open-source aspect is a huge plus—you’re not limited to a black box. The MCU is pre-programmed, but with instructions and adjustable vertical displacement, you can experiment or upgrade it yourself.
It’s a versatile tool that fits in your pocket, yet offers enough features to handle most basic testing needs.
All in all, this oscilloscope balances affordability, portability, and functionality. It’s ideal for hobbyists, students, or anyone who needs a quick, reliable waveform snapshot without carrying heavy gear.
Earth People FPGA Digital Storage Oscilloscope DSO 100M
- ✓ Fully open source
- ✓ Four channels, high sampling rate
- ✓ Detailed documentation
- ✕ Software can be unstable
- ✕ Not ideal for professional use
| Channels | Four analog input channels |
| Sampling Rate | 80 Mega-Samples per second per channel |
| Hardware Type | Digital Storage Oscilloscope (DSO) |
| FPGA | Custom FPGA with Verilog code for hardware logic |
| Software Platform | Windows-PC application (UnoProLyzer) |
| Open Source Components | Full source code for FPGA and C# application available |
What immediately catches your eye about the Earth People FPGA Digital Storage Oscilloscope DSO 100M is how its open-source design invites you into the guts of the device. You can peek into the FPGA code or modify the C# application, making it feel like a personalized project rather than just a tool.
The four channels of analog input with 80 MS/sec per channel are surprisingly smooth. You get clear, detailed waveforms that let you analyze signals with precision, especially considering the budget-friendly nature of this scope.
The display is sharp enough to see subtle details, and the USB connection makes setup straightforward.
One of the best parts is the extensive documentation—every schematic, data sheet, and project file is available online. This makes it perfect if you love tinkering or want to learn the inner workings of a DSO.
The included development board feels solid, and the software, while open source and somewhat basic, offers enough flexibility to experiment.
However, the software is provided “as is,” so don’t expect commercial-grade stability or polish. It’s mainly a learning tool, which might frustrate those looking for a plug-and-play experience.
Also, the hardware isn’t as refined as high-end scopes, but for DIY projects and educational purposes, it hits the sweet spot.
Overall, the DSO 100M is a fantastic choice if you’re into open-source hardware and ready to dive into the code. It’s a versatile, affordable platform that turns learning and customizing into a hands-on adventure.
EspoTek Labrador USB Oscilloscope & Signal Generator
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Clear, bright display
- ✓ Versatile features
- ✕ Basic user interface
- ✕ Limited bandwidth
| Oscilloscope Channels | 2 channels |
| Oscilloscope Sampling Rate | 750 kilo-samples per second (ksps) |
| Arbitrary Waveform Generator Channels | 2 channels |
| Waveform Generator Sampling Rate | 1 mega-sample per second (MSPS) per channel |
| Logic Analyzer Channels | 2 channels |
| Logic Analyzer Sampling Rate | 3 MSPS per channel |
Holding the EspoTek Labrador for the first time, I immediately notice how compact and lightweight it feels, almost like holding a thick deck of cards. Its sleek black finish with subtle branding gives it a professional yet approachable vibe.
The screen is bright and clear, with a crisp display that makes reading waveforms easy even in less-than-ideal lighting. The knobs and buttons have a satisfying tactile feel, not too stiff but firm enough for precise adjustments.
Connecting it to my circuits was straightforward, thanks to its versatile input options. The dual-channel oscilloscope handled signals smoothly at 750ksps, giving me a good sense of real-time waveform accuracy.
Switching over to its waveform generator, I tested out two channels at 1MSPS each, which was surprisingly responsive for such a compact device.
What really impressed me was the logic analyzer feature, decoding serial data at 3MSPS. Watching my data streams decode in real-time was almost addictive.
The built-in multimeter with V/I/R/C functions added extra convenience, all housed in one handy gadget that feels sturdy and well-made.
One of the best parts? Its open-source nature means I can tweak and customize the firmware if I want.
It’s a powerful tool with a learning curve, but the interface makes it accessible for hobbyists and more advanced users alike.
Overall, the Labrador is a compact, versatile, and surprisingly capable device that fits perfectly on a cluttered workbench. Whether you’re debugging a simple circuit or exploring complex signals, it’s a reliable companion that doesn’t break the bank.
What Is the Best Open Source Oscilloscope Available Today?
An open source oscilloscope is a type of electronic measuring instrument that allows users to visualize and analyze the waveform of electronic signals, with its design, software, and hardware being made publicly available for modification and enhancement. This means that users can access the source code and schematics, contributing to its development and tailoring the device to their specific needs.
According to a report by IEEE Spectrum, open source hardware and software projects have gained significant traction in the electronics community, allowing hobbyists and professionals alike to innovate without the limitations imposed by proprietary systems. Popular open source oscilloscope projects include the OpenHantek, the Owon VDS1022I, and the DSO138, each catering to different levels of expertise and application requirements.
Key aspects of open source oscilloscopes include their adaptability and cost-effectiveness. Users can modify the software to add features, improve functionality, or fix bugs, which fosters a collaborative environment for innovation. Additionally, these oscilloscopes often leverage affordable hardware components, making them accessible to a broader audience. The use of platforms like Raspberry Pi or Arduino has enabled enthusiasts to create their own oscilloscopes, promoting a DIY culture that empowers individuals to learn about electronics in a hands-on manner.
The impact of open source oscilloscopes extends beyond hobbyist applications; they are increasingly being used in educational settings, where students can engage with electronics and programming in a practical context. According to a survey conducted by the Open Source Hardware Association, over 70% of educational institutions reported incorporating open source projects into their curricula, recognizing the benefits of hands-on learning experiences. This trend not only enhances technical skills but also fosters creativity and problem-solving abilities among students.
The benefits of using open source oscilloscopes include reduced costs compared to traditional commercial options, the ability to customize features, and a supportive community for troubleshooting and sharing knowledge. These oscilloscopes can be used in various applications, from simple signal testing to more complex tasks like data acquisition and analysis in research settings. Furthermore, the open source nature encourages a continuous cycle of improvement, where users can propose enhancements or share successful implementations with the community.
Best practices for utilizing open source oscilloscopes involve engaging with community forums for support, regularly updating software to benefit from new features or security patches, and contributing back to the project by sharing modifications or enhancements. This collaborative approach not only enriches the user experience but also strengthens the entire ecosystem of open source electronics.
What Key Features Should You Look for in an Open Source Oscilloscope?
When searching for the best open source oscilloscope, consider the following key features:
- Compatibility with Hardware: Ensure the oscilloscope is compatible with a variety of hardware platforms, including Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and other microcontrollers.
- User Interface: Look for a clean, intuitive user interface that allows easy navigation and setup, which is essential for effective monitoring and analysis.
- Sampling Rate: A high sampling rate is crucial for accurately capturing fast signals, so select an oscilloscope that meets your project’s speed requirements.
- Bandwidth: The bandwidth of the oscilloscope should match the frequencies you intend to measure, as this impacts the fidelity of the captured signals.
- Signal Processing Features: Advanced signal processing capabilities, such as FFT (Fast Fourier Transform), can enhance the analysis of complex signals.
- Community Support: A strong community around the open source project can provide valuable resources, documentation, and troubleshooting assistance.
- Extensibility: The ability to add plugins or modify the software allows for customization and adaptability to specific needs or new technologies.
- Data Export Options: Look for options to export data in various formats, which facilitates further analysis and sharing of results.
Compatibility with hardware is essential, as it determines whether the oscilloscope can be effectively used with the components you already have. The more hardware platforms it supports, the more versatile it becomes for various projects.
A user-friendly interface is important because it affects how quickly and efficiently users can set up their measurements and interpret the data. The best open source oscilloscopes will offer a streamlined experience that minimizes the learning curve.
The sampling rate refers to how frequently the oscilloscope collects data points from the signal being analyzed. A higher sampling rate is essential when working with rapid signals to ensure that no crucial data points are missed.
Bandwidth indicates the range of frequencies the oscilloscope can effectively measure. Choosing an oscilloscope with adequate bandwidth for your application is critical to achieving accurate and reliable signal representation.
Signal processing features like FFT can significantly enhance your ability to analyze complex signals beyond simple waveform observation. These features allow you to visualize the frequency components of signals, which can be crucial in many engineering applications.
Community support is a vital element of open source projects, as it provides users with a wealth of shared knowledge, troubleshooting resources, and updates. A vibrant community can also drive the development of new features and improvements.
Extensibility refers to the oscilloscope’s capability to incorporate additional functionalities through plugins or software modifications. This adaptability makes the oscilloscope more valuable as new technologies and needs arise.
Data export options are important for users who need to analyze data further or share results with others. Having multiple export formats ensures flexibility in how the data can be utilized in various applications or software environments.
How Do Popular Open Source Oscilloscope Software Options Compare?
| Software Name | Key Features | Platform Compatibility | User Ratings | Licensing | Documentation/Community Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sigrok | Supports multiple devices, protocol decoding, and live waveforms. | Windows, macOS, Linux | 4.5/5 | GPLv3 | Extensive documentation and active community |
| OpenHantek | Designed for Hantek devices, user-friendly interface, and real-time data display. | Windows, Linux | 4.0/5 | GPLv3 | Community forums and documentation available |
| GNU Radio | Flexible software-defined radio framework, supports various modulation schemes. | Windows, macOS, Linux | 4.6/5 | GPLv3 | Comprehensive documentation and active mailing lists |
| Qucs | Integrated circuit simulation, supports various circuit elements and analysis types. | Windows, macOS, Linux | 4.2/5 | GPLv3 | Good documentation and community support |
Which Open Source Oscilloscope Hardware Options Are Compatible?
The best open source oscilloscope hardware options include various projects that cater to different needs and skill levels.
- OpenHantek 6022BE: This oscilloscope is based on the Hantek 6022BE USB oscilloscope and has an open-source software interface.
- DSO138: A popular DIY oscilloscope kit that is affordable and offers basic functionality for hobbyists and beginners.
- Ols Oscilloscope: This is a versatile option that supports various hardware configurations and provides a powerful software interface.
- Sigrok: While primarily a software package, it supports numerous open-source hardware oscilloscopes, making it an excellent choice for integration.
- Arduino Oscilloscope: Utilizing an Arduino board, this DIY oscilloscope project allows users to create a custom solution tailored to their specific needs.
OpenHantek 6022BE: This project revolves around the Hantek 6022BE USB oscilloscope, which is a low-cost option for many users. The open-source software allows for extensive customization and the ability to use the oscilloscope with various platforms, enabling flexibility in usage across different operating systems.
DSO138: The DSO138 is a compact and affordable oscilloscope kit designed for enthusiasts who want to learn about oscilloscopes without a significant investment. It features a simple user interface, and its open-source design encourages users to modify and improve it based on their requirements, making it a great educational tool.
Ols Oscilloscope: Ols is an open-source oscilloscope software that can be used with numerous hardware devices, making it a versatile option for users who want a powerful oscilloscope without being tied to a specific model. It supports real-time data acquisition and analysis, and its modular design allows users to experiment with various hardware configurations.
Sigrok: Sigrok is an open-source software suite that supports a wide range of data acquisition devices, including oscilloscopes. It is compatible with various open-source hardware options, making it an excellent choice for users looking to leverage existing hardware while benefiting from a robust software environment that enhances functionality.
Arduino Oscilloscope: Building an oscilloscope with an Arduino board is a popular DIY project for those who want to customize their oscilloscope to specific requirements. This approach allows users to learn about both hardware and software aspects of oscilloscopes, and it can be expanded with additional features such as storage and waveform analysis, depending on the user’s skill level.
What Are the Advantages of Using an Open Source Oscilloscope?
The advantages of using an open source oscilloscope are numerous and cater to both hobbyists and professionals in electronics.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Open source oscilloscopes are often free or significantly cheaper than commercial options, allowing users to access high-quality tools without a financial burden.
- Customizability: Users can modify the software and hardware to suit specific needs, enhancing functionality and adapting the device for various applications.
- Community Support: A vibrant community surrounds open source projects, providing support, sharing updates, and contributing to improvements, which can be invaluable for troubleshooting and learning.
- Learning Opportunities: Engaging with open source oscilloscopes allows users to gain deeper insights into the workings of oscilloscopes and electronics, fostering a hands-on learning experience.
- Transparency: The open source nature ensures that users can review the code and hardware designs, leading to greater trust in the functionality and security of the tool.
- Compatibility: Many open source oscilloscopes support a wide range of hardware and software integrations, making them versatile and adaptable for different projects.
Cost-Effectiveness allows hobbyists and students to experiment without high upfront costs, making it easier to engage in electronics projects. Customizability means users can tweak the oscilloscope’s features, adding new functions or adapting existing ones to fit their specific requirements, which is particularly beneficial for specialized applications.
The Community Support surrounding open source oscilloscopes means that users can benefit from shared experiences, documentation, and resources from fellow users and developers, making it easier to solve problems or enhance the device. Learning Opportunities arise from the ability to examine and modify the source code and hardware, offering a practical environment to understand complex electronic principles.
Transparency is a significant advantage, as users can verify the integrity of the software and hardware, ensuring that there are no hidden features or security risks. Compatibility with various systems allows open source oscilloscopes to be integrated into different workflows, whether for academic research, engineering projects, or personal tinkering, making them a flexible choice for a wide array of users.
What Challenges Do Users Face When Using Open Source Oscilloscopes?
Users of open source oscilloscopes often encounter several challenges that can affect their experience and usability.
- Complex Setup and Configuration: Open source oscilloscopes typically require a more involved configuration process compared to commercial options. This can include compiling software from source code, adjusting settings, and ensuring compatibility with various hardware components, which may be daunting for less experienced users.
- Limited Documentation and Support: While many open source projects have community forums and wikis, the documentation can be sparse or outdated. Users may struggle to find comprehensive guides to troubleshoot issues, leading to frustration when attempting to resolve technical problems.
- Variable Quality of Hardware: The hardware used in open source oscilloscopes can vary significantly in quality, as they may be built from off-the-shelf components or DIY kits. This inconsistency can result in varying performance levels, making it challenging for users to achieve reliable measurements.
- Steep Learning Curve: Users may face a steep learning curve when transitioning to open source oscilloscopes, especially if they are accustomed to commercial products. Mastering the software interface and understanding the underlying electronics concepts can require significant time and effort.
- Incompatibility with Existing Tools: Open source oscilloscopes may not always integrate well with other tools or software that users have in their workflow. This can lead to challenges in data analysis or visualization, as users might need to adapt to new processes that differ from their established routines.
Where Can You Find Resources to Learn More About Open Source Oscilloscopes?
Resources to learn more about open source oscilloscopes can be found in various formats, including online communities, project repositories, and educational platforms.
- GitHub: A popular platform for software development and version control, GitHub hosts numerous repositories dedicated to open source oscilloscope projects. Here, users can access code, documentation, and collaboration opportunities that enable them to learn from existing projects or contribute to new developments.
- Forums and Online Communities: Websites like Reddit, EEVblog, and other electronics forums provide spaces for enthusiasts and professionals to discuss open source oscilloscopes. These platforms often feature tutorials, project showcases, and troubleshooting advice that can significantly enhance understanding and practical skills.
- Educational Websites and Blogs: Many educators and hobbyists maintain blogs or websites that focus on electronics and open source projects. These resources typically include step-by-step guides, reviews of different oscilloscopes, and insights into the design and functionality of open source oscilloscopes.
- YouTube Tutorials: Video content on platforms like YouTube offers visual demonstrations and explanations of open source oscilloscopes. Creators often share their experiences with building or using these tools, making complex concepts more accessible through engaging visual aids.
- Academic Publications: Research papers and articles published in academic journals or conferences often explore advancements in open source technology, including oscilloscopes. These publications provide in-depth technical information and case studies that can enhance knowledge and inspire new projects.