How to choose a logic analyser or oscilloscope
By Grant, Inspection Tool Specialists. Reviewed November 2026.
Three things decide which signal instrument you need: whether you need to see analogue waveforms or digital signals, how many channels you must capture at once, and how fast the signals change. Answer those first.
Which instrument?
| Need | Instrument | Typical in our range |
|---|---|---|
| Digital signals on several lines | USB logic analyser | DLA-16 Plus / DLA-32 Plus logic analyser |
| Quick waveform checks in the field | Handheld oscilloscope or oscilloscope multimeter | PCE-OC 50 handheld oscilloscope; PCE-OC 15 oscilloscope multimeter |
| Four-channel analogue waveform capture | Digital phosphor oscilloscope | DPOF1204 four-channel oscilloscope |
Bandwidth and sample rate
A scope or analyser must sample fast enough to show the signal. A common rule is to sample at several times the highest frequency you need to see. Check the bandwidth and sample rate on the datasheet before you buy.
Probes and safety
Probes must suit the voltage and bandwidth you measure. Use the correct probe rating, keep clear of live conductors, and follow your electrical safety procedure.
Price guide
As a guide to our current range, including VAT: logic analysers and handheld oscilloscopes from about R4,350 to R4,700; the four-channel oscilloscope from about R12,750. Prices change, so check the product pages and confirm the probes and software each quote includes.
Questions we will ask you
Tell us the signals you must capture (analogue or digital), the number of channels, the fastest signal you must see, whether you need a portable or bench instrument, and the records or software you must keep. With that we can recommend an instrument and provide pricing.