Sinclair ZX80 / ZX81 / Z88 Forums

I'd like to acquire an oscilloscope for ZX81 and Spectrum repairs, also for generally understanding what's going on in them, and for other projects. I used oscilloscopes regularly in a former life, but that was so long ago that I might as well have imagined it. The budget isn't limitless as this wasn't even supposed to be a hobby, but what do I need, what should I expect to spend and where should I look for it? Are there used models that are solidly good buys? Are there new models that make more sense nowadays in respect of price, technology, reliability and features? I have little idea and there's a lot out there. Any help would be much appreciated.

The Rigol DS1054Z 50MHz Digital Oscilloscope (one supplier here, this was just the first that came up in a search) is a popular four channel type.

Stewart of Reading is another good place to look.

Traditional CRT ‘scopes can also be used. Although digital storage types are far more flexible, as digital signals in computers are not nice repetitive waveforms.

The analogue bandwidth needs to be at least 25MHz, but if you can, go for 40MHz or higher.

Also have a look at these topics over on StarDot forums link and link.

Mark

Thanks for the swift reply Mark. The Rigol sounds like it would be ideal.

I bought a Hantek 2C72 for $130. It has 70 MHz. My first oscilloscope.
https://a.aliexpress.com/_msSyV3l

For repairing old computers, as a hobby, I use really simple oscilloscope Fnirsi - 2031H with price less than $50. Yes, it's look as baby's toy, but for old hardware with low frequencies it's can be useful.

I recently got a Hantek DSO5102P from amazon and already used it to help repair a Speccy which wouldn't load from tape and debug a zx81 composite mod. I'm fairly new to using a scope but is easy to setup and works really well. I wouldn't be without it now and can't wait to get another "for spares" or "untested" bargain from ebay.

I have a Siglent SDS 1202X-E two-channel 200Mhz scope and it has been ideal for diagnosing and repairing my Atari, Commodore and now Sinclair machines. After using it regularly for over 2-1/2 years, I have zero complaints.

I bought a Hantek 2C42 hanheld oscilloscope/multimeter. It's on the cheap side, had to buy a 2nd probe separately.
Has two channels, rated 20Mhz but served well to see 14mhz at spectrum crystal and 6.5Mhz at zeddy oscillator.
Has only two channels and some times I wish it Has mor to see some logics working.
The screen it tiny and you can't manage much the scales so for example if using 1v scale it tops about 7 or 9v and will miss a 12v rail. Can be connected to a computer but I don't use to..