I'm on the lookout for a good oscilloscope that can work with Linux for logging power waveforms over time. I want to use it alongside the CurrentRanger to measure the power consumption of low-power IoT devices. Currently, I'm able to measure with a multimeter and log values using an ADS1115 ADC with an Arduino, but I need a way to record both stable power levels and spikes for calculating average power over time.
I'm specifically interested in either a USB oscilloscope or a bench model with USB capabilities that meets a few criteria:
1. Must be compatible with current Linux systems (no outdated software), ideally working on ARM64 and x86.
2. Should have the ability to log waveforms and voltages over time; I'd love an API for importing data into Python for custom analysis.
3. A sampling rate of at least 1MSPS would be great, though not a strict requirement.
4. Must be able to read single-digit millivolt levels.
I previously got a used Hantek DSO-2090, but the software for Linux seems to be broken or outdated. I've also considered BitScope products, but their software is in a similar situation. The EspoTek Labrador caught my eye because of the low price, but I'm worried about its performance with low voltages and sampling speed. My budget is around $250. I'm also open to any other methods to track average and peak power consumption over longer periods if there are better options out there.
2 Answers
Have you checked out more recent models of Rigol or Siglent oscilloscopes? Many of them come with network interfaces, allowing you to access features via a web browser. Just be cautious, as some might still require Windows software for logging data. A video file type might not be useful for what you want since you can't process that data easily.
By the way, just a quick correction: 'deprecated' is the right term to use when referring to software that is no longer supported or maintained, not 'depreciated'. Just something to keep in mind when you're discussing compatibility with software and devices!
Thanks for the heads up! I realized I mixed them up. Appreciate the correction!
I’ve used the USB interface on a couple of newer Rigol and Siglent models, but ran into the same issue: no reliable data logging without their Windows software. Video files don’t cut it when you need to do data analysis.