The new models include 16 digital channels, four analog channels, and a broad feature set in a headless oscilloscope.Pico Technology recently added two new mixed-signal models to its PicoScope 3000E product line. The new scopes build on the advanced features of existing models and add 16 digital channels. The digital and analog data can be collected and displayed simultaneously for true mixed-signal oscilloscope (MSO) operation.
The new models, the 3417E MSO and 3418E MSO, like the existing analog-only non-MSO scopes, are headless and USB-powered, utilizing a laptop or desktop computer as their display and control interface.
All About Circuits' editor-in-chief Jeff Child (right) talks with Pico Technology’s technical applications engineer Ben Ellis (left) at Embedded World 2024.
Key Features of the New PicoScope 3000E Scopes
The scopes come with four analog channels at a maximum bandwidth of 350 MHz for model 3417E or 500 MHz for model 3418E. The new MSO models (3417E MSO and 3418E MSO) add 16 digital channels.
PicoScope 3417E MSO/3418E MSO front panel. Image used courtesy of Pico Technology
The family offers real-time sampling of 5 Giga samples per second (GS/s ). It also yields data capture at 8- to 14-bit resolution and 1 mV/div input sensitivity and 2 giga samples of capture memory, splittable into segments.
The PicoScope 7 software is Windows-, Mac-, and Linux-compatible, with 40 serial decoders included in the software. The new scopes can communicate with PCs with USB 3.0 SuperSpeed or via a separate USB type-C 5V, 3A PSU.
In addition to scope functionality, the PicoScope 3000E units operate as an arbitrary waveform and function generator, FFT spectrum analyzer, and a cloud-based data logger. The included 14-bit 200 MS/s waveform generator can create waves based on standard or custom data, an imported oscilloscope trace, or imported .CVS file.
Despite the rich feature set, the devices are highly portable at less than 1.54 pounds (< .7 kg) and 8.7” x 6.8” x 1.2” (221 mm x 173 mm x 30 mm).
Software User Interface
The software is as important as the hardware with a headless oscilloscope. If implemented well, the software can be a clear advantage for users of headless scopes over traditional all-in-one units. The new MSO models include a software package, PicoScope 7, with complete functionality as purchased. There is no need to purchase add-ons to fully use the new hardware.
PicoScope 7 in use. Image used courtesy of Pico Technology
By leveraging the power of a standard laptop, users can control the power available for analysis and display. The headless design helps to maintain the value of the scope over time since a simple laptop upgrade brings more power to bear without needing to change out the oscilloscope.
Pico Technology offers a software development kit for the oscilloscopes called PicoSDK. PicoSDK allows advanced users to create customized user interfaces or data analysis functionality. The SDK can be used in Windows, macOS, and Linux. All scope features are available through the SDK, including data and control. It can be used with common languages such as C, C++, C#, VB.NET, and Python. The SDK also facilitates interfacing with third-party analysis software such as MATLAB, National Instruments LabVIEW, MathWorks, and Microsoft Excel.
Simplified Protocol Support
The PicoScope 7 software takes steps to make serial protocol decoding easier and more versatile. PicoScope includes 40 protocol decoders. Protocols can be selected from a simplified user interface and can be displayed and analyzed along with other signal functions.
PicoSope 7 serial protocol selection. Image used courtesy of Pico Technology
PicoScope 3000E in Action
Headless scopes are useful for applications that require getting up and off the lab bench. At one and a half pounds, the USB-powered Series 3000E scopes are little more than a laptop accessory in size and weight. Their ability to operate as an arbitrary waveform and function generator gives even more functionality to the portable lab. The portability makes them suitable for field operations and troubleshooting equipment in remote locations. The 3000E series scopes provide ample utility at home on the bench or almost anywhere an engineer needs to go.
