Modern electronics development and troubleshooting often require both analog and digital signal analysis. Traditionally, engineers used oscilloscopes for analog signals and logic analyzers for digital signals – they are typically distinct instruments with many differences.
🔧 Logic Analyzer Oscilloscope ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Today, combination instruments—commonly called Mixed Signal Oscilloscopes (MSOs)—integrate both functions, offering a powerful, space-saving solution for embedded systems, microcontroller projects, and complex digital-analog designs.
Table of Contents
What Is a Mixed Signal Oscilloscope (MSO)?
A Mixed Signal Oscilloscope merges the capabilities of a digital storage oscilloscope and a logic analyzer. It allows users to:
- Visualize analog waveforms (voltage over time)
- Capture and decode digital signals (logic levels, protocols)
- Correlate analog and digital events in real time
MSOs typically provide 2–4 analog channels (for traditional oscilloscope measurements) and 8–16 or more digital channels (for logic analysis). This enables simultaneous viewing of analog phenomena and digital transitions.
Key Benefits
- Time-correlated analog and digital capture: See how analog glitches affect digital logic, or vice versa.
- Integrated protocol decoding: Analyze I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, and other buses directly on the instrument.
- Space and cost efficiency: One instrument replaces two, saving bench space and budget.
- Advanced triggering: Set triggers based on analog or digital events, or a combination of both.
Typical Applications
- Embedded system debugging
- Microcontroller and FPGA development
- Serial bus analysis and protocol decoding
- Mixed-signal circuit troubleshooting
- Educational labs and prototyping
Recommended Logic Analyzer & Oscilloscope Combo Instruments
Below are some of the most popular and well-regarded MSOs and combo devices available today:
| Product | Analog Channels | Digital Channels | Bandwidth | Notable Features | Typical Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rigol MSO5074 | 4 | 16 | 70 MHz | Large touchscreen, protocol decoding, spectrum analysis | Check Price |
| Siglent SDS824X HD | 4 | 16 | 200 MHz | Deep memory, advanced triggers, protocol analysis | Check Price |
| PicoScope 3406D | 4 | 16 | 50–200 MHz | USB PC-based, deep memory, compact | Check Price |
| Analog Discovery 2/3 | 2 | 16 | 30 MHz | USB, portable, waveform generator, low cost | Check Price |
Product Highlights
Rigol MSO5074
- Combines oscilloscope, logic analyzer, spectrum analyzer, and more in one unit.
- Touchscreen, up to 350 MHz bandwidth, deep memory, and protocol decoding.
- Praised for value and features in its class.
Siglent SDS824X HD
- Offers advanced triggering, deep memory, and 16 digital channels.
- Protocol analysis for common serial buses.
- Reliable performance for both analog and digital debugging.
PicoScope 3406D
- PC-based, compact, and affordable.
- Up to 16 digital channels and deep memory.
- Suitable for labs, field work, and educational use.
Analog Discovery 2/3
- Portable, USB-powered, and affordable.
- 2 analog and 16 digital channels, plus waveform generation.
- Popular in education and hobbyist communities.
Choosing the Right Combo Instrument
Consider the following when selecting an MSO or combo device:
- Bandwidth and sample rate (match to your highest-frequency signals)
- Number of analog and digital channels (based on your project needs)
- Protocol decoding support (I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, etc.)
- Form factor (benchtop vs. portable/PC-based)
- Budget
Conclusion
Logic analyzer and oscilloscope combination instruments—especially MSOs—are indispensable for anyone working with mixed-signal systems. They offer unmatched insight into the interplay between analog and digital domains, streamline debugging, and save space and cost. Whether you’re a professional engineer, student, or hobbyist, there’s a combo instrument to fit your needs and budget.
For most users, models from leading brands provide excellent performance and value in this category.