Software Oscilloscope?

infinitymdm

Hi folks,

I'm getting into FPGA development in an effort to learn more about the practical side of microprocessors and digital logic. As such, I find myself in need of some specific types of software. Currently, the need I haven't found a "right answer" solution for is electrical signal analysis.

I'm aware that there are some pretty cool software oscilloscopes out there that take data in through audio jacks. The one that keeps coming up in my searches is xoscope. Though honestly I have half a mind to just wrangle the audio input stream into usable data with Octave.

Anyways, I'm looking for your recommendations. Have you used a software 'scope or signal analyzer before? What do you recommend?

DataDrake

I have a Saleae Logic 8 which is useful for anything under 5V. The protocol analyzer is really really useful for debugging I2C and SPI. But I understand that it may be outside of most people's budgets.

The best option IMHO is to buy something cheaper that is supported by Sigrok. Their software interfaces with a ton of test equipment. Much of it can be bought for < 100USD especially if you can wait for it to come from China via Banggood or the like.

infinitymdm

DataDrake Saleae Logic 8

That looks awesome! Unfortunately, it is a bit out of my budget for now. I'm planning to start a doctoral EE program in the Spring though, so hopefully I'll have access to some proper logic analysis tools then. For now, I just need something that does the job for my tiny little iCE40 FPGA.

DataDrake The best option IMHO is to buy something cheaper that is supported by Sigrok

I think this is the sort of information I was looking for. In fact, my alma mater might have some old Rigol scopes that match up with these part numbers. I may even be able to buy one from them and get a decent deal. I'll look into this. Thank you!