Tektronix TDS 210

[a1976888]

Hi,
I'm buying my first oscilloscope and I think that the new Rigol 1054Z is the best deal at the moment.
However I searched for used oscilloscopes and I found a Tektronix TDS 210 at the price of 200€. Probably I can have it for something less.
What do you think about this particular model? Is it any good compared to Rigol 1054Z?
Thanks!

[xwarp]

Something to check out:

http://www1.tek.com/service/safety/tds200/

[dr.diesel]

Is it any good compared to Rigol 1054Z?

Not even close.

I have a TDS210, had it since the 90s, it's a fine VERY basic scope that was good/ok when introduced.  If you could pick one up for about $50 bucks then I'd say do it.  Otherwise, save for the 1054.

However, the 210 has no fan and is completely silent, which is why I continue to use mine, almost daily.

[mij59]

Check out this review

[tautech]

The TDS210 was very popular in a classroom environment in this country.
It is a sound, no nonsense stable old DSO with a very limited feature set compared to modern scopes.
Good basic first scope if it can be found cheap.
Last time I looked they were still demanding good money on the bay.

There was a safety recall for earthing as xwarp has pointed out.
This can be checked with Tek by serial number. All of those mods should have been logged with Tek as repaired.
IME I had one with a failed backlight oscillator that was fixed with a 30c cap.
The other common fault was loose/broken BNC input sockets.
They are onle a 2 pin PCB  BNC socket and known to break.
A proper repair involves replacement and soldering a copper strap over them to prevent this happening again.
Any movement in the BNC sockets point to this fault.

[Fraser]

I own a 210 and must agree with others. Unless it is very cheap, go for a more modern DSO of decent quality. The Rigol would not be a bad choice IMHO.

[T3sl4co1l]

Ugh, I'd rather have a 465 over one of those crusty DSOs!

If you need bandwidth, shopping for older units can be a good deal.  If you need all-around functionality and value, you're going to have a hard time beating something like a 1054Z at any price or age.

Tim

[a1976888]

Thank you very much for all your answers!

So I will go for a new Rigol like I initially thought.   

[nctnico]

The Rigol is the smartest choice. The TDS210 is a piece of crap. Better burry those in the landfill where they burried the old Atari games.