1. Introduction
The ALIENTEK DL16 / DL16 Plus Logic Analyzer is a powerful instrument designed for testing and analyzing digital circuit signals. It is primarily used to capture, display, and analyze timing and waveform data of digital signals, assisting engineers in diagnosing faults, verifying circuit designs, and optimizing system performance. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your logic analyzer.
2. Product Features
- High Performance: Up to 3.5G hardware sampling depth (DL16 Plus) and simultaneous support for 1GHz (8ch) / 500MHz (16ch) sampling rates.
- Efficient Data Handling: Supports Stream mode for longer sampling times and RLE hardware data compression for higher efficiency.
- Extensive Protocol Support: Over 170+ protocols supported, with continuous updates. Features an open protocol decoding library for custom protocol development.
- Multi-platform Compatibility: Software supports Windows, Ubuntu (Linux), and macOS operating systems.
- Versatile Output: Can output 2 PWM channels simultaneously, adjustable from 1Hz to 20MHz.
- Advanced Triggering: Supports various trigger modes including Rising, Falling, High, Low, and Any Edge, with logical AND for multiple channels.
- Adjustable Threshold: Compatible with various voltage standards (1.2V/1.5V/1.8V/2.5V/3.3V/5V/±12V).
- User-Friendly Software: Simple and easy-to-operate visual software with features like mouse/label/parameter measurement and data search.
- Durable Design: All-metal CNC shell provides excellent shielding and heat dissipation.
3. Setup Guide
3.1. Package Contents
Please verify that all items are present in your package:
- ALIENTEK DL16 / DL16 Plus Logic Analyzer Unit
- 9P XH2.54 Dupont Line (x2)
- 2P XH2.54 Dupont Line
- Type-C Charging Cable
- Large Spacing Hook Clips (x18)
- Zipper Bag
- Instruction Manual (this document)
3.2. Software Installation
The ALIENTEK Logic Analyzer software is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux (Ubuntu) operating systems. To download the latest software, please visit the official ALIENTEK download page:
ALIENTEK Software Download Page
Follow the on-screen instructions for your specific operating system to complete the installation.
3.3. Connecting the Device
Connect the ALIENTEK Logic Analyzer to your computer using the provided Type-C USB2.0 cable. Ensure a secure connection. The device will typically be recognized automatically by the software upon launch.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1. Software Interface Overview
Upon launching the software, you will see the main interface for configuring and analyzing signals. The interface typically includes channel displays, configuration panels, and data analysis tools.
4.2. Parameter Configuration
Before starting a capture, configure the sampling parameters:
- Channels: Select the channels you wish to monitor (up to 16 channels).
- Sampling Rate: Set the desired sampling rate. Higher rates capture more detail but consume more memory.
- Threshold: Adjust the voltage threshold for digital signal detection. The software supports a wide adjustable threshold range from 1.2V to ±12V. The recommended threshold voltage (Vth) is calculated as (Vmax - Vmin) / 2 + Vmin.
- Depth: Configure the sampling depth. The DL16 has a hardware storage depth of 1G(bit), while the DL16 Plus offers 3.5G(bit). RLE compression can effectively increase this depth.
- Trigger Position: Define the trigger point within the capture.
- Mode: Choose between 'Buffer' mode for high sampling rates and 'Stream' mode for longer sampling times.
4.3. Trigger Function
The software provides a concise trigger setting interface. You can set triggers based on:
- No triggering
- Rising edge
- Falling edge
- High level
- Low level
- Any edge
Multiple channel trigger conditions can be combined using a 'logical AND' operation for precise event capture.
4.4. Waveform Display and Analysis
After capturing data, the software will display the digital waveforms. You can use various tools for analysis:
- Mouse Measurement: Follow the measurement with the mouse to display the current cycle/frequency/duty cycle in real-time.
- Label Measurement: Measure any time period and support data parsing and search between any two labels.
- Parameter Measurement: Supports multiple parameter measurements such as time, start position, end position, frequency, rising edge, falling edge, etc.
- Data Import and Export: Save and load your captured data for further analysis or sharing.
4.5. Protocol Decoding
The ALIENTEK Logic Analyzer supports over 170+ protocols. To decode a protocol:
- Select the desired protocol (e.g., UART, I2C, SPI) from the decoder panel.
- Configure the protocol settings (e.g., baud rate, data bits, parity for UART).
- The software will automatically decode and display the protocol content, allowing you to analyze data packets.
4.6. PWM Output
The device can generate PWM signals. You can configure two independent PWM channels with adjustable frequency (1Hz to 20MHz) and duty cycle through the software.
5. Specifications
| Feature | DL16 | DL16 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Channel | 16ch | |
| Communication Interface | Type-C USB2.0 | |
| Max Sampling Rate (Buffer) | 250MHz (16ch) | 1GHz (8ch), 500MHz (16ch) |
| Max Sampling Rate (Stream) | 100MHz (3ch), 50MHz (6ch), 20MHz (16ch) | |
| Min Detectable Pulse Width | 8ns | 2ns |
| Max Detectable Frequency | 50MHz | 200MHz |
| Hardware Storage Depth | 1G(bit) | 3.5G(bit) |
| Max Sampling Depth (Buffer) | 1G(bit) | 3.5G(bit) |
| Max Sampling Depth (Stream) | Depends on the computer's memory size. | |
| Data Mode | Buffer (High Sampling Rate) / Stream (Long Sampling Time) | |
| Sampling Accuracy | ± One Sampling Period | |
| Trigger Type | Rising / Falling / High / Low / Any Edge | |
| Protocols | 170+ (Open Source) | |
| Dimensions (L*W*H) | 75mm x 53mm x 12mm | |
| Certification | CE, FCC | |
| DIY Supplies Category | Electrical | |
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the device. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
- Storage: Store the logic analyzer in its provided zipper bag in a cool, dry place when not in use to protect it from dust and physical damage.
- Cable Care: Handle the Dupont lines and Type-C cable with care to prevent bending or breaking the pins/connectors.
- Software Updates: Regularly check the ALIENTEK download page for software updates to ensure optimal performance and access to new features or protocol support.
7. Troubleshooting
- Device Not Recognized:
- Ensure the Type-C cable is securely connected to both the device and the computer.
- Try a different USB port on your computer.
- Restart the software and/or your computer.
- Verify that the necessary drivers are installed. Refer to the ALIENTEK download page for driver information.
- No Waveform Display:
- Check that the input probes are correctly connected to your circuit.
- Ensure the sampling parameters (sampling rate, threshold) are appropriately configured for your signal.
- Verify that the trigger conditions are met by your signal.
- Protocol Decoding Issues:
- Confirm that the correct protocol is selected in the software.
- Double-check the protocol settings (e.g., baud rate, data format) match your circuit's specifications.
- Ensure the correct channels are assigned for RX/TX lines.
- Software Performance Issues:
- Close other demanding applications.
- Ensure your computer meets the minimum system requirements for the software.
- Update the software to the latest version from the official ALIENTEK website.
- Driver Compatibility (e.g., Sigrok PulseView):
- The device may require custom drivers or community-developed solutions for compatibility with third-party software like Sigrok PulseView. Consult online forums or the ALIENTEK support resources for guidance on creating or finding such drivers.
8. User Tips
- Maximize Sampling Depth: When capturing long data sequences, utilize the 'Stream' mode and enable RLE data compression to effectively increase the sampling depth beyond the hardware buffer limit.
- Custom Protocols: For specialized communication needs, leverage the open protocol decoding library to customize existing protocols or develop new ones. This allows the analyzer to adapt to unique circuit designs.
- Threshold Adjustment: Pay close attention to setting the correct voltage threshold. An incorrectly set threshold can lead to inaccurate digital signal interpretation. Use the recommended threshold voltage formula (Vmax - Vmin) / 2 + Vmin for best results.
- Channel Management: Clearly label your physical connections to the logic analyzer's channels to match the software's channel assignments. This prevents confusion during complex debugging sessions.
9. Warranty and Support
ALIENTEK is a highly-rated brand known for its quality products and low return rates. For any technical assistance, warranty claims, or support inquiries, please contact the ALIENTEK Official Store or refer to the contact information provided on the official ALIENTEK website.
Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty purposes.
