1. Introduction
The OWON ADS824A is a high-performance 4-channel digital storage oscilloscope designed for precise signal analysis. Featuring a 12-bit high-resolution, 200MHz bandwidth, and a maximum sample rate of 1.25GSa/s, it is suitable for a wide range of electrical measurement and debugging tasks. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your device.
2. Key Features
- 12-bit High-Resolution: Offers 4096-level vertical resolution, significantly higher than standard oscilloscopes, for precise power ripple and noise analysis.
- 4 Analog Channels: Capable of simultaneously measuring up to four signals.
- 200MHz Bandwidth: Provides ample frequency range for various applications.
- 1.25GSa/s Max. Sample Rate: Ensures detailed capture of transient events.
- 50M Record Length: Allows for extended waveform capture and analysis.
- 700,000 wfms/s Waveform Refresh Rate: Enhances the detection of transient anomalies.
- 7-inch Multi-Touch Screen: A 1024x600 pixel TFT-LCD screen with user-customizable menu support for intuitive operation.
- Built-in Lithium Battery (Optional): A 5000mAh built-in Li-ion battery provides portability and enables safe floating ground and mains voltage measurements.
- Multifunctional Capabilities: Acts as a Digital Oscilloscope, Protocol Analyzer, High-precision Frequency Counter, Voltmeter, and Spectrum Analyzer (5-in-1).
- Advanced Triggering and Decoding: Supports 2-channel hardware decoding for UART, I2C, SPI, CAN, and LIN protocols.
- 43 Auto Measurements: Includes a comprehensive set of automatic measurement functions with advanced math capabilities.
- Rich Interfaces: Equipped with LAN, USB Device, HDMI, and USB Type-C power input ports.
- External Peripheral Support: Connect external mouse, keyboard, and supports external Wi-Fi modules (optional) and network printers.
3. Product Structure and Interfaces
The ADS824A oscilloscope features a robust design with clearly labeled controls and ports for ease of use.
3.1 Front Panel
The front panel includes the 7-inch multi-touch screen, control knobs, function buttons, and the four analog input channels (CH1, CH2, CH3, CH4). For dual-channel models, only CH1 and CH2 are available.
3.2 Rear Panel
The rear panel provides various connectivity options:
- LAN Port: For connecting to a network router.
- USB Device Port: For connecting to a computer (SCPI Standard Compliant).
- HDMI Port: For connecting to an external monitor.
- USB Type-C Power Interface: For power input (requires 12V/3A external power bank).
- Trig Out (P/F) Port: For trigger output.
- Security Lock Slot: For securing the device.
- Grounding Terminal: For proper grounding.
4. Setup
4.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Upon receiving your ADS824A oscilloscope, carefully unpack all components and inspect for any signs of damage. Retain the packaging for future transport or storage.
4.2 Powering On the Device
- Connect the provided power adapter to the USB Type-C Power Interface on the rear panel.
- Plug the power adapter into a suitable power outlet.
- Press the power button located on the front panel to turn on the oscilloscope.
If your model includes the built-in lithium battery, ensure it is charged for portable operation. The external power bank must meet 12V/3A output requirements.
4.3 Connecting Probes
Connect the oscilloscope probes to the desired input channels (CH1-CH4) on the front panel. Ensure the probes are properly calibrated before taking measurements.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Basic Operation
The ADS824A features a 7-inch multi-touch screen for intuitive control. You can interact with the device using touch gestures or by connecting an external mouse and keyboard.
5.2 Auto Measurements
The ADS824A oscilloscope has 43 built-in auto measurement values, including channel measurements and inter-channel measurements. It supports displaying up to 8 measurement values simultaneously and can perform statistics on these values.
- Press the "Measure" button or tap the on-screen icon to access the measurement menu.
- Select the desired measurement values to add. The screen will provide definitions to assist in selection.
- To view statistics, navigate to the "Statistics" option within the measurement menu. You can select the number of samples for statistical analysis.
- Use the "Snapshot" option to view all measurement values at once.
5.3 Digital Voltmeter (DVM) Measurement
The ADS824A includes a 4-digit digital voltmeter function.
- Tap the house icon (Utility menu) on the screen.
- Select "DVM" to enable the 4-digit voltmeter.
- Using the oscilloscope probes, you can measure AC RMS, DC, and AC+DC RMS values.
5.4 Advanced Triggering and Decoding
The oscilloscope supports advanced triggering modes and 2-channel hardware decoding for various serial protocols.
5.5 Waveform Math and FFT Analysis
The device offers advanced waveform math functions and a 1M-point FFT spectrum analyzer for detailed signal analysis.
6. Specifications
Below are the detailed specifications for the ADS824A model:
| Feature | ADS824A |
|---|---|
| Bandwidth (-3 dB) | 200MHz |
| Channel | 4 |
| Max. sample rate | 1.25GSa/s |
| Acquire mode | Sample, Peak, High Res, Average, Segmentation |
| Max. waveform capture rate | Max. 700,000wfms/s |
| Vertical Sensitivity Range | 500µV/div - 10 V/div |
| Sampling rate range | 1ns/div - 1000s/div, step by 1-2-5 |
| Input Impedance | 1 MΩ±2%, parallel with 20 pF±5 pF |
| Probe Attenuation Coefficient | 1.00X-1.00MX, step by 1-2-5, support custom |
| Trigger type | Edge, Video, Pulse, Slope, Runt, Windows, Timeout, Nth, Logic, RS232/UART, I2C, SPI, CAN, LIN |
| Bus decoding | RS232/UART, I2C, SPI, CAN, LIN |
| Auto measurement | Period, Frequency, +Width, -Width, Rise Time, Fall Time, Scr Duty, +Duty, -Duty, Vavg, Vpp, VRMS, Overshoot, Vmax, Vmin, Vtop, CycRms, Vbase, Vamp, Preshoot, Std Dev, +Pulse Cnt, -Pulse Cnt, Rise Cnt, Fall Cnt, Area, Cyc Area, Delay(A1-B1), Delay(A1-B1), Delay(A1-B1), Delay(A1-B1), Phase(A1-B1), Phase(A1-B1), Phase(A1-B1), Phase(A1-B1), FRR(A1-B1), FRF(A1-B1), FFR(A1-B1), FFF(A1-B1), LRF(A1-B1), LRF(A1-B1), LFR(A1-B1), LFF(A1-B1) |
| Waveform Math | +, -, *, /, &!, ||, ^, !, Intg, Diff, Sqrt, Function operation (Lg / Ln / Exp / Abs / Sine / Cosine / Tan), FFT, FFT rms, User Defined, Digital filter (low pass, high pass, band pass, band reject) |
| Frequency counter | 6-digit frequency counter. |
| Voltmeter | Support DC, AC+DCRms, ACrms. Resolution: 4 digits (ACV/DCV) |
| Communication Interface | HDMI, USB device, USB Host, Trig Out(P/F), LAN |
| Display | 7 inch (1024×600), capacitive multi-touch screen |
| Power supply interface | Type-C [1] |
| Dimension (W x H x D) | 260mm x 160mm x 78mm |
| Weight | ≈1.5kg (package excluded) |
[1] The external power bank must meet 12V/3A output.
7. Maintenance
7.1 General Care
- Keep the oscilloscope clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning the exterior.
- Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents, as they may damage the casing or screen.
- Ensure proper ventilation around the device to prevent overheating.
7.2 Probe Care
- Handle probes carefully to avoid bending or breaking the tips.
- Store probes in a clean, dry place when not in use.
- Regularly check probe cables for damage or wear.
8. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your ADS824A oscilloscope.
8.1 Device Does Not Power On
- Check if the power adapter is securely connected to both the oscilloscope and the power outlet.
- Verify that the power outlet is functional.
- If using the built-in battery, ensure it is charged.
8.2 No Signal Displayed
- Ensure probes are correctly connected to the input channels and the circuit under test.
- Check probe attenuation settings on both the probe and the oscilloscope.
- Adjust vertical scale (Volts/Div) and horizontal scale (Time/Div) to an appropriate range.
- Verify trigger settings. Try using "Auto" trigger mode initially.
8.3 Unresponsive Touchscreen
- Restart the oscilloscope.
- Ensure the screen is clean and free from debris.
- If an external mouse is connected, try using it to navigate.
9. User Tips
- Optimize Measurements: Utilize the 43 auto-measurement functions to quickly obtain key waveform parameters. Experiment with the statistics feature for deeper analysis of signal variations.
- Maximize Portability: If your model has the built-in battery, ensure it's fully charged before fieldwork. This allows for flexible measurements without constant power outlet access.
- Remote Control: Take advantage of the embedded WebServer for browser-based access and operation, which can be very convenient for remote monitoring or collaborative work.
- Clear Display: The 7-inch 1024x600 multi-touch screen is designed for clarity. Adjust brightness and contrast as needed for optimal viewing in different environments.
- Protocol Decoding: For digital signal analysis, make full use of the 2-channel hardware decoding for UART, I2C, SPI, CAN, and LIN to quickly debug communication issues.
10. Packing List
The standard package for the ADS824A oscilloscope includes the following items:
- Host (Oscilloscope Unit) x1
- Probe x4
- Power Cord x1
- Power Adapter x1
- USB Cable x1
- Manual x1
11. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official OWON website or contact your local distributor. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
