Owon SDS210/SDS215/SDS220/SDS210S/SDS215S/SDS220S

Owon SDS200 Series Digital Oscilloscope User Manual

Models: SDS210, SDS215, SDS220, SDS210S, SDS215S, SDS220S

1. Introduction

The Owon SDS200 Series comprises portable 2-channel handheld digital oscilloscopes, designed for a wide range of applications including field debugging, electronics maintenance, and laboratory testing. These instruments offer reliable signal analysis in a compact and user-friendly form factor.

All models in the series feature a 7-inch TFT LCD display, a 1GS/s real-time sampling rate, 20M storage depth, and a built-in frequency meter. The 'S' models (SDS210S, SDS215S, SDS220S) further enhance functionality by including a built-in 25MHz 14-bit arbitrary waveform signal generator.

Owon SDS200 Series Digital Oscilloscope front view with model names
Front view of the Owon SDS200 Series Digital Oscilloscope, highlighting the various models available.

2. Model Variations

The SDS200 series offers several models with varying bandwidths and additional features:

  • SDS210/215/220 (Base Series): These are the core models with bandwidths of 100MHz, 150MHz, and 200MHz respectively. They are ideal for routine signal observation and analysis tasks and do not include a built-in signal source.
  • SDS210S/215S/220S (Enhanced "S" Series): These models match the bandwidths of the base series (100MHz, 150MHz, 200MHz) but include a built-in 25MHz arbitrary waveform signal generator. They are suited for users who require both signal analysis and test signal generation capabilities.
Selection table for Owon SDS200 Series models showing channel, bandwidth, sampling rate, storage depth, frequency meter, signal source, and screen size
Model selection table detailing specifications for each SDS200 Series variant.

3. Setup and Package Contents

3.1 Package Contents

Before setting up your oscilloscope, please verify that all components are present in the package:

  • Owon SDS200 Series Digital Oscilloscope (Main Instrument)
  • USB Cable
  • Oscilloscope Probes (x2)
  • Power Cord
  • Quick Guide
  • BNC Cable (Exclusively included with "S" models: SDS210S, SDS215S, SDS220S)
Owon SDS200 Series Digital Oscilloscope and included accessories in packaging
The oscilloscope and its standard accessories as received in the package.
Table of accessories included with Owon SDS200 Series oscilloscopes
Detailed list of accessories: Instrument, USB cable, 2x Oscilloscope probes, Power cord, BNC Cable (S models only), Quick Guide.

3.2 Initial Power-On

  1. Connect the power cord to the oscilloscope's power input and then to a suitable AC power outlet.
  2. Press the power button located on the front panel to turn on the device.
  3. The oscilloscope will perform a self-test and display the main waveform interface.
  4. Connect the oscilloscope probes to the CH1 and CH2 input BNC connectors as needed for your measurements.
  5. If using an 'S' model, connect the BNC cable to the signal generator output (AFG Output) if you intend to use the built-in signal generator.
Rear view of the Owon SDS200 Series Digital Oscilloscope showing power input and other ports
Rear view of the oscilloscope, indicating power input and other connections.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Basic Controls and Display

The SDS200 series features a 7-inch high-definition TFT LCD display (800*480 pixels) for clear viewing of all signals and screen information. It supports simultaneous screen display and magnification for detailed signal observation.

Angled view of the Owon SDS200 Series Digital Oscilloscope showing the front panel controls and screen
Angled view of the oscilloscope, showing the control panel layout and display.
Screenshot of the oscilloscope display in X-Y mode and a close-up of the 7-inch TFT LCD display
The 7-inch TFT LCD display provides clear signal visualization, including X-Y mode for phase difference and component characteristic testing.

4.2 Key Features and Functions

  • Dual-channel Oscilloscope: All models offer two independent channels for simultaneous signal analysis.
  • High Sampling Rate & Storage Depth: A real-time sampling rate of 1GS/s and a storage depth of 20Mpts ensure detailed capture and analysis of complex waveforms.
  • Automatic Measurements: Supports 30 types of automatic measurements, including Period, Frequency, Mean, PK-PK, RMS, Max, Min, Top, Base, Amplitude, Overshoot, Preshoot, Rise Time, Fall Time, PulseWidth, +PulseWidth, +Duty Cycle, -Duty Cycle, Delay A→B↑, Delay A→B↓, Cycle RMS, Cursor RMS, Screen Duty, Phase, +PulseCount, -PulseCount, RiseEdgeCnt, FallEdgeCnt, Area, and Cycle Area. This allows for "one-click" measurement of various waveform parameters.
  • FFT Spectrum Analysis: The Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) mathematical operation converts time-domain signals into frequency-domain components, useful for measuring harmonic components, distortion, noise characteristics, and vibration analysis.
  • 6-bit High-Precision Hardware Frequency Counter: Built into the oscilloscope, this feature measures the frequency of the input signal (CH1 or CH2 selectable as source) with a 6-digit numerical display.
  • Storage/Invocation: Save and recall various data formats such as waveforms, reference waveforms, CSV files, and images for comparative analysis.
  • X-Y Mode: Provides a three-screen display for convenient phase difference measurement and component characteristic testing.
Overview of key features including 1GS/s sampling rate, 100M-200MHz bandwidth, 6-bit high-precision frequency meter, FFT spectrum analysis, 30 automatic measurements, storage/invocation, and cursor measurement
Visual summary of the oscilloscope's main features.
Screenshots demonstrating waveform storage/invocation and automatic measurement of 30 waveforms
Illustrations of waveform storage and the comprehensive automatic measurement function.
Screenshots demonstrating FFT spectrum analysis and cursor measurement functions
Examples of FFT spectrum analysis and precise cursor measurement on the display.

4.3 Arbitrary Waveform Signal Generator (S Models Only)

For SDS210S, SDS215S, and SDS220S models, a built-in arbitrary waveform signal generator is available. This function supports:

  • Maximum output frequency: 25MHz
  • Real-time sampling rate: 125MSa/s
  • Arbitrary wave length: 8K
  • Output amplitude: 5Vpp ~ -3Vpp (50Ω)
  • Standard waveforms: Sine, square, wave, ramp wave, pulse wave, arbitrary wave
  • Arbitrary waveforms: Sine, exponential rise, exponential decline, Gaussian (more than 160 kinds)
Diagram showing the Arbitrary Waveform Signal Generator output and its specifications, along with the 6-bit high-precision frequency meter
Details of the Arbitrary Waveform Signal Generator and Frequency Meter functions.

4.4 Remote Control and PC Software

The oscilloscope supports remote control and secondary development through its USB Device interface. It is compatible with SCPI and LabVIEW functions. Free computer software and programming development demos are provided to facilitate remote control of the instrument and custom application development.

Owon SDS200 Series oscilloscope connected to a laptop, demonstrating remote control and PC software interface
The oscilloscope connected to a PC, showcasing remote control capabilities.

4.5 Product Demonstration Video

A short video demonstrating the key features and operation of the Owon SDS200 Series Digital Oscilloscope.

5. Maintenance

  • Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the oscilloscope. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth with mild detergent can be used, ensuring no liquid enters the device.
  • Storage: Store the oscilloscope in a dry, dust-free environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
  • Probe Care: Handle probes carefully. Avoid bending or stressing the cables excessively. Clean probe tips with isopropyl alcohol if necessary.
  • Software Updates: Periodically check the manufacturer's website for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and access to new features.

6. Troubleshooting

This section provides basic troubleshooting steps for common issues. For more complex problems, please refer to the full user manual (if available) or contact technical support.

  • No Power:
    • Ensure the power cord is securely connected to both the oscilloscope and the power outlet.
    • Verify the power outlet is functional.
    • Check the power button is fully pressed.
  • 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 match.
    • Adjust vertical (Volts/Div) and horizontal (Time/Div) scales.
    • Verify trigger settings (e.g., trigger level, mode) are appropriate for the signal.
  • Unstable Waveform:
    • Adjust the trigger level to a stable point on the waveform.
    • Change the trigger mode (e.g., from Auto to Normal or Single).
    • Check for noise in the signal path.

7. Specifications

Below are the general specifications for the Owon SDS200 Series Digital Oscilloscopes. Specific parameters may vary slightly between models (SDS210, SDS215, SDS220, SDS210S, SDS215S, SDS220S).

Detailed specifications table for Owon SDS200 Series Digital Oscilloscopes, including bandwidth, sample rate, acquisition mode, input coupling, input impedance, probe attenuation, record length, horizontal and vertical sensitivity, automatic measurements, waveform math, waveform storage, Lissajous, trigger type, communication interface, frequency counter, waveform generator specifications, display, dimension, and weight.
Comprehensive technical specifications for the SDS200 Series.
Key Specifications Overview
FeatureSpecification
Brand NameOwon
Model NumberSDS210/SDS215/SDS220/SDS210S/SDS215S/SDS220S
Digital Channels2
Bandwidth100-349MHz (100MHz, 150MHz, 200MHz options)
Real Time Sampling Rate1GSa/S
Display Size7 Inches & Above
Display Resolution800*480 Pixels
Storage Depth20Mpts
Waveform Generator (S models only)25MHz, 14Bit
Communication InterfaceUSB Host and Device
Weight~1.1kg
Dimensions (L x H x D)301mm x 152mm x 70mm

8. User Tips

  • Probe Compensation: Always perform probe compensation before making critical measurements to ensure accuracy.
  • Grounding: Ensure proper grounding of both the oscilloscope and the circuit under test to prevent measurement errors and ensure safety.
  • Triggering: Master the various triggering options (Edge, Video, Pulse, Slope, etc.) to capture stable waveforms, especially for complex or intermittent signals.
  • Automatic Measurements: Utilize the 30 automatic measurement functions for quick and precise parameter readings, saving time compared to manual cursor measurements.
  • Data Storage: Regularly save important waveforms and settings to the internal memory or a USB drive for later analysis or comparison.

9. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, technical support, and 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.