OWON HDS272 2CH Handheld Digital Oscilloscope Portable Multimeter User Manual

1. Introduction

The OWON HDS272 is a versatile 2-channel handheld digital oscilloscope and portable multimeter, designed for a wide range of electrical testing and measurement applications. This compact device integrates the functions of an oscilloscope and a true RMS multimeter, making it an essential tool for professionals and enthusiasts in fields such as electronics, automotive, and industrial maintenance. This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your HDS272.

2. Safety Information

Please read and understand all safety instructions before operating the device. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or damage to the device.

• Always use the correct input terminals, function, and range for your measurements.
• Do not apply voltage or current that exceeds the maximum rated values for the device.
• Ensure test leads are in good condition, without any damage to insulation.
• Do not operate the device in wet environments or with wet hands.
• Before opening the battery compartment or servicing the device, ensure it is powered off and disconnected from all measurement circuits.
• Refer to the warning label on the back of the device for critical safety instructions.

Rear view of the OWON HDS272, showing the battery compartment cover and a safety warning label advising against opening the case or removing test leads before servicing to prevent electrical shock or injury.

3. Product Overview

3.1 Key Features

• 2-in-1 Functionality: Combines a 2-channel digital oscilloscope and a 20,000-count true RMS multimeter.
• High Performance Oscilloscope: 70MHz bandwidth, 250MSa/s real-time sampling rate, 8K record length, and 10,000 wfms/s refresh rate.
• Advanced Multimeter: Measures AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, resistance, diode, capacitance, and continuity with auto-ranging.
• Vibrant Display: 3.5-inch high-resolution, high-contrast color LCD display for clear waveform viewing, suitable for outdoor use.
• Portable Power: Powered by an 18650 lithium battery, providing approximately 6 hours of continuous operation.
• USB Type-C Interface: Supports charging via adapter or power bank, and PC software connection for data analysis and secondary development (SCPI supported).
• Self-Calibration Function: Ensures measurement accuracy.

3.2 Device Components

Familiarize yourself with the main components of the HDS272:

Front view of the OWON HDS272 handheld device, showcasing its 3.5-inch color LCD display, control buttons, and input terminals for both oscilloscope and multimeter functions.

• Display: 3.5-inch color LCD for waveform and measurement data.
• Control Buttons: Navigation, function selection, and measurement controls.
• Oscilloscope Inputs (CH1, CH2): BNC connectors for connecting oscilloscope probes.

Close-up view of the top panel of the OWON HDS272, showing the BNC connectors for Channel 1 (CH1) and Channel 2 (CH2) oscilloscope inputs, designed for secure probe connections.

• Multimeter Inputs (mA, COM, VΩ+C): Jacks for connecting multimeter test leads.

Close-up view of the bottom panel of the OWON HDS272, displaying the input jacks for multimeter functions: mA (current), COM (common ground), and VΩ+C (voltage, resistance, capacitance, diode, continuity). These inputs are clearly labeled with maximum ratings and fuse information.

• USB Type-C Port: For charging and PC communication.
• Calibration Signal Output: 1kHz square wave for probe compensation.

Detailed view of the side panel of the OWON HDS272, showing the protective cover for the 1kHz square wave calibration signal output and the USB Type-C port, which supports charging and PC software connection.

A diagram illustrating the compact dimensions (198mm height, 96mm width, 38mm depth) and design elements of the OWON HDS272, including the integrated encapsulation design for durability and the 3.5-inch TFT color LCD display. It also points out the oscilloscope input, calibration signal output, charging/communication interface, and multimeter input connectors.

4. Setup

4.1 Battery Installation and Charging

1. Open the battery compartment cover on the back of the device.
2. Insert the provided 18650 lithium battery, ensuring correct polarity.
3. Close the battery compartment cover securely.
4. Connect the device to a power source using the USB Type-C cable and a compatible adapter or power bank for charging. The charging indicator will show the charging status.

An illustration highlighting the power management features of the OWON HDS272, including the use of 18650 lithium batteries for approximately 4-6 hours of continuous operation, easy battery replacement, and the USB Type-C interface for charging via adapter or power bank, as well as PC software connection.

4.2 Initial Power On

Press and hold the power button to turn on the device. The display will illuminate, and the device will boot into its default mode (typically oscilloscope mode).

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 General Operation

• Power On/Off: Press and hold the power button.
• Mode Selection: Use the 'Mode' button to switch between Oscilloscope and Multimeter functions.
• Navigation: Use the directional buttons to navigate menus and adjust parameters.

5.2 Oscilloscope Mode

The HDS272 functions as a 2-channel oscilloscope with a 70MHz bandwidth.

1. Connecting Probes: Connect oscilloscope probes to the CH1 and/or CH2 BNC inputs. Ensure probes are properly compensated using the 1kHz calibration signal.
2. Auto Measurement: Press the 'Auto' button for automatic setup of vertical, horizontal, and trigger settings.
3. Manual Adjustments: Use the vertical (Volts/Div) and horizontal (Sec/Div) controls to adjust the waveform display.
4. Trigger Settings: Adjust trigger level, mode (Edge, Pulse, Video), and coupling to stabilize the waveform.
5. Measurements: Access auto measurement functions (frequency, period, amplitude, max, min, mean, PK-PK) via the 'Measure' button. Cursor measurement is also available.
6. XY Mode: Use XY mode to display Lissajous figures for phase difference measurements.
7. Data Save: Save waveform data to internal memory for later review.
8. Self-Calibration: Perform self-calibration periodically to maintain accuracy.

5.3 Multimeter Mode

The HDS272 offers a 20,000-count true RMS multimeter.

1. Connecting Test Leads: Connect the red test lead to the VΩ+C terminal and the black test lead to the COM terminal for voltage, resistance, capacitance, and diode measurements. For current measurements, connect the red lead to the mA terminal and the black lead to COM.
2. Function Selection: Use the appropriate function button (e.g., V∼, V—, Ω, •))) for continuity) to select the desired measurement type.
3. Auto-Ranging: The device features auto-ranging for most measurements, simplifying operation.
4. Data Hold: Press the 'Hold' button to freeze the current reading on the display.
5. Relative Measurement: Use the relative measurement function to display the difference between the current reading and a stored reference value.

5.4 Waveform Generator (Not available on HDS272)

Please note that the waveform generator function is available only on 'S' models of the OWON HDS200 series (e.g., HDS272S, HDS2102S). The HDS272 model does not include this feature.

An infographic illustrating the multi-functionality of the OWON HDS200 series, highlighting the oscilloscope, multimeter, and waveform generator (available on 'S' models like HDS272S) capabilities. It details key specifications such as 10,000 wfms/s refresh rate for oscilloscope, 20,000 counts true-RMS for multimeter, and 25MHz output for waveform generator.

Screenshot of the waveform generator interface on an OWON HDS2xxS model, demonstrating the ability to select waveform types (Sine, Square, Ramp, Pulse, and special waveforms) and adjust parameters like frequency, amplitude, and offset. This feature is not available on the HDS272 model.

Screenshot of the waveform generator interface on an OWON HDS2xxS model, showing support for advanced built-in special waveforms such as Sinc, Bessel, StairUp, StairDown, AttAIT, and AmpAIT. This feature is not available on the HDS272 model.

6. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the device. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Battery Care: If the device will not be used for an extended period, remove the battery to prevent leakage. Recharge the battery regularly to maintain its lifespan.
• Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Probe and Lead Inspection: Regularly inspect oscilloscope probes and multimeter test leads for any signs of damage or wear. Replace damaged accessories immediately.

7. Troubleshooting

• Device does not power on: Check battery charge level. Ensure battery is correctly installed.
• No waveform displayed: Check probe connection. Verify trigger settings. Adjust vertical and horizontal scales.
• Inaccurate measurements: Perform self-calibration. Check test lead connections. Ensure correct function and range are selected.
• PC software connection issues: Ensure USB Type-C cable is securely connected. Install necessary drivers if prompted.

8. Specifications

The following table outlines the key specifications for the OWON HDS272 and related models in the HDS200 series:

A comparative table outlining the specifications for various models in the OWON HDS200 series, including bandwidth, sample rate, multimeter count, and signal generator availability for models like HDS242, HDS242S, HDS272, HDS272S, HDS2102, HDS2102S, HDS2202, and HDS2202S.

9. What's in the Box

• OWON HDS272 Handheld Oscilloscope Multimeter
• Oscilloscope Probes (x2)
• Multimeter Test Leads
• USB Type-C Cable
• Power Adapter
• 18650 Lithium Battery
• User Manual

The product packaging for the OWON Handheld Oscilloscope, illustrating the device and its three-in-one functionality: Oscilloscope, Multimeter, and Waveform Generator (with a note that the photo is for reference, implying not all models have all functions).

10. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official OWON website. Contact customer service for assistance with any issues or inquiries regarding your HDS272 device.