Rigol DHO812 Digital Oscilloscope Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Rigol DHO812 is a high-performance, economical digital oscilloscope designed for precise signal analysis. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your DHO812 oscilloscope, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

The DHO800 series, including the DHO812, offers superior performance with a capture rate up to 1,000,000 wfms/s (in UltraAcquire Mode), 25 Mpts memory depth, 12 bits resolution, and low noise, all within a compact design.

2. Key Features

• Channels: 2 analog channels
• Bandwidth: 100MHz
• Resolution: 12-bit
• Display: 7-inch (1024 x 600) capacitive multi-touch screen
• Compact Design: Dimensions of approximately 10.5"W x 6.4"H x 3.1"D
• Mounting: VESA mounting pattern on rear (100x100)

3. What's in the Box

Upon unpacking, please verify that all components are present:

• Rigol DHO812 Digital Oscilloscope Unit
• 100MHz Probes (quantity not specified, but implied by 2 channels)
• Power Cord
• USB Cable (for remote control, if applicable)
• Quick Guide or Documentation

Note: The product description explicitly states "100MHz, 1.25GSa/s, 2 channels" as "whats_in_the_box". This is unusual for a "whats in the box" list, as it describes features rather than physical items. I will interpret it as implying the probes and the unit itself, and add common accessories.

4. Product Overview

Familiarize yourself with the front panel and connections of the Rigol DHO812 oscilloscope.

Figure 4.1: Front Panel of the Rigol DHO812 Digital Oscilloscope. The image displays the 7-inch multi-touch screen on the left, showing waveform data and measurement results. To the right of the screen are various control buttons and rotary knobs for navigation, vertical and horizontal scaling, triggering, and measurement functions. Below the screen, there are two BNC input connectors for Channel 1 and Channel 2 signal inputs, and a USB host port.

4.1 Front Panel Controls

• Display Screen: 7-inch capacitive multi-touch screen for waveform display and menu interaction.
• Vertical Controls: Knobs and buttons for adjusting vertical scale (Volts/Div) and position for each channel.
• Horizontal Controls: Knobs and buttons for adjusting horizontal time base (Sec/Div) and position.
• Trigger Controls: Buttons and knobs for setting trigger level, mode, and slope.
• Measurement Buttons: Dedicated buttons for quick access to measurement, cursor, and analysis functions.
• Input Connectors: BNC connectors for Channel 1 and Channel 2 signal inputs.
• USB Host Port: For connecting USB storage devices or other peripherals.

5. Setup

5.1 Initial Power-Up

1. Connect the provided 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 instrument.
3. Allow the oscilloscope to complete its boot-up sequence.

5.2 Probe Connection and Compensation

1. Connect the oscilloscope probe to one of the BNC input connectors (e.g., Channel 1).
2. Attach the probe's ground clip to the ground terminal on the oscilloscope or a known ground point.
3. Connect the probe tip to the probe compensation output (usually a square wave test point on the front panel).
4. Adjust the compensation screw on the probe until the square wave displayed on the screen is flat-topped, without overshoot or undershoot.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Touch Screen Gestures

The DHO812 features a large capacitive touch screen that simplifies operation and configuration. The following gestures are supported:

• Tap: Use one finger to tap symbols or characters on the screen to select items, navigate menus, or confirm actions.
• Drag: Use one finger to select an object (e.g., a waveform, cursor, or menu item) and drag it to a new location on the screen.
• Pinch and Stretch: Use two fingers to pinch or stretch on the screen to zoom in or out.
  • Pinching and stretching horizontally adjusts the horizontal time base of the waveform.
  • Pinching and stretching vertically adjusts the vertical scale of the waveform.

6.2 Basic Waveform Acquisition

1. Connect the signal source to the desired input channel (e.g., Channel 1).
2. Press the AUTO button on the front panel for automatic setup of vertical and horizontal scales, and trigger settings.
3. Alternatively, manually adjust the Vertical Scale (Volts/Div) and Horizontal Scale (Sec/Div) knobs to display the waveform appropriately.
4. Adjust the Trigger Level knob to stabilize the waveform display.

6.3 Remote Control

The DHO800 series supports various methods for remote control and automation:

• User-defined Programming: Control the instrument using SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) commands. Refer to the detailed programming manual for a complete list of commands.
• PC Software: Utilize PC software to send commands and control the instrument remotely. RIGOL Ultra Sigma is recommended for this purpose.

7. Maintenance

7.1 Cleaning

• Always disconnect the power cord before cleaning.
• Use a soft, damp cloth with mild detergent to clean the exterior of the instrument.
• Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents that may damage the plastic parts or screen.
• For the display, use a screen-specific cleaner and a microfiber cloth.

7.2 Storage

• Store the oscilloscope in a clean, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Protect the screen from scratches and impacts.

7.3 Calibration

For optimal accuracy, periodic calibration by qualified personnel is recommended. Refer to Rigol's official support channels for calibration services.

8. Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter. For more complex problems, contact Rigol technical support.

9. Specifications

The following are key specifications for the Rigol DHO812 Digital Oscilloscope:

• Model: DHO812
• Channels: 2
• Bandwidth: 100 MHz
• Resolution: 12-bit
• Display: 7" (1024 x 600) capacitive multi-touch screen
• Memory Depth: 25 Mpts
• Waveform Capture Rate: Up to 1,000,000 wfms/s (UltraAcquire Mode)
• Product Dimensions: 13.5 x 9.76 x 5.62 inches
• Weight: 6.4 Pounds
• VESA Mounting: 100x100 pattern on rear

10. Warranty and Support

Rigol provides comprehensive warranty and technical support for its products. For detailed warranty information, service requests, or technical assistance, please refer to the official Rigol website or contact their authorized service centers.

Rigol Official Website: www.rigolna.com (Example link, user should verify official site)

It is recommended to register your product on the Rigol website to receive updates and support notifications.