Mike Harrison wrote:
>
> I'm thinking of buying the HP 54645D mixed  signal scope/logic
> analyser - I had a quick play at a seminar recently - anyone got any
> good/bad comments on this unit ?

Mike:

I considered getting a separate analyser and scope for my home lab, but
chose the HP54645D instead. I have been very happy with my purchase. The
mega-zoom feature is wonderful, and has saved me many hours of work.

You have probably heard all the good comments. I do have some negative
comments:

1. The Benchlink Scope software is handy for hardcopy, but I was
expecting a more powerful piece of software.

2. The 54645D does not do state analysis. I have used an old HP1630D
analyser for low-speed (PIC) designs, and state analysis is very useful
when debugging any type of parallel interface. (Used 1630D's sell for
about $2000USD).

3. My new scope is already in need of calibration after nine months of
use.

4. I would have paid extra for a color display or vga output. Eighteen
traces get crowded on that little green screen.

I have been using the new HP Infinium scope at my day job - it is
incredible! If HP was to create a mixed-signal version of the Infinium,
I would trade up. (However such a beast would probably cost $15K or
more).

Despite these issues, I am very happy with my decision to get the
54645D.

Dave Sorlien