this post was submitted on 17 Feb 2026
24 points (100.0% liked)
Ask Electronics
4032 readers
1 users here now
For questions about component-level electronic circuits, tools and equipment.
Rules
1: Be nice.
2: Be on-topic (eg: Electronic, not electrical).
3: No commercial stuff, buying, selling or valuations.
4: Be safe.
founded 2 years ago
MODERATORS
you are viewing a single comment's thread
view the rest of the comments
view the rest of the comments




I wish you the best of luck in your automotive endeavors. But specific to that field, be advised that automobile power can have a lot of voltage spikes, most notably right after the starter motor shuts off after ignition. This could be as high at 15v or around there. So if you're not probing during this dynamic event, then your scope will likely still be useful.
I will also note that a used benchtop scope can be had for about $200 USD, often with good tactile controls and acceptable bandwidth and voltage capabilities. A cursory search on eBay shows a 2-channel 50 MHz Siglent SDS1052DL with 400 volt inputs. For general technician and hobbyist diagnostics work, that's a good deal for an instrument that is one step above what a competent DMM can provide.