Tektronix MDO3000 Series Mixed Domain Oscilloscopes
3 models with full specifications from Tektronix.
This page provides a technical comparison of the Tektronix MDO3000 series of mixed domain oscilloscopes, specifically focusing on the MDO3024, MDO3054, and MDO3104 models. Designed for electrical engineers, system integrators, and technical buyers, this series integrates multiple essential bench instruments into a single hardware platform. Each unit features four analog channels, a built-in spectrum analyzer, and support for digital logic analyzer and protocol analyzer features. By comparing these models, you can select the optimal configuration for your testing needs. The family spans from entry-level mixed domain analysis to high-bandwidth troubleshooting, with key differences in analog bandwidth, rise times, and internal hardware bandwidth limits. Understanding these differences ensures you choose the right instrument for validating serial buses, examining high-speed digital transitions, and conducting spectral measurements.
- Analog Channels
- 4
- Bandwidth Range
- 200 MHz to 1 GHz
- Display Size
- 9-inch WVGA
- Vertical Resolution
- 8-bit (11-bit in Hi Res)
- Instrument Weight
- 4.2 kg
Models in this series
| Model | Type | AFG Amplitude Range (50 Ω) | Channel-to-Channel Deskew Range | Dimensions (W×H×D) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDO3054 | Mixed Signal | 10 mVp-p to 2.5 Vp-p (MDO3AFG option) | ±125 ns | 416.6 x 203.2 x 147.4 |
| MDO3024 | Mixed Signal | 1 mVp-p to 2.5 Vp-p | +/-125 ns | 370 mm x 203 mm x 147 mm (14.6 in. x 8.0 in. x 5.8 in.) |
| MDO3104 | Mixed Signal | 2 mVp-p to 2.5 Vp-p | ±125 ns | 379 mm × 203 mm × 147 mm |
Bandwidth and Edge Performance
The primary distinction among the MDO3000 series models lies in their analog bandwidth and corresponding signal rise times. The Tektronix MDO3024 serves as the base entry with 200 MHz bandwidth and a typical rise time of 1.75 ns. For higher-frequency applications, the Tektronix MDO3054 offers a 500 MHz bandwidth, which is upgradable to 1 GHz, along with a typical rise time of 700 ps. At the top of the range, the Tektronix MDO3104 delivers 1 GHz bandwidth and a rapid 350 ps typical rise time. Choosing the right tier depends directly on the frequency content of the signals you need to validate.
Mixed-Signal and Threshold Specifications
For multi-domain debugging, the Tektronix MDO3024 and Tektronix MDO3104 support 16 digital channels when equipped with the optional MDO3MSO upgrade. Both instruments allow engineers to select from industry-standard thresholds, including TTL, CMOS, ECL, and PECL, alongside a customizable user-defined threshold. The user-defined threshold range extends from -15 V to +25 V on both models. Additionally, the digital inputs on the MDO3104 support a minimum voltage swing of 500 mV and are rated for a maximum input voltage of %15 V.
Physical and Interface Commonalities
All three instruments share a consistent physical enclosure and display design. Each model is built around a 9-inch WVGA widescreen color TFT-LCD display and has a net weight of 4.2 kg. Thermal management across the models requires a cooling clearance of 2 inches (50.8 mm or 51 mm) on both the left side and rear of the instrument. Standard digital interfaces across the family include USB 2.0 Host and Device ports, 10/100 Base-T Ethernet LAN, and SVGA video output, ensuring easy integration into automated test setups.
Frequently asked questions
- What hardware bandwidth limits are available on these models?
- The Tektronix MDO3024 has a fixed hardware bandwidth limit of 20 MHz. The higher-bandwidth Tektronix MDO3054 and Tektronix MDO3104 models offer selectable hardware bandwidth limits of either 20 MHz or 250 MHz to help filter out high-frequency noise.
- Can the bandwidth on the MDO3054 be upgraded later?
- Yes, the analog bandwidth of the Tektronix MDO3054 is upgradable from its base of 500 MHz up to 1 GHz.