Tektronix TDS400 and TDS400A Series
5 models with full specifications from Tektronix.
The Tektronix TDS400 and TDS400A series consists of professional-grade digital storage oscilloscopes designed for electronic debugging, circuit analysis, and laboratory applications. These instruments are available in both two-channel and four-channel configurations, with analog bandwidths ranging from 150 MHz up to 400 MHz. Every model in this family features a maximum real-time sampling rate of 100 MS/s, an integrated 7-inch monochrome CRT display, and standard GPIB (IEEE-488.2) connectivity for automated test environments. Most models support a specialized high-resolution acquisition mode that extends the standard 8-bit vertical resolution up to 12 bits, providing high-precision analysis for transient and continuous waveforms alike.
- Analog Bandwidth
- 150 MHz to 400 MHz
- Max Real-Time Sample Rate
- 100 MS/s
- Input Channels
- 2 or 4
- Vertical Resolution
- 8 bits (up to 12 bits in High Resolution mode)
- DC Gain Accuracy
- ±1.5%
Models in this series
| Model | Type | DC Gain Accuracy | Display | Input Coupling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TDS420A | Digital | ±1.5% | 7-inch Monochrome CRT | AC, DC, GND |
| TDS460A | Digital | ±1.5% | 7-inch monochrome CRT, 640 × 480 pixels | AC, DC, GND |
| TDS420 | *misc | ±1.5% | 7-inch (17.78 cm) Monochrome CRT | AC, DC, GND |
| TDS460 | Digital | ±1.5% | 17.78 cm (7-inch) monochrome CRT | AC, DC, GND |
| TDS430A | Digital | ±1.5% | 7-inch (178 mm) monochrome CRT | AC, DC, GND |
Bandwidth and Channel Configurations
The TDS400 and TDS400A series models differ primarily in their analog bandwidth and input channel count to meet different speed and signal complexity requirements:
- Tektronix TDS420: Offers 4 simultaneous channels with a 150 MHz analog bandwidth and a single-shot bandwidth of 40 MHz.
- Tektronix TDS420A: Provides 4 channels with a 200 MHz bandwidth and a calculated rise time of 1.75 ns.
- Tektronix TDS460: Features 4 channels, a 350 MHz bandwidth, and a calculated rise time of 1 ns.
- Tektronix TDS460A: Delivers 4 channels with a 400 MHz bandwidth and a calculated rise time of 0.875 ns.
- Tektronix TDS430A: A portable 2-channel alternative that maintains a high 400 MHz bandwidth and a calculated rise time of 875 ps.
Acquisition and Vertical System Details
Across the entire series, the analog-to-digital converters operate at an 8-bit vertical resolution. To achieve finer detail on low-frequency or slow-moving signals, the Tektronix TDS420, TDS420A, TDS430A, and TDS460A feature a High-Resolution (Hi-Res) acquisition mode that increases vertical resolution up to 12 bits.
The input sensitivity ranges from 1 mV/div to 10 V/div (at 1 MΓ impedance) with input coupling selectable as AC, DC, or GND. Signal integrity is maintained via high vertical precision, with all five models sharing a DC gain accuracy of 1.5%.
Memory Depth and Interface Options
Record lengths and port configurations vary depending on the model and installed options:
- Tektronix TDS460: Provides a standard record length of 15,000 points per channel, expandable to 120,000 points with Option 1M.
- Tektronix TDS420A: Features a standard record length of 30,000 points per channel, expandable to 120,000 points with Option XL.
- Connectivity: A GPIB (IEEE 488.2) interface is standard on all models. Additional interfaces, such as RS-232 and Centronics parallel ports, are available via optional packages like Option 05 for the Tektronix TDS430A and TDS460, or Option 13 for the Tektronix TDS460A (which also includes a VGA video output).
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary bandwidth difference between the TDS460 and TDS460A?
- The Tektronix TDS460 has an analog bandwidth of 350 MHz with a 1 ns rise time, whereas the Tektronix TDS460A offers a higher analog bandwidth of 400 MHz with a faster 0.875 ns rise time.
- Can the record length be upgraded on these oscilloscopes?
- Yes, certain models support memory upgrades. The Tektronix TDS460 record length can be extended to 120,000 points per channel using Option 1M, and the Tektronix TDS420A record length can be expanded to 120,000 points per channel using Option XL.
- Are there any 2-channel models in the TDS400 series?
- Yes, the Tektronix TDS430A is a 2-channel model within the family, offering a 400 MHz bandwidth, 100 MS/s real-time sample rate, and a lower maximum power consumption of 180 W compared to the 240 W maximum of the 4-channel models.