No option for FFT in Tektronix TDS 210 !!

[vinodstanur]

Hi,
Recently I bought a second hand TDS 210 DSO. I seen in youtube videos people doing FFT on it, but I don't know why I can't find an option for that in the MATH menu.!!

 

[FvM]

The user manual reveals that FFT is a feature of the TDS2MM measurement extension module.

 

[bigdogguru]

I would also add, be aware some of these models were recalled:



Therefore, you might want to check the serial number of the unit.

Various manuals can be downloaded from the following:




BigDog

 

[vinodstanur]

The user manual reveals that FFT is a feature of the TDS2MM measurement extension module.

THanks for the info
I also thought the same, in mine there is no extension module....
Any idea about its cost or where I can get one? Because I am unable to find it on ebay and it seems to be very old model!

- - - Updated - - -

I would also add, be aware some of these models were recalled:

Yes I checked about this before buying My model is fine and it's number is C031208 which doesn't falls under that category.



Therefore, you might want to check the serial number of the unit.

Various manuals can be downloaded from the following:




BigDog

Any idea from where I can get one extension module? Couldn't find it on ebay...

 

[bigdogguru]

Is it an actual hardware module, firmware upgrade or firmware feature unlock key?

In either case, you might contact a few of the many used test equipment dealers, although I suspect the price maybe more than your initial cost of the scope.

BigDog

 

[vinodstanur]

Is it an actual hardware module, software upgrade or software feature unlock key?

In either case, you might contact a few of the many used test equipment dealers, although I suspect the price maybe more than your initial cost of the scope.

BigDog

It is a hardware module which I can plug at the back side of the oscilloscope, I can see an option for that which is protected by a plastic casing which I can remove....
I paid around 210$ for the DSO (old one)...
Will the extension module cost more than that?

 

[bigdogguru]

Will the extension module cost more than that?

Most likely, if purchased separately.

You may want to keep an eye out for a nonfunctioning unit listed on eBay which has the extension module.

At least you might end up with a few more replacement parts out of the deal.

I'll take a look around with some dealers which I occasionally purchase equipment and see if they have any available.

BigDog

 

[vinodstanur]

I'll take a look around with some dealers which I occasionally purchase equipment and see if they have any available.
BigDog

It would be great!!

I tried on ebay but not there

 

[bigdogguru]

I contacted several test equipment dealers I've done business with in the past.

Unfortunately, while they have a few TDS210 installed with either the TDS2CM or TDS2MM or a more recent version of the two, however they did not have any loose TDS2MMs and did not seem interested in parting with the TDS2MMs already installed.

They did have a few extra TDS2CMs, however I do not believe they have the extended math functions.

I did come across this eBay listing:

Tektronix TDS2CM Communications Module for TDS200 series oscilloscopes w manual

Which is the best price I came across for the TDS2CM, with an offer you might be able to purchase it at even a better price.

I'll keep an eye open for a TDS2MM and let you know if I come across anything.


BigDog

 

[vinodstanur]

I contacted several test equipment dealers I've done business with in the past.

Unfortunately, while they have a few TDS210 installed with either the TDS2CM or TDS2MM or a more recent version of the two, however they did not have any loose TDS2MMs and did not seem interested in parting with the TDS2MMs already installed.

They did have a few extra TDS2CMs, however I do not believe they have the extended math functions.

I did come across this eBay listing:

Tektronix TDS2CM Communications Module for TDS200 series oscilloscopes w manual

Which is the best price I came across for the TDS2CM, with an offer you might be able to purchase it at even a better price.

I'll keep an eye open for a TDS2MM and let you know if I come across anything.


BigDog

Thanks for the effort Sir....

Now I am thinking, if I am buying the extension module for 160$, my total cost of the TDS210 will be 210 + 160 = 370$

Do you think for an OLD DSO it worth paying 370$ in total?
I think I can get a rhigol 100MHz for this rate

What is your opinion?

 

[bigdogguru]

Actually, you need the TDS2MM or newer version which could cost considerably more.

MM stands for the Measurement Module, will the CM is only a Communications Module.


I did come across a TDS2MM sold on another auction site, although I was unable to determine the price at which it sold.

I would keep an eye on eBay for a TDS2MM, who knows you might get lucky.


BigDog

 

[D.A.(Tony)Stewart]

Its funny. but I own the TDS210 and love it with EIA488/RS232 options but never used it.

THe Rigol 100MHz is much newer with nice memory save to USBstick features with FFT and X ( for power calculations)

But I believe no company makes a better trigger design than Tektronix for PLL capture, stability phase noise and glitch rejection. it depends on the fine details of your experience. I like the math calc features and your preferences will make the difference in choice. Maybe go for a Rigol for a 2nd scope.

 

[bigdogguru]

I also came across this tidbit of information:

https://www.edaboard.com/threads/8031/

So you might want to check the firmware version of the unit before investing any additional money.

It might not be as simple as plugging in the TDSMM for it to function properly.

BigDog

 

[vinodstanur]

I also came across this tidbit of information:

https://www.edaboard.com/threads/8031/

So you might want to check the firmware version of the unit before investing any additional money.

It might not be as simple as plugging in the TDSMM for it to function properly.

BigDog

I think, I should forget about FFT now because I realised I will not be using it that much. So now I am thinking, investing more on this old scope is not a good idea, and also I don't want to take a chance to get it bricked by playing with the firmware