Rigol MSO8304A Oscilloscope, 3 GHz Single-Channel Mode, 4 Analog + 16 Digital Channels

Description

The 3 GHz figure on the Rigol MSO8304A oscilloscope comes with a condition. The listing quotes it for single-channel mode, so multi-channel work may see less bandwidth. Lost in HCM lists the scope for rental and sale, and it arranges service on request.

Reading the 3 GHz claim with care

The sheet reads 3 GHz, single-channel mode. In practice, that wording tells you to ask what bandwidth applies when two or four channels run. The listing gives no such number, so the quotation should. A fair comparison with the 2 GHz MSO8204A therefore needs your channel count in the question.

The rest of the sheet

Apart from bandwidth, the figures match the other MSO8000A listings here. The scope has four analog inputs, an external trigger and 16 digital channels that need a logic probe. Sample rate reaches 10 GSa/s and memory reaches 500 Mpts, and both depend on the channel mode. Capture rate reaches 600,000 waveforms per second. Resolution is 8 bit native, with high-resolution modes, and the display is a 10.1-inch capacitive touchscreen.

Planning a single-channel measurement

• One fast clock or data line, with the other inputs idle.
• A reference capture, taken before you add more channels.
• A follow-up comparison across channels, where reduced bandwidth may still do.

This order lets the Rigol MSO8304A oscilloscope use its top bandwidth where it counts. It also keeps the multi-channel claims honest, because you measure them instead of assuming them.

Rigol MSO8304A oscilloscope: what the photo shows

The product photo carries the MSO8304A marking itself. On screen sit an eye diagram and a histogram window. Along the bottom edge you can see a power switch, three USB ports and four color-coded input connectors. The sheet places the family in high-speed signal inspection, timing analysis and design verification work.

Try it before you buy

Renting lets you test the scope on your own signals, including the multi-channel case, before you spend on a purchase. Buying suits a lab that already knows the answer. Lost in HCM supplies the unit and gives the quote, while SMK Vietnam only shows the listing. When you request a quote from Lost in HCM, ask for the bandwidth at your channel count. The oscilloscope category lists the other family members, Rigol hosts the maker’s documents, and you can contact SMK Vietnam if you need help.

Questions about the MSO8304A

Is 3 GHz available on all four channels at once?

The listing states 3 GHz for single-channel mode. Ask Lost in HCM what bandwidth applies when more channels run.

How does the sample rate compare with the lower models?

The sheet shows up to 10 GSa/s across the MSO8000A listings here, so bandwidth is the main step up.

Does the photo match this model?

Yes. The panel in the product photo carries the MSO8304A marking.