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Thanks for your comments! :-)

So the takeaway is: no matter what, I should plan to recap the PSU. Fair enough — that’s the kind of work I’m used to and can handle.

If I understand you correctly, the 24x5 (non-A/B) models don’t have NVRAM or SMD electrolytics, which makes them a bit more maintenance-friendly?

So for someone like me, who just wants a relatively low-maintenance scope, the 24x5 might actually be the sweet spot?

Or to put it another way: I was assuming that '90s-era hardware (like the B models) would be the safer bet compared to '80s-era tech — but for my specific use case, that might not actually be true?

Christian

Am 30.04.25 um 20:06 schrieb Tom Gardner via :

On Wed, 30 Apr 2025 at 17:53, Christian Eisert via <christian.eisert=[email protected]> wrote:

Hi all,

I'm currently looking for a suitable Tektronix oscilloscope for a specific use case:

Displaying vector graphics in XY mode from arcade PCBs (Atari Asteroids, Tempest, Space Duel, etc.) – ideally with clean beam blanking via the Z input. I'm also planning to use it for general CRT repairs and TTL logic diagnostics.

Important to know:
I'm not an electronics engineer – I'm a computer scientist by trade. So robustness and low maintenance are my top priorities (right after a proper Z input). I’d prefer something that just works and doesn’t immediately turn into a restoration project.

IMHO with any 24x5 you will need to recap the PSU, both the electrolytics and RIFA delayed action smoke generators. You can buy a kit of parts for that.

24x5 has the squirrel cage motor, and removing the PSU requires undoing the fragile collet. I have two, both recapped.

24x5A/B have the battery backed RAM problem plus the SMD electrolytics on the A5 board. I don't like them, but others disagree.

Any of those would be more than adequate for old TTL logic (i.e. anything introduced before the mid 80s), but they won't be perfect for fast modern logic.

Consider using a scope to ensure the analogue waveform PSU and signal integrity, then flipping to the digital domain and using a logic analyser or protocol analyser.

Be aware that improper probing technique will, with any fast scope, "invent" waveform artefacts.

I've never used any myself and so can't offer any advice, but there are quite a few devices designed to display an XY TV signal. Since they are for analogue TV (not digital) and they aren't as useful as a scope, I would guess they would be relatively cheap. They are often seen at auctions of broadcast equipment.