Oscilloscope recommendation for SSTC?

[Damaged1]

Hi all,

I am working on building out my first SSTC (built SGTC's previously), and I want to get an oscilloscope for configuring the circuit and tuning the coil. I am also grabbing a signal generator, but have that sorted.

I have never used a scope, but have tried to educate myself on the basics and how to use one in the building of an SSTC. The choices and advice are all over the map, so I figured I would ask here since I don't anticipate using it for much else.

I would like to spend as little as reasonable and still get something that works for this use case. As I understand it, pretty much any new scope should be able to handle the task (as we don't need to measure 20MHz+ frequencies, or anything super complex).

I know the Rigol and Siglent 12bit models are the new "start here" beginner recommendations, but I would rather not spend $300+ if a $80 Zoyi or $138 CDEK (rebranded Owon SDS1102) would work just fine for my use case. I also looked at used CRO scopes, but am hesitant there due to the huge size and gamble that it may not work well or for long.

The issue I have is the spotty reviews make it sound like the budget scopes won't even read a simple signal half the time, but they also tend to focus on pushing them to the bandwidth limits and performing complex operations and the like.

Appreciate any advice you have on this - thank you!

[Simranjit]

Hi, I personally bought
Siglent Technologies SDS1202X-E 200 mhz Digital Oscilloscope 2 Channels, Grey
I have designed my QCW SSTC using this oscilloscope. It was great choice and might come in handy for your future projects. Although it's a bit over your budget but I think it will be totally worth in future. I started from simple one MOSFET Tesla coil and I was able to make all the way upto full bridge QCW SSTC and I learned alot.
Sampling rate of oscilloscope is also important. High sampling rate will allow you to view inductive spikes which last for very short period of time. That might not be possible on very cheap oscilloscopes.
Trust me inductive spikes become huge issue when designing SSTC especially if you are starting. "Davekni" on this forum has some superb designs to eliminate inductive spikes.