USB Spectrum Analyzers and Oscilloscopes

[takilara]

Hello. This is a topic, somewhat on the side of the "RC" part, but can be used in the RC hobby as Bruce has showed..

I was wondering if people have experience with various brands of USB Spectrum Analyzers and various brands of USB Oscilloscopes.

For USB Spectrum analyzers, i have been looking at the Metageeks Wi-Spy 2.4i and the Ubiquiti AirView2 2.4 that seem alot cheaper than the Wi-Spy. Anyone that have tested any of these and have any feedback to offer?

For USB oscilloscopes, i currently have a USB Instruments Stingray. I like the hardware, and if functions well enough, however i REALLY dislike the software. (its designed for people that have used oscilloscopes, but haven't used a computer, so it is not possible to scale the user interface, and you are stuck looking at a VERY small picture on your screen unless you change your resolution..). Does anyone have any other scope suggestions for "hobby" use?

Any other "must have" tools one should consider?

[RCModelReviews]

Speaking of USB scopes, I spotted this on DealExtreme the other day (remember that the price includes shipping).

They also have this stand-alone scope at a good price.

I haven't actually had a hands-on of either device but some google searches should bring up other people's opinions.

[takilara]

Thanks!
I'll look into that dealextreme one, its either getting a new one, or find alternate software for the stingray.

I saw one with VERY good specs and price posted alot on ebay a few years back, but google revealed that that one was a hoax... Lets hope the dealextreme is better..

[RCModelReviews]

I buy quite a bit of stuff from DealExtreme (DX). Their prices aren't always the lowest but when you consider that they include shipping, that sometimes makes a big difference.

They are an interesting business model -- they don't hold stock of anything, they buy in and ship on customer orders so their overheads are *very* low -- hence the low prices.

[Roger]

I picked up my single channel 10Mhz oscilloscope from Jarcar Bruce ($199 NZD) here http://www.jaycar.co.nz/productView.asp ... rm=KEYWORD, I see now that I have bought mine they have dropped the price for everyone else (how thoughtful!). I did have to replace the probe as the orignial one had a faulty connection - thankfully warranty covered that - something to watch for when buying from overseas...!
Roger

[nordwest]

I got my Ubiquiti AirView2 2 days ago - not much function and the waterfall diagram runs only for 30 minutes acurate (software update will come) - on the other hand a nice toy for checking your RX/TX or compare it to others - nice to have and for 39$ worth the money.