Automotive Oscilloscope Diagnostics Starter Kit

IF YOU are new to automotive oscilloscope diagnostics, you probably are wondering what oscilloscope and equipment you need to kickstart your diagnostic journey. In this guide, we're going to have a look at the cheapest way to do it but also making sure that you're buying decent equipment. We're also going to take a look at the minimum equipment required to get started and things to consider when spending different amounts of money on similar pieces of equipment.

Explore budget-friendly options without compromising on quality.

Choosing the Right Oscilloscope and Software

Handheld vs. Laptop-Based Oscilloscopes

Handheld oscilloscopes, like the OWON HDS272S can be a great choice for those on a budget or people who want something they can get out and use quickly. While convenient, handheld oscilloscope have fiddly settings and lack the versatility and large display of laptop-based scopes.

When considering a laptop-based automotive oscilloscope, the Hantek 1008C will certainly come up in the search results. The Hantek 1008C is an 8-channel oscilloscope marketed for automotive use. We did a review on this Hantek scope in a video, and while loading all eight channels yields waveforms, the detail required for some testing isn’t there. Despite this, the Hantek 8-channel oscilloscope is ok for most oscilloscope testing. Additionally, there's the Hantek 6022be, a 2-channel oscilloscope with good specifications on paper, particularly concerning sample rate. However, in our opinion, the software provided by Hantek isn’t the easiest to use and lacks features you will find in the PicoScope software.

The Hantek 1008C 8-channel oscilloscope performs well for basic checks.

For absolute beginners on a budget, I generally recommend the PicoScope 2000 Series, particularly the PicoScope 2204a. It’s available for around about $100, and for this price, you won’t find a more powerful tool. It’s important to note: the 22024A will not work with PicoScope 7 Automotive software. You will have to download PicoScope T&M from picotech.com. But don’t worry, it work the same as the Automotive software.

This cheap little scope costs less than my multimeter, so I was skeptical about how it would perform. I had been using the automotive oscilloscopes before I bought this and I was just really impressed that the oscilloscope software is pretty much the same between the two scopes. And that’s great, because if you are serious about oscilloscopes and you really get into them, at some point you're going to want to upgrade to something like the PicoScope Automotive 4425A. Now if you buy this 2204a and then decided to move up to the 4425a, you will not be in unfamiliar territory. Everything you learn with this, you'll be able to carry over onto the more expensive PicoScope 4425A oscilloscopes.

Included with the Oscilloscope Masters training package you get access to the full PicoScope for Automotive course to make the most of the powerful PicoScope software.

The knowledge and skills acquired with this entry-level oscilloscope can be used on the high end tools when you upgrade.

Essential Accessories for a Robust Diagnostic Setup

Creating an automotive oscilloscope toolkit involves more than just the main device. We’re going to show you some essential accessories, such as automotive oscilloscope leads, attenuators, amp probes, and connectors.

20:1 Attenuator

Something to be aware of with the PicoScope 2204a; is it's not marketed as an automotive oscilloscope because there are a few specifications which make automotive diagnostics potentially a little bit difficult. One of the first things is that it can only read a maximum of 20V into either of its two channels. That's fine for most things like CAN bus, sensor signals, power supplies, and pulse width modulation. It's absolutely fine as long as it's below that 20V. However, if you were going to measure things like injectors or ignition coil voltages, then you're going to need to go higher. You will need to get an attenuator. I've got a video on an attenuator, covering what it is and what it does, but it basically reduces that input so that you can put more voltage in without damaging the scope. Most come in the 20:1 spec, so the input is reduced by a factor of 20. If you measure 200V, the oscilloscope sees 10V. You can pick up an attenuator for around $10-20.

Attenuator, like the Hantek HT-201, reduces the input so you can put more voltage in without damaging the scope.

Automotive Oscilloscope Leads

If you decide to get the 2204a with the leads, and you can choose to buy it with or without them, the leads you'll get are the x10 ‘passive’ probes. You can switch them to reduce the input by a factor of 10. These probes are good for measuring high frequencies, although in automotive applications, we usually don't need that. The issue is that the leads are not very long, and they come with a small hook attachment at the end. If you remove it, you'll find it challenging to probe into the back of connectors. Also, the ground lead is quite short. However, it’s worth keeping them because there are a few things they might still be useful for.

What I recommend getting is two of these Hantek automotive oscilloscope leads. They are about 3 meters long and have BNC type connectors, the same connectors you'll find on the front of the oscilloscope.

The great thing about using these BNC type tools is that they are compatible with most oscilloscopes. So, if you initially bought a Hantek but didn't find it suitable, you can switch to another brand like PicoScope without worrying about replacing all your equipment. These Hantek leads are excellent value; I've been using two of them for a couple of years without any issues. I have a video discussing some important points about them.

The Picoscope lead is a bit pricier, about four or five times the cost of the Hantek lead, but they are better quality. Unlike the Hantek, it doesn't have a metal BNC connector, which might be useful in specific measuring situations. While it's a bit more expensive, the higher quality might be worth considering, depending on your needs.

The PicoScope 2204a, HT-201 attenuator, and the Hantek oscilloscope leads connected altogether.

Back Probes and Alligator Clips

For the ends of these leads, you'll observe they have these four-millimeter connectors, also known as banana connectors. What you'll need are some crocodile clips or alligator clips. I used the smaller ones frequently. However, I've switched to the larger clips lately because they are much more effective for accessing ground points and battery connections. Additionally, you'll need some back probes. There are various types of back probes available, and like the clips, they simply push onto the four-millimeter connections.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Advanced Diagnostic Accessories

Elevating your diagnostic capabilities, let's take a look at some of the other accessories, including amp clamps, secondary ignition probes, and pulse sensors. These tools empower you to delve into intricate aspects of engine diagnostics, from relative compression testing to evaluating mechanical integrity.

Amp Clamps

Introducing Hantek’s amp clamps, where precision meets value. First in line is the CC-65, a 65-amp clamp crafted for low-current applications. Its smaller jaws signal its specialty, not ideal for those hefty battery cables. The CC-650, a robust 650-amp counterpart designed for more significant tasks, like relative compression around the battery cable. What's truly impressive about both these tools is their affordability, available at a modest price ranging from $50-100. A small investment with substantial returns in diagnostic capabilities.

It's crucial to note that these clamps require a 9V battery for operation. Always remember to power them down after use to preserve battery life. Another downside is the length of cables - they are quite short!

In a recent comparison video against the slightly pricier PicoScope amp clamp, the performance gap wasn't extensive. This shows that even at this budget-friendly range, you're getting a tool that competes with more expensive counterparts. Notably, the PicoScope TA018 comes with an extended cable, a feature that might seem minor but proves invaluable in real-world scenarios. Picture this: your oscilloscope is stationed in one corner, and you're navigating around a vehicle for testing. A longer cable provides the flexibility and reach required for efficient diagnostics.

We use amp clamps and current probes in various ways to diagnose vehicle components in the Oscilloscope Masters course.

In Mechanic Mindset, we showcase how these amp clamps perform in real-world diagnostic scenarios.

Secondary Ignition Probe, Coil-on-Plug Testers, and Pulse Sensors

After buying your amp clamps, there are many more accessories which are really useful for doing different kind of tests.

The Hantek HT-25 secondary ignition probe clamps around the ignition lead, enabling the capture of an ignition coil waveform and an in-depth examination of spark plug, ignition coil, and fuel mixture dynamics.

For vehicles equipped with a coil-on-plug (COP) system, you will need to add an extension lead between the plug and coil for the tool to clamp around. This will allow you to still capture precise measurements of secondary ignition activity on COP systems.

You can also get some coil on plug testers or paddle probes which will be used to go on top of the ignition coils to take a really quick measurement.

We have lessons covering all the different ways you can test ignition coils and secondary waveform analysis in the Oscilloscope Masters training package.

The Hantek HT-25 secondary ignition probe clamp.

There's quite a few guys out there making their own tools, especially ‘pulse sensors’. I've got a few videos using these pulse sensors; they're a really good way to check mechanical Integrity of engines, highlighting valve seat issues, piston rings, and head gaskets.

We dive in to in cylinder pressure testing and pulse sensor diagnostics in the Oscilloscope Masters training package.

Hopefully that will help you get up and running with your automotive oscilloscope setup. Don't forget to go and check out the training that we've got at mechanicmindset.com.

Using a pulse sensor, you can check the mechanical Integrity of engines.

Unlock the Power of Oscilloscope Equipments through Mechanic Mindset

In the Mechanic Mindset Oscilloscope Training Course, we delve into the world of diagnostic tools, providing comprehensive reviews and insightful comparisons. It’s online based and can all be accessed instantly!

Course Highlights:

1. In-Depth Tool Reviews:

We meticulously review a variety of oscilloscope diagnostic tool, exploring their features, specifications, and usability. Gain a deeper understanding of each tool's strengths and limitations, allowing you to make informed decisions when selecting equipment.

2. Practical Comparisons:

Witness side-by-side comparisons of different tools in action. Our practical demonstrations highlight how each tool performs under various scenarios, enabling you to choose the right one for your specific diagnostic needs.

3. Effective Tool Utilization:

Beyond reviews, we guide you on how to effectively use these tools. Learn tips, tricks, and best practices to maximize the potential of your oscilloscope tools, ensuring accurate and efficient diagnostics.

Mechanic Mindset Oscilloscope Equipment Course will empower you with the knowledge and skills needed to leverage these tools effectively in your automotive diagnostics.