An oscilloscope is an electronic device that enables the visualization and analysis of changes in electrical voltage over time. It is used to study the relationships between various electrical quantities and other physical parameters that can be represented in the form of electrical signals.
Technological progress favors the combination of many functions, where their harmonious integration complements each other, increasing the capabilities of measuring instruments. Enriching oscilloscopes by integrating additional modules and apparatus is nothing else but composing a unified measurement system.
The MPO-2000 Series
ne of the manufacturers that has noticed and introduced the capabilities of using the device in a broader scope is GW Instek. The MPO-2000 series (Multi-function Programmable Oscilloscope) besides being an oscilloscope, also includes a spectrum analyzer, an arbitrary waveform generator, a digital multimeter, and a DC power supply in its construction.
The multifunctional 'five-in-one' architecture innovatively introduces the Python script function to the MPO-2000, allowing users to control the program in a small, automated test system.
GW Instek, as one of the significant manufacturers, has expanded the horizons of oscilloscope applications. The MPO-2000 series, or Multifunctional Programmable Oscilloscope, is a set of technological versatility. The measuring instrument not only records electrical oscillations but is also a controlling device for a spectrum of additional functions.
The bus decoding functions included in the standard configuration are available without additional charges. This makes the MPO-2000 not only powerful but also an accessible tool for anyone who wants to delve into the secrets of electronics. A large number of bus decoding functions are included in the standard configuration, and users do not have to pay to use this feature.
Basic and Professional Versions
he MPO-2000 series by GW Instek represents two versions of innovation: Basic (B) and Professional (P).
The basic version provides a bandwidth of 100 MHz. It includes ready-to-use demonstration programs, including applications with USB device support and a graphical user interface (GUI), as well as Python software provided by external suppliers.
The professional version offers doubled bandwidth of 200 MHz. As a result, the Professional variant enables efficient data processing in more complex sequences, using extended memory and advanced system resources. Control over USB CDC devices in the 2000 series ensures cooperation between individual network elements. The Python GUI library included with the device is the key to the user's individual creativity, allowing modifications and the creation of proprietary programs.
The Professional edition extends the boundaries of possibilities, with memory and system resources. What distinguishes this variant are many advanced decoding options, such as FlexRay, USB-PD, and I2S, which allow decoding digital record signals.
What is MQTT?
PO-2000 oscilloscopes also support the MQTT protocol (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport), which is an open-source communication protocol valued for its efficiency and simplicity of operation. The MQTT protocol, like the popular HTTP, operates on top of the TCP/IP stack, in its application layer. Although both protocols function at the same layer, they differ in terms of characteristics and purpose.
How does MQTT work?
The MQTT protocol operates on the principle of publishing and subscribing, which allows for asynchronous information flow between data senders and receivers. Publishers have the ability to send measurement data to the cloud, while subscribers can remotely control the oscilloscope.
Any device connected to the network, such as a microcontroller or PC that supports TCP/IP and MQTT, enabling communication in this standard, can be called an MQTT client. There are libraries available that facilitate the implementation of an MQTT client. Interestingly, an MQTT client can be both a subscriber and a publisher of data.
In the MQTT model, publishers and subscribers do not maintain direct communication. A client can pass data to another client without knowing its IP address or even being aware of its existence. This is made possible by the message broker, which receives information from publishers and passes it on to subscribers.
When a publisher publishes a message, it assigns a specific topic to it. The broker, using this topic, directs the message to subscribers interested in that particular subject. Thanks to this, MQTT is exceptionally flexible and efficient in distributed communication systems.
message to subscribers interested in that particular subject. Thanks to this, MQTT is exceptionally flexible and efficient in distributed communication systems.
This system allows a single client to distribute information to a wide group of receivers, thereby minimizing costs. By sending data to the broker, the client initiates the data distribution process, which means that even small microcontrollers can serve as MQTT clients.
The MQTT broker, as the central point of the network, requires advanced resources to handle multiple connections, process and distribute messages, and manage user authentication and authorization, as well as data storage. Therefore, it must be installed on high-performance platforms. There are many broker options on the market, both paid and free, which allows for easy integration in various environments.
Serial Bus Decoding in MPO-2000
The MPO-2000 provides CAN FD/USB 2.0 (FS) decoding in the basic version and CAN FD/USB 2.0 (FS)/FlexRay/USB PD/I2S decoding in the professional version. No additional options are required for decoding and analyzing new automotive, USB, and audio protocols.
Conclusion
The debut of the GW Instek MPO-2000 series on the market has the potential to meet user expectations in terms of repeatability and diversity of product testing on a small scale. It can also satisfy user needs for ease and efficiency of work. It also allows for programmatic control at the unit level, as well as for sending test results to the cloud.
A wide range of decoding features available as standard, at no extra charge, makes the MPO-2000 an attractive option on the market.
The MPO-2000P model sets new standards by combining 'all-in-one' functionality and a Python GUI library, which is a unique proposition on the market. Users gain flexibility in designing test systems, which directly reduces the costs associated with purchasing individual devices. As a versatile tester, the MPO-2000P is available at an attractive price, making it accessible to customers and more competitive.
