Logic Analyzer - Overview

Overview

Presently, there are three distinct categories of logic analyzers available on the market:

• The first is mainframes, which consist of a chassis containing the display, controls, control computer, and multiple slots into which the actual data-capturing hardware is installed.
• The second category is standalone units, which integrate everything into a single package, with options installed at the factory.
• The third category is PC-based logic analyzers. The hardware connects to a computer through a USB or Ethernet connection, and then relays the captured signals to the software on the computer. These devices are typically much smaller and less expensive, because they do not need dedicated displays or hardware input, such as keyboards or knobs.

Mixed-signal oscilloscopes combine the functionality of a digital storage oscilloscope with a logic analyzer. The several benefits of these include the ability to view analog and digital signals together in time, and to trigger on either digital or analog signals and capture on the other.