Bumping my own thread here with some follow-up. I would like to open this up to tell you what I am trying to learn/do. I didn't get into specifics in the initial post because I am quite naive, but here it goes...
There are quite a few gaming consoles that require components in the cables in order to get RGB output "display ready." There are references out there for what components are needed. Here is one comprehensive one -
http://members.optusnet.com.au/eviltim/gamescart/gamescart.htm. I understand it is easy to just follow a guide and buy the appropriate components when creating a cable, but I would much rather get used to looking at a datasheet, learning how to use a scope, and saying "ahh yes. That fits. The value on my scope matches the expected output the datasheet specifies here..." Or perhaps it doesn't match the value, and I need to use different components than a guide on the internet shows.
Specific items I might want to do -1: Check output of R, G, B signals to make sure the output is in the correct range. (What if it is 1v p-p when it should be 0.7v?)
2: Look at a 15khz composite sync signal and gain a better understanding of what it should look like and what should be done if the signal is too weak or too strong.
3: Use a scope to verify that noise from a chroma signal is getting into another signal (happens on Sega Genesis).
4: See the difference in quality a cable can make by comparing a signal at the output of a console with that on the other end of the cable.
Would a Rigol DS1102E (which is ~$400) as a general purpose scope fit my needs? Is it overkill? It is rather high-priced compared to say $100-$150 analog scopes I see on ebay, however it is new, comes with a warranty, and takes up less space. Ha. But then look at the price and the bandwidth. Do I really need 100 Mhz? Based on what you guys have said in this thread, the answer is no.
Do I buy a newer digital scope for peace of mind regarding calibration as well as workbench space (mine is fairly small), or do I stick with the analog scope & just ...put it on the floor with the screen facing up/put it on the bench when needed?