There are some parameters from the data sheets I can't evaluate whether they really make an important difference or in which application,
(A = SDS2000X Plus, B = SDS1000X HD) for example:
- (analog aquisition) peak detect: A: 1ns B: 2ns minimum detectable pulse
This is the sample interval in the trigger signal path. Modern DSOs have a fully digital trigger engine, which not only allows for very complex triggers but also ensures sufficient trigger bandwidth. Without diving into the basics of DSO operation, it can be said that this is the shortest pulse width the scope can reliably detect (and trigger on).
- vertical offset accuracy: A: +/-1.5% B: +/- 0.5%
Well, the 8-bit specifications are standard for a serious scope, whereas B indicates an even better accuracy. Siglent quite obviously felt that the higher resolution of a true 12-bit DSO also deserves increased accuracy.
- DC gain accuracy: A: ≤3% B: +/- 1.5% and +/- 0.5%
Same as above, where 0.5% is pretty class leading also compared to the so called “Big Boys”.
- Low frequency response (AC coupling -3dB): A: 5Hz B: 2Hz
Well, it’s the -3 dB frequency with AC input coupling. Quite obviously not so important, as anything below 10 Hz should be fine. Hint: if you work with frequencies below a couple hundred Hertz, you shoud always use DC-cupling for best accuracy anyway. Of course, you need AC-coupling for e.g. ripple measurement on analog PSUs, but then again, extremely high accuracy isn’t a main concern with such measurements.
- Horizontal time base accuracy: A: +/- 1ppm B: +/- 25ppm
25 ppm (or even 50 ppm) used to be standard for some time – this is way more accurate than any analog scope anyway. On the other hand, an accurate Counter/Timer was a standard tool on every bench in the old days, while many applications can get away with the integrated trigger frequency counter of a DSO nowadays. Once again, 1 ppm is class-leading, not easily found elsewhere.
And what about the ENOB of only 8.4 bits on the 12-bit SDS1kHD 
As the name suggests, it is the
effective number of bits. This is not primarily dictated by the ADC-resolution, but spurious signals, noise and distortion limit the value. Consequently, it should not come as a surprise that higher bandwidth DSOs provide lower ENOB-values. With 20 MHz bandwidth limiter and in 10-bit mode, an 8-bit SDS2000X Plus can easily reach more than 9 bits. In general, ENOB is often compromised by the interleaving spurs of the ADC. In other words: it is only a couple discrete frequencies, or harmonics from the analog frontend, all of which can be compensated/filtered/ignored in most practical measurements (… except THD analysis, quite obviously).
Btw: Since the HDMI out was one of my pro arguments towards the MSO5k back then....I really experience the remote LAN view of the Siglent as being very laggy being viewed side by side to the unit's display....is that normal (only tested the 1KXHD) ?
I’ve seen very few reports on such behavior, but in general there is no significant lag. It might have to do with your particular network infrastructure.
EDIT: If MSO is important, then the SDS2000X Plus series offers a fully integrated solution, whereas the 800/1000 series has a separate external hardware, which poses quite some limitations.
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