Computer based Instruments
& Test Equipment
This is a compilation of instruments and test equipment that is compatible with Mac OS X.
Logic Analyzers
U3Pro32 1Gsps 32 Channel Logic Analyzer
Threshold adjustable in 0.1V steps, USB3.0 (5Gbps), Up to 2Gbits hardware memory. Shielded fly wires. 16 stage protocol trigger. 3 year Warranty. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.dreamsourcelab.com/product/dslogic-series/
U3Pro16 1Gsps 16 Channel Logic Analyzer
Threshold adjustable in 0.1V steps, USB3.0 (5Gbps), Up to 2Gbits hardware memory. Shielded fly wires. 16 stage protocol trigger. 3 year Warranty. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.dreamsourcelab.com/product/dslogic-series/
Plus 400Msps 16 Channel Logic Analyzer
Threshold adjustable in 0.1V steps, USB2.0 (5Gbps), Up to 2Gbits hardware memory. Shielded fly wires. 16 stage protocol trigger. 3 year Warranty. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.dreamsourcelab.com/product/dslogic-series/
ScanaPlus USB 9 Channel Logic Analyzer
Up to 25MHz sample rate (1 channel) or 10MHz for all 9 channels. Can decode SPI, I2C, serial, 1-Wire, CAN, I2S, Manchester, Modbus, NMEA-0183, Parallel, JTAG, LIN, Atmel SWI, LCD HD44780, USB 1.1, Midi, and many device specific decoders. There is a four channel version, the ScanaQUAD. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.ikalogic.com/scanaplus/
Logic, a USB Logic Analyzer, 8 Channel
Up to 24MHz sample rate(24MHz. 16MHz, 12MHz, 8MHz, 4MHz, 2MHz, 1MHz, 500KHz, 250KHz, 200KHz, 100KHz, 50KHz, 25KHz). Can decode SPI, I2C, serial, 1-Wire, CAN, UNI/O, I2S/PCM, MP Mode, Manchester, Modbus, DMX-512, Parallel, JTAG, LIN, Atmel SWI, MDIO, SWD, LCD HD44780, BiSS C, HDLC, HDMI CEC, PS/2, USB 1.1, and Midi. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Logic16, a USB Logic Analyzer, 16 Channel
Up to 100MHz sampling rate for 2 channels through 12.5MHz sample rate for 16 channels. Can decode SPI, I2C, serial, 1-Wire, CAN, UNI/O, I2S/PCM, MP Mode, Manchester, Modbus, DMX-512, Parallel, JTAG, LIN, Atmel SWI, MDIO, SWD, LCD HD44780, BiSS C, HDLC, HDMI CEC, PS/2, USB 1.1, and Midi. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Nova Host Adapter
Support for I2C, SPI, UART, 1-WIRE, SWI protocols. Also GPIO and ADC functionality. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
iMSO-204x 2 Channel Scope & 4 Channel Logic Analyzer
50Msps 4 channel logic analyzer & Scope. Software includes serial protocol decoding of I2C, SPI, and UART. Macintosh OS X, Windows, iPad, and Android.
LabNation
A Kickstarter project. A open source two channel 100MS/s oscilloscope, 8 channel logic analyzer, 11 bit arbitrary waveform generator, and four channel digital pattern generator. Macintosh OS X, iOS, Linux, Android, and Windows.
Kingst
16 & 32 bit logic anayzers. 16Msps to 500Msps acquisition rates. Many protocols decoded. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Bus Pirate
10Hz to 1MHz logic analyzer and recognizes many protocols. Interfaces as a serial port over USB. 1-Wire, I2C, SPI, JTAG, asynchronous serial (UART), MIDI, PC keyboard, HD44780 LCDs, and generic 2- and 3-wire libraries for custom protocols. Useful for debugging software on evaluation and demo boards. Open source and Open hardware. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.seeedstudio.com/depot/bus-pirate-v3-assembled-p-609.html?cPath=61_68
Documentation: http://dangerousprototypes.com/docs/Bus_Pirate
Software: http://code.google.com/p/the-bus-pirate/
Logic analyzer software (Java): http://www.lxtreme.nl/ols/
Update information: http://dangerousprototypes.com/docs/V2_to_v4_upgrades
ArduLogic
ArduLogic is a simple low speed logic analyzer solution using an Arduino UNO board. Macintosh OS X, iOS, Linux, Android, and Windows.
Sigrok & PulseView Open Source Software
Open source, multi platform software for many logic analyzers and digital oscilloscopes. Including Saleae Logic, EE Elec. XLA/ESLA100, ASIX SIGMA, Openbench Logic Sniffer, Logic Shrimp, Zeroplus Logic Cube, Chronovu LA8, Robomotic BugLogic 3/minilogic, Lcsoft Mini Board, Braintechnology USB-LPS, CWAV USBee SX. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://sigrok.org/wiki/Main_Page
LHT00SU1 USB 8 Channel
Use open source PulseView software. The LHT00SU1 is available from Amazon, AliExpress, Banggood, and more.
https://www.amazon.com/Akozon-Oscilloscope-Multi-Function-Generator-Oscilliscope/dp/B07HT5ZS5Z
PulseView:
https://sigrok.org/wiki/PulseView
Open Workbench Logic Sniffer Low Cost Logic Analyzer
16/32 (200Msps/100Msps) Channel FPGA based logic analyzer with serial/USB interface and Java host software. I. Open source and Open hardware. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Win.
sump.org: http://dangerousprototypes.com/docs/Bus_Pirate
Java Software: http://www.sump.org/projects/analyzer/client/
RXTX (required for the Java software): http://rxtx.qbang.org/wiki/index.php/Main_Page
This version of RXTX worked on Mac OS X 10.6: http://rxtx.qbang.org/pub/rxtx/rxtx-2.2pre2-bins.zip
Oscilloscopes
Rohde & Schwarz
Oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and Network analyzers. R&S offers an application, RSCommander, and a library for standard VISA interface. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
RSCommander
https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/us/applications/rscommander-application-note_56280-510720.html
Documentation
VISA Library
https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/us/applications/r-s-visa-application-note_56280-148812.html
VISA compatible Oscilloscopes
VISA (Virtual Instrument Software Architecture) allows automation of many instruments. National Instruments offers NI-VISA, a driver for VISA compatible instruments.
National Instruments download page (free download, must register):
http://joule.ni.com/nidu/cds/view/p/id/2919/lang/en
Background Information:
http://digital.ni.com/public.nsf/allkb/EE34F21ECC2BE01286256C52005D1A1F
Using Python with VISA (pyVISA):
http://pyvisa.sourceforge.net/
Rigol Technologies Information PDF:
http://beyondmeasure.rigoltech.com/acton/attachment/1579/f-00cd/0/-/-/-/-/file.pdf
See my page with examples of instrument automation.
Networked Scopes and MacOS
Rigol has many oscilloscopes that are OS X compatible with several solutions. For using VISA, see above.
Rigol WFM file viewer in Python: http://www.blaicher.com/2013/03/rigol-oscilloscope-binary-file-parser/
Rigol WFM file viewer from GitHub: https://github.com/mabl/pyRigolWFM
IkaScope
Compact wireless oscilloscope. 30MHz, 200Msps, and 4000 point memory. Unique ProbeClick feature. Macintosh OS X, Linux, iOS, Andriod, and Windows.
https://www.ikalogic.com/pages/ikascope-wireless-oscilloscope
Rigol Oscilloscopes
Rigol has many oscilloscopes that are OS X compatible with several solutions. For using VISA, see above.
Rigol WFM file viewer in Python: http://www.blaicher.com/2013/03/rigol-oscilloscope-binary-file-parser/
Rigol WFM file viewer from GitHub: https://github.com/mabl/pyRigolWFM
Red Pitaya
Red Pitaya is an open source signal generator/oscilloscope with several instrument integrating features to perform cable reflectometry, LCR meter, EMC Measurements, and teslameter functionality. Supports scpi command structure. Control software compatible with Matlab, LabView, Python, and Scilab. User interface is through Ethernet to a web browser.
Oscilloscope and arbitrary waveform generator
Two channel Macintosh USB digital storage oscilloscope (2MHz) and a 2MHz DDS arbitrary waveform generator. Macintosh OS X oscilloscope software is supported through SourceForge.
Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Mac software: http://sourceforge.net/projects/oip
Bitscope Digital Storage Oscilloscope, Logic Analyzer, Spectrum Analyzer
Different models include an Arbitrary Waveform Generator (AWG) and all of them have a Smart POD expansion connector on the front for logic probes and external signal processing modules. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Mac OS X download here:
http://www.bitscope.net/download/?p=1&i=097
User report here:
http://gasstationwithoutpumps.wordpress.com/2012/12/21/fet-threshold-tests-with-bitscope/
LabNation
A two channel 100MS/s oscilloscope, 8 channel logic analyzer, 11 bit arbitrary waveform generator, and four channel digital pattern generator. Macintosh OS X, iOS, Linux, Android, and Windows.
Pokit
Both Pokit Meter and Pokit Pro support low frequency oscilloscope modes. Bluetooth connectivity. iOS and Android.
https://www.pokitinnovations.com/
Hantek DSO-2090 USB Digital Oscilloscope 100MS/S 2ch
Available from several sources, here is an example:
https://www.circuitspecialists.com/products/usb-oscilloscope-dso-2090
Macintosh OS X software (instructions from 2009):
http://www.chaosgeordend.nl/mt-archives-cg/oss/hantekdso/index.html
iCP12 - usbStick
Low cost. USB 10 or 12 bit analog data acquisition, Oscilloscope, Data Logger, Frequency Generator, PIC18F255x IO Board. Interface is a USB serial port. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.piccircuit.com/shop/pic-dev-board/119-161-icp12-usbstick-pic18f2550-io-board.html
iCP12A - DAQduino
Low cost. USB 10 or 12 bit analog data acquisition, Oscilloscope, Data Logger, Frequency Generator, PIC18F255x IO Board. Interface is a USB serial port. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
SignalScope
Software solution includes FFT Analyzer, Oscilloscope, Spectrogram, and X/Y Plotter. Each tool in its own window. Macintosh OS X only.
http://www.faberacoustical.com/products/signalscope/
BitScope Micro
Tiny 20MHz oscilloscope with 2 analog channels, 2 comparator channels, and 6 protocol decoders. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.bitscope.com/product/BS05/
nScope
A small oscilloscope, function generator, and power supply designed to fit on a solderless breadboard. Macintosh OS X, Linux (x86), Linux (Raspberry Pi), and Windows.
Sigrok Universal Logic Analyzer/Oscilloscope Software
Support for 13 different logic analyzers so far, 16 more planned. It is a little bit of a challenge building this project. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Owon Oscilloscopes
Open source support for Owon oscilloscopes. Macintosh OS X and iOS.
There is also this project for Linux and UNIX but it has successfully ben built on OS X.
http://sourceforge.net/projects/owondriver/
LeCroy 9400A Driver for MATLAB
The function returns two figures (with up to 25’000 points per channel). The first one displays two channels on the same graph, and the second one displays one channel per graph. The two figures use autoscale (for x and y axis). Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://multidimensions.xyz/PROG/LeCroy_9400A_Driver_for_MATLAB.html
How to talk to your LXI-Compliant Agilent, LeCroy or Tektronix Scope
This is a collection of source code that will allow you to talk to ethernet-enabled instruments that use the VXI11 protocol. Macintosh OS X and Linux.
Spectrum Analyzers
PSA-T Series
PSA1301T: 150kHz to 1300MHz frequency range. PSA2701T: 1MHz to 2700MHz frequency range. -96dBm typical noise floor at -20dBm reference level. Light weight. Web browser interface for Macintosh OS X, UNIX, Linux, or Windows.
http://www.aimtti.com/product-category/spectrum-analyzers
SPECTRAN HF-60100 V4 X
9kHz/1MHz to 9.4GHz, Resolution (RBW): 200Hz to 50MHz, DANL -155dBm(1Hz), DANL with Preamp: -170dBm(1Hz). Macintosh OS X, Linux, or Windows.
http://www.aaronia.com/products/spectrum-analyzers/hf-60100-v4-x-rf-usb-spectrum-analyzer/
WaveTower
Compatible with all models of RF Explorer. Macintosh OS X only.
https://www.rfvenue.com/wavetower-2
RF Explorer
2350MHz to 2550MHz and 4850 to 6100MHz.reference level. Light weight. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
Buy:
http://www.seeedstudio.com/depot/RF-Explorer-WiFi-Combo-p-2321.html
iSpectrum Analyzer - Audio Spectrum Analyzer
Spectrum, Waterfall, and Oscilloscope views. Six bandwidth resolutions. Macintosh OS X only.
http://www.dogparksoftware.com/iSpectrum.html
Baudline
Baudline is a time-frequency browser designed for visualization of the spectral domain. Signal analysis is performed by Fourier, correlation, and raster transforms. Conduct test and measurement experiments with the built in function generator. Play audio files with a multitude of effects and filters. Macintosh OS X, UNIX, Linux, and Windows.
Mac software: http://www.baudline.com/download.html
User Experence: http://www.urlme.net/blog/?p=2031
Sound View
Audio Spectrum Analyzer & Spectrograph viewsUses audio input. Macintosh OS X only.
http://www.rareworksllc.com/soundview-mac.html
Spectre
Includes 20 different multi-channel and multi-trace meters including Level, VU, Spectrograph, Oscilloscope and Spectrogram. Macintosh OS X only.
http://www.audiofile-engineering.com/spectre/
MultiInspector
A multitrack real-time spectrum analyzer. 31 band third octave mode. A switchable high resolution mode gives a detailed view of low frequency bands. FFT sizes from 512 to 16384 samples. Macintosh OS X only.
http://www.vertexdsp.com/products_multiinspector.html
WavePad FFT Sound Analyzer
Features Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) and the Time-Based Fast Fourier Transform. Typical applications; audio spectrum analysis, vibration analysis, and noise detection and removal. Macintosh OS X only.
http://www.nch.com.au/wavepad/fft.html
Voxengo SPAN VST Plug-in
Features Fast Fourier transform spectrum analyzer, Stereo, mid-side, 5.1 spectrum analyzer, Stereo correlation meter, and K level meter. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://www.voxengo.com/product/span/
Spek – SoftwareAcoustic Spectrum Analyzer
Supports all popular lossy and lossless audio file formats thanks to the FFmpeg libraries. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://www.dxzone.com/cgi-bin/dir/jump2.cgi?ID=24754
Aaronia AG SPECTRAN NF-5030
EMC/EMI Spectrum Analyzer with E & H sensors. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.aaronia.com/products/spectrum-analyzers/NF-5030-EMC-Spectrum-Analyzer/
USRP B200mini-i
Software defined radio and spectrum monitor. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Signal Generators
Oscilloscope and arbitrary waveform generator
Two channel Macintosh USB digital storage oscilloscope (2MHz) and a 2MHz DDS arbitrary waveform generator. Macintosh OS X oscilloscope software is supported through SourceForge.
Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Mac software: http://sourceforge.net/projects/oip
GW-Instek USG-Series
Frequency Range: 34.5MHz through 4400MHz. Output Power Range: -30dBm through 0dBm. USB powered.
Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows using Java.
https://www.gwinstek.com/en-global/products/detail/USG_Series
SG6000L(x) Single and Dual Output RF generators
Frequency Range of each independant output: 25MHz through 6000MHz. Output Power Range: -22dBm through +10dBm. USB powered.
Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Single:
https://www.dsinstruments.com/store/products/sg6000l-rf-signal-generator/
Dual:
https://www.dsinstruments.com/store/products/sg6000lx-dual-6ghz-rf-signal-generator/
VISA compatible Signal Generators
VISA (Virtual Instrument Software Architecture) allows automation of many instruments. National Instruments offers NI-VISA, a driver for VISA compatible instruments.
National Instruments download page (free download, must register):
http://joule.ni.com/nidu/cds/view/p/id/2919/lang/en
Background Information:
http://www.ni.com/white-paper/3513/en
Using Python with VISA (pyVISA):
http://pyvisa.sourceforge.net/
Rigol Technologies Information PDF:
http://beyondmeasure.rigoltech.com/acton/attachment/1579/f-00cd/0/-/-/-/-/file.pdf
See my page with examples of instrument automation.
Mac Audio Toolbox
Mac Audio Toolbox is an audio function generator for the Macintosh. Using no additional hardware, you can produce sine, square, triangle, and sawtooth waveforms of any frequency up to 22 kHz, as well as generate noise - both pink and white. Macintosh OS X only.
Audio Test 2.0
Wave types: sine wave, triangle wave, sawtooth wave, square wave, pulse wave, anti-aliased sawtooth wave, anti-aliased square wave, anti-aliased pulse wave, uniform distribution white noise, pink noise, brown noise, and Gaussian distribution white noise. Frequency and amplitude sweeps: fixed, linear , and logarithmic. AppleScript support. Macintosh OS X only.
http://www.katsurashareware.com/pgs/audiotest.html
Purchase it on the App Store
Tone Generator Software
Tone Generator is an easy-to-use program that can be used as a sine wave generator, frequency generator or signal generator that can create audio test tones, sweeps or noise waveforms. Macintosh OSX and Windows.
LabNation
A Kickstarter project. A open source two channel 100MS/s oscilloscope, 8 channel logic analyzer, 11 bit arbitrary waveform generator, and four channel digital pattern generator . Macintosh OS X, iOS, Linux, Android, and Windows.
Models 425A and 440A
Model 425A: Table Top Precision 350 MHz Frequency Synthesizer and Clock Generator.
Model 440A: Table Top 400MHz Frequency Synthesizer. Macintosh OS X, Linux, Android, and Windows.
http://www.novatech-instr.com/
USB Frequency Synthesizer, 5GHz - 10GHz
SCPI interface for all controls. SMA output connector. +18dBm max. output with 30dB of attenuation. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.fairviewmicrowave.com/usb-frequency-synthesizer-pll-5-10-ghz-sma-fmsn3902-p.aspx
Multimeters
QtDMM Multimeter Logger
QtDMM is a DMM readout software including a configurable recorder. Macintosh OS X and Linux.
http://www.mtoussaint.de/qtdmm.html
The web site only has binaries for versions 0.8.11 & 0.8.12. My son built version 0.9.0 which can be downloaded here.
You also have to download Qt for the libraries:
http://download.qt.io/archive/qt/4.8/4.8.6/
If you want to build it yourself, here are some tips from my son.
sigrok
Sigrok is intended as a flexible, cross-platform, and hardware-independent software suite. Macintosh OS X, Linux, UNIX, and Windows.
JMM (Java Multi Meter)
Single and automatic reading, Plot display. Alarms can be set. Java for Macintosh OS X, Linux, UNIX, and Windows.
http://agri-vision.nl/CMS/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=13&Itemid=46#Supported
See this page for Java to serial port issues:
http://blog.iharder.net/2009/08/18/rxtx-java-6-and-librxtxserial-jnilib-on-intel-mac-os-x/
Multimeter Data Logging Software
Java software for Digitech QM1538, Digitech QM1537, Digitek DT-9062, Digitek INO2513, Digitech QM1462, PeakTech 3330, Tenma 72-7745, Uni-Trend UT30A, Uni-Trend UT30E, Uni-Trend UT60E, Voltcraft VC 820, Voltcraft VC 840. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.forward.com.au/DataLoggingSoftware/MultimeterDataLoggingSoftware.html
tp4000zc.py
TekPower TP4000ZC digital multimeter data reader in Python. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
UT61E DMM
Command line source code for connecting a UT61E to a serial port. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Data Acquisition
LabJack
Several USB, Ethernet, and WiFi connected data acquisition products. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Macintosh OS X software download:
http://labjack.com/support/linux-and-mac-os-x-drivers
and:
https://labjack.com/support/software/installers
Data Acquisition software compatible with some of the LabJack products:
DAQ Plot:
http://www.vvidget.org/daq/index.html
National Instruments
Many data acquisition modules and boards. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.ni.com/mac/hardware.htm
Mac OS X software options:
For VISA information, see my PyVISA page here.
http://www.ni.com/white-paper/6909/en/
CAPTURE
Can download radon data files from the RAD7 and issue commands to the RAD7 for performing various common tasks. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
TC-SERVER - Thermochron Server
Ethernet or WiFi to 1-Wire sensors. Serves a web page. iOS, Android, Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.embeddeddatasystems.com/OW-SERVER-1-Wire-to-Ethernet-Server-Revision-2_p_152.html
Older model:
http://www.embeddeddatasystems.com/TC-SERVER--Thermochron-Server_p_156.html
PocketLab
Accelerometer, Gyroscope, magnetometer, Pressure, and Temperature collection. Communicates to iOS or Android then to any host. iOS, Android, Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
USB-5100 Data Logger
Four channel analog or thermocouple. USB interface. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
https://www.mccdaq.com/usb-data-acquisition/USB-5100-Series.aspx
Temperature
Reed SD-947
Four channel Thermometer with isolated 9600 baud serial output and SD card for logging. Supports K, J, T, E, R, and S type thermocouples. Also can accept two RTDs. Battery powered or uses 9 volt AC adapter. Macintosh OS X, UNIX, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.reedinstruments.com/product/reed-sd-947-thermocouple-thermometer-data-logger
I wrote a AppleScript to read the serial data into a tab delimited text file:
The script requires SerialPort X from here.
Blueastro
USB instrument for temperature, air pressure, humidity and dew point. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Pico Technology TC-08
Eight channel Thermometer with USB interface. Supports B,E,J,K,N,R,S,and T type thermocouples. Support for voltage and 4-20mA inputs. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.picotech.com/data-logger/tc-08/thermocouple-data-logger
Yocto-Thermocouple
Two channel Thermometer with USB interface. Supports type K thermocouples. Can be used with their Ethernet or WiFi quad USB hubs for remote, isolated measurements. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.yoctopuce.com/EN/products/usb-environmental-sensors/yocto-thermocouple
Measurement Computing USB-5104
Four channel Thermocouple plus ambient temperature with USB interface. Supports J, K, T, E, R, S, B, or N type thermocouples. Macintosh OS X, Android, and Windows.
http://www.mccdaq.com/usb-data-acquisition/USB-5104.aspx
HOBO Temperature/Relative Humidity/Light/External Data Logger
Measures temperature, relative humidity, and light intensity. Other sensors available. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://www.onsetcomp.com/products/data-loggers/u12-012
Phidgets 1051
Single channel type K Thermocouple to USB. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://www.phidgets.com/docs/1051_User_Guide
Thermistor
Works with QTI’s precision DirecTemp USB thermometers to gather temperature data in real time. Macintosh OS X only.
From the Mac OS X App Store.
Hardware:
http://www.thermistor.com/productsDirecTemp.php
Omega RH-USB Relative Humidity/Temperature sensor
Accurate to ±3% Relative Humidity, ±1°C (±1.8°F) Temperature. Interface is serial protocol at 9600 baud. Macintosh OS X, UNIX, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.omega.com/pptst/RH-USB.html
Serial command reference:
ftp://ftp.omega.com/public/DASGroup/products/RH-USB/RH_USB%20Command%20Reference.pdf
For iOS compatible instruments, see my iOS page.
Others
Device Programers
XGecu TL866II Plus Universal Programmer with minipro open source software
About $120.00 an Amazon, this programmer supports almost 17k chip variants. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows. Software:
https://gitlab.com/DavidGriffith/minipro
Programmer:
http://www.autoelectric.cn/EN/TL866_main.html
Device list:
flashrom
Software for many programmers and embedded targets. Can use a raspberry Pi or a Bus Pirate as a SPI memory programmer. Macintosh OS X, UNIX, Linux, and Windows.
Programmer/Target list: https://www.flashrom.org/Supported_programmers
Installation: http://macappstore.org/flashrom/
https://www.flashrom.org/Flashrom
Segger family of MCU/MPU programers
The J-Link and J-Trace programming/debug pods. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.segger.com/products/debug-trace-probes/
P&E Microcomputer Systems family of MCU/MPU programers
The Multilink programming/debug pods. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
Rowley MCU/MPU programer
CrossConnect programming/debug pod. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
https://www.rowley.co.uk/arm/CrossConnect.htm
GALmate
A hardware & software project at www.ythiee.com. For programming Lattice GAL CPLDs. To build a Macintosh application you must have a PureBasic license to compile the code, the code is too big for the free license. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
https://www.ythiee.com/category/programmable-logic/galmate/
Software:
https://www.ythiee.com/2021/06/06/galmate-software/
PureBasic Compiler:
Thermal Cameras
Seek CompactPRO
320x240 thermal sensor for iPhone. 32-degree field of view. Focus down to 6 inches so it is useful for PCB thermal analysis and validation. Reads from -40°C to 330°C. Seek has other models with lower resolution.
http://www.thermal.com/products/compactpro
FLIR ONE
80x60 thermal sensor for iPhone. Dual camera system. Fixed focus. Reads from -20°C to 120°C.
http://www.flir.com/flirone/ios-android/?pi_ad_id=102639512905&gclid=CI3Q5JGatc4CFYU0aQodnMMEbA
Programmable RF Attenuators
One to eight channels. Up to 8GHz. USB and Ethernet ports. Communicates as serial port/Telnet. Macintosh OS X, UNIX, Linux, and Windows.
Marki PMA1-08
RF power meter. Internal rechargeable battery. Communicates as serial port. Macintosh OS X, UNIX, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.markimicrowave.com/assets/datasheets/pma1-08.pdf
Mini-Circuits PWR-4GHS
RF power sensor. 9kHz to 4GHz. Macintosh OS X with Python, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.omega.com/pptst/PX409-USBH.html
Python software for Mac OS X:
http://www.nf6x.net/2014/11/pyminicircuits-python-support-for-mini-circuits-portable-test-equipment/
Rohde & Schwarz NRP-Z Power Sensors
NRP power meters with NRP-Z3 interface. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/us/product/nrpz-productstartpage_63493-8476.html
Download NRP-Toolkit for MacOS X:
https://www.rohde-schwarz.com/us/software/nrpz3/#
Omega PX409 Pressure Transducers
A family of USB pressure sensors. High accuracy, 1000 readings per second. Interface is serial protocol at 115,200 baud. Macintosh OS X, UNIX, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.omega.com/pptst/PX409-USBH.html
RF Switch Matrix, 6 and 20 GHz
Four port SMA connector. USB powered. Macintosh OS X, UNIX, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.dsinstruments.com/store/products/category/rf-switch-matrix/
Ubertooth One Bluetooth Scanner
The Ubertooth One is an open source Bluetooth development platform. Based on NXP's LPC1756 ARM Cortex-M3 microcontroller. Communicates with host over full-speed USB 2.0. It’s capable of sending and receiving 2.4 GHz signals, or it can operate in monitor mode, monitoring Bluetooth traffic in real-time. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://ubertooth.sourceforge.net/hardware/one/
Installing on OS X:
http://www.continuousthinking.com/2014/05/19/ubertooth-one-on-osx.html
Or:
http://j2abro.blogspot.com/2014/05/ubertooth-mac-installation-notes.html
ScopeBox
Several video and audio scope instruments. Waveform, Vectorscope, RGB Parade, RGB Histogram, Preview, Audio Meter, Surround Meter, YCbCr Parade, Luma Histogram, Channel Plot, HML Balance, and Timecode. Macintosh OS X only.
http://www.divergentmedia.com/scopebox
4KScope
Vectorscope, Waveform, Chromaticity, Histogram, Picture, and Data. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://www.drastic.tv/productsmenu-56/videoiosoftwarelist/4kscope
UltraScope with Pocket UltraScope or Blackmagic UltraScope
UltraScope displays 6 different scopes, waveform, vectorscope, RGB parade, YUV component parade, histogram, audio phase and audio level meters, plus picture view. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/ultrascope
catEYE
Waveform and vectorscope for realtime luminance and chrominance analysis. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://www.m2port.com/cateye.html
Analog Discovery 2 USB Oscilloscope, Logic Analyzer & Power Supply
Two-channel USB digital oscilloscope, Two-channel arbitrary function generator, voltmeter, 16-channel digital logic analyzer, pattern generator, or I/O. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Software:
https://reference.digilentinc.com/waveforms3#newest
Electronics Explorer
4-channel, 40MSa Oscilloscopes, 2-channel Arbitrary Waveform Generator, 4-channel voltmeter, 2 programmable reference voltages, Triple-output power supply (two programmable), and 32 digital signals that can be configured as logic analyzer, pattern generator, or I/Os. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Software:
Curve Tracer
Capable of 30 volts and 1 amp. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.syscompdesign.com/CTR-101_ep_60-1.html
Programmable Power Supply
A 14 volt 1 amp power supply. Offers a USB interface option that supports programming and logging. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.syscompdesign.com/PSM-101_ep_61-1.html
Kepco
Many power supplies with SCPI over Ethernet. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.kepcopower.com/bop-e.htm
IEEE-488/GPIB
Prologix GPIB-Ethernet and GPIB-USB Controllers
Download data and control GPIB bus enabled oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, function generators, power supplies, and any other GPIB instrument seamlessly through USB! Macintosh OS X, Linux, BSD, Windows.
Software for instrument control:
http://kenai.com/projects/icontrol
GPIB controller available from:
http://www.sparkfun.com/commerce/product_info.php?products_id=549
http://sewelldirect.com/Prologix-GPIB-to-Ethernet-LAN.asp
LAN to GPIB Gateway
The 8065 is fully VXI-11 compatible so you can use RPC calls or Java to run the 8065. An internal Web Server lets you change the 8065's network settings from any web browser. Macintosh OS X, UNIX, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.icselect.com/vxi11_ctlr_ds.html
USB
Beagle USB 5000 SuperSpeed USB Protocol Analyzer
USB 3.0 bus monitor that provides real-time interactive capture and analysis of USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 (up to 5 Gbps). Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.totalphase.com/products/beagle_usb5000/
USB Power Delivery Analyzer
USB C connector power analyzer. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.totalphase.com/products/usb-power-delivery-analyzer/
Automotive CAN Bus
Komodo CAN Solo Interface
The Komodo interface is an all-in-one tool capable of active CAN data transmission as well as non-intrusive CAN bus monitoring. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.totalphase.com/products/komodo-cansolo/
PCAN-USB
Bit rates from 5 kbit/s up to 1 Mbit/s. Time stamp resolution approximately 42 µs. Compliant with CAN specifications 2.0A (11-bit ID) and 2.0B (29-bit ID). 5-Volt supply to the CAN connection can be connected through a jumper. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://www.peak-system.com/PCAN-USB.199.0.html?&L=1
Mac OS X software:
Ginkgo USB-CAN Interface
Dual CAN bus interface with optional termination resistors. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.viewtool.com/index.php/en/14-2016-07-26-07-18-35/57-2016-07-27-07-19-58
There is no Macintosh application available, but there are drivers:
http://www.viewtool.com/index.php/en/20-2016-07-29-02-10-12/16-ginkgo-2
Kvaser Leaf Light V2
CAN bus to USB adapter.
https://www.kvaser.com/videos/kvaser-leaf-light-v2/
Macintosh drivers:
http://aph-le.github.io/can4osx/
Macintosh Application, This includes the CANopen DeviceDesigner, to design a single to CANopen device and the CANopen NetworkDesigner to design and simulate complete CANopen networks.:
https://www.emotas.de/en/allgemein/cancanopen-toolchain-fuer-mac-os-x-verfuegbar
USB-to-CAN V2 by Ixxat
CAN bus to USB adapter.
Macintosh drivers:
http://aph-le.github.io/can4osx/
Macintosh Application, This includes the CANopen DeviceDesigner, to design a single to CANopen device and the CANopen NetworkDesigner to design and simulate complete CANopen networks.:
https://www.emotas.de/en/allgemein/cancanopen-toolchain-fuer-mac-os-x-verfuegbar
USBtin - USB to CAN interface
USBtin is a USB to CAN interface. It monitors CAN busses and transmit CAN messages. USBtin implements the USB CDC class and creates a virtual comport on the host computer. Control with simple serial protocol (LAWICEL / SLCAN compatible). Supports CAN baud rates from 10k to 1M. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
CANtact
CANtact is an open source software tool for interfacing with Controller Area Network systems from the desktop. Work with any device that uses the LAWICEL protocol. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://linklayer.github.io/cantact/
Git:
https://github.com/linklayer/cantact-app
CANable
CANable is a small open-source USB to CAN adapter. The CANable shows up as a virtual serial port on your computer and acts as a serial-line to CAN interface. CANable works with cantact-app and SavvyCAN. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Store:
https://www.tindie.com/stores/protofusion/
A0 wireless ODB-II interface
Using open source firmware through the Arduino IDE, the A0 provides a CAN interface through a ODB-II connector. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.macchina.cc/catalog
Embedded firmware options:
Host software options:
M2 wired/wireless ODB-II interface (under hood option too)
Uses open source firmware. ISO9141 (K-line), J1850, LIN, 2 CAN channels, and single wire CAN. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.macchina.cc/catalog
Embedded firmware options:
Host software options:
SavvyCAN Software
Open source CAN display, capture, filtering, histograms, and graphing. Supports interface protocols GVRET and preliminary support for LAWICEL. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
Works with many interfaces, including:
CanCat Software
Open source firmware for the interface and open source Python for the host side. Can use M2, Arduino DUE with Togglebit.net's CAN shield, and Arduino with SeeedStudio's CANBUS Shield. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://github.com/atlas0fd00m/CanCat
CanTools command line tools & Python library
Open source. Macintosh OS X, Linux, Raspberry Pi, and Windows.
More
Adauratech 4-Channel RF Attenuator
The AD-USB4A provides 0.05-6.00GHz 50 ohms operation in 1dB steps. Four independent channels can be controlled and powered via one single USB port. Programming via simple serial port commands. There is a two channel model too. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://adauratech.com/adusb4a/
MultiInspector Spectral Analyzer
MultiInspectorFree is a 31 band spectral analyzer with multitrack functionality. It incorporates a standard third octave frequency analyzer. Center frequencies of the bands are based on the ISO 266:1997 standard (20 Hz to 20 kHz). Macintosh OS X and Windows.
AxoGraph X
Data acquisition and analyze time-series data. Has publication quality graphics. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
Blueastro
USB instrument for temperature, air pressure, humidity and dew point. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
If you have any comments or know of links I should add, please feel free to email me.
VISA compatible Instruments
VISA (Virtual Instrument Software Architecture) allows automation of many instruments. National Instruments offers NI-VISA, a driver for VISA compatible instruments.
National Instruments download page (free download, must register):
http://joule.ni.com/nidu/cds/view/p/id/2919/lang/en
Background Information:
http://www.ni.com/white-paper/3513/en
Using Python with VISA (pyVISA):
http://pyvisa.sourceforge.net/
Rigol Technologies Information PDF:
http://beyondmeasure.rigoltech.com/acton/attachment/1579/f-00cd/0/-/-/-/-/file.pdf
See my page with examples of instrument automation.
AD Instruments’ LabChart Pro software
Data acquisition software for their modules. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://www.adinstruments.com/products/software/research/LabChart-Software/
National Instruments’ NI-VISA
Universal I/O Interface Software. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://joule.ni.com/nidu/cds/view/p/id/1520/lang/en
Here is a summary of National Instruments on OS X:
DAQFlex Data Acquisition software
The DAQFlex framework consists of an Application Programming Interface (API), a message-based command set, and a lightweight, open-source driver that interfaces to select MCC DAQ devices. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
SPARK and PASPORT
Data collection and computer interface primarily for the education market. Many sensor interfaces. iPad support. SPARKvue for iPad and Android. Capstone for Macintosh OS X and Windows.
SonicBirth, a AudioUnit designing application
Includes many signal processing modules. Modules require a host application like Ardour, GarageBand, Ableton Suite, and AudioFinder. Macintosh OS X only.
http://sonicbirth.sourceforge.net/
Aardvark I2C/SPI Host Adapter
The Aardvark I2C/SPI Host Adapter is a fast and powerful I2C bus and SPI bus host adapter through USB. It allows a developer to interface a desktop computer via USB to a downstream embedded system. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.totalphase.com/products/aardvark_i2cspi/
Ardour Digital audio workstation
Unlimited audio tracks and buses, non-linear editing with unlimited undo, Anything-to-anywhere signal routing, Unlimited pre- and post-fader plugins, 32 bit floating point audio path. Macintosh OS X and Linux.
Gardner Company DC5-420TH Microscope Camera
2.0 Mega pixels. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
Blue Cat Audio
Several audio analysis tools. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
The MacNauchtan Laboratory
Several math, analysis, and interface tools tools. Tektronixwaves.pl connects to a Tektronix 11403 and reads out three traces. Macintosh OS X only.
Logger Pro
Data-collection and analysis software. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://www.vernier.com/products/software/lp/
Data acquisition hardware:
http://www.vernier.com/products/interfaces/labpro/
http://www.vernier.com/products/interfaces/labq/
XR5-SE Data Logger
Has 8 multi-range analog inputs, 3 pulse/frequency inputs, and millivolt / thermocouple range options. Includes: Adjustable sensor excitation, status indicators and detachable 20 position screw terminal block. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://www.pace-sci.com/data-loggers-xr5.htm
HOBO Data Loggers
Large family of loggers and sensors. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
USB Data Acquisition Module with Relays, Temperature, and Analog/Digital I/O
Low cost USB interface for Relay and data acquisition. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://www.canakit.com/4-port-usb-relay-controller.html
DLP-IO8-G 8 channel data acquisition module
Supports analog in, digital in, digital out, and temperature. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
Hardware:
http://www.dlpdesign.com/usb/dlp-io8-ds-v16.pdf
Software from the Mac App Store, download DAQ Plot
USerial - USB to I2C/SPI/GPIO bridge
Open source hardware and software for a USB device to read and drive I2C, SPI and GPIO. Macintosh OS X, UNIX, Linux, and Windows.
Nano River Technologies
Nano River Technologies offers four USB boards with SPI (up to 50MB/s), I2C (up to 6MB/s), GPIOs and analog I/O. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
Image SXM
Image SXM is a version of the public domain image analysis software NIH Image that has been extended to handle the loading, display and analysis of scanning microscope images. Image SXM supports SAM, SCM, SEM, SFM, SLM, SNOM, SPM and STM images from many systems.
http://www.liv.ac.uk/~sdb/ImageSXM/
GMW Associates TFM1186-PC Three-Axis Teslameter
Three-axis Fluxgate Probe with USB Interface. Measuring field up to 100µT, and AC fields up to 1kHz, 0.5% accuracy. Macintosh OS X and Windows.
http://www.gmw.com/magnetic_measurements/MetroLab/THM-1176_pricing.html
Wire Self Inductance Calculators
Self inductance calculator for several wire shapes and PCB traces. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
http://www.eeweb.com/toolbox/wire-inductance
Microscopes
Several models including wireless. Macintosh OS X, iOS, Android, and Windows.
ILT2400 (Hand Held light meter)
Measurement Range: 2e-2 to 2e+5 Lumens. Spectral Range: 400 - 700 nm.
https://www.intl-lighttech.com/products/ilt2400-sed033yins125
Mac software:
https://www.intl-lighttech.com/light-meter-software
Tenma 72-6630
Old programmable power supply. Controlled with RS-232, 9600 baud.
Set Volts with:VOLTnnn (example: VOLT041 sets the voltage to 4.1 volts)
Set Current with:CURRnnn (example: CURR022 sets the current limit to 0.22 amps)
Read display with:GETD
Reset power supply: SRST
Data Link:
https://www.newark.com/tenma/72-6630/power-supply-bench-30v/dp/50N1383?st=72-6630
DOS software download:
My Mac software is here.
tenma-serial
Controls some Tenma, Koradka, and Velleman power supplies. Python code. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://github.com/kxtells/tenma-serial
Dracal Logger Software
Logger features an easy to use graphical user interface supporting all our sensors products communicating via USB-protocol. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.dracal.com/store/products/qtenki/index.php
If you are trying to put together a lab on a budget, look here.
For iOS compatible instruments, see my iOS page.
Visit my other pages:
USB Sniffer Project
USB Sniffer project for low, full, and high speed debugging. Macintosh OS X, Linux, and Windows.
https://www.totalphase.com/products/usb-power-delivery-analyzer/