ThunderScope: The First Thunderbolt-Compatible Open Source Software Defined Oscilloscope

ThunderScope is a revolutionary open-source oscilloscope designed to leverage the power of Thunderbolt technology, enabling real-time sample data streaming to your computer at speeds exceeding 1 GB/s. By utilizing the advanced processing capabilities of modern devices, ThunderScope eliminates the limitations associated with traditional oscilloscopes.

ThunderScope redefines the oscilloscope user experience with a modern, multi-window layout that supports contemporary accessibility features. This user-friendly interface replaces the cramped UI of traditional oscilloscopes, making measurements quick and easy. Sample memory is expanded from megabytes to gigabytes, and the fixed list of protocols and trigger types is replaced with a continuously growing repository.

Designed with students, hobbyists, and professionals in mind, ThunderScope offers unique benefits for each user group. For students, its compact form factor and modern UI are perfect for on-the-go use, providing a portable solution that fits into a laptop bag. High-resolution display compatibility and easy screenshot capabilities streamline lab report creation. Hobbyists and makers will appreciate that ThunderScope comes fully equipped, eliminating the need for hardware hacking to unlock additional features. As an open-source platform, it invites users to modify and enhance the device itself. For professionals, custom protocols and automated measurements can be easily integrated into ThunderScope’s software. The ability to stream triggered data to MATLAB facilitates advanced analysis.

Key features of ThunderScope include its compact design, which allows users to control and power their entire test setup with a laptop and store it conveniently in a laptop bag. The flexible bandwidth of ThunderScope’s channels, rated up to 350 MHz, fully utilizes the ADC’s 1 GS/s sample rate. This allows for 100 MHz on four channels, 200 MHz on two channels, or 350 MHz on a single channel. ThunderScope ensures it is always up to date by streaming samples to your device for processing, giving users access to the latest triggers, protocols, and measurements. The powerful Artix-7 FPGA, specifically the XC7A35T-2CSG325C from Xilinx, enables 1 GB/s real-time data streaming. With 6.2 GB/s total data throughput capacity, this FPGA ensures no data is missed while managing all board operations.

The technical specifications of ThunderScope are impressive, featuring four channels, an analog bandwidth of 350 MHz, a sample rate of 1 GS/s, and an 8-bit resolution. The voltage ranges from 1 mV to 10 V per division with a 1× probe, and the memory depth can be as many gigabytes as you can allocate. It is compatible with both Windows and Linux operating systems.

ThunderScope is completely open source, and all development and design decisions are detailed on its hackaday.io page. This transparency allows users to understand and modify every aspect of the oscilloscope, fostering a community of innovation and collaboration.

ThunderScope transforms how we approach oscilloscope use by combining Thunderbolt technology, open-source flexibility, and modern design. Whether you’re a student, hobbyist, or professional, ThunderScope offers a powerful, versatile tool for your electronic testing and development needs. Sign up on the ThunderScope page to stay updated and be part of this exciting project.

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