Instrumentation I: How to evaluate microprocessor instruments: On the plus side: Flexibility, reliability, interlace standardization; but some inferior designs confuse the user

In a race to embrace microprocessor technology, the electronic test instrument industry has offered a variety of new instruments: oscilloscopes, voltmeters, counters, signal generators, data loggers, and more. But the instrument purchaser and/or user must see beyond the initial excitement and make down-to-earth decisions regarding the relative importance of the many features and advantages now claimed for these products. As a guide to the instrument user, examples of typical changes brought about by the use of microprocessors in instruments will be outlined here together with important points to be considered before purchasing a microprocessor-based instrument.