Tektronix 504 Oscilloscope – Possible Curve Tracer Scope?

In my opinion, it is more than capable of being utilized as a curve tracer. The CRT is nice (blue-ish) with a very nice bright and sharp trace (usually). You shouldn’t encounter any problem I don’t think. Now the cons: For someone having plenty of space to deal with around the lab is a brilliant idea but looking at the physical dimensions (21 1/2″ long, 9 3/4″ wide, 13 1/2″ high, and 29 Pounds in weight) this scope is a real massive beast and requires quite a big space and this aspect could be a massive deal breaker for people with limited space (IE: myself) but if the space is not an issue for you by all means this is a nice piece of “History” to own. The choice is yours.

Posted by: @bh2024el

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I’ve come across a Type 504 scope for a very reasonable price and was curious if this scope would work well for the “curve tracer build” project?

One key difference is between the 503 and the 504 is that the 503 has a separate phase matched amplifiers for each input and the 504 does not have that – only a simple ground referenced vertical amplifier. So I’m not if this scope would be a good fit for that project or not?

Thanks for an input you all may have!

 

Absolutely, I pick them up anytime I can within a reasonable price. The WO-33A Paul used is a very basic scope, which means any scope that is capable of an external X and Y display can be used as a curve tracer. The 504 is a perfect setup for that! 

@ovi4 the color all depends on which phosphor it has but I always hope for the P11 blue. Of all my scopes at the moment, I only have one blue CRT and I have yet to see it in action.