Chauvin Arnoux CA922 / CA942 Handheld Oscilloscope

Overview

The Chauvin Arnoux CA922 and CA942 HANDSCOPE series are professional-grade handheld oscilloscopes engineered for field reliability, safety-critical measurements, and multi-instrument versatility in industrial maintenance, R&D laboratories, and technical education environments. Built upon a dual-isolated architecture compliant with IEC/EN 61010-1, these instruments integrate three core measurement functions—oscilloscopy, digital multimeter (DMM), and harmonic spectrum analysis—within a single ruggedized platform. The CA942 operates at a 40 MHz analog bandwidth with 2 GS/s equivalent sampling, enabling accurate capture of fast transient events in power electronics, motor drives, and switching power supplies; the CA922 provides 20 MHz bandwidth optimized for general-purpose troubleshooting where cost-performance balance is prioritized. Both models employ a high-contrast color TFT display with adjustable LED backlighting and intuitive icon-driven navigation, supporting on-device multilingual help—eliminating reliance on external documentation during time-sensitive diagnostics.

Key Features

• Two fully isolated input channels rated CAT III 600 V / CAT II 1000 V, ensuring safe operation in live low-voltage distribution systems and industrial control panels.
• Integrated 8,000-count true-RMS multimeter with AC/DC voltage (up to 800 V), resistance (80 Ω to 32 MΩ), capacitance (5 nF to 5 mF), and frequency (20 Hz–50 kHz) measurement capabilities.
• Real-time harmonic analysis up to the 31st order, with configurable fundamental frequency range from 40 Hz to 450 Hz—ideal for evaluating THD, interharmonics, and compliance with IEEE 519 or EN 61000-4-7 standards.
• 2 MB internal memory supports waveform logging (up to 2,700 graphical records in DMM mode over periods ranging from 5 minutes to 30 days) and SCPI-based remote control via isolated USB interface.
• IP54-rated enclosure with shock-absorbing housing and ergonomic single-hand operation—designed for durability in harsh environments including factory floors, outdoor substations, and mobile service vehicles.
• Eco-design certified construction with RoHS-compliant materials and energy-efficient NiMH battery system delivering 5h45m–8h30m continuous operation per charge.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CA922/CA942 series meets stringent international safety and electromagnetic compatibility requirements essential for deployment in regulated sectors. Dual insulation and reinforced creepage/clearance distances satisfy IEC/EN 61010-1 for measurement category CAT III 600 V, permitting direct connection to mains-supplied equipment in commercial and light-industrial settings. CE and UKCA markings confirm conformity with EU and UK Machinery, EMC, and Low Voltage Directives. RoHS compliance ensures restriction of hazardous substances across all PCBs, enclosures, and accessories. While not FDA-regulated, the instrument’s data integrity features—including timestamped logging, non-volatile memory retention, and SCPI command traceability—support GLP-aligned workflows in calibration labs and quality assurance departments requiring audit-ready records.

Software & Data Management

Data acquisition and post-processing are streamlined through SX-METRO PC software, which communicates with the device via an optically isolated USB interface compliant with Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments (SCPI). This architecture prevents ground loops and protects host computers from electrical transients during field measurements. SX-METRO enables automated script execution, real-time waveform streaming, comparative overlay analysis, and export to CSV, PNG, or PDF formats. All stored waveforms and DMM logs retain full metadata—including date/time stamps, channel configuration, trigger conditions, and user-defined annotations—ensuring traceability under ISO/IEC 17025 or internal QA procedures. Firmware updates are delivered via signed binary packages, preserving cryptographic integrity and version control across fleet deployments.

Applications

These instruments serve as primary diagnostic tools across diverse technical domains: In predictive maintenance, technicians analyze inverter output waveforms, detect insulation breakdown signatures in motor windings, and quantify harmonic distortion in variable-frequency drives. In educational labs, students visualize signal integrity, phase relationships, and FFT spectral content without requiring benchtop infrastructure. R&D engineers use the isolated dual-channel capability to characterize cross-talk in mixed-signal PCBs or validate switching node timing in GaN-based converters. Power quality auditors deploy the harmonic analyzer mode to assess compliance with utility interconnection agreements and identify resonance risks in capacitor bank installations. The integrated DMM eliminates instrument switching during routine panel inspections—reducing setup time and minimizing exposure to energized conductors.

FAQ

What is the maximum safe input voltage for the oscilloscope channels?

Each channel supports up to 600 V DC or 600 V RMS (50 Ω load) under CAT III 600 V conditions, with double insulation verified per IEC/EN 61010-1.

Can the CA942 perform FFT analysis on captured waveforms?

Yes—the built-in harmonic analyzer performs real-time FFT-based spectral decomposition up to the 31st harmonic, with user-selectable fundamental frequency between 40 Hz and 450 Hz.

Is the USB interface galvanically isolated?

Yes—optical isolation is implemented on the USB data lines to prevent ground-loop currents and protect connected PCs from high-voltage transients.

Does the device support third-party SCPI commands beyond SX-METRO?

All SCPI commands conform to IEEE 488.2 syntax and are publicly documented in the CA9xx Programmer Manual, enabling integration with LabVIEW, Python (PyVISA), MATLAB, or custom automation frameworks.

What warranty coverage applies to the CA922/CA942?

Chauvin Arnoux provides a standard 3-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and proper maintenance conditions.