Saleae Logic Analyser
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What is the Logic 8?
The Saleae Logic 8 is a compact, USB-powered logic analyser (with limited mixed-signal oscilloscope functionality) designed for capturing and analysing digital signals—and, to a certain extent, analogue signals. It connects to your computer via USB and uses Saleae’s proprietary software to display, record, and decode various communication protocols (SPI, I²C, UART, CAN, etc.) as well as analogue waveforms.
The Saleae Logic 8 Analyser was donated as part of the Love Essex Fund in 2025.
As part of the purchase, the following was provided:
Wire Harness - 2x4 to Test Clips (Channels 0-3)
Wire Harness - 2x4 to Test Clips (Channels 4-7)
Test Clips 8-Pack (Gen 2)
Logic-to-2x4 Header (Gen 2)
Nano-size Test Clip - for leads < .025 inch diameter (< .64 mm) (x4)
Key Functions
- Digital Signal Capture
It can sample up to eight channels of digital data at speeds of up to 100 MS/s, enabling you to observe and debug digital circuits in (near) real-time.
- Analogue Monitoring
In addition to digital signals, the Logic 8 can capture analogue waveforms at up to 10 MS/s (with a 5 MHz bandwidth). Whilst it isn’t a fully featured oscilloscope, it can help with basic analogue signal observation.
- Protocol Decoding
The Saleae software automatically decodes many common communication protocols (SPI, I²C, UART, etc.), which saves considerable time when troubleshooting complex serial data.
Why it can be “better” than a traditional oscilloscope in some scenarios
Built-In Protocol Decoding & Analysis
Standard oscilloscopes can display waveforms but often require expensive software add-ons for protocol decoding. The Logic 8 software includes decoders for many protocols, making it far simpler to pinpoint exactly where digital communication issues occur.
- Deep Memory & Extended Capture Times
Many logic analysers (including the Logic 8) can record a large number of samples (10+ billion, limited mainly by your PC’s memory), allowing long-duration captures. By contrast, standalone oscilloscopes often have more limited onboard memory, restricting the length of time you can record at high sample rates.
- Portable, Compact Design
The Logic 8 is very small and lightweight—easy to slip into a laptop bag. This portability is particularly advantageous if you move between different workstations or need to debug in the field.
- Computer Integration & User-Friendly Software
Because the device is controlled via your computer, you can make use of a larger screen, intuitive zoom and scroll controls, and straightforward data saving/sharing. Saleae’s software is known for being easy to use and offers features such as advanced searching, markers, and triggers to streamline debugging.
When a traditional oscilloscope might still be preferable
High-Frequency Analogue Signals: If you need to measure signals beyond the Logic 8’s bandwidth or you require detailed analogue analysis (e.g., sub-nanosecond rise times), a high-bandwidth oscilloscope is more appropriate.
Precise Analogue Measurements: Oscilloscopes typically provide a higher-resolution vertical scale, multiple input ranges, and better signal integrity for in-depth analogue analysis.
| Inputs | |
|---|---|
| Multi-Use (A/D/Both) | 8 |
| Digital | |
| Sample Rate (max) | 100 MS/s |
| Fastest Digital Signal | 25 MHz |
| Sample Depth (max) | 10+ Billion |
| Supported Logic Levels | 1.8 V – 5.5 V |
| Works with RS‑232, 422/3, 485 | Yes |
| Analog | |
| Sample Rate (max) | 10 MS/s |
| Bandwidth (3 dB) | 5 MHz |
| Input Range | ±5 V |
| Input Voltage Range | 0 V to 5 V |
| Included | |
| Test Lead Set | x2 |
| Test Clips 8‑Pack | x2 |
| USB Cable and Carry Case | Yes |
| Physical | |
| Size | 2.1″ × 2.1″ × 0.46″ (53 × 53 × 12 mm) |
| Weight | 2.1 oz (60 g) |
| USB | Yes |
| USB Type | USB 2.0 |