The Owon HDS2102S firmware update is a critical maintenance step primarily used to resolve a known horizontal display bug at the 2ns/div time base. However, official firmware distribution is strictly tied to specific hardware revisions and serial numbers, meaning there is no "universal" latest version for all units. Key Verified Fix: 2ns/div Display Issue
Reviewers have verified that updating to at least version 1.5.1 (for compatible hardware) fixes a significant scaling error:
The Bug: A 50 MHz signal at the 2ns/div setting incorrectly spanned 8 divisions (16ns period), showing inaccurate data.
The Verified Fix: After the update, the same signal correctly spans 10 divisions for a full waveform (20ns period), aligning with the true 50 MHz frequency. Critical Warning: Firmware Compatibility
Do not attempt to flash any firmware found online without first verifying your unit's current version and hardware generation.
Version Locking: Units running V1.x, V2.x, V3.x, or V4.x are generally not compatible with each other. For example, if your unit has V4.3.0, you cannot "upgrade" it with V1.5.1 or V2.0.4 files.
Hardware Changes: Older units used Gigadevice flash chips that are often non-upgradable due to hard-coded checksums, while newer units (hardware V3.0+) use Macronix chips that support updates.
Official Stance: Owon has occasionally advised users via email not to upgrade if no version is specifically listed for their serial number on the Owon Download Center. Verified Update Methods
Two primary methods have been documented by the community for the HDS200 series: Mass Storage (MSC) Method: Set the USB mode to MSC in the system menu.
Connect to a PC; the scope will appear as a removable drive. Copy the Scope.upp firmware file to the root directory. Restart the device to trigger the automated update. Bootloader/Tool Method:
Uses specialized flashing software provided by the manufacturer (often found on Onetech).
Requires manual installation of USB drivers and putting the device into bootloader mode by cycling power while connected to the PC. Known Firmware Versions OWON HDS 200 Handheld Oscilloscope w/ builtin DMM/AWG
Updating firmware on the OWON HDS2102S Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
is a task that requires careful verification of your current hardware and software versions, as updates are not cross-compatible across different main version branches. Key Firmware Facts & Verified Issues
Version Compatibility: If your scope has a version starting with V4.x.x, you can only update to other V4 versions. Attempting to use V1.5.1 or V2.0.4 on a V4 unit will fail and potentially brick the device.
Resolved Display Bug: Earlier units (pre-V1.51) had a display discrepancy where the 2ns/div horizontal range showed incorrect timing (actually 2.5ns/div). This was verified to be fixed in firmware V1.51.
Availability: Official downloadable updates for V3 and V4 branches are often not public. OWON support has occasionally advised users with these versions not to attempt updates unless a specific bug is present. owon hds2102s firmware update verified
New Features: Recent updates (such as V4.7.1+) have introduced Ampere units for vertical measurements, useful for clamp meter users, and renamed certain commands (e.g., SQR to RMS). Verified Update Procedure
According to user reports and technical guides, the upgrade process follows these steps:
Check Version: Navigate to the System menu on the HDS scope and select System (F2) to view your current version.
Enable USB Mode: In the System menu, set the USB mode to MSC (Mass Storage Class).
Transfer File: Connect the device to a PC. A removable disk will appear. Copy the .upp firmware file (e.g., Scope.upp) directly to the root of this disk.
Execute: Power the scope off and back on. The device will automatically run the upgrade and shut down when finished. Where to Find Files
Official Portal: Check the OWON Download Center for the latest general releases.
Community Archives: For older or specific version branches, the EEVblog forum and GitHub archives are the primary sources for verified firmware files.
Updating the firmware on your Owon HDS2102S handheld oscilloscope is a critical maintenance step to resolve known display bugs and unlock new measurement features. Using a verified update process ensures you don't accidentally "brick" the device by using incompatible files. Why Update Your HDS2102S?
Recent verified updates address specific hardware-software synchronization issues that affected early units:
Timebase Accuracy: Fixed a prominent bug where the 2ns/div horizontal setting incorrectly displayed a 50 MHz signal as having a 16ns period instead of 20ns.
Enhanced Measurements: Newer versions like V4.7.1 and above have introduced RMS measurements and added vertical units in Amperes, which is particularly useful for users working with clamp meters.
Trigger Stability: Fixed 2-channel trigger bugs that occurred when using multiple inputs simultaneously. Verified Firmware Versions (2024-2025)
The HDS200 series uses different hardware branches. You must match your update to your current Main Version Number found in the System menu. Hardware Generation Recent Verified Versions Key Fixes/Features V1.x Branch 2ns/div graticule spacing fix V4.x Branch V4.7.1, V4.9.0 RMS measurements, Ampere units, Trigger fixes V8.x Branch General stability for 2024+ hardware models
Warning: According to official Owon support statements, if your device does not show an available update when you enter your full current version number on the Owon Download Center, you should not attempt to flash a different branch, as they are not cross-compatible. Step-by-Step Update Guide Follow these steps to ensure a safe, verified update:
Check Current Version: Turn on the scope, press System -> F2 (System), and go to the next page to find your current version and serial number. The Owon HDS2102S firmware update is a critical
Download the File: Visit the Owon Software Center and enter your model (HDS2102S) and current version. Prepare the Device:
Press System, navigate to the second page, and select Upgrade. Set the USB mode to MSC (Mass Storage Class).
Transfer Firmware: Connect the scope to your PC via USB. It will appear as a removable disk. Copy the firmware file (typically named Scope.upp) directly to the root directory.
Finalize: Safely eject the USB and power cycle the scope. It will automatically detect the file, perform the upgrade, and shut down once finished. Pro-Tips for a Successful Flash What is the latest FW version for OWON HDS2102s? - EEVblog
Verified Firmware Updates for the OWON HDS2102S Updating the firmware on the OWON HDS2102S
handheld oscilloscope is a critical maintenance step that can resolve hardware-level display bugs and improve measurement accuracy. However, unlike standard consumer electronics, these updates are highly hardware-specific and require careful verification to avoid bricking the device. Why Update? Key Fixes and Improvements
The most significant verified fix in recent firmware versions (such as ) addresses a major horizontal display discrepancy Original Issue
: In the 2ns/div range, graticules were incorrectly spaced, leading to inaccurate frequency readings (e.g., a 50 MHz signal appeared as 16ns instead of the correct 20ns). Verified Fix
: Version 1.5.1 corrected this scaling, ensuring that 50 MHz signals are properly timed across the 10-division display. Performance Stability
: Newer firmware versions also improve digital trigger robustness and hysteresis settings, making the device more reliable in electrically noisy environments. Critical Pre-Update Verification
Before attempting an update, you must verify your specific hardware version. OWON uses different firmware tracks for different manufacturing batches, and they are not cross-compatible Check Current Version
: Navigate to the "System" menu to find your current firmware string. Major Version Lock : If your device is on a
track, it can only be updated to other V4 versions. You cannot "downgrade" to V1 or V2 tracks, nor can older V1 hardware typically use V4 firmware. Hardware Compatibility
: Certain older models use a "Gigadevice" with OTP (One-Time Programmable) SecureRom that may be physically non-upgradable. Verified Update Procedure
If you have confirmed a compatible update is available from the official OWON Download Center , follow these verified steps: Software Prep : Download the Launcher.exe or update tool provided in the firmware package. Driver Installation : Connect the
to your PC via USB. Ensure the USB drivers are correctly identified in your PC's Device Manager Enter Update Mode Set the USB mode to in the device's system menu. Some versions require copying a file (e.g., Good: You will see "Erasing
) directly to the device's root directory while it is mounted as a removable disk. Other versions use the PC software to put the device into bootloader mode
by turning it off and then on while the software is "waiting".
: Once the progress bar finishes, the device will typically reboot automatically. Press on the device to confirm and finalize the installation. Important Safety Warning Official OWON support has occasionally advised users not to upgrade
if no specific issue is being experienced, stating that the latest versions for certain serial numbers may not be publicly posted. If your device is functioning correctly and does not show the 2ns/div display bug, it is often safer to remain on the factory-installed firmware. or locate the exact firmware file based on your device's serial number?
The Owon HDS2102S Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
has received critical acclaim as a budget-friendly 3-in-1 handheld tool, particularly after a verified firmware update resolved a notorious display bug. Earlier versions suffered from an incorrect graticule spacing at the 2ns/div horizontal setting, which made a 100 MHz signal appear as 125 MHz. Verified Firmware Improvements
The most significant verified fix came with version 1.51, which corrected the 2ns/div display issue. Subsequent updates like v4.7.1 have further enhanced the device by adding RMS measurements and fixing dual-channel trigger bugs. Performance & Usability Review Multimeter & Generator: The
integrates a 20,000-count DMM and a 25 MHz arbitrary waveform generator (AWG), both of which are highly rated for their accuracy.
Portability: Users frequently cite its battery-powered nature as a major advantage for field work, such as HVAC maintenance or on-site embedded system troubleshooting.
Hardware Sensitivity: Unlike some competitors, Owon's firmware updates are strictly tied to specific hardware versions. Attempting to flash firmware meant for a different PCB version (e.g., v2.20 vs. later models) can brick the unit. Community Feedback
Forum users on EEVblog have shared their hands-on experiences:
“I wouldn't say the Owon is bad... not as a main scope, but as a portable battery powered unit for simple testing it's useful.” EEVblog · 1 year ago “For light duty, I use an Owon HDS2102S
and it does everything I need. It is also battery powered so it's nice and easy to bring to a customer site.” Reddit · r/embedded · 1 year ago How to Verify Your Update OWON HDS 200 Handheld Oscilloscope w/ builtin DMM/AWG
The update takes about 90 seconds.
"Erasing... Writing... Verifying... PASS""File not found" (check the owon folder name) or "CRC Error" (bad download).Once it says "PASS", power cycle the device normally.
The firmware update for the OWON HDS2102S Handheld Digital Storage Oscilloscope has been successfully applied and verified. The device is now operating on the target firmware version with all core functions (oscilloscope, multimeter, and signal generator) confirmed operational.