New 8 Channel Picoscope

4825B with PicoBNC+

PicoScope 4825B PicoBNC+ Diagnostic Oscilloscope

The new 4825B Diagnostic Oscilloscope will completely replace the 4823 and finally deliver the huge benefits of PicoBNC+ Probes to technicians needing more comprehensive testing and diagnostics. When used with our recently introduced PicoBNC+ NVH system, technicians can use 8 simultaneous NVH capture channels, comprising any mix of 3-axis vibration and sound. The 4825B is compatible with all existing PicoBNC+ and BNC probes, allowing users to upgrade their scope capability without requiring the purchase of new accessories.

As you can see from the attached picture, the 4825B has a ‘double deck’ layout and is a larger box. Therefore, we have introduced an additional carry case to allow this device to fit together with key accessories. We have also taken the opportunity to optimize the kit structure so that we can provide stocking distributors with more flexibility and improve their ability to respond to demand.
 

One final, but important change, is that we have upgraded the ruggedization of the case and protective boot to match the Off-highway versions of the 4425A. This means that we can offer kits suitable for Automotive, Truck & Bus, Construction, Agriculture, Marine, and other industries based on the same PicoScope model.

4825B changes vs 4823

The 4825B is more closely related to the 4425A product than the previous 4823 and shares the same floating ground PicoBNC+ input structure. Due to the requirements of EN61010, we are limited to a 100V maximum input range on the 8-channel scope rather than the 200V of 4425A.

Higher Bandwidth
Increased from 20MHz to 40MHz, offering improved fidelity of high-speed signals such as 10Base-T1S and CAN XL.

Higher Sampling Rate
Increased from 80 million samples/second to 160M samples/second for modern vehicles, including high-speed FlexRay and CAN-FD networks.

Deeper Memory
500 million sample memory for capturing intermittent faults and longer logging.

Faster Data Transfer
Completely USB Type-C® connected and powered for high performance and portability.

Smart Probe Interfacing
Automatic software configuration—no more incorrect settings!

Powered Probes
Always on, no batteries needed, and ready for immediate use. Channel Status Lights
Clear indicators for probe connection and status.


Backward and Forward Compatibility
Works with all existing BNC and PicoBNC+ probes.

Hardware Filter
Like the 4425A, the 4825B features a switchable low-pass hardware filter to remove unwanted and distracting noise for applications such as current measurement.

USB Type-C® and USB-C® are registered trademarks of USB Implementers Forum

Benefits of 8 channels

In addition to all the PicoBNC+ benefits, the 4825B also adds multiple frequency counters for applications such as instantaneous frequency graphing of 4 x wheel speed sensors.

Quad Cam engines with Crank sensor

While a 4-channel PicoScope (and even the 2-channel PicoScope) can be used to measure the signals on a 4-cylinder engine, we often need to conduct multiple runs and rely on the PicoScope reference waveform capability. We might have measured 2 of the 4 cam sensors, ignition, and injector current, all correlated to the crank. Next, we repeated the measurement with additional signals and overlayed them to check for alignment. With the 4825B, we can complete that in a single pass (saving time) and be confident of capturing any intermittent effects that might have been missed between runs.

Multiple network captures 
Modern vehicles are laden with networks from low to ultra-high speeds. Once these networks are active, the load on the vehicle battery increases exponentially. In a scenario where a vehicle is exhibiting parasitic drain due to networks failing to "sleep", we can utilize eight channels to find the offending network.
With eight channels we can combine current clamps for milli-amp parasitic measurements, an array of network captures (differential or both Hi and Lo) to isolate the effects of modules and systems on each bus. 

EV measurements: 3-Phase traction motor
Testing under load is where we often replicate faults, and EVs are no exception. With eight channels, we can simultaneously measure the 3-phase motor current, voltage, and rotor position sensor (Secondary Sine & Cosine) to evaluate the relationship between these circuits during the fault condition.

EV measurements: Charging
Given the number of variables with EV charging thanks to Energy, Vehicle and Charger Apps, being able to categorically prove where the charging problem resides (in-real time) is invaluable. Taking this one step further, if we are evaluating the vehicle's home charging system, we can qualify the HV battery's state of health. A typical configuration may consist of the CP circuit and L1 voltage and current at the charge inlet, together with the HV and LV battery voltage and current (we even have a channel spare for temperature).

NVH

PicoBNC+ NVH system
With the recent launch of the PicoBNC+ NVH system, we can now offer simultaneous testing using up to 8 of the 3-axis accelerometers or microphones connected to a single scope. When chasing those elusive bearing, tire, and transmission noises, you have all avenues covered across the entire human sensory spectrum (0-20 kHz). Once again, a single 8- channel capture eliminates the variables introduced by multiple road tests in differing road and potential weather conditions. With fewer road tests this becomes a massive time saving.

PicoScope 4825B: Versatility Across Critical Industries

While the PicoScope 4825B features industry-leading PicoBNC+ automotive connectivity, its 8-channel architecture and high-bandwidth capabilities make it a powerful diagnostic solution for a wide range of complex electromechanical systems beyond the passenger car market.

The transition from a 4-channel to an 8-channel PicoBNC+ environment fundamentally changes how engineers and technicians approach diagnostics in high-stakes industries. By capturing simultaneous data across multiple domains—power, control, and sensor feedback—the 4825B reduces downtime and diagnostic complexity in the following sectors:
 

•  Construction & Mining: These environments rely on complex hydraulic and electronic control systems. With 8 channels, technicians can correlate engine management signals with hydraulic actuator performance, detecting faults in autonomous mining equipment or heavy excavators in a single pass.
Featuring up to 4 frequency-coupled channels, we can directly record dual digital mass air flow sensors, or we can combine 4 flow meters with 4 pressure sensors for the ultimate hydraulic setup.

•  Agriculture (Smart Farming): Modern agricultural machinery is increasingly autonomous and networked. The 4825B excels in troubleshooting sophisticated tractor-implement communication (ISOBUS) and multi-sensor feedback loops, ensuring that planting and harvesting operations are still precise and reliable.
Extra channels mean that you can measure 4 transmission clutch packs with hydraulic pressure and spool current in perfect synchronisation. See what happens in real time.

•  Marine Propulsion & Systems: Marine diagnostics often involve large-scale integration of propulsion control, navigation, and auxiliary power. The 4825B allows for full-system checking of diesel engine timing, electrical load synchronisation, and transducer signals without the need for multiple test runs.
More than one engine? Not a problem with 8 channels. Checking between 2, 3, and 4 engines for simple outputs like crankshaft sensors can give you real-time feedback between the engines.

•  Industrial Generator Sets: Ensuring power reliability requires strict synchronisation and load testing. Eight channels allow for the simultaneous monitoring of output voltage, current phases, and control logic, crucial for verifying the health of industrial generators under varying load conditions.

Current and Voltage Measurement
3-phase voltage and current measurements, combined with engine data provide the ultimate overview of the engine and generator. With PicoBNC+ using 3 differential probes, monitoring 3-phase line voltages with precision and in detail has never been easier. 

• Trucks & Commercial Vehicles: Unlike passenger vehicles, heavy-duty commercial fleets run under constant load. The 4825B provides the necessary headroom to capture multiple network signals alongside critical load data, essential to find parasitic drains or sensor failure in complex CAN-bus architectures.
Consider an 8-axle mobile crane with a vibration. You can fit a PicoBNC+ accelerometer on each axle to monitor XYZ vibration levels. These are expensive machines, but just one road test can decide the diagnostic direction! 
The same for air brakes. Unsure which axle is pulling? Rather than conduct multiple road tests and setup, attach 2 pressure transducers to each axle to give a complete overview of the pneumatic system.

•  Motorbikes & ATVs: Compact wiring harnesses and high-vibration environments make these vehicles challenging to diagnose. The 8-channel capacity allows for full- system capture—ignition, injection, fuel pump, and sensor feedback—on vehicles where both space and access are often highly restricted.
The output from the 3-phase generator is now available with actual data, not just peak voltages. Proof and justification for the customers.

• Wind Turbines: Diagnostics in renewable energy require monitoring high-speed generator outputs alongside low-speed pitch control and yaw mechanisms. The 4825B’s frequency counters and high-speed data capture provide the "bird's-eye view" needed to validate the performance of pitch control systems and generator health simultaneously.
When leaving equipment in the Nacelle, you want to capture the maximum data possible in one pass to prevent another climb. Multiple circuits, multiple signals, having more channels gives more possibilities for measurements. With 8 accelerometers, you can capture the whole drive transmission from hub to high- speed shaft and the generator in one test.

Why 8 Channels Matter for these Industries
In every one of these sectors, the "no scope, no hope" principle applies. By expanding the measurement capacity from 4 to 8 channels, the 4825B avoids the variability and intensive time needed with multiple data captures. Whether it is a wind turbine or a mining vehicle, the result is the same: a complete diagnostic picture, deeper technical insight, and faster resolution of complex system faults. 


Specifications 4825B vs 4823
 

The 4825B is USB-C connected and includes 2 USB-C connections. One of those is for use with the laptop running PicoScope or PicoDiagnostics software and is usually sufficient for fully powering the scope and attached accessories.

We have 2 accessories that consume more power than most, these are the: 

•         TA511 Differential Probe
•         TA408 100A Current Probe

In the unlikely event that a user wishes to use multiple high-power probes, then it may be necessary to attach a secondary USB power source to that 2   USB-C port. The software will indicate if an additional power source is required when the probes are connected and prior to measurements being taken. As this is not expected to be the normal use case, we have decided not to include a Power Supply Unit in the scope. 

Kits
We are taking this opportunity to extend the range of 8-channel kits to increase the range of options, but also clarity of applications and clearly defined option packs that better fit customer and distributor requests.

Scope Only – this includes the PicoScope 4825B with USB leads in a cardboard box.

Starter = Scope Only plus: PicoBNC+ Test Leads, Carry Case, S-Hook, 4x PQ159 2-channel Probe & Clip Set (PA038, TA003, TA004, 2xTA017, TA158, TA161, TA162, TA310, TA311)

Standard = Starter plus: TA008 back pinning probes, 2x TA506 10:1 test leads, 1x Standard Non-intrusive Testing Kit (TA034, TA035, TA388, TA398, TA496)

Advanced = Standard plus: Extra "S" Hook, Red & Black Dolphin clips, USB-C to USB-C 4.5m, Advanced non-intrusive Testing Kit (TA168, TA206, TA329, TA330, TA395, TA432, TA515), Advanced Breakout Lead Kit (TA012, TA190, TA513)

Master = Advanced plus: Additional Carry Case for accessories, TA473 60A PicoBNC+ Current Clamp, Master Breakout Lead Kit (TA069, TA514, TA191, TA194), PQ038 WPS500X Maxi Kit

Off-highway versions can be based on any level of kit, and the additional capability is achieved by combining option packs. These are suitable for any industry, and we will be extending the set of modular option packs to suit specific applications that add value to their equipment. We would normally expect the Standard or Advanced Kits to be used as the basis for these to avoid duplication, while including key items such as a 2000A Current Clamp.

Entry = Standard or above kit, plus: Upgrade of R/Y/G/B Test leads from 3m to 4.5m, Off Highway Breakout Kit (TA191, TA194, TA192, TA193, TA205, TA267)

Expert = Entry plus: TA473 60A PicoBNC+ Current Clamp, WPS500X pressure transducer OH Kit (PA094, TA071, TA081, TA083, TA085, TA086, TA087, TA117, TA129, TA130, TA142, TA226, TA235, TA236)

Elite = Expert plus: Dual WPS600 Hydraulic Kit (PA156, TA092)

For electrification, which is not confined to Electric Cars, we have 2 EV Option Kits that are available to supplement any of these configurations from Standard upwards. These include 2 additional 2000A current clamps, PicoBNC+ Differential probes, and other adaptors.

PQ425 EV & Hybrid Accessory Kit without MT03A

PQ424 EV & Hybrid Accessory Kit with MT03A
 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Why haven’t you updated the 4-channel and 2-channel scopes as well?
A: The most significant gap in our product coverage was the older 8-channel 4823, which was based on technology like the old 4423 device. Some users also identified a strong requirement for 8 PicoBNC+ channels.

Q: What will happen to the 4425A and 4225A models?
A: Nothing, we will continue to sell those as normal.

Q: Will you offer a trade-in against any other PicoScope models?
A: No. Retaining the existing scope for additional capacity or selling it privately are the most effective ways of supporting any upgrade.

Q: Why do you not include a PSU with the scope?
A: Because the normal use case with USB-C will not require the external PSU, and it doesn’t make sense to add cost (with the complications of needing a worldwide PSU) for all users.

Q: Why have you changed the kits for 4825B?
A: Because we thought it made sense to offer a full range of kits with the 4825B, and it allowed us to restructure the kits to improve flexibility and the link between requirements and solutions.

Q: Will you change the kits for 4425A and 4225A?
A: No. First, we will take feedback and look at the sales for 4825B. We want the customers’ feedback before making further changes.

Q: Will you have enough stock to satisfy demand?
A: Maybe. We have forecasted the demand and are building to satisfy that. If you think you may have volume opportunities, please contact us as soon as possible so we can look at material planning.

Q: Can I use the extension cable with 4825B?
A: Yes.

Q: Can I use this for road testing?
A: Yes. 

Q: Can I now capture up to 3 axes of acceleration data in eight channels with PicoBNC+ accelerometers?
A: Yes, in PicoDiagnostics, PicoScope 7 support is limited to 1 selected axis on each channel. 

Q: Why is there no Waveform Generator on 4825B?
A: Because 4823 was derived from a Test & Measurement Scope, it inherited a waveform generator that was not well-suited to Automotive Diagnostics, with the low voltage output and lack of protection.
We have decided that a dedicated waveform generator is the right solution and that could then be used with any of the PicoBNC+ Plus Automotive scopes, maximizing user benefits.

Q: When will the 4825B be available to ship to customers?
A: We are accepting booking orders now however deliveries are expected to start in January 2027, pricing is not finalised at this time. Check back on our site in the coming weeks.