I have the opportunity to purchase a Tektronix 2445 4-channel 150 MHz
oscilloscope with 2 probes and the user manual from a friend for $250.
While I believe this is a good deal, I'm concerned about two issues.

1) The second channel is slightly noisy - perhaps a tenth of a division
of something that looks like a logic signal. Just enough to notice.

2) Per UseNet searches, there appear to be known problems with some
custom chips failing (like the U800 horizontal amp chip) in the 2445. The
chips are no longer available and can only be had by scavenging scrap
scopes of the same series.

Is anyone familiar with the "slightly noisy" channel problem described
above? It is probably something I can learn to live with if it is not
relatively easy to fix.

What is the reliability of the 2445 with respect to the custom chip
failures?

I am an Amateur Radio operator and electronic hobbiest. The scope would
be used for troubleshooting radios and other equipment, aligning radios,
and furthering my eletronics knowledge. I was initially planning on
hunting-down a Tektronix 2236 because of its automatic counter/DMM
functionality when I became aware of my friend's 2445. I really like the
2236's counter/DMM functionality. However, the current state of the 2245
is a known quantity whereas I can't be too sure what I'll get in the way
of a 2236 off of Ebay or a classifieds site.

Any and all input would be appreciated!

-Michael, N9BDF,