Detailed explanation of oscilloscope functions and applications

Writer： admin Time：2025-04-03 14:48:06 Browse：67℃

Oscilloscope

An oscilloscope is an electronic instrument used to observe and measure electrical signal waveforms. It is widely applied in fields such as electronics engineering, communications, medicine, and scientific research. Below is a detailed introduction to oscilloscopes:

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1. Basic Functions

• Waveform Display: Real-time graphical representation of electrical signals (voltage over time).

• Parameter Measurement: Measures amplitude, frequency, period, phase, rise time, etc.

• Triggering Function: Stabilizes repetitive signals or captures single-shot events.

• Analysis Features: Modern oscilloscopes support FFT (spectrum analysis), mathematical operations (e.g., addition, subtraction), and protocol decoding (e.g., I2C, SPI).

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2. Main Types

• Analog Oscilloscopes: Use a cathode-ray tube (CRT) to display continuous signals directly, suitable for observing real-time waveform changes.

• Digital Oscilloscopes (DSO): Digitize signals for processing and display, offering advanced features (e.g., storage, analysis).

• Digital Storage Oscilloscopes (DSO): Basic digital models.

• Mixed Signal Oscilloscopes (MSO): Support both analog and digital signal analysis.

• High-Bandwidth Oscilloscopes: Used for high-frequency signals (e.g., RF, high-speed digital circuits).

• Portable Oscilloscopes: Compact design for fieldwork or education.

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3. Key Parameters

• Bandwidth: The maximum frequency an oscilloscope can measure (typically the -3dB point). Generally, select 3-5 times the signal frequency.

• Sample Rate: Points sampled per second, affecting signal detail capture (must satisfy Nyquist theorem).

• Vertical Resolution: ADC bit depth (e.g., 8-bit, 12-bit), determining voltage measurement precision.

• Memory Depth: Number of sample points per capture, influencing detail in long-duration waveform recording.

• Trigger Types: Edge, pulse width, video trigger, etc.

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4. Typical Applications

• Circuit Debugging: Check signal distortion, noise, timing issues.

• Communication Testing: Analyze modulated signals, serial data (e.g., UART, USB).

• Power Analysis: Measure ripple, switching losses.

• Education & Research: Measure converted non-electrical signals (e.g., physics, bioelectric signals).

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5. Usage Notes

• Probe Matching: Choose appropriate attenuation ratio (e.g., 10:1 probe extends voltage range but reduces SNR).

• Grounding Safety: Avoid short circuits or circuit damage.

• Bandwidth Limitation: Ensure sufficient bandwidth for high-frequency signals.

• Trigger Settings: Adjust trigger mode and level for stable waveforms.

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6. Common Brands

• High-End: Keysight, Tektronix, LeCroy

• Mid-Range/Entry-Level: Rigol, Siglent, Hantek

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View more oscilloscope information: Shenzhen TTLTES Technology Co., Ltd.