How does an oscilloscope work?
A modern digital oscilloscope is in fact an advanced, low-noise and extremely fast analog-to-digital converter , enriched with a number of additional circuits.
The principle of operation of the oscilloscope is quite simple: the device waits for the appearance of the appropriate voltage level (set by the user) or its change (drop, increase), i.e. the so-called triggering the acquisition (trigger).
From this point, the oscilloscope begins to record the voltage waveform in the form of samples, for a period of time determined by the "time base". The voltage waveform is displayed on the oscilloscope screen or sent to a computer via a USB cable. The sampling rate varies depending on the specific device model.
Oscilloscope capabilities and functions (sampling frequency and automatic measurement)
Depending on the settings, the oscilloscope can freeze the image for analysis or start displaying the next "frame" as a function of time.
The voltage recording, i.e. an oscillogram, can be used to measure the time and amplitude parameters of the signal, because the time between two recording points corresponds to the number of squares in the horizontal axis (e.g. 10 ms / division), and the amplitude - the number of squares in the vertical axis (e.g. 1V / plot).
Each digital oscilloscope has a number of additional functions , including a number of automatic measurements that show the user the frequency, rise and fall times and the average value of the signal - without the need to laboriously calculate sections on the instrument screen.
In addition, digital oscilloscopes differ in the number of channels, spectrum analyzer, touch screen or lack thereof, USB port (USB host) and the previously mentioned sampling rates.
Choose your model today!
The choice of an oscilloscope is determined not only by its price - depending on the projects you work on most often, other functions and parameters will be particularly useful for you. With the introduction of digital oscilloscopes, analog oscilloscopes are being used less and less. Modern digital oscilloscopes had the ability to store the waveform. In addition, they enable checking the frequency of the measured signal, as well as the signal itself. Additionally, functions such as the resulting voltage versus time graph ensure universal use.
Digital oscilloscopes – additional information
If you are looking for a device for servicing devices, choose one of the stationary oscilloscopes with a frequency band appropriate to the devices being repaired. In addition to the device, the set includes a power cord, user manual and optional accessories (e.g. USB cable).
In the measuring devices category, in addition to oscilloscopes, there are also universal meters (multimeters), function generators, resistance meters and other measuring equipment. We only offer a device characterized by high precision and repeatability of measurements.
Digital oscilloscope – application and additional information
For mobile applications, DSO Nano or DSO Quad will be an excellent choice - a pocket oscilloscope at an excellent price, providing all the most important functions of its larger brothers.
If you run simple systems using Arduino and are just starting your adventure with an oscilloscope - try BitScope Micro M5 with its incredibly small size and attractive price. Browse our online store and choose the oscilloscope of your dreams today!
If you have any questions about oscilloscopes or other devices and accessories available in our store, please contact us by e-mail, telephone or via the contact form.
