Oscilloscopes

An oscilloscope is an electronic measuring instrument used to display the waveform of electrical signals. Its core function is to convert invisible electrical signals into visual images, facilitating analysis of temporal changes in electrical parameters such as voltage, current, and frequency.

 

1. What are the Working Principles of Oscilloscopes?

An oscilloscope uses an electron gun to emit a high-speed electron beam, which is controlled by a deflection system to form a spot on a phosphor screen, thereby depicting the signal waveform. Its components include:

Display Circuit: Contains the oscilloscope tube (electron gun, deflection system, phosphor screen).

 

Amplifier Circuit: Vertical (Y-axis) and horizontal (X-axis) amplifier circuits amplify the signal.

 

Scanning and Synchronization Circuit: Ensures stable waveform display.

 

2. What are the Application Scenarios of Oscilloscopes?

It is widely used in electronic circuit debugging, high-speed signal testing (such as in communications and radar), and medical equipment.

 

3. What are the Major Types of Oscilloscopes?

Type

Features

Limitations

Analog Oscilloscopes

Display waveforms in real time, suitable for capturing transient signals (such as glitches); brightness reflects signal strength.

Waveforms cannot be fixed, manual measurements are required, and bandwidth is limited.

Digital Oscilloscopes

Support waveform storage, automated measurements, and advanced analysis (such as FFT); higher bandwidth, suitable for complex signals. ‌

May miss fast transient events.

 

4. What are the Advantages of Oscilloscopes?

Intuitive: Direct waveform display and support for simultaneous multi-channel observation.

 

High Sensitivity: Capable of measuring signals from microvolts to tens of kilovolts.

 

Fast Response: Capable of capturing dynamic processes in the nanosecond range.