Oscilloscopes

An Oscilloscope, also known as an O-scope or scope, is a complex electronic laboratory instrument commonly used to capture, process, display and analyse the waveform and bandwidth of electronic signals. The device draws a graph of the instantaneous signal voltage as a function of time. Oscilloscopes are an analyser of a signal that comes from a signal generator. Digital oscilloscopes are often referred to as digital storage oscilloscopes (DSO) or digital sampling oscilloscopes (DSO).

RS Malaysia offers a comprehensive selection of top-quality oscilloscopes from leading brands, including Fluke, Keysight Technologies, Pico Technology, and RS PRO. Check out our oscilloscope guide if you wish to dive deeper.

Different Types of Oscilloscopes

Oscilloscopes fall into various categories. The biggest distinction is whether they are digital or analogue oscilloscopes. Within the digital oscilloscopes area, there are several different types:

• Digital Oscilloscopes: Basic type of oscilloscope used. Has several capabilities from processing of the basic waveform to advanced triggering.
• Storage Oscilloscope (ASO/DSO): Has a memory to store waveforms and display them for a period of time.
• Phosphor Oscilloscopes (DPO): Use a parallel processing architecture to enable it to capture and display signals.
• Digital Sampling Oscilloscopes: Used for analysing high-frequency signals for example up to 50 GHz.
• Mixed Domain Oscilloscope (MDO): Can operate in more than one domain, i.e. in time to display waveforms and in frequency to display signal spectra.
• Mixed Signal Oscilloscope (MSO): Combines an oscilloscope function with that of a logic analyser.
• Analogue Oscilloscopes: Use cathode-ray tubes (CRTs) to display basic waveforms.

How Does a Digital Oscilloscope Work?

The oscilloscope is a graph-displaying instrument. It draws a graph of an electrical signal. In most applications, the graph shows how signals change over time, with the vertical (Y) axis representing voltage, and the horizontal (X) axis representing time. Some of the oscilloscopes feature additional user-friendly elements such as USB ports for downloading measurement data.

In its simplest form, a digital oscilloscope features six elements:

• Analogue vertical input amplifiers
• Analogue-to-digital converter and a digital waveform memory
• Time base which features a triggering and clock drive
• Circuits for waveform display and reconstruction
• LED or LCD display
• Power supply

How to Choose the Best Oscilloscopes?

Oscilloscopes are widely used in industry and are being increasingly used as they now offer better performance levels than ever before. Choosing the right oscilloscope depends on the specific application and the signals you'll be analysing. Here's a breakdown of some common oscilloscope types and factors to consider when making your selection:

• Bandwidth: This refers to the highest frequency signal the oscilloscope can accurately measure. Choose a bandwidth at least twice the highest frequency component in your signals of interest.
• Sample Rate: This determines the detail captured in the waveform. A higher sample rate is necessary for fast-changing signals.
• Number of Channels: Select the number of channels (inputs) needed to analyse multiple signals simultaneously.
• Portability: Consider the trade-off between portability (handheld) and advanced features (benchtop).
• Budget: Oscilloscopes range in price depending on features and performance.

Different oscilloscope types are suited for various applications. Choosing the right type ensures optimal performance when you use it alongside other tools such as multimeters, as well as maximising your efficiency.

Industrial Application of Oscilloscopes

Oscilloscopes are vital tools in various sectors like electronics manufacturing and repair, automotive engineering, science, medicine, power and energy, telecommunications and more. These instruments assist in diagnosing, monitoring, and troubleshooting electronic systems by measuring and analysing electrical signals. Different types of oscilloscopes, including digital oscilloscopes (DSO) and analogue oscilloscopes, cater to various applications:

Auto Repair

In the automotive sector, oscilloscopes are indispensable for identifying electrical faults in vehicles. They measure voltage signals from sensors, actuators, and other electronic parts, enabling technicians to swiftly and precisely diagnose issues. Many professionals will choose to buy digital oscilloscopes as they are favoured for their ability to store and analyse complex waveforms.

Engineering

Oscilloscopes are fundamental in the field of engineering for designing and testing electronic circuits. They help visualise signal waveforms, analyse timing problems, and ensure the integrity of electrical signals. Digital storage oscilloscopes (DSO) are highly valued in engineering for their advanced features and high precision, essential for developing and debugging electronic systems.

Sciences

In scientific research, oscilloscopes are crucial for experiments that involve electronic measurements. They are utilised in disciplines such as physics, chemistry, and biology to study waveforms and other electrical phenomena. While traditional cathode ray oscilloscopes are still used, digital models with reasonable prices are becoming more popular due to their enhanced capabilities and user-friendliness.

Medicine

Medical professionals use oscilloscopes to monitor and diagnose conditions related to the body's electrical activity, such as heart rhythms and brain waves. These instruments are vital in cardiology and neurology. Phosphor oscilloscopes are particularly useful for displaying high-quality, persistent waveforms, which are crucial for medical diagnostics. Despite their higher price, the cost is justified by their critical role in ensuring accurate medical assessments.

Monitoring

Oscilloscopes are employed in various industries for monitoring the performance of electronic equipment. They help ensure systems operate within specified parameters and detect any anomalies. Digital storage oscilloscopes are especially effective for continuous monitoring due to their data storage and analysis capabilities.

Tracing Signal

Tracing and analysing signal paths is another essential application of oscilloscopes. They help identify issues such as signal distortion, noise, and interference. Both analogue and digital oscilloscopes are used for this purpose, depending on the specific needs of the task.

Telecommunication

In the telecommunications industry, oscilloscopes are used to test and maintain communication systems. They help analyse signal integrity, bandwidth, and other critical parameters. Digital oscilloscopes are highly valued in this field for their ability to handle high-frequency signals and large data volumes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oscilloscope (FAQs)

What is the difference between an oscilloscope and a multimeter?

An oscilloscope visualises electrical signals as waveforms over time, making it ideal for analysing signal integrity, timing issues, and waveforms. In contrast, a multimeter measures basic electrical properties such as voltage, current, and resistance but cannot display waveforms.

What is the main advantage of an oscilloscope?

The primary advantage of an oscilloscope is its ability to provide a visual representation of electrical signals, allowing for detailed analysis of signal behaviour, troubleshooting, and debugging in various applications.

How accurate are oscilloscopes?

The accuracy of oscilloscopes depends on their specifications, including bandwidth, sampling rate, and resolution. High-quality digital storage oscilloscopes (DSO) offer precise measurements suitable for detailed analysis in both industrial and scientific applications.