Scoping Out Scopes

An electronics lab bench may have a range of test equipment from multimeters to vector network analyzers (VNAs), but one of the most useful and flexible tools is the oscilloscope or, simply, “scope.” It’s why our “Engineer's Guide Oscilloscope Techniques” TechXchange is one of our most popular destinations. It provides access to articles and videos highlighting the different types of scopes, probes, and test techniques that are useful to new and experienced electrical engineers.

Choosing an oscilloscope is more than finding one that meets your bandwidth requirements. There are different types. You can also choose between a standalone benchtop scope or one connected to a PC via USB or Ethernet. Likewise, the choice of oscilloscope probes is important as well (see figure). A a lot of myths continue to swirl around about oscilloscope probes.

Using a scope isn’t too difficult. Find a ground, put the probe on a wire, and you’re done.

Actually, there’s much more to it, from deciding on analog versus digital triggering to handling power-rail measurements. I’m going to direct you to all of the other oscilloscope TechXchanges that will answer these questions and more, as the expert authors do a much better job than I would.

My focus when I was a full-time engineer was on the digital and system software side, so a logic analyzer was more my speed. But a scope always came in handy since sensors, power supplies, etc., are where it shines in terms of providing insight into the operation of the system.

And just in case you don’t know where to look for a PC-based scope or a standalone system these days, we have a list of scope vendors and distributors.

If you have suggestions on scope and test topics you would like to see more of, add a comment or two here. Same for any recommendations you might have.