Novel Architecture Extends Scope Probe Measurements To 8 GHz

July 5, 2004

Thanks to an innovative Z-active architecture, the P7380 active differential probe measures signals up to an 8-GHz bandwidth, featuring high-end signal fidelity with a fast guaranteed 55-ps rise time (35 ps typical) and low circuit loading. Differential dc input resistance is 100 kΩ and 50 kΩ single-ended. Minimum ac loading is 300 Ω differentially at 8 GHz.

Designed to be used with Tektronix's TDS6000B and TDS7000B oscilloscopes, the P7380 uses interchangeable Tip-Clip probe tips that enhance usability and connectivity for solder-in, fixtured, and handheld applications. The Z-active architecture's hybrid approach consists of a distributed attenuator topology feeding an active probe amplifier. The probe uses only a tiny passive tip element that's separate from the amplifier, extending the usable reach of the probe.

The probe tips are interchangeable. Nine such tips are available: three with flex tips (each coming in two lengths), two resistor tips of different size, and a tip for handheld applications with variable spacing. Handheld and fixtured probing can be performed using Tektronix's optional P7380HHA handheld adapter kit.

The P7380 probe goes for $8500. The P7380HHA adapter kit costs $500, which includes three variable-spacing Tip-Clip probe tips. Individual tips are priced at about $25 each.

Tektronix Inc. www.tektronix.com (800) 835-9433

About the Author

Roger Allan

Roger Allan is an electronics journalism veteran, and served as Electronic Design's Executive Editor for 15 of those years. He has covered just about every technology beat from semiconductors, components, packaging and power devices, to communications, test and measurement, automotive electronics, robotics, medical electronics, military electronics, robotics, and industrial electronics. His specialties include MEMS and nanoelectronics technologies. He is a contributor to the McGraw Hill Annual Encyclopedia of Science and Technology. He is also a Life Senior Member of the IEEE and holds a BSEE from New York University's School of Engineering and Science. Roger has worked for major electronics magazines besides Electronic Design, including the IEEE Spectrum, Electronics, EDN, Electronic Products, and the British New Scientist. He also has working experience in the electronics industry as a design engineer in filters, power supplies and control systems.

After his retirement from Electronic Design Magazine, He has been extensively contributing articles for Penton’s Electronic Design, Power Electronics Technology, Energy Efficiency and Technology (EE&T) and Microwaves RF Magazine, covering all of the aforementioned electronics segments as well as energy efficiency, harvesting and related technologies. He has also contributed articles to other electronics technology magazines worldwide.

He is a “jack of all trades and a master in leading-edge technologies” like MEMS, nanolectronics, autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence, military electronics, biometrics, implantable medical devices, and energy harvesting and related technologies.