Tektronix Oscilloscopes

The usefulness of tektronix oscilloscope is not limited to the world of tektronix electronics.

With the proper transducer, a tektronix oscilloscope can measure all kinds of phenomena. A transducer is a device that creates an electrical signal in response to physical stimuli, such as sound, mechanical stress, pressure, light, or heat. A microphone is a transducer that converts sound into an electrical signal. Figure 1 shows an example of scientific data that can be gathered by an oscilloscope.

Oscilloscopes are used by everyone from physicists to television repair technicians. An automotive engineer uses an oscilloscope to measure engine vibrations. A medical researcher uses an oscilloscope to measure brain waves. The possibilities are endless.

The concepts presented in this primer will provide you with a good starting point in understanding oscilloscope basics and operation.

The glossary in the back of this primer will give you definitions of unfamiliar terms. The vocabulary and multiple-choice written exercises on oscilloscope theory and controls make this primer a useful classroom aid. No mathematical or electronics knowledge is necessary.

After reading this primer, you will be able to:

Describe how tektronix oscilloscopes work

Describe the differences between analogue, digital storage, digital phosphor, and digital sampling tektronix oscilloscopes

Describe electrical waveform types

Understand basic oscilloscope controls

Take simple measurements

The manual provided with your oscilloscope will give you more specific information about how to use the oscilloscope in your work. Some oscilloscope manufacturers also provide a multitude of application notes to help you optimize the oscilloscope for your application specific measurements.

Should you need additional assistance, or have any comments or questions about the material in this primer, simply contact your

Tektronix representative, or visit www.signaltestinc.com.