Probes

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There are various pf probes.

Passive probes are used for general purpose work. They are fitted with resistor capacitor components to provide a specific testing function and can allow for distortion of the signal at certain frequencies. They usually have compensation adjustment, consisting of a small variable capacitor for the user to match the probe to the signal.

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1. Adjustment Tool
2. Compensation Trimmer
3. BNC Connector
4. Ground Clip (Removable)
5. Ground Spring
6. Probe Tip
7. IC insulating Cap
8. Insulating Cap
9. Retractable Hook
10. Attenuation Switch
11. Indentification Color Rings

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Standard oscilloscope probes have a BNC connection to the oscilloscope and a probe with interchageable testing tips and a ground strap with a crocodile clip. These probes could have a switch to change the attenuation to X1 or X10. Some probes have only a single attenuation i.e. X100 and can go up to X10000 for extra high voltage testing. However some oscilloscopes should not be used for measuring extra high voltages, as it is not designed to do that from a point of safety. Theoretically it may work, but is not recommended.

When setting the CH1 probe attenuation switch say to X10, then the same setting, X10, must be selected in the attenuation drop down box or menu. This is necessary as some oscilloscope cannot determine whether it is reading an attenuated signal or a straight signal.

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The probe may also have a compensation adjust ment close to the BNC connector which is a trimmer to be adjusted with the supplied insulated tool.

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Ground spring:
Here is an example for using the ground spring that is included with the probes.

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Universal Connectors On Various Devices

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Optional Accessories
- PCB Adapter
The PCB adapter eliminates the need to hand hold the probe and provides a reliable high frequency test point.

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Optional Accessories
- BNC Connector
If connect probe to a female BNC connector on isntruments, the BNC connector is a good choice.

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Active Probes

It consits of an amplifier built into the tip to amplify the signal. Active probes thus require a power source for their operation.
They can be a FET probe or non FET probe and have very high impedance which does not "load" the device you are testing. Some active probes have a built in differential amplifier with tow probe tips.

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                             Active Probe