Appendix E: Probe Selection
E–4
TDS 500B, TDS 600B, & TDS 700A User Manual
Two types of current probes are available: one that measures AC current only
and AC/DC probes that utilize the Hall effect to accurately measure the AC and
DC components of a signal. AC-only current probes use a transformer to convert
AC current flux into a voltage signal to the oscilloscope and have a frequency
response from a few hundred hertz up to 1 GHz. AC/DC current probes include
Hall effect semiconductor devices and provide frequency response from DC to
50 MHz.
Use a current probe by clipping its jaws around the wire carrying the current that
you want to measure. (Unlike an ammeter which you must connect in series with
the circuit.) Because current probes are noninvasive, with loading typically in the
milliohm to low W range, they are especially useful where low loading of the
circuit is important. Current probes can also make differential measurements by
measuring the results of two opposing currents in two conductors in the jaws of
the probe.
Figure E–2: A6303 Current Probe Used in the AM 503S Opt. 03
NOTE. Attempting to measure more than 40 amperes of total, in–phase current
(DC + peak AC) using three or more current probes installed on the input
channels can result in measurement or display errors.
Optical Probes
Optical probes let you blend the functions of an optical power meter with the
high-speed analog waveform analysis capability of an oscilloscope. You have the
capability of acquiring, displaying, and analyzing optical and electrical signals
simultaneously.
Applications include measuring the transient optical properties of lasers, LEDs,
electro-optic modulators, and flashlamps. You can also use these probes in the
development, manufacturing, and maintenance of fiber optic control networks,
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