Getting Started
Taking Floating Measurements
For taking floating measurements, the oscilloscope channel and Ext Trig inputs (3
MΩ ) are isolated from the oscilloscope chassis and from each other. This allows
independent floating measurements with channel 1, channel 2, and Ext Trig (and
with channel 3 and channel 4 on four channel models).
The osc
illoscope inputs float even when the oscilloscope is connected to a
grounded power supply, a grounded printer, or a grounded computer.
Most o
ther oscilloscopes share a common reference for the oscilloscope channel
and Ext Trig inputs. This r eference is typically connected to earth ground through
the power cord. With common-referenced oscilloscopes, all input signals must
have the same common reference when you take any multi-channel measurements.
Without differential preamplifiers or external signal isolators, common-referenced
oscilloscopes are not suitable for taking floating measurements.
Probe Connection
WARNING. To prevent electrical shock, do not exceed the measurement or floating
vo
ltage ratings for the oscilloscope input BNC connector, probe tip, or probe
reference lead.
TPS2000B Series Digital Oscilloscope User Manual 3