A USB oscilloscope is a type of digital oscilloscope that is linked via a hardware device through the USB to a PC. Utilized to take measurements of electrical impulses, the oscilloscope creates a graph that represents how much impulses vary over a specific period of time. It provides information regarding the actual frequency of signal, voltage figures together with the duration, and the exact amount of alternating current versus direct current. Unlike traditional oscilloscopes, a USB oscilloscope derives power from the USB link on the computer.
Oscilloscopes are used in various professions. They have gained increasing popularity as a multi-purpose device, and have been often used whether in advanced physics or basic electronics. Due to power requirements, professionals in the past have been restricted in the use of oscilloscopes. Recent developments, however, have made it possible to manufacture portable oscilloscopes that are powered through USB ports.
This state-of-the-art innovation allowed a USB oscilloscope to be utilized in numerous ways. Its use has offered several advantages over traditional oscilloscopes, including its cost effectiveness. It has to be noted that a USB oscilloscope uses the PC to perform some of the work of the device. Thus, a USB oscilloscope lacks the duplication of some electronics that are present in stand-alone type of devices.
Since it is powered via the USB port on battery powered laptop computers, USB oscilloscopes are more practical and convenient for use in a vast array of locations as compared to traditional oscilloscopes. Data can also be easily and quickly downloaded directly to the computing device that is providing it with power.
Another advantage of a USB oscilloscope is that majority of the programs offered utilizes the video display, allowing the users to view the information that is being gathered by the equipment. Moreover, since the actual information is immediately transferred to the computer, it is easier to share all the data received from the oscilloscope among several viewers. It is, therefore, very advantageous and efficient for other specialist to rapidly distribute the data to colleagues situated in other locales.
USB Oscilloscopes are used to measure digital waveforms, analog voltages, digital pulses as well as in synchronization of data lines. It is also used as storage of digital events which can be compared later on within the oscilloscope’s digital processing systems.
Offered in various designs, a basic USB oscilloscope provides standard features, while more sophisticated and highly accurate ones offer extra capabilities along with fine details. This kind of diversity makes USB oscilloscopes become the backbone of electronic shops as most phases of electronic system are now digital.
USB oscilloscopes are also well suited for various disciplines. From tasks in basic production to highly technical jobs, USB oscilloscopes may be found at the center of numerous activities that includes designing, troubleshooting, testing, repair or analysis.
Robert (Bob) Bruce says
I am interested in purchasing a USB oscilloscope to use in the classroom. I am purchasing it myself, not through school funds, so cost is an important concern. I need it to be able to display on a mac laptop screen, and be able to generate various type displays (sine, square and sawtooth).
What do you suggest?
Thx,
Bob Bruce