RF components such as connectors, cables, antennas, and PCB traces need characterizing so you know how they will perform. That’s where a vector network analyzer (VNA) can help. Signal Hound, well known for its USB spectrum analyzers, has introduced the VNA400, a 40 GHz VNA that connects to and gets power from its single USB-C […]
Modular system combines DMM with DAQ
The DAQ3120 from B+K Precision lets you install up to three measurement modules to create a custom system for your bench. Most engineers have a digital multimeter (DMM) for basic measurements such as voltage, current, and resistance. Sometimes, however, you need the flexibility to add channels and log measurements without or without a computer. That’s […]
APEC 2025 test equipment: power sources and loads
Powering electronic devices requires the testing of power supply and charging circuits, battery management systems (BMSs), and battery cells. Many of these circuits require voltage, current, and power measurements, plus numerous others. Oscilloscopes and probes let you see the waveforms in power-delivery circuits, but the circuits themselves may need simulated batteries and simulated loads. That’s […]
APEC 2025 test equipment: oscilloscopes and probes
Oscilloscopes and probes play a vital role for engineers designing and testing power electronics. Delivering electrical power to analog and digital circuits and systems is more than just DC measurements. That’s because nearly all power-converter circuits use switching techniques to maximize efficiency. Silicon carbide (SiC and gallium nitride (GaN) transistors, with their higher voltage and […]
Tryout: Uni-T UPO1202 200 MHz oscilloscope
You need not spend a ton of money to get a feature-packed oscilloscope, provided you don’t need high bandwidth. While the oscilloscope works well, the free software needs help. After seeing the Uni-Trend (Uni-T) UTG962E Function/Arbitrary Waveform Generator ($182), we at EE World bought one and, at the same time, ordered a UPO1202 200 MHz […]
Make the most of oscilloscope triggering: part 2
Advanced triggering techniques can help you track down elusive problems. In part 1 of this series, we investigated the fundamentals of the oscilloscope trigger function, including the simple edge trigger that originated with analog oscilloscopes. In this part, we look at additional triggers that help with troubleshooting. What are some other types of triggering? Advanced […]
Engineers use AI/ML to improve test
Engineers can use AI/ML to reduce test development time, analyze test data from manufacturing, automate visual inspection and calibration, and identify counterfeit components. Here’s how some do it. Testing takes too much time; just ask any engineering or production manager. Shortening test-development time can reduce time to market. Shortening production test time lowers manufacturing costs. […]
RF cables cover frequencies to 43.5 GHz for test applications
Cables available in three standard lengths with SMA, 2.92 mm, and 2.4 mm end connectors. Samtec’s LL043 Series Nitrowave microwave cable assemblies have performance is optimized from DC to 43.5 GHz with a maximum VSWR of 1.4:1. The 43.5 GHz bandwidth lets the cables operate at 5G mmWave frequencies as well as those used in […]
Isolated current probes eliminate ground loops
IsoVu isolated current probes from Tektronix isolate oscilloscopes from circuits used for EVs, motors, and power converters. Trying to make shunt-based current measurements with a typical oscilloscope probe is essentially impossible. That’s because one side of the probe connects to ground through the instrument. Using an ungrounded power cord is anything but safe. Differential probes […]
Download our 2024 T&M Tech Toolbox
Everything needs testing and testing needs measurement. That’s why we assembled a collection of articles from Test & Measurement Tips into the 2024 T&M Tech Toolbox, a 56-page e-book in PDF format. We took some of the top articles from our recent archives to provide you with information that can help you with your job. […]
