Matching a probe to my oscilloscope (15mhz)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around selecting an appropriate probe for an analog oscilloscope with a bandwidth of 15MHz. Participants explore the implications of using a probe rated at 150MHz and discuss calibration methods for ensuring proper functionality.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether a 150MHz probe is too high for a 15MHz oscilloscope, noting the significant difference in bandwidth.
  • Another participant suggests that a higher bandwidth probe is generally better, although it may come with increased costs.
  • There is a discussion about the importance of input capacitance adjustment in probes to match the oscilloscope's input capacitance.
  • Participants confirm that the oscilloscope has a square wave output for calibration purposes.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the functionality of the calibration feature on their oscilloscope.
  • Another participant provides guidance on using the square wave output to calibrate the probe by adjusting the capacitance control for optimal waveform quality.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the benefits of using a higher bandwidth probe, but there is some uncertainty regarding the calibration process and the effectiveness of the calibration feature on different oscilloscopes.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the specific calibration methods and the effectiveness of the square wave output on the oscilloscope in question.

rappinrafi
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Hey all. As the title states, I have an analog oscilloscope with a bandwidth of 15MHz. I am in the market for a probe and have noticed a good deal of them to be in the triple digits.

Long story short, I've come across a quality probe kit that consists of 150MHz rated probes. Thus my question is if a 150MHz probe is too high for a scope with only 15MHz... literally an order of magnitude.

Thanks in advance.
 
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rappinrafi said:
Hey all. As the title states, I have an analog oscilloscope with a bandwidth of 15MHz. I am in the market for a probe and have noticed a good deal of them to be in the triple digits.

Long story short, I've come across a quality probe kit that consists of 150MHz rated probes. Thus my question is if a 150MHz probe is too high for a scope with only 15MHz... literally an order of magnitude.

Thanks in advance.

Nah, higher is better, except higher BW usually means higher cost.

It's best if the probe has an input capacitance adjustment, to help match the input capacitance of the 'scope. Does your 'scope have a "calibration" output square wave available?
 
Okay. Yes it does have cap adjustment; don't they all?

The scope does have a square wave output for calibration.
 
rappinrafi said:
Okay. Yes it does have cap adjustment; don't they all?

The scope does have a square wave output for calibration.

I can't seem to find one on the one I have. It has something that looks like one, but turning it doesn't do anything.
 
rappinrafi said:
Okay. Yes it does have cap adjustment; don't they all?

The scope does have a square wave output for calibration.

Good. Do you know how to use the square wave to calibrate the probe? Just tune the capacitance control until you get a nice square waveform. You're good to go!
 

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