Oscilloscope Error: Measuring Sinusoidal Wave

In summary, the problem asks to compute the measurement error if an oscilloscope, prepared for measuring a sinusoidal periodic wave, is used to measure a sawtooth wave (as shown in figure 1). The formula for measurement error is ((Measured-True)/(Measured)) × 100, and the key to solving this problem may lie in understanding what it means for an instrument to be "prepared" for measuring a sinusoid.
  • #1
JasonHathaway
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Homework Statement


"An instrument (oscilloscope) is prepared to measure a sinusoidal periodic wave, compute the measurement error if the same instrument is used to measure the wave indicated in figure 1
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(The wave is much more like a sawtooth wave, sorry for bad drawing)

Homework Equations


((Measured-True)/(Measured)) × 100

The Attempt at a Solution



Actually, I don't how to start, should I assume that sinusoidal wave is 4V peak (from 6V to 10V above, and 6V to 2V below) and substracting the values?

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  • #2
The key to this probably lies in the meaning of an instrument "being prepared" for measuring a sinusoid. Have you encountered this phrase in any earlier exercises, or in the laboratory?

Are you sure the question says it's an oscilloscope that is the instrument that is being prepared, or is that your interpretation?
 

What is an oscilloscope?

An oscilloscope is a scientific instrument that is used to measure and display voltage signals over time. It is commonly used in electronics and engineering fields to analyze and troubleshoot circuits and other electrical systems.

What is a sinusoidal wave?

A sinusoidal wave is a type of periodic wave that follows a smooth and repetitive oscillating pattern, similar to the shape of a sine curve. It is commonly used to represent alternating current (AC) signals in electrical systems.

Why am I getting an error when measuring a sinusoidal wave on the oscilloscope?

There are a few possible reasons for this error. It could be due to incorrect settings on the oscilloscope, such as the wrong voltage range or time scale. It could also be caused by a faulty or damaged probe, or an issue with the circuit itself. Double check your settings and try using a different probe to troubleshoot the error.

How do I accurately measure the amplitude and frequency of a sinusoidal wave on the oscilloscope?

To accurately measure the amplitude and frequency of a sinusoidal wave, you should adjust the voltage and time scales on the oscilloscope to ensure that the entire wave is visible on the screen. Then, use the cursors on the oscilloscope to measure the peak-to-peak amplitude and the time period of the wave. The frequency can be calculated by dividing 1 by the time period.

What other types of waves can an oscilloscope measure?

An oscilloscope can measure a variety of waveforms, including square waves, triangular waves, sawtooth waves, and more. It can also measure non-electrical signals such as sound waves and mechanical vibrations when used with the appropriate transducers.

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