It is the purpose of this primer to instead describe digital oscilloscopes, which have for practical purposes replaced their analog predecessors in the vast majority of applications. Covered here is a short description of the oscilloscope's origins, its transition from analog to digital, types of digital oscilloscopes and their major subsystems, key benchmark specifications, and measurements.
Whether analog or digital, the oscilloscope is a versatile piece of test equipment. Even though its basic function is to measure and display voltage, its capabilities are vastly greater. They range from automation of the measurements described here, as well as signal detection and analysis in commercial and defense systems, and a wide array of others.[Continue reading →]