R&S®ESSENTIALS | Oscilloscope and probe fundamentals

Basics of oscilloscope measurements

Step-by-step guides to mastering the fundamentals

Oscilloscopes are versatile instruments that are used to visualize and analyze the waveform of electrical signals. They are used to design, test and debug almost anything that runs on electricity!

These articles will walk you through the fundamentals of oscilloscopes and probes, along with related applications. From learning the basics to understanding a specific test setup, we are your go-to resource for mastering oscilloscopes.

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Our oscilloscope and probe fundamentals

Basics of oscilloscope operation

Learn about the settings needed to make basic voltage versus time measurements on an oscilloscope.

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How to use your oscilloscope probe: oscilloscope probe tips

Get expert oscilloscope probe tips. Learn about types of oscilloscope probes and how to use oscilloscope probes. Discover the top 8 scope probe tips.

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Understanding passive probes

Learn about the settings needed to make basic voltage versus time measurements on an oscilloscope.

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Probe compensation

Learn about what probe compensation is and why it is important.

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Understanding serial protocols

Learn about parallel and serial transmission, the two main categories of methods of transferring bits.

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Understanding Bode plots

Learn about the fundamental principles behind Bode plots and how Bode plots can be used to analyze closed loop response.

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Fundamentals of EMI debug with an oscilloscope

Learn about the basic technical concepts and procedures behind EMI debugging using an oscilloscope and near-field probes.

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How zero blind time revolutionizes how you debug

Discover the power of short oscilloscope blind time for precise measurements and efficient debugging. Unlock the secrets to minimizing blind time and ensure that no signal goes unnoticed!

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Debugging serial protocols with an oscilloscope

Learn how to use an oscilloscope to debug the most common serial protocols: UART, (Q)SPI, I2C and CAN bus.

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Oscilloscope buyer's guide

Check out this guide to choosing an oscilloscope, understanding key oscilloscope features and specifications to finding a tool that meets your daily needs.

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