Using an Oscilloscope Learning Objectives Understand the basic operation of a Cathode Ray Tube Understand what an oscilloscope is displaying Be able to operate the basic functions of an oscilloscope Sensitivity control (Volts / division vertical) Sweep speed (Time / division horizontal) H position V position Automatic (auto) trigger Trigger level for viewing signals on channels 1 and 2 View signals on channels 1 and 2 View and describe an unknown signal in terms of: Amplitude Frequency Period Pulse duration View and identify cosmic ray signals from a scintillation counter

Outline Introduction Using an Oscilloscope

Introduction Oscilloscopes are common, useful tools for viewing electric signals An electric signal is the flow of charge through a conductor An oscilloscope displays the voltage which is generated across a resistor (50 ohms or 1 megaohm) as a function of time as the electric signal passes through the resistor How is the voltage related to the flow of charge in the electric signal? Current = charge flowing past a point (or through a resistor) per unit time. Units = charge / time = coulombs / second = Amperes Variable used is I Ohm’s law V = I  R ; V = voltage, R = resistance Using an Oscilloscope

Channel 1 Input Using an Oscilloscope Channel 2 Input Sensitivity controls (Volts / division, vertical) Sweep speed (Time / division, horizontal) V position H positionTrigger level Display (Cathode Ray Tube) Voltage Time

Cathode Ray Tube Using an Oscilloscope

Slide template Using an Oscilloscope