Oscilloscope Probes: What You Need to Know

Oscilloscope probes are used with virtually every scope. They enable the signal on the circuit being tested to be connected to the scope so that the signals can be measured easily and accurately.
This video provides essential details about the different types of scope probe and how they can be used.

The most common type of probe is the voltage probe. There are two main types the x1 probe which gives better sensitivity but loads the circuit more and the x10 which has a lower sensitivity and loads the circuit less. When using a x10 scope probe it is necessary to compensate the probe to the scope to ensure the right waveform is seen.

There are also active scope probes which include an amplifier in the probe tip to provide the least loading and the best signal.
It is also possible to use current probes. These scope probes clip around a wire carrying current and enable the current waveform to be monitored.

There are many different aspects to scope probes, type, bandwidth, earthing and many more. It is essential to select the right oscilloscope probe as the scope performance will only be as good as the probe. Using the right oscilloscope probe will ensure the optimum readings are taken and the performance of the whole oscilloscope is maximised.

[squidben]

Good video, lots of info specially for a beginner !!!

[kennylinda]

Great tips! I think e-Design's DS212 Mini Oscilloscope for usb oscilloscope is good

[bob]

I understand the "loop" distance problem/issue but how about using an extension from the scope to the probe's BNC connector? I see extension cables are available but seems to be mostly for non-scope/probe applications. I guess I can just move the scope (it does have a handle) but I have an old analog type so sort of heavy/large to keep moving around.

[limkwerly]

Hi, Im really grateful for this video because im really dont understand how to use a probe. May i know is it possible to use hook tip connects with the 5V motor directly to test it's electricity generation in mini wind turbine? Where should i connect my earth clip to? Thankyou very much and Im appreciated for the info given.

[Greg-lotl]

I'm confused about something. I'm an auto tech and I'm trying to build a wire that connects a vehicle comm port (two-wire can-bus) to my scope. When I'm using a voltmeter to watch the voltage switching, I have to attach my negative lead to the -wire and the positive lead to the + wire. But the most popular probe (as shown in the video) has a single hook. Where is the ground coming from if the scope is measuring voltages?

[KD-xpdi]

Can I ask how you connect the hook clip accessory to your scope tip? . I got a fluke scope recently and don't see how to connect it.

[Sanghun_Kim]

could you explain about 50 ohm input impedence? When and Why we should use it.

[qzorn]

sweet info... also some scopes have a common conductor to all channels whereas a few field scopes have isolated channel commons... still using the same basic probes... like 3-phase stuff... thanks

[control]

Sometimes though you just want to look at a signal and its shape without measuring it, like when you're aligning an old valve radio

[mu]

hi can I use 150 MHz probe on 50MHz oscilloscope?

[bobweiram]

I like the Jithu dude. He seems like a jolly good character.

[guitarguy]

1st i have a question why these probes are too expensive

[вечная_мерзлота]

I can only afford a screen protector for oscilloscope.