Normal use of test equipment exposes you to a certain amount of danger from electrical shock because testing must often be performed where exposed high voltage is present. An electrical shock causing 10 milliamps of current to pass through the heart will stop most human heartbeats. Voltage as low as 35 volts dc or ac rms should be considered dangerous and hazardous since it can produce a lethal current under certain conditions. Higher voltage poses an even greater threat because such voltage can more easily produce a lethal current. Your normal work habits should include all accepted practices that will prevent contact with exposed high voltage, and that will steer current away from your heart in case of accidental contact with a high voltage. You will significantly reduce the risk factor if you know and observe the following safety precautions: 1. Don't expose high voltage needlessly in the equipment under test. Remove housings and covers only when necessary. Turn off equipment while making test connections in high~ voltage circuits. Discharge high-voltage capacitors after removing power. 2, If possible, familiarize yourself with the equipment being tested and the location of its high voltage points. However, remember that high voltage may appear at unexpected points in defective equipment. Use an insulated floor material or a large, insulated floor mat to stand on, and an insulated work surface on which to place equipment; make certain such surfaces are not damp or wet. Use the time-proven "one hand in the pocket" technique while handling an instrument probe. Be particularly careful to avoid contacting a nearby metal object that could provide a good ground return path, 5. When using a probe, touch only the insulated portion. Never touch the exposed tip portion. When testing ac powered equipment, remember that ac line voltage is usually present on some power input circuits such as the on-off switch, fuses, power transformer, etc, any time the equipment is connected to an ac outlet, even if the equipment is turned off. 7. Some equipment with a two-wire ac power cord, including some with polarized power plugs, is the "hot chassis" type. This includes most recent television receivers and audio equipment. A plastic or wooden cabinet insulates the chassis to protect the customer. When the cabinet is removed for servicing, a serious shock hazard exists if the chassis is touched. Not only does this present a dangerous shock hazard, but damage to test instruments or the equipment under test may result from connecting the ground lead of most test instruments (including this oscilloscope) to a "hot chassis". To make measure~ ments in "hot chassis" equipment, always connect an isolation transformer between the ac outlet and the equipment under test. The B & K-Precision Model TR-110 or 1604 Isolation Transformer, or Model 1653 or 1655 AC Power Supply is suitable for most applications. To be on the safe side, treat all two-wire ac powered equipment as "hot chassis" unless you are sure it has an isolated chassis or an earth ground chassis. 8 Never work alone. Someone should be nearby to render aid if necessary. Training in CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) first aid is highly recommended. ywInstruction Manual for Ie 'T< PRECISION Model 1590A 100MHz Quad-Trace Oscilloscope ‘This symbol on oscilloscope means "refer to instruction manual for further precautionary information", This symbol appears in the manual where the corresponding information is given, DYNASCAN EG CORPORATION 6460 West Cortland Street Chicago, Ilimois 60635TABLE OF CONTENTS Page TEST INSTRUMENT SAFETY .. FEATURES SPECIFICATIONS .. CONTROLS AND INDICATORS Introduction ... Vertical Controls Horizontal Controls Triggering Controls « Rear Panel Controls. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS Safety Precautions Equipment Protection Operating Tips Initial Starting Procedure Single Trace Display . Dual Trace Display Quad Trace Display Triggering . Magnified Sweep Operation Delayed Sweep Operation... Dual Sweep Operation. Single Sweep Operation .. X-Y Operation, inside front cover Cascaded Operation... Video Signal Observation. APPLICATIONS ar 20 DC Voltage Measurements . 2 Measurements of Voltage Between ‘Two Points on a Waveform. Elimination of an Undesired Signal Component... Time Measurements Frequency Measurements Pulse Width Measurements. Pulse Rise Time and Fall Time Measurements. Time Difference Measurements Phase Difference Measurements... Relative Measurements Waveform Magnification Using Delayed Sweep «s+. Pulse Jitter Measurements High Accuracy Time Measurements Using Delayed Sweep.. Pulse Width Measurements Using Delayed Sweep. Frequency Measurements Using Delayed Sweep. Pulse Repetition Time Measurements Using Delayed Sweep.. Rise Time and Fall Time Measurements Using Delayed Sweep. coos 0 Time Difference Measurements Using Delayed Sweep. Observing Video Signals Using Delayed Sweep. X-Y Mode Applications . Quad Trace Applications Dual Sweep Applications ACCESSORIES MAINTENANCE. Fuse Replacement. Periodic Adjustments . Calibration Check. Instrument Repair Service Additional Servicing Information ... APPENDIX I... 12039 49 WARRANTY SERVICE INSTRUCTIONS... 50 LIMITED ONE-YEAR WARRANTY s.sesee0+- 51HIGH FREQUENCY FEATURES Wide Bandwidth Conservatively rated ~3 dB bandwidth is de to 100 MHz, including X5 GAIN mode, Fast Rise Time Rise time is 3.5ns, including X5 GAIN mode. Fast Sweep Maximum sweep speed (with X10 MAG) of 2 ns/div assures high frequencies and short duration pulses are displayed with high resolution. Signal Delay Line Signal is delayed with respect to triggering to give at least 10 ns visible delay. Permits viewing leading edge of high frequency and fast risetime pulses. DUAL TIME BASE FEATURES ‘Dual Sweep Generators ‘A sweep gives normal waveform display, B sweep may be operated at faster sweep speed to expand a portion of the waveform. Six Modes of Horizontal Display Choice of A sweep only, B sweep only, A sweep with B sweep portion intensified, ‘al- temating A and B sweep (trace separation adjustable), dual sweep, and X-Y. B Sweep Delay Start of B sweep selectable from trigger- able after delay and continuous delay (starts immediately after delay) modes. Delay adjustable from 0.2 to 10 times A sweep time. Permits expansion of any por- tion of waveform. Start of B sweep can also be completely independent of A sweep (DUAL sweep operation). Variable TRACE SEPeration TRACE SEP control to allow for adjustment of A and B sweep separation for easy observation of both traces. DUAL/QUAD TRACE FEATURES Quad Trace Four vertical input channels for displaying four waveforms simultaneously. Selectable single trace (either CH1 or CH2), dual trace, or quad trace operation. Alternate or chop sweep selectable at all sweep rates. ‘Sum and Difference Capability Permits algebraic addition or subtraction of channel 1 and channel 2 waveforms, dis~ played as a single trace. Useful for differ ential voltage and distortion measurements. CRT FEATURES Rectangular CRT Rectangular CRT with large 8 x 10 centi- meter viewing area. Internal 8 x 10 division graticule eliminates parallax error. High Brightness Domed mesh type CRT with post deflection acceleration and high brightness phosphors. High acceleration voltage of 20 kV. Convenience Variable scale illumination for easy viewing in darkened area and for waveform photo- graphs. Trace rotation and astigmatism are electrically adjustable from front _ panel. 0%, 10%, 90%, and 100% markers for rise time measurements. VERTICAL FEATURES High Sensitivity 5 mV/div (1 mV/div with 5X GAIN selected) sensitivity for full bandwidth. Calibrated Voltage Measurements Accurate voltage measurements (42%) on 10 calibrated ranges from 5 mV/div to 5 V/ div. Vertical gain fully adjustable between calibrated ranges. Selectable Channel 3 and 4 Sensitivity Sensitivity of 0.1 V/Div (1/1 attenuation) or 1.0 V/ Div (1/10 attenuation) for channel 3 and 4 inputs. SWEEP FEATURES Calibrated Time Measurements Accurate (£2%) time measurements. The B sweep has 20 calibrated ranges from 50 ms/div to 0.02 1s/div. The A sweep has23 calibrated ranges from 0,5 s/div to 0.02 is/div. Sweep time is fully adjustable between calibrated ranges. X10 Sweep Magnification Allows closer examination of waveforms, increases maximum sweep rate to 2 ns/div. TRIGGERING FEATURES ‘Three Trigger Modes Selectable normal (triggered), automatic, or single sweep modes. ‘Triggered Sweep Sweep remains at rest unless adequate trig~ ger signal is applied. Fully adjustable trig~ ger level and (+) or (-) slope. AUTO Sweep Selectable AUTO sweep provides sweep without trigger input, automatically reverts to triggered sweep operation when adequate trigger is applied. Single Sweep Permits viewing and photographing one- time events. Six A Sweep Trigger Sources Six A sweep trigger source selections, inching [Link], CH1, CH 2, 1/1 CH 3/EXTernal, 1/10 CH 3/EXTernal, and LINE, In V. MODE, each waveform dis played becomes its own trigger (alternate triggering in ALT dual-trace or quad-trace mode). Five B Sweep Trigger Sources Five B sweep trigger source selections, in- cluding CH 1, CH 2, 1/1 CH 4 EXTernal, 1/10 CH 4 EXTernal, and STARTS AFTER DELAY. Five A Sweep Trigger Coupling Choices Selectable AC, DC, high-frequency reject, low-frequency reject, or video trigger coupling. Four B Sweep Trigger Coupling Choices. Selectable AC, DC, high-frequency reject, or low-frequency reject trigger coupling. Video Sync FRAME or LINE triggering automatically selected by SWEEP TIME control. Variable Holdoff ‘Trigger inhibit period after end of sweep adjustable. Permits stable observation of complex pulse trains. Offset Chop Frequency PULL CHOP F SELECT Control permits use of an offset chop frequency. FIX Trigger PULL FIX Control automatically sets trigger level at the average level of the trigger waveform, regardless of the setting of the LEVEL control, OTHER FEATURES LED Indicators LED indicators show when the 5X GAIN is selected or VARIABLE controls are set to an UNCALibrated position, Indicators are also provided to show HORIZontal DISPLAY mode, vertical MODE, TRIGger MODE, 20 MHz BW limiting, and CH 2 INVersion. X+¥ Operation Channel 2 can be applied as horizontal de~ flection (X-axis) while channel 1 provides vertical deflection (Y-axis). A and B Gate Outputs Gate signal outputs for both A and B sweep provided for synchronizing _ peripheral equipment. Z Axis Input Intensity modulation capability permits time or frequency markers to be added. Trace brightens with negative signal, TTL compatible. Built-In Probe Adjust Square Wave A1 V pep, 1 kHz square wave generator permits probe compensation adjustment. Built-In Current Probe Adjust Square Wave ‘A 10 mA pep, 1 kHz square wave current generator permits current probe compen- sation adjustment. Channel 1 Output Buffered 50% output of channel 1 signal available on rear panel for driving frequen~ cy counter or other instruments. Output is, 50 mV/div into 509 and at full bandwidth rating. Auto Focus ‘Auto focus circuit keeps waveform in focus with changes in intensity (for example, the intensified portion of trace).SPECIFICATIONS CRT: ‘Model: 150KTM31. Typet ; Rectangular with internal graticule. Display Area: 8 x 10 div(l div = 1 cm). Accelerating Voltage: 20 kV. VERTICAL AMPLIFIERS (CH 1 and CH 2) Sensitivity: 5 mv/div to 5 V/div (X1 mode). 1 mV/div to 1 V/div (K5 mode), 500 1WV/div (cascaded operation). Accuracy: 42% (+10° to 435°C). 44% (0° to +50° C). 47% (cascaded operation, CH 1 to CH 2). Input Resistance: 1 MQ 41%, Input Capacitance: 22 pF. Frequency Response: DC: — DC to 100 MHz (-3 dB), including X5 Gain Mode. DC to 70 MHz (-34B, cascaded ‘operation, CH 1 to CH 2). AC: 5 Hz to 100 MHz (-3 dB), including X5 Gain Mode. 7 Hz to 70 MHz (-34B, cascaded operation, CH 1 to CH 2). Rise Tim 3.5 ns. Signal Delay Time: Fixed, approx. 10 ns visible delay. Crosstalk: -40 4B minimum, Operating Modes: CH: CH1, single trace. CH2: CH 2, single trace. DUAL: CH 1 and CH 2, dual trace. ADD: algebraic sum of CH 1 + CH 2, single trace (CH 1 - CH 2 with CH 2 inverted). QUAD: CH 1 thru CH 4, four trace. ALT: dual or quad trace, alternating. CHOP: dual or quad trace, chopped. Chop Frequency: Approx. 250 KHz, offset chop frequency selectable. Polarity Reversal: CH 2 only. Maximum Input Volta, 400 V (dc + ac peak) or 800 V ac p-p. Maximum Undistorted Amplitud 8 divisions (dc to 100 MHz), Bandwidth Limiting: Frequency response can be limited to approximately 20 MHz by bandwidth limit switch. VERTICAL AMPLIFIERS (CH 3 and CH 4) Sensitivity: 0.1 V/div, 1 V/div 42%. Attenuator: V1, 1/10 Input Resistance: 1 Mi £1%, Frequency Response: DC to 100 MHz (3 4B). Rise Time: 3.5 ns. Signal Delay Time: ‘Same as CH 1 and CH 2. Maximum Input Displayed: DC Component: 20.5 V (#5 V, 1/10 attenuated), AC Component: 1V p-p (10 V Ep, 1/10 attenuated).SPECIFICATIONS ‘Maximum Input Voltage: 400 V (de + ac peak). HORIZONTAL AMPLIFIER (input through channel 2 input) X-¥ mode: switch selectable using HORIZ DISPLAY switch assembly. CH 1: ¥ axis. CH 2: X axis. Sensitivity: Same as vertical channel 2. Accuracy: Same as vertical channel 2. Frequency Response: DC: DC to 5 MHz (-3 4B). AG: 5 Hz to 5 MHz (-3 dB). X-Y Phase Difference: 3° of less at 100 kHz. SWEEP SYSTEM Modes (switchable with the HORIZ DISPLAY switch assembly): A: A sweep. ALT: ‘A sweep (intens for duration of B sweep) and B sweep alternating. AcINT-B: Duration of B sweep is displayed as an intensified portion of the A sweep. BDLY'D: Delayed B sweep. DUAL: Dual sweep (A and B sweep independent). XY: X-Y display mode. A Sweep: 20 ns/div to 0.5 s/div in 1-2-5 sequence, 23 steps. Vernier control provides fully adjustable sweep time between steps. B Sweep: 20 ns/div to 50 ms/div in 1-2-5 sequence, 20 steps. Accuracy: 42% (+10° to 435° C). 44% (0° to +50° C). Sweep Magnification: 10X, £5% (+10° to +35° C), 26% (0° to + 50° C). Linearity: 20 ns/div to 0.5s/div $3% (45% with X10 magnification). Holdo: Continuously adjustable for A sweep from NORM to 5 times normal. ‘Trace Separation: B sweep can be positioned from 0 to 4 div- isions below A sweep, continuously adjust- able. Delay Method: Continuous delay or trigger delay. Delay Time: 0.2 to 10 times A SWEEP TIME/DIV setting, continuously adjustable. ‘Time Difference Measurement Accuracy: + (19% of measurement + 0.1% of fullseale) (+10° to +35° Cc). 44% (0° to +50° C). Delay Jitter: 1/20,000 of full scale sweep time. TRIGGERING A Trigger: ‘Modes: AUTO (free run), NORM, SINGLE/RE- SET, FIX (at center of the waveform). Source: V. MODE, CH 1, CH 2, 1/1 and 1/10 (EXT) CH3, LINE. (Coupling: AC 20 Hz to 100 MHz. LF Rej 30 kHz to 100 MHz. HF Rej 20 Hz to 30 kHz, pc DC to 100 MHz. VIDEO Trigger signal is routed through sync separator. Horizontal sync pulses selected at sweep times of 50\8/div and faster (LINE). Vertical sync pulses selected at sweep times of 0.1 ms/div and slower (FRAME). Level 490° permits selection of triggering at any point on the positive and negative slope of the displayed waveform. Slope: +h B Trigger: Source: CH 1, CH 2, 1/1 and 1/10 (EXT) CH 4, STARTS AFTER DELAY. Coupling: ‘AC, LFrej, HFrej, DC.Level: 490°; permits selection of triggering at any point on the positive and negative slope of the displayed waveform. Slope: + ‘Trigger Sensitivity: : EXxT| EXT \Coupling] Bandwidth mt) tn | io DC DC-20 MHz | 0.5 div| 50 mv] 0.5 V DC-50 MHz | 1.0 div|100 mv| 1.0 V DC-100 MHz| 1.5 div|210 mV) 2.1 V AC Same as DC except lower limit | is 20 Ha. HFREJ | Same as AC except increased attenuation above 30 kHz. LFREJ | Same as AC except increased attenuation below 30 KHz. VIDEO | FRAME 0.5 div] 50 mV] 0.5 V LINE 0.5 div | 50 mV|0.5 V AUTO | Same as AC except lower limit is 50 Ha. FIX | 40 Hz-20 MHz 1.0 div (100 mV) 40 Hz-100 MHZ 1.5 div (210 mV) Jitter: 0.5 ns maximum at 100 MHz at 2 ns/div sweep rate (X10 MAG) OTHER SPECIFICATIONS Calibrating Voltage and Current: 1 kHz £3% Positive Square Wave. 1 V pp 41% (+10° to +35°C); 42% (0° to +50°C). 10 mA p-=p 42% (+10° to +35°C); 44% (0° to +50°C). Intensity Modulation: Input Signal: TTL level, intensity increasing with more negative levels. Input Impedance: ‘Approx. 10 kit. SPECIFICATIONS Usable Frequency Range: DC to 10 MHz, ‘Maximum Input Voltage: 50 V (de + ac peak). (CH 1 Output (on rear panel): Output Voltage: 50 mV/div (into 50-ohm load). (Output Impedance: Approx, 50 ohms. Frequency Response: DC to 100 MHz (-3 4B), (into 50-chm load). Gate Output Voltage (A and B): Approx. 1.5 V positive gate (into 500 2). ‘Trace Rotati Electrical, front panel adjustable. Power Requirements: 90-264 VAC; 45-400 Hz, approx. 56 watts. Dimensions: 13.8 x 28.4 x 40 cm (5 x 1-1/4 x 15-3/4"), Weight: 7.4 kg (16-1/4 Ibs). Environment: Operating: +10° to 435° C, 85% maximum relative humidity for full specifications. 0° to +50° C, 90% maximum relative hum- idity, full operating range. Storage: 20° to 470° G, 80% maximum selative humidity. Altitude: Operating: up to 5000 meters (16,000 £t), Non-operating: up to 12,000 meters 39,000 ft). ACCESORIES SUPPLIED: Two 10:1 Probes, Model PR-45. AC Power Cord, Probe Holder. Instruction Manual. Schematic Diagram and Parts List.INTRODUCTION ELECTRONIC MODE SELECTION Soft-touch pushbuttons select the desired modes of operation. However, the actual switching is accomplished by logic switching circuits, ‘The logic circuits sense the combin- ation of vertical, horizontal, and triggering modes selected and make all necessary circuit interconnections, This includes electronic interlocking when applicable so that selection of a new mode automatically cancels the pre- vious selection. Additionally, the logic cir- cuits indicate the presently selected modes by illuminating the face of those pushbuttons. MODE SELECTION MEMORY The Model 1590A oscilloscope incorporates mode selection memory; that is, once the operating modes are selected, they are retained in memory, even when the instrument is turned off. This is a major convenience, allowing you to restart operation in the same modes as when the scope was turned off. Fig. 1. Front Panel Controls And Indicators.CONTROLS AND INDICATORS VERTICAL CONTROLS CHANNEL 1 CONTROLS 1 VOLTS/DIV Control, Vertical attenuator for channel 1. Provides step adjustment of vertical sensitivity. When channel 1 VARIABLE control is set to CAL, verti- cal sensitivity is calibrated in 10 steps from 5 mV/div to 5 V/div in a 1-2-5 se~ quence. Vertical sensitivity is five times greater when X5 GAIN is selected. In X-Y operation, this control provides step adjustment of Y-axis sensitivity. VARIABLE, PULL X5 GAIN Control. VARIABLE: Rotation provides vernier adjust ment of channel 1 vertical gain. In the fully clockwise (CAL) position, the vertical attenuator is calibrat~ ed. In X-Y operation this control becomes the vernier Y-axis gain control. PULL X5 GAIN (Push-Pull Switch): Multiplies channel 1 vertical gain five times; for example, 5 mV/div sensitivity becomes 1 mV/div sensi- tivity. $ CHI POSITION, ¢ CH3 Control. $ CHI Postron: Rotation adjusts vertical position of channel 1 trace, In X-¥ oper: tion, rotation adjusts vertical posi tion of display, 4 CHB: Rotation adjusts vertical position of channel 3 trace. UNCAL Indicator. Lights when channel 1 VARIABLE control is not set to the CAL position. PULL X5 GAIN Indicator. Lights when the channel 1 VARIABLE control is pulled out (X5 GAIN mode). AC-GND-DC Switch. — Three~position lever switch which operates as follows: AC: Channel 1 input signal is capaci- tively coupled; de component is blocked. GND: Opens signal path and grounds input to vertical amplifier. This provides 11, UNCAL Indicator. 12. PULL X5 GAIN Indicator, a zero-volt base line, the position of which can be used as a reference when performing dc measurements. De: Direct coupling of channel 1 input signal; both ac and dc component of signal produce vertical deflection. 7. INPUT Jack. Vertical input for chan- nel 1. ¥ axis input for X-Y operation. CHANNEL 2 CONTROLS 8 VOLTS/DIV Control, Vertical attenuator for channel 2. Provides step adjustment of vertical sensitivity. When channel 2 VARIABLE control is set to CAL, verti- cal sensitivity is calibrated in 10 steps from 5 mV/div to 5 V/div in a 1-2-5 se~ quence. Sensitivity is five times greater when X5 GAIN is selected. In X-Y opera~ tion, this control provides step adjust- ment of X-axis sensitivity. 9. VARIABLE, PULL X5 GAIN ControL VARIABLE: Rotation provides vernier adjust~ ment of channel 2 vertical sensi- tivity. In the fully clockwise (CAL) position, the attenuator is calibrat- ed. In X-¥ operation this control becomes the vernier X-axis gain control. PULL X5 GAIN (Push-Pull Switch): Multiplies channel 2 gain five times; for example, 5 mV/div sensi- tivity becomes 1 mV/div sensiti- vity. 10, $ CH2 POSITION, x-¥ @ , $cHE, Control. 4 Clz POSITION: Rotation adjusts vertical position of channel 2 trace. In X-Y opera- tion, rotation adjusts horizontal position of display (X-¥-<>), CHa: Rotation adjusts vertical position of channel 4 trace. o Lights when channel 2 VARIABLE control is not set to the CAL position. Lights whenCONTROLS AND INDICATORS B. 4. 15. the channel 2 VARIABLE control is pulled out (X5 GAIN mode). AC-GND-DC Switch, _ Three-position lever switch which operates as follows: AC: Channel 2 input signal is capaci~ tively coupled; de component is blocked. GND: Opens signal path and grounds input to vertical amplifier. This provides a zero-volt base line, the position ‘of which can be used as a reference when performing de measurements. Dc: Direct coupling of channel 2 input signal; both ac and de component of signal produce vertical deflection. INPUT Jack. Vertical input for channel 2 in normal sweep operation. X-axis in put in X-¥ operation. ‘Vertical MODE Switch Assembly NOTE ‘The vertical mode settings are also re~ lated to horizontal mode and trigger source selection. Refer to HORIZ DIS~ PLAY and SOURCE controls for a de~ scription of this relationship. The vertical MODE switch assembly contains nine soft-touch pushbuttons. Each pushbutton is internally illuminated to show which mode is presently se- lected. ‘The CH 1, CH 2, DUAL, ADD, and QUAD buttons are electonically inter~ locked; i.e., selection of a new mode automatically releases the previous selection. (CH 1 Pushbutton: Only the input signal to channel 1 is displayed on the CRT. CH 2 Pushbutton: Only the input signal to channel 2 is displayed on the CRT. DUAL Pushbutton: ‘The input signal to channel 1 and channel 2 are displayed simulta~ neously on two traces. ADD Pushbutton: ‘The input from channel 1 and chan~ 16. aw 18. nel 2 are summed and displayed as a single signal. When the CH 2 INV function is activated, the input from channel 2 is subtracted from channel 1 and the difference is dis~ played as a single signal. QUAD Pushbutton: ‘The inputs to channels 1, 2, 3, and 4 are displayed simultaneously on four traces. ‘The ALT and CHOP buttons are e- lectronically interlocked; i.e, selec tion of CHOP cancels ALT, and vice versa, The ALT and CHOP functions are enabled only in the DUAL and QUAD modes. ALT Pushbutton: Selects alternate method of dual or quad-trace display. CHOP Pushbutton: Selects chop method of dual or quad-trace display. ‘The 20 MHz BW and CH 2 INV but- tons are independently latching; i.e., press once to activate function, press again to turn off function, (CH 2 INV Pushbutton: Selects inverted or normal polarity of channel 2 signal; inverted polar- ity when activated, normal polarity when off. 20 MHz BW Pushbutton: Limits maximum bandwidth to 20 MHz when activated, full band~ width when off. BEAM FIND Pushbutton. Brings the beam to within the graticule area, op- erates independently from other display controls. A INTENSITY, B INTENSITY Control. A INTENSITY: ‘Adjusts brightness of trace gener~ ated by A sweep. B INTENSITY: ‘Adjusts brightness of trace gener- ated by B sweep. SCALE ILLUM/POWER Control. Fully counterclockwise rotation of this control (OFF position) turns off oscilloscope. Clockwise rotation turns on oscilloscope.19. 20. a. 25. Further clockwise rotation of the control increases the illumination of the grati- cule scale. POWER Indicator. LED lights when os- cilloscope is turned on. ASTIG Control Astigmatism adjustment provides optimum spot roundness when used in conjuction with FOCUS control. To adjust this control a screwdriver must be used (once adjusted, this control does not require frequent readjustment). FOCUS Control An auto-focus circuit automatically readjusts focus as intensi- ty is varied. Once adjusted, this control does not require frequent readjustment. 22. 23. CONTROLS AND INDICATORS TRACE ROTATION Control. Use screw- driver to adjust trace to horizontal posi- tion, Once adjusted, this control does not require frequent readjustment. CAL 1 V pp =1 kHz Terminal. Provides 1 kHz, I-volt peak-to-peak square wave signal. This is useful for probe compen- sation adjustment and a general check of oscilloscope calibration accuracy. High enough amplitude to check CH3 and CHA. -L Terminal/Binding Post. Oscilloscope Chassis ground, and earth ground via 3rwire ac power cord. HORIZONTAL CONTROLS HORIZ DISPLAY Switch Assembly. ‘The HORIZ DISPLAY switch assembly contains five soft-touch pushbuttons which are used to select the desired hor izontal (sweep) mode, Each pushbutton is internally illuminated to show which mode is presently selected. All pushbut- tons are electronically interlocked i.e. selection of a new mode automatically releases the previous selection. The ALT, A-INT-B, and B DLY'D modes are related to the DELAY TIME MULT and B SOURCE controls. Refer to those controls for a description of that rela~ tionship. A Pushbutton: Only the A sweep is operative, with the B sweep dormant. ALT Pushbutton: ‘A sweep (with B sweep super- imposed as an intensified portion) alternates with B sweep. A-INT-B Pushbutton: Duration of B sweep appears as an intensified portion on the A sweep. 3B DLY'D Pushbutton: Only the delayed B sweep is opera~ tive. DUAL Pushbutton: ‘A sweep and B sweep operate inde- pendently. The A sweep is trig gered by the A trigger source and the B sweep is triggered by the B trigger source. XY Pushbutton: Selects X-Y mode. Channel 1 be~ comes the Y-axis and channel 2 be~ comes the X~ A sweep and B sweep are disabled. Settings of vertical MODE and TRIG MODE have no effect. SWEEP CONTROLS 26. The A SWEEP TIME/DIV and B SWEEP TIME/DIV controls are mechanically con structed so that it is impossible for the B sweep to operate at a slower sweep rate than the A sweep. There is no vernier adjustment for the B sweep. A SWEEP TIME/DIV, B SWEEP TIME/DIV Control. ‘A SWEEP TIME/DIV: Sweep time selector for A sweep. Provides step selection of sweep rate. When the A VARIABLE con- trol is set to CAL, sweep rate is calibrated. This control has 23 steps of .02 1s/div to .5 s/div, in a 1-2-5 sequence. B SWEEP TIME/DIV: Sweep time selector for B sweep. Provides step selection of sweep rate. This control is calibrated in 20 steps from 02 Is/div to 50 ms/div, each in a 1-2-5 se~ quence. In A-INT-B and ALT modes of HORIZ DISPLAY, the durationCONTROLS AND INDICATORS 2. 28. 29. of the intensified portion is depend- ent upon the B SWEEP TIME/DIV control setting. There is no fine adjustment for the B sweep. A VARIABLE, PULL CHOP F SELECT Controls. ‘A VARIABLE CONTROL: Rotation of control is vernier ad- justment for A sweep. In fully clockwise (CAL) position, sweep rate is calibrated. PULL CHOP F SELECT Control: ‘When pulled outward the chopping frequency is changed. UNCAL Indicator. Lights when A VARI- ABLE control is not set to the CAL posi- tion. DELAY TIME MULT Control. Adjusts start time of B sweep to some delay time after the start of the A sweep. Delay time may be set from 0.2 to 10 times the setting of the A SWEEP TIME/DIV con- trol. Calibrated control rotates almost 10 turns lock-to-lock, Number of full revolutions (0 to 10) appears in window of control. Fractional revolutions (100 parts per revolution) appears on skirt of control, Indicated sum of full and frac~ tional revolutions is multiplication fac~ tor. Lock-unlock lever control to pre vent accidental changing of setting. NOTE This control is enabled only in ALT, A~ INT-B, and B DLY'D modes of HORIZ DISPLAY jin either "STARTS AFTER DELAY* or “TRIGGERABLE AFTER DELAY" operation. Refer to the B SOURCE control for a further descrip- tion of that relationship. 30. al. $ TRACE SePsration, HOLDOFF Con tol. 4 TRACE SEP: ‘Adjusts vertical separation between A sweep and B sweep traces. Clockwise rotation increases sep- aration (B sweep moves down with respect to A sweep). ‘The $ TRACE SEP control is enabled only in the ALT mode of HORIZ DIS- PLAY. HOLDOFF: Rotation adjusts holdoff time (trig~ ger inhibit period beyond sweep duration), Full clockwise rotation is NORM, Holdoff period increases progressively with counterclock- wise rotation to maximum of about 5 times normal. Extreme counter- clockwise rotation turns on switch (B ENDS A) which causes A sweep to terminate at end of B sweep. B ENDS A operation is enabled only in the ALT and A-INT-B modes of HORIZ DISPLAY. <> POSITION, FINE, PULL 10X MAG Control > POSITIO! Coarse horizontal position control. INE, PULL 10X MAG: Rotation of control is fine hori- zontal position adjustment. Push- pull switch selects ten times sweep magnification (PULL 10X MAG) when pulled out, normal when pushed in. Expands both A sweep and B sweep, increases maximum sweep rate to 2 ns/div. TRIGGERING CONTROLS A SWEEP TRIGGERING CONTROLS 32. SOURCE Switch. Selects source of trig- ger for A sweep. Lever switch with the following positions: ‘V. MOD! Triggering source for A sweep is selected by vertical MODE switch. Permits each waveform viewed to become its own trigger signal. The 10 relationship to the various vertical modes is as follows: CH 1: ‘Channel 1 signal becomes the trigger source. cH 2: Channel 2 signal becomes the trigger source. ADD: ‘The algebraic sum of CH 1 +CH 2 signals becomes the trigger source (CH 1 - CH 2 if channel 2 is inverted). DUAL (ALT): CH 1 and CH 2 signals alter- nate as the trigger source. Triggering is impossible unless input signals are applied to both CHI and CH 2. QUAD (ALT): CH 1 thru CH 4 signals alter nate as the trigger source. ‘Triggering is impossible unless input signals are applied to all four channels. DUAL of QUAD (CHOP): The display cannot be syn- chronized, since the chopping signal becomes the trigger CHI: Channel 1 signal becomes A sweep trigger, regardless of vertical mode. CH2: ‘Channel 2 signal becomes A sweep trigger, regardless of vertical mode. 1/1 EXT CH 3: Signal from CH 3 or A EXT TRIG jack becomes A sweep trigger. 1/i0 EXT CH 3: Signal from CH 3 or A EXT TRIG jack becomes A sweep trigger at- tenuated by a factor of 10. LINE: Signal derived from the input line voltage (50/60 Hz) becomes trigger. 33. COUPLING Switch. Selects trigger coupling for A sweep. Five-position lever switch with the following positions: AC: ‘Trigger is capacitively coupled; de component is blocked. LF Rej Trigger is coupled thru high-pass filter. Frequencies below 30 kHz are attenuated, HF Rej: Trigger is coupled thru low-pass filter. Frequencies above 30 kHz are attenuated, CONTROLS AND INDICATORS uw Trigger is direct coupled, and in- cludes both the ac and de com- ponent. Use for signals below 20 Hz. For CH 3 and CH 4, the vertical POSITION controls have no effect on the trigger point. VIDEO: ‘Trigger is routed to video sync sep- arator. Horizontal sync pulses are selected as trigger at sweep rates of 50 18/div and faster (LINE). Ver- tical sync pulses are selected as trigger at sweep rates of .1 ms/div and slower (FRAME), 34. SLOPE, LEVEL, PULL FIX Controls. SLOPE Switch: ‘Two-position rotary switch. Coun~ terclockwise position selects neg- ative-going (-) slope and clockwise position selects positive-going (+) slope as triggering point for A sweep. LEVEL Control: Trigger level adjustment, deter- mines point on triggering waveform where A sweep is triggered. Rota~ tion in () direction selects more negative point of triggering, and rotation in (+) direction selects more positive point of triggering. PULL FIX Control: When pulled, the triggering level is automatically fixed at the average level of the triggering waveform, regardless of the setting of the LEVEL control. When pushed in, normal variable triggering is ena~ bled. 35, ‘TRIG'D Indicator. Lights when A sweep is triggered, Shows when trigger level is properly set. 36, CH3 or A EXT TRIG Jack. afl: Vertical input for channel 3 in quad-trace operation. External trigger input for A sweep or B sweep in single and dual-trace operation. Signal is unattenuated. alo: Vertical input for channel 3 in quad-trace operation. ExternalCONTROLS AND INDICATORS trigger input for A sweep in single and dual-trace operation, Signal is attenuated 10:1. B SWEEP TRIGGERING CONTROLS 37. SOURCE Switch. Selects the B sweep trigger source. Four-position lever switch has the following positions: CHI: ‘Channel 1 signal becomes B sweep trigger. CHa: ‘Channel 2 signal becomes B sweep trigger. 1/1 EXT CH 4: Selects signal from CH 4 or B EXT TRIG jack as trigger for B sweep. 1/10 EXT CH 4: Selects signal from CH 4 or B EXT TRIG jack as trigger for B sweep. Signal is attenuated 1 COUPLING Switch, Selects trigger coupling for B sweep. Four-position lever switch with the following positions: ‘AC: ‘Trigger is capacitively coupled; de component is blocked. LE Re} Trigger is coupled thru high-pass filter. Frequencies below 30 kiiz are attenuated. HF Rej: Trigger is coupled thru low-pass filter. Frequencies above 30 kiiz are attenuated. 38. Trigger is direct coupled, and in- cludes both the ac and de com- ponent, Use for signals below 20 Hz. For CH 3 and CH 4, the vertical POSITION controls have no effect on the trigger point. SLOPE, LEVEL, PULL STARTS AFTER DELAY Control, SLOPE Switch: ‘Two-position rotary switch. Coun- terclockwise position selects nega~ tive-going () slope and clockwise position selects positive-going (#) slope as triggering point for A sweep. 39. 12 40. 4. 42. LEVEL Control: Trigger threshold level adjust- ment. Determines point on trig gering waveform where B sweep is triggered. Rotation in () direction selects more negative point of trig- gering, and rotation in (4) direction selects more positive point of tr gering. Control has no effect in "STARTS AFTER DELAY" opera- tion. PULL STARTS AFTER DELAY: Selects "STARTS AFTER DELAY* operation when control is pulled out. The B sweep is triggered im- mediately after the delay set by the DELAY TIME MULT control the B SLOPE and B LEVEL controls have no effect. NOTE When the control is pushed in, the scope is in the “TRIGGERABLE AFTER DELAY" mode. B sweep trig- gering is inhibited during the delay period (set by the DELAY TIME MULT control); triggering occurs upon the first trigger signal after the delay pe- riod. Trigger signal conditions are established by the B SOUCE, B SLOPE, and B LEVEL controls. In the AUTO trigger mode, the unit will automatically revert to "STARTS AFTER DELAY" operation in the absence of a proper trigger signal. TRIG'D Indicator. Lights when B sweep is triggered. Shows when trigger level is properly set. This indicator does not light in “STARTS AFTER DELAY™ oper- ation. CH 4 or EXT TRIG Jack. Vertical input for channel 4 in quad-trace operation. External trigger input for B sweep in single and dual-trace operation, ‘TRIG MODE Switch Assembly. The TRIG MODE switch assembly con- tains four soft-touch pushbuttons which are used to select the desired triggering mode. The AUTO, NORM, and SINGLE buttons are electronically interlocked so that only one of the three may be se- lected. Selecting a new trigger mode43. 45. 46. 41. releases the previous selection. The face of each pushbutton is internally illum inated to show which triggering mode is presently selected, The RESET button is a momentary action switch used only in conjunction with the SINGLE mode. AUTO Pushbutton: Selects automatic _ triggering mode. Generates sweep (free runs) in absence of trigger; automatically reverts to triggered sweep opera~ tion when adequate trigger signal is present. Auto triggering is appli- cable to both the A sweep and B sweep. NORM Pushbutton: Selects normal triggered sweep op- eration, which generates a sweep only when adequate trigger signal is present, When scope is set up for multiple trigger sources, all trigger CONTROLS AND INDICATORS sources must be present to obtain a sweep, SINGLE Pushbutton: Selects single sweep operation. For dual or quad trace display, single sweep operation requires CHOP method of display; do not select ALT. In single sweep operation, simultaneous observation of the A sweep and B sweep is not possible. RESET Pushbutton: Enables single sweep operation. A single sweep will begin when the next sync trigger occurs, After a single sweep, RESET must be pressed again to enable next single sweep. Indicator (face of switch) lights to show that single sweep operation is ready for triggering. Lights when RESET switch is oper- ated and remains lit until one sweep is completed. REAR PANEL CONTROLS CAL Loop. Current probe calibration loop provides a 1 kHz, 10 mA p-p square wave. Arrow indicates direction of posi~ tive polarity. A GATE Jack. Output terminal where gate waveform coincident with A sweep fs available. Gate waveform is approxi~ mately 1.5 volt positive with 0 volt ref- erence, output impedance is approxi mately 500 ohms. B GATE Jack. Output terminal where gate waveform coincident with B sweep is available. Gate waveform is approxi- mately 1.5 volt positive with 0 volt ref- erence, output impedance is approxi- mately 500 ohms. CH 1 OUT Jack, Output terminal where sample of channel 1 signal is available. Amplitude is 50 millivolts per division of vertical deflection seen on CRT when terminated into 50 chms, Output impe- dance is 50 ohms. % AXIS INPUT Jack, Input jack for intensity modulation of CRT ‘electron beam. ‘TTL compatible (5 volts p-p sen- sitivity). Negative-going signal increases intensity. 1B 48. 49. 50. 51. Power Cord Receptacle, Fuse Holder. ‘Handle/Tilt Stand (aot shown). Feet/Cord Wrap.CONTROLS AND INDICATORS Fig. 2. Rear Panel Controls. rrOPERATING INSTRUCTIONS SAFETY PRECAUTIONS The following precautions must be ob~ served to prevent electric shock. 1 Py When the oscilloscope is used to make measurements in equipment that con tains high voltage, there is always a cer tain amount of danger from electrical shock. The person using the oscilloscope in such conditions should be a qualified electronics technician or otherwise trained and qualified to work in such cir cumstances. Observe the TEST IN- STRUMENT SAFETY recommendations listed on the inside front cover of this manual. Do not operate this oscilloscope with the case removed unless you are a qualified service technician. High voltage up to 20,000 volts is present when the unit is operating with the case removed. The ground wire of the 3-wire ac power plug places the chassis and housing of the oscilloscope at earth ground. Use only a 3-wire outlet, and do not attempt to de- feat the ground wire connection or float the oscilloscope; to do so may pose a great safety hazard, Special precautions are required to measure or observe line voltage wave- forms with any oscilloscope. Use the following procedure: a, Do not connect the ground clip of the probe to either side of the line. The clip is already at earth ground and touching it to the hot side of the line may “weld” or “disinte- grate” the probe tip and cause pos- sible injury, plus possible damage to the scope or probe. Insert the probe tip into one side of the line voltage receptacle, then the other, One side of the recep- tacle should be "hot" and produce the waveform, The other side of 15 the receptacle is the ac return and no waveform should result. EQUIPMENT PROTECTION PRECAUTIONS The following precautions will help avoid damage to the oscilloscope. L 2 4, Never allow a small spot of high bril- liance to remain stationary on the screen for more than afew seconds. The screen may become permanently burned. A spot will occur when the scope is set up for X-¥ operation and no signal is applied. Either reduce the intensity so the spot is barely visible, apply signal, or switch back to normal sweep operation, It is also advisable to use low intensity with AUTO triggering and no signal applied for long periods. A high intensity trace at the same position could cause a line to become permanantly burned onto the screen. Do not rest objects on top of the oscillo~ scope or otherwise obstruct the ventilat~ ing holes in the case, as this will increase the internal temperature. Excessive voltage applied to the input jacks may damage the oscilloscope. The maximum ratings of the inputs are as follows: CH 1 and CH 2: 800 V p-p; 400 V de + ac peak. EXT TRIG: 400 V de + ac peak, 'Z AXIS INPUT: 50 volts de + ac peak. Never apply external voltage to oscillo~ scope output jacks, Always connect a cable from the ground terminal of the oscilloscope to the chas- sis of the equipment under test. Without this precaution, the entire current for the equipment under test may be drawn through the probe clip leads under cer tain circumstances. Such conditionsOPERATING INSTRUCTIONS could also pose a safety hazard, which the ground cable will prevent. 5. The probe ground clips are at oscillo- scope ground and should be connected only to the common of the equipment under test. To measure with respect to any point other than the common, use CH 1 - CH 2 subtract operation (ADD mode and CH 2 INV), with the channel 1 probe to the point of measurement and the channel 2 probe to the point of ref erence. Use this method even if the ref- erence point is a dc voltage with no sig~ nal, OPERATING TIPS The following recommendations will help obtain the best performance from the oscillo- seope. 1, Always use the probe ground clips for best results, attached to a circuit ground point near the point of measurement. Do not rely solely on an external ground wire in lieu of the probe ground clips as undesired signals may be induced, 2. Avoid the following operating conditions: a. Direct sunlight. 3 4. 5 >, High temperature and humidity. c. Mechanical vibration, d. Electrical noise and strong magnet~ ic fields, such as near large motors, power supplies, transformers, etc. Occasionally check trace rotation, probe compensation, astigmatism, and cali- bration accuracy of the oscilloscope using the procedures found in the MAIN- TENANCE section of this manual. Terminate the output of a signal gener- ator in its characteristic impedance to minimize ringing, especially if the signal has fast edges such as square waves or pulses. For example, the typical 50 % output of a square wave generator should be terminated into an external 50 2 ter- minating resistor and connected to the oscilloscope with 50 coaxial cable. Probe compensation adjustment matches the probe to the input of the scope. For best results, compensation should be ad~ justed initially, then the same probe al~ ways used with the same channel. Probe compensation should be readjusted when a probe from a different oscilloscope is used, CAL PUSH. 5 Vidi ae. CAL Pus 8 vid FULLGW NORM 1 mae | cat ust apartaany POSTION ‘CENTER pusi ‘AG CENTER CENTER Fig. 3. Initial Control Settings. 16INITIAL STARTING PROCEDURE Until you familiarize yourself with the use of all controls, the settings shown in Fig. 3 may be used as a reference point to obtain a trace on the CRT in preparation for waveform observation. 1, Tum the POWER control clockwise; the unit will be turned on and the pilot light will be illuminated. This control also adjusts the scale illumination. When the control is turned fully clockwise, the scale is illuminated at full brightness. 2. When power is turned on, the HORIZ DISPLAY, TRIG MODE, ‘and vertical MODE controls should be set as follows: vertical MODE: CHI HORIZ DISPLAY: A TRIG MODE: AUTO 3. A trace should appear on the CRT. Ad- just the trace brightness with the A IN- TENSITY control, and the trace sharp- ness with the FOCUS control. SINGLE TRACE DISPLAY Either channel 1 or channel 2 may be used for single-trace operation. The advantage of using channel 2 is that the waveform on the display can be inverted if desired with the CHZ INV switch. 1, Perform the steps of the "Initial Starting Procedure" with the MODE switch set to CH2. 2, Connect the probe to the CH 2 INPUT jack, 3. Connect the probe ground clip to the chassis or common of the equipment under test. Connect the probe tip to the point of measurement. 4. If no waveforms appear, increase the sensitivity by turning the CH 2 VOLTS/ DIV control clockwise to a position that gives 2 to 6 divisions vertical deflection, 5. The display on the CRT may be unsyn- chronized. Refer to the "Triggering" paragraphs in this section for procedures on. setting triggering and sweep time controls to obtain a stable display show- ing the desired number of waveforms. VW OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS DUAL TRACE DISPLAY In observing simultaneous waveforms on channel 1 and 2, the waveforms are usually related in frequency, or one of the waveforms is synchronized to the other, although the basic frequencies are different. If the two waveforms have no phase or frequency rela~ tionship, there is seldom reason to observe both waveforms simultaneously. However, with V. MODE triggering, two waveforms not related in frequency or period can be simul~ taneously viewed. 1, Connect probes to both CH 1 and CH 2 INPUT jacks. 2. Connect the ground clips of the probes to the chassis or common of the equipment under test. Connect the tips of the Probes to the two points in the circuit where waveforms are to be measured. 3. With the ADD button engaged, the alge- braic sum of CH 1 + CH 2 is displayed as a single trace. When the CH 2 INV button is also engaged, the algebraic dif- ference of CH 1 = CH 2 is displayed. To view both waveforms simultaneously, press the DUAL button on the vertical MODE switch assembly. 5. In the ALT mode, one sweep displays the channel 1 signal and the next sweep dis- plays the channel 2 signal in an alternat~ ing sequence. Alternate sweep is norm- ally used for viewing high-frequency or high-speed waveforms at sweep times of 1 ms/div and faster, but may be selected at any sweep time. 6, In the CHOP mode, the sweep is chopped at an approximate 250 kHz rate. and switched between channel 1 and chan nel 2. Chop sweep is normally used for low-frequency or low-speed waveforms at sweep times of 1 ms/div and slower. a. If chop sweep is used at sweep times of 0.2 ms/div and faster, the chop rate becomes a significant portion of the sweep and may be- come visible in the displayed wave- form, However, you may select chop sweep at any sweep time for special applications, For example, the only way to observe simultan-OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS cous events on a dual-trace scope at any sweep rate is with chop sweep. b, Note that synchronization of the display is not possible in the CHOP mode of operation with the trigger SOURCE switch set to V. MODE, because the trigger source becomes the chopping signal itself. Use ALT mode instead, or select a trigger SOURCE of CH 1 or CH 2. A. push-pull switch is provided (PULL CHOP F SELECT) to allow a choice of two chop frequencies. In the normal (pushed in) position, chop frequency is approximately 250 kHz. When pulled, the chop frequency is slightly shifted. This permits better viewing when the signal being observed approaches the chop frequency or a sub multiple. 7. Adjust the CH 1 and CH 2 POSITION controls to place the channel 1 trace above the channel 2 trace. 8. Set the CH 1 and CH 2 VOLTS/DIV con- trols to a position that gives 2 to 3 divi sions of vertical deflection for each trace. If the display on the screen is un~ synchronized, refer to the "Triggering" paragraphs in this section of the manual for procedures for setting triggering and sweep time controls to obtain a stable display showing the desired number of waveforms. QUAD TRACE DISPLAY Four waveforms may be viewed simultane- ously using the quad-trace feature of the 1590A oscilloscope. The channel 3 and chan- nel 4 INPUT signals are de coupled and have a sensitivity of 0.1V/div when 1/1 attenuation is selected. Thus the most desirable input level is 0.1 to 0.2 volts p-p, with a dc component of 0.5 volts or less, When 10:1 probes are used, 1 to 2 volts p-p is appropriate, with a de compo- nent of up to 5 volts (suitable for TTL level signals). When 1/10 attenuation is selected, the sensitivity is increased by a factor of 10, also increasing the most desirable input level by a factor of 10. Using 1/10 attenuation 18 without 10:1 probes is also suitable for TTL level signals, External blocking capacitors or attenuators may be used with the channel 3 or channel 4 inputs. 1, Press the QUAD button on the vertical MODE switch assembly. Connect probes to CH 1, CH 2, CH 3, and CH 4 INPUT jacks. 2. Connect the ground clips of the probes to the chassis or common of the equipment under test. Connect the tips of the probes to the four points in the circuit where waveforms are to be measured. 3. In the ALT mode, one sweep displays the channel 1 signal, the second sweep dis- plays the channel 2 signal, the third sweep displays the channel 3 signal, and the fourth sweep displays the channel 4 signal in an alternating sequence. Alt nate sweep is normally used for viewing high-frequency or high-speed waveforms at sweep times of 1 me/div and faster, bat may be selected at any sweep time. 4, In the CHOP mode, the sweep is chopped at an approximate 250 kHz rate and switched between channel 1, channel 2, channel 3, and channel 4. Chop sweep is normally used for low-frequency or low speed waveforms at sweep times of 1 ms/div and slower. a, If chop sweep is used at sweep times of 0.2 ms/div and faster, the chop rate becomes a significant portion of the sweep and may be- come visible in the displayed wave~ form, However, you may select chop sweep at any sweep time for special applications. For example, the only way to observe simultan- ous events on a quad-trace scope at any sweep rate is with chop sweep. b, Note that synchronization of the display is not possible in the CHOP mode of operation with the trigger SOURCE switch set to V. MODE, because the trigger source becomes the chopping signal itself. Use ALT mode instead, or select a trigger SOURCE of CH 1, CH 2, or CH 3. neem ntti© A push-pull switch is provided (PULL CHOP F SELECT) to allow a choice of two chop frequencies. In normal (pushed in) position, the chop frequency is approximately 250 kHz, When pulled, the chop frequency is slightly shifted, This permits better viewing when the signal being observed approaches the chop frequency or a sub multiple. 5. Adjust the four vertical $ POSITION controls to place the channel 1 trace at the top of the display, the channel 2 trace below the channel 1 trace, etc. 6, Set the CH 1 and CH 2 VOLTS/DIV con- trols to a position that gives 1 to 2 divi- sions of vertical deflection for each trace. If the display on the screen is un- synchronized, refer to the "Triggering" Paragraphs in this section of the manual for procedures for setting triggering and sweep time controls to obtain a stable display showing the desired number of waveforms. TRIGGERING ‘The Model 1590A Oscilloscope provides ver satility in sync triggering for ability to obtain a stable, jitter-free display in single-trace, dual-trace, or quad-trace operation. The proper settings depend upon the type of wave- forms being observed and the type of meas- urement desired. An explanation of the vari- ous controls which affect synchronization is given to help you select the proper setting over a wide range of conditions. ‘TRIG MODE Switch 1, The NORM position provides normal triggered sweep operation, The sweep remains at rest until the selected trigger source signal crosses the threshold level set by the LEVEL control, The trigger causes one sweep to be generated, after which the sweep again remains at rest until triggered. In the NORM position, there will be no trace unless an adequate trigger signal is present. In the ALT mode of dual trace operation with the SOURCE switch set to V. MODE, there will be no trace unless both channel 1 19 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS and channel 2 signals are adequate for triggering (for quad trace operation, all four signals must be adequate). Typi- cally, signals that produce even 1/2 divi- sion of vertical deflection are adequate for normal triggered sweep operation. 2. In the AUTO position, automatic sweep operation is selected, In automatic sweep operation, the sweep generator free runs to generate a sweep without a igger signal. However, it automat ically switches to triggered sweep opera~ tion if an acceptable trigger source sig- nal is present. The AUTO position is handy when first setting up the scope to observe a waveform; it provides sweep for waveform observation until other controls can be properly set. Once the controls are set, operation is often switched back to'the NORM triggering mode, since it is more sensitive. Use the TRIGID indicator to set the trigger LEVEL in the AUTO mode, then switch to the NORM mode. Automatic sweep must be used for de measurements and signals of such low amplitude that they will not trigger the sweep. NOTE In the X-¥ mode, the sweep generator and triggering circuits are disconnected and have no effect. SOURCE Switch The A SOURCE switch (V. MODE, CH 1, CH 2, 1/1 and 1/10 EXT/CH 3, and LINE po- sitions) selects the signal to be used as the sync trigger for the A sweep. For explanation of the B SOURCE switch, refer to the "DE- LAYED SWEEP OPERATION" paragraph later in this manual. 1, When the V. MODE position is selected, the trigger source is dependent upon the vertical MODE selection, In this man~ ner, each waveform being observed be- comes its own trigger signal. a, When the vertical mode is changed from CH 1 to CH 2, the trigger source is also changed from CH 1 to CH 2, and vice versa. This is very convenient for single trace operation,OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS b, When the ALT dual-trace vertical mode is selected, the trigger source alternates between CH 1 and CH 2 with each sweep (for ALT quad- trace vertical mode, the trigger source alternates between CH 1, CH 2, CH 3, and CH 4), This is convenient for checking ampli tudes, waveshape, or waveform period measurements, and even permits simultaneous’ observation of two waveforms which are not related in frequency or period. However, this setting is not suita- ble for phase or timing comparison measurements. For such measure ments, both traces must be trig- gered by the same sync signal. When the CHOP dual-trace or quad-trace vertical mode is se~ lected, synchronization of the dis~ Play is not possible because the chopping signal becomes the trig- ger. Use the ALT mode instead, or change the SOURCE switch setting to CH 1, CH 2, or CH 3. If the SOURCE switch is set to CH 1 (or CH 2, or CH 3), the channel 1 (or channel 2, or channel 3) signal becomes the trig- ger source regardless of the vertical MODE selection, CH 1, CH 2, or CH 3 is Often used as the trigger source for Phase or timing comparison measure- ments. 3. If the A SOURCE switch is set to the LINE position, triggering is derived from the input line voltage (50/60 Hz). This is useful for measurements that are related to line frequency. If the A SOURCE switch is set to the 1/1 or 1/10 EXT/CH 3 position, the signal applied to the A EXT TRIG/CH 3 jack becomes the trigger source. This signal must have a timing relationship to the displayed waveforms for a synchronized display. LEVEL/SLOPE Control (Refer to Fig. 4) 2 A sweep trigger is developed when the trig- ger source signal crosses a preset threshold 20 atenenemtneeaneneanensenets level. Rotation of the LEVEL control varies the threshold level. In the + direction, the triggering threshold shifts to a more positive value, and in the - direction, the triggering threshold shifts to a more negative value. When the control is centered, the threshold level is set at the approximate average of the signal used as the triggering source. Proper adjustment of this control usually synchronizes the display. ‘The LEVEL control adjusts the start of the sweep to almost any desired point on a wave- form. On sine wave signals, the phase at which sweep begins is variable. Note that if the LEVEL control is rotated toward its ex- treme + or ~ setting, no sweep will be devel- oped in the NORM trigger mode because the triggering threshold exceeds the peak ampli- tude of the syne signal, When the SLOPE control is set to the + po- sition, the sweep is developed from the trigger source waveform as it crosses a threshold level in a positive-going direction. When the SLOPE control is set to the ~ position, a sweep trigger is developed from the trigger source waveform as it crosses the threshold level in a negative-going direction. The A LEVEL/SLOPE control is used to set the A sweep trigger and the B LEVEL/SLOPE control is used to set B sweep trigger. The TRIG'D indicators can be used to adjust the trigger LEVEL controls to the proper settings. SLOPE "=" RANGE We — Fig. 4, Function of Slope and Level Controls. FIX Contol (Refer to Fig. 5 and Fig, 6) When the PULL FIX control is in the pulled out position, triggering always occurs at the average level of the waveform, eliminating the need to adjust the trigger level. As shown in Fig, 5a and 5b, when the TRIG MODE is setto NORM and the triggering level is adjusted to either side of the signal, the trigger point is deviated as the input signal becomes small which, in tum, stops the sweep operation. By turning on the TRIG FIX, the triggering level is automaically adjusted to the approximate center of the waveform and the signal is syn- chronized regardless of the position of the LEVEL control as shown in Fig. 5c, ] | “Hom sre | Fig. 5. Using FIX control for square wave triggering. When the input signal is suddenly changed from a square wave to a pulse waveform, the trigger point is shifted extremely toward the side of the waveform unless the triggering level is readjusted as shown in Fig. 6a. Also, if the trigger point has been set to the "-" side of the square wave, as in Fig. 6b(I) and the input signal is changed to a pulse signal, the trigger point is deviated and the sweep stops. When this happens, pull out the FIX control and the triggering will occur at the approxi- mate center of the waveform, making it possi- dle to observe a stabilized waveform (Fig. 6c). FIX is a little less sensitve then NORM for low amplitude waveforms. COUPLING Switch 1. Use the AC position for viewing most types of waveforms. The trigger signal is capacitively coupled and may be used for all signals from 20 Hz to 100 MHz. 2. Use the LFrej position to eliminate low a OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS frequency components for stable trig- gering of high frequency signals. 4, y) 0 fd “@) a . Wo ont ages Ino ule evel. ™ - (3) When the wigar eal i act ‘ound the came ofthe waveform a Tiger point ‘Sane val 98 (1 A \— vA @ At h— PY. wa O (0) Wen he tigger level et to ‘ode of hw wavetor Ie switch sotto "WORN o | rigging without ting tv (e) Mot ait set 0 “FO Fig. 6. Using FIX control for pulse signal triggering. Use the HFrej position to eliminate high frequency components for stable trig~ gering of low frequency signals. Use the DC position when you wish to include the triggering effects of dc com- ponents. ‘The VIDEO position is primarily for viewing composite video waveforms. A sync separator circuit separates sync pulses from video. Horizontal syne pulses are selected as trigger at sweepOPERATING INSTRUCTIONS rates of 50 }s/div and faster (LINE) and vertical sync pulses are selected as trig- ger at sweep rates of 0.1 ms/div and slower (FRAME), The triggering level is automatically set so a sweep is gener ated from high or low amplitude signals, The LEVEL control has no effect. Additional procedures for ob- serving video waveforms are given later in this section of the manual. The B trigger coupling switch provides the following positions: AC, LF Rej, HF Rej, and DC. The functions of each po~ sition are identical to the corresponding A trigger coupling positons. SWEEP TIME Control Set the SWEEP TIME/DIV control to display the desired number of cycles of the waveform. If there are too many cycles displayed for good resolution, switch to a faster sweep time. If only a line is displayed, try a slower sweep time, When the sweep time is faster than the waveform being observed, only part of it will be displayed, which may appear as a straight line for a square wave or pulse wave- form. HOLDOFF Control (Refer to Fig. 7) A “holdoff" period occurs immediately after the completion of each sweep, and is a period during which triggering of the next sweep is inhibited. ‘The normal holdoff period varies with the sweep rate, but is adequate to assure complete retrace and stablization before the next sweep trigger is permitted. The HOLD- OFF control allows this period to be extended by a variable amount if desired. This control is usually set to the NORM po- sition (fully clockwise) because no additional holdoff period is necessary. The HOLDOFF control is useful when a complex series of pulses appear periodically, such as in Fig. 7A. Improper sync may produce a double image as in Fig. 7B. Such a display could be synchro- nized with the sweep time VARIABLE control, but this is impractical because time measure- ments are then uncalibrated. An alternate method of synchronizing the display is with the HOLDOFF control. The sweep speed re- mains the same, but the triggering of the next 22 sweep is "held off" by the duration selected by the HOLDOFF control. Turn the HOLDOFF control counterclockwise from the NORM po- sition until the sweep starts at the same point of the waveform each time. Maximum setting {turned fully counterclockwise, but not beyond the click stop) is 5 times greater than at the NORM setting. When the HOLDOFF control is turned fully counterclockwise (beyond the click stop), it is set in the B ENDS A mode, This ends the A sweep at the point where the B sweep ends in A-INT-B and ALT modes of HORIZ DIS- PLAY. As a result, a shortened A sweep waveform may appear on the screen, To view the entire A sweep waveform rotate the HOLDOFF control away from the B ENDS A FULL ULL | JIU A. HO. OFF ns SJYUUU Fig. 7, Use of HOLDOFF control. MAGNIFIED SWEEP OPERATION Since merely shortening the sweep time to magnify a portion of an observed waveform can result in the desired portion disappearing off the screen, such magnified display should be performed using MAGNIFIED SWEEP. Using the horizontal <> POSITION control, adjust the desired portion of waveform to the center of the CRT. Pull out the PULL X10 MAG knob to magnify the display ten times. For this type of display the sweep time is the SWEEP TIME/DIV setting divided by 10.DELAYED SWEEP OPERATION (Refer to Fig. 8 and Fig. 9) Delayed sweep operation is achieved by use of both the A sweep and the B sweep. 1, Press the A button on the HORIZ DIS~ PLAY switch assembly and adjust the scope for a normal waveform display. 2, Pull the STARTS AFTER DELAY control ‘out. Press the A-INT-B button on the HORIZ DISPLAY switch assembly and a portion of the B sweep representing the B SWEEP TIME/DIV setting will appear a5 an intensified portion of the A sweep. The B sweep intensity can be ad- justed using the B INTENSITY control. Delay time = DELAY TIME MULT setting x A SWEEP TIME/DIV setting. 5. [= yom OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS Press the B DLY'D button on the HORIZ DISPLAY switch assembly to display the A-INT-B intensified portion as a magni- fied B DLY'D sweep. Press the ALT button on the HORIZ DISPLAY switch assembly to display both the waveform with the intensified portion and the magnified B DLY'D sweep. Fig. 9 shows a typical display for the ALT sweep mode. (© swsop) AAINT:S tensed 2008 to be maid 6 ovo |____ wt Fig. 9. ALT Sweep Display. For STARTS AFTER DELAY operation, apparent jitter increases as magnifica~ tion increases. To obtain a jitter free display, switch to "Triggerable After De~ lay! operation by pushing in the STARTS AFTER DELAY control and by setting the B SOURCE switch to a position simi- lar to that of the corresponding switch for the A SOURCE, In this mode the signal selected by the B SOURCE switch becomes the B trigger source, making use of the B trigger LEVEL control to set, the trigger point. B SOURCE and LEV- EL/SLOPE controls are set in a manner similar to that of the corresponding con trols for the A sweep and the B TRIG'D indicator is enabled. NOTE Fig. 8. Delayed Sweep Display. - Shift the intensified portion of the wave- form (section to be magnified) along the A sweep by use of the DELAY TIME MULT control. For TRIGGERABLE AFTER DELAY opera tion both the DELAY TIME and B trigger LEVEL affect the start of the B sweep so that the delay time is used as a reference point. The B sweep becomes triggerable after delay, which means that it will be triggered by the first adequate trigger sig- nal after the delay time has passed.OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS SINGLE SWEEP OPERATION This mode of display is useful for looking at non-synchronous or one time events. 1, Set the TRIG MODE to either AUTO or NORM. Apply a signal of approximately the same amplitude and frequency as the signal that is to be observed as the trig- ger signal and set the trigger level. Set the TRIG MODE to SINGLE and press the RESET button, make sure that the LED in the switch lights to indicate the reset condition. This LED goes out when the A sweep period is completed. 3. The scope is now ready to operate in the SINGLE SWEEP mode of operation. Input of the trigger signal results in one and only one sweep. NOTE With the HORIZ DISPLAY set to ALT, the simultaneous observation of the A sweep and B sweep waveforms at SINGLE SWEEP is not possible. Also, for DUAL or QUAD operation simultaneous observation is not possible using the ALT mode. Set the unit to the CHOP mode in this case. X-¥ OPERATION X-¥ operation permits the oscillescope to pexform many measurements not possible with conventional sweep operation. The CRT dis~ play becomes an electronic graph of two in- stantaneous voltages. The display may be a direct comparison of the two voltages such as vectorscope display of video color bar pat terns, However, the X-Y mode can be used to graph almost any dynamic characteristic if a transducer is used to change the characteristic (frequency, temperature, velocity, ete.) into a voltage. One common application is frequency response measurements, where the Y axis cor responds to signal amplitude and the X axis corresponds to frequency. 1, Select the X-Y mode of HORIZ DIS- PLAY. In this mode, channel 1 becomes the Y axis input and channel 2 becomes the X axis input. 2, The X and ¥ positions are now adjusted using the CH 2 (X-Y <») POSITION and CH 1 ¥ POSITION controls respectively. 24 3. Adjust the amount of vertical (Y axis) deflection with the CH 1 VOLTS/DIV and VARIABLE controls. Adjust the amount of horizontal (X axis) deflection with the CH 2 VOLTS/DIV and VARIABLE controls. CASCADED OPERATION This mode of operation is used when sensi- tivity of greater than 1 mV/div is required. 1. Connect the CH 1 output to the CH 2 input using a BNC cable, In this case terminate the CH 2 input into 50 2. For cascaded operation set the CH 1 and CH 2 controls for X 5 GAIN. Set the vertical MODE switch assembly to CH 2. 3. Set the CH 1 and CH 2 VOLTS/DIV con- trols to the 5 mV/div setting and input a signal into CH 1. Channel 2 now has a sensitvity of 500 W/div, VIDEO SIGNAL OBSERVATION Setting the COUPLING switch to the VIDEO position permits selection of vertical or horizontal sync pulses for sweep triggering when viewing composite video waveforms. The VIDEO LINE mode is automatically se~ lected at sweep rates of 50 \s/div and faster. Horizontal sync pulses are selected as triggers to permit viewing of horizontal lines of video. A sweep time of about 10 is/div is ap- propriate for displaying lines of video. The sweep time VARIABLE control can be set to display the exact number of waveforms de~ sired. The VIDEO FRAME mode is automatically selected at sweep rates of 0.1 ms/div and slower. Vertical sync pulses are selected as triggers to permit viewing of vertical fields and frames of video. A sweep time of 2 ms/aiv is appropriate for viewing fields of video and 5 ms/div for complete frames (two interlaced fields) of video, At most points of measurement, a com- posite video signal is of the (-) polarity, that is, the sync pulses are negative and the video is positive. In this case, use (-) SLOPE. If the waveform is taken at a circuit point where the video waveform is inverted, the sync pulses