HAMEG HM1500 User Manual

150 MHz

Analog Oscilloscope

HM1500

Manual

English

General information regarding the CE marking

Hersteller HAMEG Instruments GmbH KONFORMITÄTSERKLÄRUNG
Manufacturer Industriestraße 6 DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Fabricant D-63533 Mainhausen DECLARATION DE CONFORMITE

Die HAMEG Instruments GmbH bescheinigt die Konformität für das Produkt
The HAMEG Instruments GmbH herewith declares conformity of the product
HAMEG Instruments GmbH déclare la conformite du produit

Bezeichnung / Product name / Designation:
Oszilloskop
Oscilloscope
Oscilloscope

Typ / Type / Type: HM1500

mit / with / avec: –

Optionen / Options / Options: –

mit den folgenden Bestimmungen / with applicable regulations / avec les
directives suivantes

EMV Richtlinie 89/336/EWG ergänzt durch 91/263/EWG, 92/31/EWG
EMC Directive 89/336/EEC amended by 91/263/EWG, 92/31/EEC
Directive EMC 89/336/CEE amendée par 91/263/EWG, 92/31/CEE

Niederspannungsrichtlinie 73/23/EWG ergänzt durch 93/68/EWG
Low-Voltage Equipment Directive 73/23/EEC amended by 93/68/EEC
Directive des equipements basse tension 73/23/CEE amendée par 93/68/CEE

Angewendete harmonisierte Normen / Harmonized standards applied / Normes
harmonisées utilisées:

General information regarding the CE marking

HAMEG instruments fulfi ll the regulations of the EMC directive. The
conformity test made by HAMEG is based on the actual generic- and
product standards. In cases where different limit values are applicable,
HAMEG applies the severer standard. For emission the limits for
residential, commercial and light industry are applied. Regarding the
immunity (susceptibility) the limits for industrial environment have
been used.

Sicherheit / Safety / Sécurité: EN 61010-1:2001 (IEC 61010-1:2001)
Überspannungskategorie / Overvoltage category / Catégorie de surtension: II
Verschmutzungsgrad / Degree of pollution / Degré de pollution: 2

Elektromagnetische Verträglichkeit / Electromagnetic compatibility /
Compatibilité électromagnétique

EN 61326-1/A1 Störaussendung / Radiation / Emission:
Tabelle / table / tableau 4; Klasse / Class / Classe B.

Störfestigkeit / Immunity / Imunitée: Tabelle / table / tableau A1.

EN 61000-3-2/A14 Oberschwingungsströme / Harmonic current emissions /
Émissions de courant harmonique:
Klasse / Class / Classe D.

EN 61000-3-3 Spannungsschwankungen u. Flicker / Voltage fl uctuations and fl icker /
Fluctuations de tension et du fl icker.

Datum /Date /Date

24. 02. 2005
Unterschrift / Signature / Signatur

Manuel Roth
Manager

3. Infl uence on measuring instruments

Under the presence of strong high frequency electric or magnetic fi elds,
even with careful setup of the measuring equipment an infl uence of
such signals is unavoidable.
This will not cause damage or put the instrument out of operation. Small
deviations of the measuring value (reading) exceeding the instruments
specifi cations may result from such conditions in individual cases.

The measuring- and data lines of the instrument have much infl uence
on emmission and immunity and therefore on meeting the acceptance
limits. For different applications the lines and/or cables used may
be different. For measurement operation the following hints and
conditions regarding emission and immunity should be observed:

1. Data cables

For the connection between instruments resp. their interfaces and
external devices, (computer, printer etc.) suffi ciently screened cables
must be used. Without a special instruction in the manual for a reduced
cable length, the maximum cable length of a dataline must be less than
3 meters and not be used outside buildings. If an interface has several
connectors only one connector must have a connection to a cable.

Basically interconnections must have a double screening. For IEEE-bus
purposes the double screened cables HZ72S and HZ72L from HAMEG
are suitable.

2. Signal cables

Basically test leads for signal interconnection between test point and
instrument should be as short as possible. Without instruction in the
manual for a shorter length, signal lines must be less than 3 meters
and not be used outside buildings.

Signal lines must screened (coaxial cable - RG58/U). A proper ground
connection is required. In combination with signal generators double
screened cables (RG223/U, RG214/U) must be used.

4. RF immunity of oscilloscopes.

4.1 Electromagnetic RF fi eld

The infl uence of electric and magnetic RF fi elds may become visible
(e.g. RF superimposed), if the fi eld intensity is high. In most cases
the coupling into the oscilloscope takes place via the device under
test, mains/line supply, test leads, control cables and/or radiation.
The device under test as well as the oscilloscope may be effected by
such fi elds.

Although the interior of the oscilloscope is screened by the cabinet,
direct radiation can occur via the CRT gap. As the bandwidth of
each amplifi er stage is higher than the total –3dB bandwidth of the
oscilloscope, the infl uence RF fi elds of even higher frequencies may
be noticeable.

4.2 Electrical fast transients / electrostatic discharge
Electrical fast transient signals (burst) may be coupled into the
oscilloscope directly via the mains/line supply, or indirectly via test
leads and/or control cables. Due to the high trigger and input sensitivity
of the oscilloscopes, such normally high signals may effect the trigger
unit and/or may become visible on the CRT, which is unavoidable.
These effects can also be caused by direct or indirect electrostatic
discharge.

HAMEG Instruments GmbH

2

Subject to change without notice

Contents

General information regarding the CE marking 2

150 MHz 2-Chanel Analog Oscilloscope HM1500 4

Specifi cations 5

Important hints 6

List of symbols used 6
Positioning the instrument 6
Safety 6
Proper operation 6
CAT I 6
Environment of use. 6
Environmental conditions 7
Warranty and repair 7
Maintenance 7
Line voltage 7

Description of the controls 8

Basic signal measurement 10

Signals which can be measured 10
Amplitude of signals 10
Values of a sine wave signal 10
DC and ac components of an input signal 11
Timing relationships 11
Connection of signals 11

Time base B (2nd time base). Delaying,
Delayed Sweep. Analog mode. 18
Alternate sweep 18

AUTOSET 19

Component tester 19

General information concerning MENU 21

Controls and Readout 22

First time operation and initial adjustments 12

Trace rotation TR 12
Probe adjustment and use 12
1 kHz – adjustment 12
1 MHz adjustment 13

Operating modes of the vertical amplifi er 13

XY operation 14
Phase measurements with Lissajous fi gures 14
Measurement of phase differences in dual

channel Yt mode 14

Measurement of amplitude modulation 14

Triggering and time base 15

Automatic peak triggering (MODE menu) 15
Normal trigger mode (See menu MODE) 16
Slope selection (Menu: FILTER) 16
Trigger coupling (Menu: FILTER) 16
Video (tv triggering) 16
Frame sync pulse triggering 16
Line sync pulse triggering 16
LINE trigger 17
Alternate trigger 17
External triggering 17
Indication of triggered operation (TRIG’D LED) 17
Hold-off time adjustment 17

Subject to change without notice

3

HM1500

Two Channels with deflection coefficients of 1 mV – 20V/cm

Low Noise Measuring Amplifiers with high pulse fidelity

Two Time Bases: 0.5s – 5 ns/cm and 20 ms – 5 ns/cm

Videotrigger: Odd and even frames, line selection (525/60 and
625/50 standard)

200 MHz 6-Digit Frequency Counter, Cursor and Automatic
Measurement

14 kV high writing speed CRT, Readout, Autoset, Delay Line,
no Fan

Save/Recall Memories for instrument settings

Help Function, Multilingual Menu

150 MHz Analog Oscilloscope
HM1500

Lissajous Figure (XY Mode)

199.994 MHz Sine Wave
Signal, measured with
internal frequency counter.

Excellent dynamic range
characteristics demonstra­ted with a 150 MHz signal

4

Subject to change without notice

Specifications

150 MHz Analog Oszilloscope HM1500

Valid at 23 °C after a 30 minute warm-up period

Vertical Deflection

Channels: 2
Operating Modes: CH 1 or CH 2 separate,

DUAL (CH 1 and CH 2 alternate or chopped),
Addition

X in XY-Mode: CH 1
Invert: CH 1, CH 2
Bandwidth (-3dB): 2 x 0 - 150 MHz
Rise time: ‹2.3ns
Overshoot: max. 1 %
Bandwith limiting (selectable): about 20 MHz (5mV/cm - 20 V/cm)
Deflection Coefficients(CH 1,2):14 calibrated steps

1 mV – 2 mV/cm: ± 5 % (0 - 10MHz (-3 dB))
5 mV – 20 V/cm: ±3 % (1-2-5 sequence)

variable (uncalibrated) › 2.5 :1 to › 50 V/cm
Inputs CH 1, 2:
Impedance: 1 MΩ II 15 pF
Coupling: DC, AC, GND (ground)
Max. Input Voltage: 400 V (DC + peak AC)
Y Delay Line: 70 ns
Measuring Circuits: Measuring Category I
Auxiliary input:

Function (selectable): Extern Trigger, Z (unblank)

Coupling: AC, DC

Max. input voltage: 100 V (DC + peak AC)

Triggering

Automatic (Peak to Peak):

Min. signal height: 5mm

Frequency range: 10 Hz - 250 MHz

Level control range: from Peak- to Peak+
Normal (without peak)

Min. signal height: 5mm

Frequency range: 0 - 250 MHz

Level control range: –10 cm to +10 cm
Operating modes: Slope/Video
Slope: positive, negative, both
Sources: CH 1, CH 2, alt. CH 1/2 (≥ 8 mm), Line, Ext.
Coupling: AC: 10 Hz-250MHz

DC: 0 -250 MHz
HF: 30 kHz–250 MHz
LF: 0-5kHz

Noise Rej. switchable

Video: pos./neg. Sync. Impulse

Standards: 525 Line/60 Hz Systems

625 Line/50 Hz Systems

Field: even/odd/both

Line: all/line number selectable

Source: CH 1, CH 2, Ext.
Indicator for trigger action: LED
External Trigger via: Auxiliary Input (0.3V

pp

, 150 MHz)

Coupling: AC, DC
Max. input voltage: 100V (DC +peak AC)
2nd Trigger

Min. signal height: 5mm

Frequency range: 0 – 250 MHz

Coupling: DC

Level control range: -10 cm to +10 cm

Horizontal Deflection

Operating modes: A, ALT (alternating A/B), B
Time base A: 0.5 s/cm - 50 ns/cm (1-2-5 sequence)
Time base B: 20 ms /cm - 50 ns/cm (1-2-5 sequence)
Accuracy A and B: ±3%
X Magnification x10: to 5 ns /cm
Accuracy X x10: ±5%
Variable time base A/B: cont. 1:2.5
Hold Off time: var. 1:10 LED-Indication
Bandwidth X-Amplifier: 0 – 3 MHz (-3dB)
XY phase shift ‹ 3°: ‹ 220 kHz

Operation/Measuring/Interfaces

Operation: Menu (multilingual), Autoset,

help functions (multilingual)

Save/Recall (instrument parameter settings): 9
Signal display: max. 4 traces

CH 1, 2 (Time Base A) in combination with
CH 1, 2 (Time Base B)

Frequency counter: max. 180/s

6 digit resolution: ›1 MHz – 250MHz
5 digit resolution: 0.5 Hz – 1 MHz

Accuracy 50ppm
Auto Measurements: Frequency, Period, Vdc, Vpp, Vp+, Vp-
Cursor Measurements: Δt, 1/Δt (f), t

r

, ΔV, V to GND, ratio X, ratio Y

Resolution Readout/Cursor: 1000 x 2000 Pts
Interfaces (plug-in): RS-232 (HO710), Ethernet,
Optional: Dual-Interface RS232/USB

Display

CRT: D14-375GH
Display area (with graticule): 8cm x 10 cm
Acceleration voltage: ca. 14 kV

General Information

Component tester:

Test voltage: approx. 7 V

rms

(open circuit), approx. 50 Hz

Test current: max. 7 mA

rms

(short circuit)

Reference Potential: Ground (safety earth)
Probe ADJ Output: 1 kHz/1 MHz square wave signal

0.2 V

pp

(tr ‹ 4 ns)

Trace rotation: electronic
Line voltage: 105 – 253 V, 50/60 Hz ±10 %, CAT II
Power consumption: 41 Watt at 230V, 50 Hz
Protective system: Safety class I (EN61010-1)
Weight: 5.6 kg
Cabinet (W x H x D): 285 x 125 x 380 mm
Ambient temperature: 0° C ...+40° C

Accessories supplied: Line cord, Operating manual, 2 Probes 10:1 with
attenuation ID

Optional accessories:

HO720 Dual-Interface RS-232/USB
HO730 Dual-Interface Ethernet/USB
HO740 Interface IEEE-488 (GPIB)
HZ70 Opto-Interface (with optical fiber cable)

HM1500E/030906/ce · Subject to alterations · © HAMEG Instruments GmbH · ® Registered Trademark · DQS-certified in accordance with DIN EN ISO 9001:2000, Reg.-No.: DE-071040 QM

HAMEG Instruments GmbH · Industriestr. 6 · D-63533 Mainhausen · Tel [phone] · Fax [phone] · www.hameg.com · [e-mail]

A Rohde & Schwarz Company

www.hameg.com

Subject to change without notice

5

Important hints

Important hints

Please check the instrument for mechanical damage or loose
parts immediately after unpacking. In case of damage we advise
to contact the sender. Do not operate.

List of symbols used:

Consult the manual High voltage

Important note Ground

Positioning the instrument

For selection of the optimum position in use the instrument
may be set up in three different positions (see pictures C,D,E).
The handle will remain locked in the carrying position if the
instrument is positioned on its rear feet.

connecting any signals. It is prohibited to separate the safety
ground connection.

Most electron tubes generate X rays; the ion dose rate of this in­strument remains well below the 36 pA/kg permitted by law.

In case safe operation may not be guaranteed do not use the
instrument any more and lock it away in a secure place.

Safe operation may be endangered if any of the following
was noticed:

– in case of visible damage.
– in case loose parts were noticed
– if it does not function any more.
– after prolonged storage under unfavourable conditions (e.g.

like in the open or in moist atmosphere).

– after any improper transport (e.g. insuffi cient packing not

conforming to the minimum standards of post, rail or trans­port fi rm)

Proper operation

Please note: This instrument is only destined for use by person­nel well instructed and familiar with the dangers of electrical
measurements.

For safety reasons the oscilloscope may only be operated from
mains outlets with safety ground connector. It is prohibited
to separate the safety ground connection. The plug must be
inserted prior to connecting any signals.

Move the handle to the instrument top if the horizontal operating
position is preferred (See picture C). If a position corresponding
the picture D (10 degrees inclination) is desired move the handle
from the carrying position A towards the bottom until it engages
and locks. In order to reach a position with still greater incli­nation (E shows 20 degrees) unlock the handle by pulling and
move it further into the next locking position. For carrying the
instrument in the horizontal position the handle can be locked
horizontally by moving it upwards as shown in picture B. The
instrument must be lifted while doing this, otherwise the handle
will unlock again.

Safety

The instrument fulfi ls the VDE 0411 part 1 regulations for
electrical measuring, control and laboratory instruments and
was manufactured and tested accordingly. It left the factory in
perfect safe condition. Hence it also corresponds to European
Standard EN 61010-1 resp. International Standard IEC 1010-1.
In order to maintain this condition and to ensure safe operation
the user is required to observe the warnings and other directions
for use in this manual. Housing, chassis as well as all measu­ring terminals are connected to safety ground of the mains. All
accessible metal parts were tested against the mains with 2200
V

. The instrument conforms to safety class I.

DC

CAT I

This oscilloscope is destined for measurements in circuits not
connected to the mains or only indirectly. Direct measurements,
i.e. with a galvanic connection to circuits corresponding to the
categories II, III, or IV are prohibited!

The measuring circuits are considered not connected to the
mains if a suitable isolation transformer fulfi lling safety class
II is used. Measurements on the mains are also possible if
suitable probes like current probes are used which fulfi l the
safety class II. The measurement category of such probes must
be checked and observed.

Measurement categories

The measurement categories were derived corresponding to
the distance from the power station and the transients to be
expected hence. Transients are short, very fast voltage or cur­rent excursions which may be periodic or not.

Measurement cat. IV:
Measurements close to the power station, e.g. on electricity
meters

Measurement cat. III:
Measurements in the interior of buildings (power distribution
installations, mains outlets, motors which are permanently
installed).

Measurement cat. II:
Measurements in circuits directly connected to the mains
(household appliances, power tools etc).

Environment of use

The oscilloscope may only be operated from mains outlets with
a safety ground connector. The plug has to be installed prior to

6

Subject to change without notice

The oscilloscope is destined for operation in industrial, business,
manufacturing, and living sites.

Important hints

Environmental conditions

Operating ambient temperature: 0 to + 40 degrees C. During
transport or storage the temperature may be –25 to +55 de­grees C.

Please note that after exposure to such temperatures or in case
of condensation proper time must be allowed until the instru­ment has reached the permissible range of 0 to + 40 degrees
resp. until the condensation has evaporated before it may be
turned on! Ordinarily this will be the case after 2 hours. The
oscilloscope is destined for use in clean and dry environments.
Do not operate in dusty or chemically aggressive atmosphere
or if there is danger of explosion.

The operating position may be any, however, suffi cient ventila­tion must be ensured (convection cooling). Prolonged operation
requires the horizontal or inclined position.

Do not obstruct the ventilation holes!

Specifi cations are valid after a 20 minute warm-up period
between 15 and 30 degr. C. Specifi cations without tolerances
are average values.

Warranty and repair

Line voltage

The instrument has a wide range power supply from 105 to 253
V, 50 or 60 Hz ±10%. There is hence no line voltage selector.

The line fuse is accessible on the rear panel and part of the line
input connector. Prior to exchanging a fuse the line cord must
be pulled out. Exchange is only allowed if the fuse holder is
undamaged, it can be taken out using a screwdriver put into the
slot. The fuse can be pushed out of its holder and exchanged.

The holder with the new fuse can then be pushed back in place
against the spring. It is prohibited to ”repair“ blown fuses or to
bridge the fuse. Any damages incurred by such measures will
void the warranty.

Type of fuse:

Size 5 x 20 mm; 250V~, C;
IEC 127, Bl. III; DIN 41 662
(or DIN 41 571, Bl. 3).
Cut off: slow blow (T) 0,8A.

HAMEG instruments are subjected to a rigorous quality con­trol. Prior to shipment each instrument will be burnt-in for
10 hours. Intermittent operation will produce nearly all early
failures. After burn-in a fi nal functional and quality test will be
performed which checks all operating modes and fulfi lment of
specifi cations.

In case of complaints within the 2 year warranty period please
contact the distributor from which the instrument was bought.
German customers may contact HAMEG directly. Our warranty
policy may be obtained under www.hameg.de. Of course, HAMEG
customer service will be at your disposal also after expiration
of the warranty.

Return Material Authorization.
Prior to sending an instrument please obtain a RMA
number form HAMEG either via www.hameg.de or by fax.
In case you do not have an original packing you may order
one by contacting HAMEG marketing and sales by phone
[phone] or under [e-mail].

Maintenance

It is necessary to check various important properties of the
oscilloscope regularly. Only this will ensure that all measu­rements will be exact within the instrument’s specifi cations.
We recommend a SCOPE TESTER HZ60 which, in spite of its
low cost, will fulfi l this requirement very well. Clean the outer
shell using a dust brush in regular intervals. Dirt can be re­moved from housing, handle, all metal and plastic parts using
a cloth moistened with water and 1 % detergent. Greasy dirt
may be removed with benzene (petroleum ether) or alcohol,
there after wipe the surfaces with a dry cloth. Plastic parts
should be treated with an antistatic solution destined for such
parts. No fl uid may enter the instrument. Do not use other
cleansing agents as they may adversely affect the plastic or
lacquered surfaces.

Subject to change without notice

7

Front Panel Elements – Brief Description

Front Panel Elements – Brief Description

The fi gures indicate the page for complete descriptions

POWER (pushbutton switch) 22

Turns the oscilloscope on and off.

INTENS (knob) 22

Intensity for trace- and readout brightness, focus and trace

rotation control.

FOCUS, TRACE, MENU (pushbutton switch) 22

Calls the Intensity Knob menu to be displayed and enables

the change of different settings by aid of the INTENS knob.
See item 2.

REM (pushbutton switch) 22

Switches the displayed menu, the remote mode (REM lit)

off.

SAVE/RECALL (pushbutton switch) 23

Offers access to the instrument settings memory.

SETTINGS (pushbutton switch) 23

Opens menu for language and miscellaneous function.

AUTOSET (pushbutton switch) 23

Enables appropriate, signal related, automatic instrument

settings.

HELP (pushbutton switch) 23

Switches help texts regarding controls and menus ON and

OFF.

in the chapter CONTROLS AND READOUT

▼

SOURCE (pushbutton switch) 27

Calls trigger source menu.

TRIG’d (LED) 28

Lit on condition that time base is triggered.

NORM (LED) 28

Lit on condition that NORMAL or SINGLE triggering is pre-

sent.

HOLD OFF (LED) 28

Lit if a hold off time > 0% is chosen in time base menu (HOR

pushbutton

X-POS / DELAY (pushbutton switch) 28

Calls and indicates the actual function of the HORIZONTAL

knob

HORIZONTAL (knob) 29

Controls horizontal position of trace.

TIME/DIV - VAR (knob) 29

Time base A and B defl ection coeffi cient and time base

variable control.

MAG x10 (pushbutton switch) 29

10 fold expansion in X direction in Yt mode, with simulta-

neous change of the defl ection coeffi cient display in the
readout.

).

, (X-POS = dark).

POSITION 1 (knob) 23

Controls position of actual present functions: Signal, Cursor

and Trace Separation (time base B).

POSITION 2 (knob) 23

Controls position of actual present functions: Signal, Cursor

and Trace Separation (time base B).

CH1/2-CURSOR-TRACE SEP (pushbutton switch) 24

Calls the menu and indicates the current function of

POSITION 1 and 2 controls.

VOLTS/DIV-VAR (knob) 24

Channel 1 Y defl ection coeffi cient and variabel setting.

VOLTS/DIV-VAR (knob) 24

Channel 2 Y defl ection coeffi cient and variabel setting.

AUTO / CURSOR MEASURE (pushbutton switch) 25

Calls menus and submenus for automatic and cursor sup-

ported measurement.

LEVEL A/B (knob) 26

Trigger level control for time base A and B.

MODE (pushbutton switch) 26

Calls selectable trigger modes.

FILTER (pushbutton switch) 27

Calls selectable trigger fi lter (coupling) and trigger slope

menu.

HOR / VAR (pushbutton switch) 29

Calls analog time base A and B mode setting, time base

variable and hold off control.

CH1 / VAR (pushbutton switch) 30

Calls channel 1 menu with input coupling, inverting, probe

and Y variable control.

VERT/XY (pushbutton switch) 31

Calls vertical mode selection, addition, XY mode and band-

width limiter.

CH2 / VAR (pushbutton switch) 32

Calls channel 1 menu with input coupling, inverting, probe

and Y variable control.

CH1 (BNC-socket) 33

Channel 1 signal input and input for horizontal defl ection in

XY mode.

CH2 (BNC-socket) 33

Channel 2 signal input.

AUX (pushbutton switch) 33

Calls AUXILIARY INPUT menu with intensity modulation (Z)

and external triggering selectable.

AUXILIARY INPUT (BNC-socket) 33

Input for external trigger or intensity (Z) modulation

signal.

8

Subject to change without notice

POWER

Front Panel Elements – Brief Description

POWER

POWER

INTENS

!

EXIT MENU

REMOTE OFF

POSITION 1 POSITION 2

VOLTS / DIV

VAR

20 V 1 mV 20 V 1 mV

CH 1

VAR

X-INP

!

CAT I

FOCUS
TRACE

MENU

REM

CH 1/2

CURSOR

TRACE

SEP

AUTO/

CURSOR

MEASURE

VERT/XY

INPUTS

1MΩII15pF

max

400 Vp

VOLTS / DIV

VAR

CH 2 HOR MAG

VAR

150 MHz

ANALOG

OSCILLOSCOPE

HM1500

LEVEL A/B

TRIGGER

MODE

FILTER

SOURCE

AUX

!

CAT I

TRIG ’d

NORM

HOLD OFF

TRIGGER
EXTERN

Z-INPUT

SAVE/

RECALL

SETTINGS HELP

HORIZONTAL

X-POS

DELAY

TIME / DIV

VAR

0.5s 50ns

VAR

AUXILIARY INPUT

AUTOSET

x10

1MΩ II

100 Vp

15pF

max

CH I: 500 mV

Instruments

ANALOGSCOPE

PROBE / ADJ (socket) 33

Square wave signal output for frequency compensation of

x10 probes.

PROBE / COMPONENT (pushbutton switch) 33

Calls COMPONENT TESTER mode settings and frequency

selection of PROBE ADJ signal.

COMPONENT TESTER (2 sockets with 4 mm Ø) 33

Connectors for test leads of the Component Tester. Left

socket is galvanically connected with protective earth.

COMPONENT

TESTER

PROBE

ADJ

Subject to change without notice

9

Basic signal measurement

Basic signal measurement

Signals which can be measured

The oscilloscope HM1500 can display all repetitive signals
with a fundamental repetition frequency of at least 150 MHz.
The frequency response is 0 to 150 MHz (–3 dB). The vertical
amplifi ers will not distort signals by overshoots, undershoots,
ringing etc.

Simple electrical signals like sine waves from line frequency
ripple to hf will be displayed without problems. However, when
measuring sine waves, the amplitudes will be displayed with
an error increasing with frequency. At 70 MHz the amplitude
error will be around –10 %. As the bandwidths of individual
instruments will show a certain spread (the 150 MHz are a
guaranteed minimum) the actual measurement error for sine
waves cannot be exactly determined.

Pulse signals contain harmonics of their fundamental frequency
which must be represented, so the maximum useful repetition
frequency of nonsinusoidal signals is much lower than 150 MHz.
The criterion is the relationship between the rise times of the
signal and the scope; the scope’s rise time should be <1/3 of
the signal’s rise time if a faithful reproduction without too much
rounding of the signal shape is to be preserved.

Values of a sine wave signal

V

p

V

rms

V

mom

V

pp

V

= rms value

rms

V

= peak to peak-value

PP

V

= momentary value, depends on time vs. period.

mom

The minimum signal for a one cm display is 1 mV
ded 1 mV/cm was selected and the variable is in the calibrated
position.

The available sensitivities are given in mV

pp

allow to indicate the amplitudes of the signals immediately
on the readout as the attenuation of probes is automatically
taken into account. Even if the probe attenuation was selected
manually this will be overridden if the oscilloscope identifi es a
probe with an identifi cation contact as different. The readout
will always give the true amplitude.

±5 % provi-

pp

or Vpp. The cursors

The display of a mixture of signals is especially diffi cult if it con­tains no single frequency with a higher amplitude than those of
the other ones as the scope’s trigger system normally reacts to
a certain amplitude. This is e.g. typical of burst signals. Display
of such signals may require using the HOLD-OFF control.

Composite video signals may be displayed easily as the instru­ment has a tv sync separator.

The maximum sweep speed of 5 ns/cm allows suffi cient time
resolution, e.g. a 100 MHz sine wave will be displayed one period
per 2 cm.

The vertical amplifi er inputs may be DC or AC coupled. Use DC
coupling only if necessary and preferably with a probe.

Low frequency signals when AC coupled will show tilt (AC low
frequency – 3 dB point is 1.6 Hz), so if possible use DC coupling.
Using a probe with 10:1 or higher attenuation will lower the
–3 dB point by the probe factor. If a probe cannot be used due
to the loss of sensitivity DC coupling the oscilloscope and an
external large capacitor may help which, of course, must have
a suffi cient DC rating. Care must be taken, however, when
charging and discharging a large capacitor.

DC coupling is preferable with all signals of varying duty cycle,
otherwise the display will move up and down depending on the
duty cycle. Of course, pure DC can only be measured with DC
coupling. The readout will show which coupling was chosen: =
stands for DC, ~ stands for AC.

It is important that the variable be in its calibrated position. The
sensitivity may be continuously decreased by using the variable
(see Controls and Readout). Each intermediate value between
the calibrated positions 1–2–5 may be selected. Without using
a probe thus a maximum of 400 V

may be displayed (20 V/div

pp

x 8 cm screen x 2.5 variable).

Amplitudes may be directly read off the screen by measuring
the height and multiplying by the V/div. setting.

Please note:

Without a probe the maximum permissible voltage

at the inputs must not exceed 400 V

irrespective of

p

polarity.

In case of signals with a DC content the peak value DC + AC
peak must not exceed + or – 400 V

. Pure AC of up to 800 VPP

P

is permissible.

If probes are used their possibly higher ratings are

only usable if the oscilloscope is DC coupled.

In case of measuring DC with a probe while the oscilloscope
input is AC coupled the capacitor in the oscilloscope input
will see the input DC voltage as it is in series with the internal
1 MΩ resistor. This means that the maximum DC voltage (or
DC + peak AC) is that of the oscilloscope input, i.e. 400 V

! With

P

signals which contain DC and AC the DC content will stress the
input capacitor while the AC content will be divided depending
on the AC impedance of the capacitor. It may be assumed that
this is negligible for frequencies >40 Hz.

Amplitude of signals

In contrast to the general use of rms values in electrical engi­neering oscilloscopes are calibrated in Vpp as that is what is
displayed. Derive rms from V
rms: multiply by 2.84.

10

Subject to change without notice

: divide by 2.84. Derive Vpp from

pp

Considering the foregoing you may measure DC signals of up
to 400 V or pure AC signals of up to 800 V

with a HZ200 probe.

PP

Probes with higher attenuation like HZ53 100:1 allow to measure
DC up to 1200 V and pure AC of up to 2400 V

. (Please note

PP

the derating for higher frequencies, consult the HZ53 manual).
Stressing a 10:1 probe beyond its ratings will risk destruction of

Basic signal measurement

the capacitor bridging the input resistor with possible ensuing
damage of the oscilloscope input!

In case the residual ripple of a high voltage is to be measured a
high voltage capacitor may be inserted in front of a 10:1 probe, it
will take most of the voltage as the value of the probe’s internal
capacitor is very low, 22 to 68 nF will be suffi cient.

If the input selector is switched to Ground the reference trace
on the screen may be positioned at graticule center or else­where.

DC and AC components of an input signal

voltage

peak

AC

DC

DC + AC

DC

AC

peak

= 400 V

max

The dashed curve shows an AC signal symmetrical to zero. If
there is a DC component the peak value will be DC + AC peak.

Timing relationships

The repetition frequency of a signal is equal to the number of
periods per second. Depending on the TIME/DIV setting one or
more periods or part of a period of the signal may be displayed.
The time base settings will be indicated on the readout in s/cm,
ms/cm, μs/cm and ns/cm. Also the cursors may be used to
measure the frequency or the period.

If portions of the signal are to be measured use delayed sweep
or the magnifi er x 10. Use the HORIZONTAL positioning control
to shift the portion to be zoomed into the screen center.

– Notice the intersections of the signal with the 10 and 90 %

lines and project these points to the centre line in order to
read the time difference.

In the example it was 1.6 cm at 5 ns/cm equals 8 ns rise time.

When measuring very short rise times coming close to the oscillo­scope rise time it is necessary to subtract the oscilloscope’s (and
if used the probe’s) rise times geometrically from the rise time as
seen on the screen. The true signal rise time will become:

2

2

ta= t

t

is the rise time seen, t

tot

– t

tot

(2.3 ns with the HM1500), t

2

– t

osc

t

is the oscilloscope’s own rise time

osc

is the rise time of the probe, e.g. 2 ns.

t

If the signal’s rise time is > 22 ns, the rise times of oscilloscope
and probe may be neglected.

ta= 82 - 2.32 - 22 = 7.4 ns

For the measurement of rise times it is not necessary to proceed
as outlined above. Rise times may be measured anywhere on
the screen. It is mandatory that the rising portion of the signal
be measured in full and that the 10 to 90 % are observed. In
case of signals with over- or undershoot the 0 and 100 % levels
are those of the horizontal portions of the signal, i.e. the over­resp. undershoots must be disregarded for rise and fall time
measurements. Also, glitches will be disregarded. If signals
are very distorted, however, rise and fall time measurements
may be of no value.

For most amplifi ers, even if their pulse behaviour is far from
ideal, the following relationship holds:

350 350
t

=

——

a

B t

B =

——

a

tr/ns = 350/Bandwidth/MHz

Connection of signals

In most cases pressing the AUTOSET button will yield a satisf­actory display (see AUTOSET). The following relates to special
cases where manual settings will be advisable. For a description
of controls refer to ”Controls and Readout“.

Pulse signals are characterized by their rise and fall times
which are measured between the 10 % and 90 % portions. The
following example uses the internal graticule of the crt, but also
the cursors may be used for measurement.

Measurement:

– Adjust the rising portion of the signal to 5 cm.

– Position the rising portion symmetrically to the graticule

centre line, using both Y and X positioning controls.

100%

90%

5 cm

10%

0%

t

tot

Take care when connecting unknown signals to the

inputs!

It is recommended to use probes whenever possible. Without
a probe start with the attenuator set to its 20 V/cm position.
If the trace disappears the signal amplitude may be too large
overdriving the vertical amplifi er or/and its DC content may be
too high. Reduce the sensitivity until the trace will reappear
onscreen. If calibrated measurements are desired it will be
necessary to use a probe if the signal becomes >160 Vp. Check
the probe specifi cations in order to avoid overstressing. If the
time base is set too fast the trace may become invisible, then
reduce the time base speed.
If no probe is used at least screened cable should be used,
such as HZ32 or HZ34. However, this is only advisable for low
impedance sources or low frequencies (<50 kHz). With high
frequencies impedance matching will be necessary.

Nonsinusoidal signals require impedance matching, at both
ends preferably. At the oscilloscope input a feed through – 50-Ω­termination will be required. HAMEG offers a HZ22 termination.
If proper terminations are not used sizeable pulse aberrations
will result. Also sine wave signals of >100 kHz should be pro-

Subject to change without notice

11