Page 1
P7500 Series
TriMode™ Probes
Technical Reference
www.tektronix.com
071-2161-00
Page 2
Copyright © Tektronix. All rights reserved. Licensed software products are owned by Tektronix or its subsidiaries
or suppliers, and are protected by national copyright laws and international treaty provisions.
Tektronix products are covered by U.S. and foreign patents, issued and pending. Information in this publication
supersedes that in all previously published material. Specifications and price change privileges reserved.
TEKTRONIX and TEK are registered trademarks of Tektronix, Inc.
Velcro is a registered trademark of Velcro Industries B.V.
Contacting Tektronix
Tektronix, Inc.
14200 SW Karl Braun Drive
P.O. B o x 5 0 0
Beaverton, OR 97077
USA
For product information, sales, service, and technical support:
In North America, call 1-800-833-9200.
Worl dwid e, vis it www.tektronix.com to find contacts in your area.
Page 3
Warranty 2
Tektronix warrants that this product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1)
year from the date of shipment. If any such product proves defective during this warranty period, Tektronix, at its
option, either will repair the defective product without charge for parts and labor, or will provide a replacement
in exchange for the defective product. Parts, modules and replacement products used by Tektronix for warranty
work may be ne
the property of Tektronix.
w or reconditioned to like new performance. All replaced parts, modules and products become
In order to o
the warranty period and make suitable arrangements for the performance of service. Customer shall be responsible
for packaging and shipping the defective product to the service center designated by Tektronix, with shipping
charges prepaid. Tektronix shall pay for the return of the product to Customer if the shipment is to a location within
the country in which the Tektronix service center is located. Customer shall be responsible for paying all shipping
charges, duties, taxes, and any other charges for products returned to any other locations.
This warranty shall not apply to any defect, failure or damage caused by improper use or improper or inadequate
maintenance and care. Tektronix shall not be obligated to furnish service under this warranty a) to repair damage
resulti
b) to repair damage resulting from improper use or connection to incompatible equipment; c) to repair any damage
or malfunction caused by the use of non-Tektronix supplies; or d) to service a product that has been modified or
integrated with other products when the effect of such modification or integration increases the time or difficulty
of servicing the product.
THIS WARRANTY IS GIVEN BY TEKTRONIX WITH RESPECT TO THE PRODUCT IN LIEU OF ANY
OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. TEKTRONIX AND ITS VENDORS DISCLAIM ANY
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
TEKTR
AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY PROVIDED TO THE CUSTOMER FOR BREACH OF THIS WARRANTY.
TEKTRONIX AND ITS VENDORS WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL,
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES IRRESPECTIVE OF WHETHER TEKTRONIX OR THE VENDOR HAS
ADVANCE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
btain service under this warranty, Customer must notify Tektronix of the defect before the expiration of
ng from attempts by personnel other than Tektronix representatives to install, repair or service the product;
ONIX’ RESPONSIBILITY TO REPAIR OR REPLACE DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS IS THE SOLE
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Page 5
Table of Contents
General Safety Summary .......................................................................................... v
Introduction ......................................................................................................... 1
Theory of Operation......... ................................ ................................ ....................... 3
Input Voltage
TriMode Operation ................... ................................ ................................ ......... 6
Probing Techniques to Maximize Signal Fidelity ..................... ................................ ..... 8
Input Impedance and Probe Loading ............... .................................. ...................... 15
Reference ....... ................................ .................................. ................................ .. 17
Single-Ended Measurements Using A and B Modes ..................... ................................ 17
Differentia
Serial Bus Standards...................................... ................................ .................... 21
Specifications ...... .................................. ................................ .............................. 22
Warranted Characteristics.................................................................................... 22
Typical Characteristics ....................... ................................ ................................ 23
Nominal Characteristics...................................................................................... 25
Tip Specifica
User Service ........................................................................................................ 35
Error Condition . . . ..... . ..... . ..... . ..... . ..... . ..... . ..... . .... . . .... . . .... . ..... . ..... . ..... . ..... . ..... . ... 35
Replaceable Parts ............................................................................................. 36
Preparation for Shipment .................. ................................ .................................. 48
Limits.................................... .................................. ..................... 3
l Measurements................................................................................... 19
tions............................................................................................. 26
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference i
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Table of Contents
List of Figure
Figure 1: Operating voltage window ...................... ................................ ....................... 4
Figure 2: Dynamic range versus linearity, 5X range ........................ ................................ ... 5
Figure 3: Dynamic range versus linearity, 12.5X range........................... ............................. 5
Figure 4: TriMode input structure ................................................................................ 7
Figure 5: P75TLRST TriMode Long Reach Solder Tip. .................................. ..................... 8
Figure 6: Typical wire length from probe tip to circuit......................................................... 9
Figure 7: P75TLRST solder tip with 0.010 in. of tip wire.................. .................................. 10
Figure 8: P75TLRST solder tip with 0.050 in
Figure 9: P75TLRST solder tip with 0.100 in. of tip wire.................. .................................. 11
Figure 10: P75TLRST solder tip with 0.200 in. of tip wire .................................................. 11
Figure 11: P75PDPM Precision Differential Probing Module ............................................... 12
Figure 12: P75PDPM with short ground spring, 0.030 in. spacing.......................................... 13
Figure 13: P75PDPM with short ground spring, 0.050 in. spacing.......................................... 13
Figure 14: P75PDPM with short ground spring, 0.090 in. spacing.......................................... 14
Figure 15: P75PDPM with short ground spring, 0.180 in. spacing.......................................... 14
Figure 16: TriMode probe input model ......................................................................... 15
Figure 17: Embedded probe fixture ....................... ................................ ...................... 16
Figure 18: Typical channel isolation for P7500 Series TriMode probes .................................... 18
Figure 19: Simplified model of a differential amplifier ....................................................... 19
Figure 20: Typical CMRR for P7500 Series TriMode probes................................................ 20
Figure 21: Probe body and control box dimensions ........................................................... 24
Figure 22: P75TLRST TriMode Long Reach Solder Tip dimensions....................................... 26
Figure 23: P7513 probe with the P75TLRST solder tip....................................................... 27
Figure 24: P7516 probe with the P75TLRST solder tip....................................................... 27
Figure 25: P75TLRST differential impedance versus lump-element equivalent........................... 28
Figure 26: P75TLRST common-mode impedance ............................................................ 28
Figure 27: P75TLRST bandwidth
Figure 28: P75TLRST bandwidth on a P7516 probe.......................... ................................ 29
Figure 29: P75PDPM Precision Differential Probing Module dimensions ................................. 30
Figure 30: P7513 probe with the P75PDPM probing module................................................ 31
Figure 31: P7516 probe with the P75PDPM probing module................................................ 31
Figure 32: P75PDPM differential impedance versus lump-element equivalent.. .......................... 32
Figure 33: P75PDPM bandwidth on a P7513 probe........................................................... 32
Figure 34: P75PDPM bandwidth on a P7516 probe........................................................... 33
Figure 35: Removing the bullets................................................................................. 37
Figure 36: Installing the bullets.. . . ..... . ..... . ..... . ... . . . .... . ..... . ..... . ..... . ..... ..... . ..... . ..... . ..... . .. 38
Figure 37: Large and small springs installed ..................... ................................ .............. 40
Figure 38: Set the gap....................... ................................ ................................ ...... 41
s
. of tip wire...................................... .............. 10
on a P7513 probe.......................... ................................ 29
ii P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
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Table of Contents
Figure 39: Inse
Figure 40: Transfer spring from tip to tool ..................................................................... 42
Figure 41: Place spring on tool .................................................................................. 43
Figure 42: Set spring in front seat ............................................................................... 43
Figure 43: Set the spring in the rear seats....................................................................... 44
Figure 44: Properly seated spring................................................................................ 44
Figure 45: Dis
Figure 46: Probing module tips.................................................................................. 45
Figure 47: Removing the tip ..................................................................................... 46
Figure 48: Separating the tip board pair ........................................................................ 46
Figure 49: Seating the tip in the top tabs.................................. .................................. .... 47
Figure 50: Snapping the tip into the bottom tabs .............................................................. 47
rt tool beneath spring............................................................................ 41
connecting the tip cable.............................. ................................ ............ 45
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference iii
Page 8
Table of Contents
List of Tables
Table 1: Offset ranges....................... .................................. ................................ .... 17
Table 2: Seri
Table 3: Warranted electrical characteristics ... .................................. .............................. 22
Table 4: Typical electrical characteristics. ................................ .................................. .... 23
Table 5: Typical mechanical characteristics.................................................................... 24
Table 6: Nominal electrical characteristics ........................... .................................. ........ 25
Table 7: TriMode probes replaceable parts ..................................................................... 36
Table 8: Requ
al bus standards with dynamic range requirements............................................. 21
ired equipment....................... ................................ .............................. 36
iv P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
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General Safety Summary
General Safet
To Avoid Fire or Personal
Injury
ySummary
Review the fol
this product or any products connected to it.
To avoid pote
Only qualified personnel should perform service procedures.
While using this product, you may need to access other parts of a larger system.
Read the safety sections of the other component manuals for warnings and
cautions re
Connect and Disconnect Properly. Connect the probe output to the measurement
instrument before connecting the probe to the circuit under test. Connect the
probe reference lead to the circuit under test before connecting the probe input.
Disconnect the probe input and the probe reference lead from the circuit under test
before d
Observe All Terminal Ratings. To avo id fire or shock hazard, observe all ratings
and mark
information before making connections to the product.
Do not a
exceeds the maximum rating of that terminal.
lowing safety precautions to avoid injury and prevent damage to
ntial hazards, use this product only as specified.
lated to operating the system.
isconnecting the probe from the measurement instrument.
ings on the product. Consult the product manual for further ratings
pply a potential to any terminal, including the common terminal, that
Do Not O
removed.
Do Not
product, have it inspected by qualified service personnel.
Avoid
when power is present.
Do No
Do Not Operate in an Explosive Atmosphere.
Keep Product Surfaces Clean and Dry.
perate Without Covers. Do not operate this product with covers or panels
Operate With Suspected Failures. If you suspec t that there is damage to this
Exposed Circuitry. Do not touch exposed connections and components
t Operate in Wet/Damp Conditions.
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference v
Page 10
General Safety Summary
TermsinthisManual
Symbols and Terms on the
Product
These terms may
WARNING. Warning statements identify conditions or practices that could result
in injury or loss of life.
CAUTION. Caution statements identify conditions or practices that could result in
damage to this product or other property.
These terms may a ppear on the product:
DANGER ind
the marking.
WARNING i
read the marking.
CAUTION i
The following symbol(s) may appear on the product:
appear in this manual:
icates an injury hazard immediately accessible as you read
ndicates an injury hazard not immediately accessible as you
ndicates a hazard to property including the product.
vi P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 11
Introduction
This manual discusses topics that are not covered in depth in the P7500 Series
TriMode Probes Quick Start User Manual.
The main sections are:
Theory of Operation — Contains probe details not covered in the user manual.
Reference — Co
to increase measurement accuracy.
Specificatio
the probe and probe tip accessories.
User Servic
ntains information about differential measurements and how
ns — Contains warranted, typical, and nominal characteristics for
e — Describes troubleshooting and probe maintenance.
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 1
Page 12
Introduction
2 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 13
Theory of Operation
This section discusses operating considerations and probing techniques. For more
detailed information a bout differential measurements and TriMode operation,
refer to Refe
The P7500 Series TriMode probes are optimized for high bandwidth; they
are not gener
characteristics and access to dense circuitry, and must be handled carefully.
CAUTION. To prevent damage to the probe, use care when handling the probe.
Rough or careless use can damage the probe.
Input Voltage Limits
The P7500 Series TriMode probes are designed to probe low-voltage circuits.
Before pr
the operating voltage window, and the differential-mode signal range. (See
Table 4 on page 23.)
rence. (Seepage17.)
al-purpose probes. The probe tips are miniaturized for electrical
obing a circuit, take into account the limits for maximum input voltage,
Maximum Input Voltage
The max
withstand without damaging the probe input circuitry.
CAUTION. To avoid damaging the inputs of the probes, do not apply more than
±15 V (DC + peak AC) between each input or between either probe input and
ground.
CAUTION. To avoid ESD damage to the probe, always use an antistatic wrist
strap (provided with your probe), and work at a static-approved workstation when
you handle the probe.
imum input voltage is the maximum voltage to ground that the inputs can
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 3
Page 14
Theory of Operation
Operating Voltage Window
The operating v
to each input, with respect to earth ground, without saturating the probe input
circuitry. (See Figure 1.) A common-mode voltage that exceeds the operating
voltage window may produce an erroneous output waveform even when the
differential-mode specification is met.
Figure 1: Operating voltage window
oltage window defines the maximum voltage that you can apply
Differential-Mode Signal
Range
Offset Voltage Range
The differential-mode signal range is the maximum voltage difference between
the A and B inputs that the probe can accept without distorting the signal. The
distortion from a voltage that exceeds this maximum can result in a clipped or
otherwise inaccurate measurement. The P7500 Series probes have two attenuation
ngs, 5X and 12.5X, that allow dynamic range to be traded off against signal
setti
noise. The 12.5X attenuator setting has the largest dynamic range; the 5X
attenuator setting has the lowest noise. The following two graphs illustrate the
linearity error over the dynamic voltage range of the probes in both attenuation
settings.
The Offset Voltage Control, accessible from the attached oscilloscope user
interface, allows the probe dynamic range to be effectively moved up and down
within the limits of the offset voltage range and the operating voltage window.
When the offset voltage is set to zero volts and the input signal is zero volts
nputs shorted to ground, not open), the displayed signal should be zero volts.
(i
If a noticeable zero volt offset is present under the a bove conditions, a Probe
Cal operation should be performed. (See the P7500 Series Probes Quick Start
User Manual).
4 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 15
Figure 2: Dynamic range versus linearity, 5X range
Theory of Operation
Figure 3: Dynamic range versus linearity, 12.5X range
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 5
Page 16
Theory of Operation
TriMode Opera
tion
The TriMode feature of the new P7500 Series probe family is designed for
improved convenience and enhanced capability in measuring differential
signal quali
single-ended signals, full characterization of differential signal quality requires
more than a simple differential measurement. A TriMode probe features three
Input Modes that allow a differential signal to be fully characterized with four
measurements: differential, positive polarity and negative polarity single-ended,
and common mode.
A TriMode probe provides improved efficiency and convenience by enabling full
differential signal characterization from a single soldered connection. Using the
P75TLRST
signals (the A signal and the B signal) and a ground reference. From this single
DUT (device under test) connection, the internal electronic switching control
of the TriMode probe allows any one of the three probe Input Modes (four
measurements) to be selected at a time. The TriMode probe inputs are routed on
the probe ASIC (application-specific integated circuit) to a set of four independent
input a
A – B (for differential signal measurement)
A – GND (for positive polarity single-ended measurement)
ty. Since a differential signal is composed of two complementary
probe tip, probe connections are soldered to the two c omplementary
mplifiers that perform the following signal calculations:
B – GND (for negative polarity single-ended measurement)
[A+B]/2 - GND (for common mode measurement)
The four input amplifiers are multiplexed together and only the selected Input
Mode function is output to the connected scope. (See Figure 4 on page 7.) The
figure shows a conceptual view of the TriMode probe input structure, where the
C input provides the probe ground reference and is connected to the probe tip
ground interconnect using the probe tip cable coaxial shields.
6 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 17
Theory of Operation
Figure 4: TriMode input structure
The TriMode features are controlled by the probe Control Box switches, which
allow os
probe Input Mode.
On futur
probe GUI can perform a Probe Cal operation on all Input Modes and Attenuation
Settings at once using the TriMode Probe Cal fixture that is supplied with P7500
Series probes. Full TriMode support will also allow storage and automatic recall
of relevant settings like Offset. For more information about oscilloscopes that
feature full TriMode support, contact Tektronix.
cilloscope features like Probe Cal to be exercised only for the selected
e oscilloscopes that provide full TriMode support, the scope-controlled
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 7
Page 18
Theory of Operation
Probing Techn
iques to Maximize Signal Fidelity
P7500 TriMode Long Reach
Solder Tip (P75TLRST)
Signal fidelity is an indication of how accurately a probe represents the signal
being measured. The signal fidelity of the probe is best when the probe is
applied prop
connecting the P7500 probe tips are given in the following section.
The P75TLRST probe tip is designed for solder-down probing applications. It
is composed of a small form factor interconnect circuit board with SMD0402
damping resistors and a set of vias for wire attachment to the DUT. The circuit
board vias are designed for both 4 mil and 8 mil wire and a special high tensile
strength wire is supplied as part of the wire accessory kit. The expanded view of
the probe tip shows the location of the A and B signal inputs as well as the two
ground reference connections. (See Figure 5.)
erly to the circuit with the P7500 probe tips. Recommendations for
Figure 5: P75TLRST TriMode Long Reach Solder Ti
Attached to the circuit board are a pair of very low skew (<1ps) coaxial cables and
a polarized G3PO dual connector block. The G3PO connector block of the probe
tip is inserted into the input nose piece on the end of the probe body of the P7500
family probes. The probe body contains a mating, polarized G3PO connector
block with attached G3PO connector b ullets.
The connector bullets are a part of the G3PO connector design, providing a
self-aligning interconnect mechanism between G3PO connectors. The G3PO
connector in the probe body is designed to have higher detent force than the probe
tip connectors, which is intended to ensure that the G3PO bullets remain in the
probe body connector when disconnected. The probe body nose piece, with its
integral spring mechanism, helps to provide a self-aligning mechanism for hand
insertion of the probe tip. The probe body nose springs also give a secure capture
of the probe tip connector after insertion. Release of the probe tip is assisted by
using the wire-connected cable release holder on the probe tip connector. This
probe tip release holder should always be used rather than pulling on the probe tip
cables, which may cause tip cable damage.
The recommended wire attachment method is to first solder the wires to the DUT,
being careful to minimize the wire length of the signal and ground connections.
This is followed by threading the wires through the probe tip board vias, being
p
8 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 19
Theory of Operation
careful to achi
inputs and a very short ground connection. Finally, the attachment is completed
by soldering the wires on top of the probe tip circuit board. Any excess wire lead
length extending through the probe tip board should be removed to minimize
possible signal reflection problems. Because of the limited mechanical strength
of the wire interconnect and probe tip circuit board, the solder-down probe tip
should be ta
includes adhesive strips that can be used for the strain relief of the probe tip, the
use of mylar tape will generally provide stronger attachment if room is available
at the DUT.
The lead length of the connection wires between the probe tip board and the DUT
must be kept as short as possible to preserve the integrity of the measured signal.
Typical wire lengths range from 0.010 in. to 0.100 in. (See Figure 6.)
eve as symmetrical a wire pattern as possible betweenthetwosignal
ped down at the DUT for strain relief. Although the accessory kit
Figure 6: Typical wire length from probe tip to circuit
The following four figures illustrate the signal integrity effect on the P75TLRST
solder tip when used with different lengths of tip wire. Signal fidelity is best when
the wire length is k ept as short as possible. The step generator that was u sed as a
signal source for thes e screenshots has a 30 ps 10-90% rise time. The table in each
re contains data for two rise time measurements (10-90% and 20-80%). These
figu
screenshots can be used as a rough guide to gauge the effects of wire length, but
actual results may vary depending on the other factors like characteristics of the
device under test (for example, rise time and impedance), precision of the solder
connection, and the model of oscilloscope.
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 9
Page 20
Theory of Operation
Figure 7: P75TLRST solder tip with 0.010 in. of tip wire
Figure 8: P75TLRST solder tip with 0.050 in. of tip wire
10 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 21
Figure 9: P75TLRST solder tip with 0.100 in. of tip wire
Theory of Operation
Figure 10: P75TLRST solder tip with 0.200 in. of tip wire
P75PD
PM Precision
Differential Probing
Module
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 11
The P75PDPM Probing Module is designed for handheld and fixtured probing
applications. The P75PDPM probe tip is composed of two replaceable probe tip
circuit boards with a pin on one end and a G3PO socket connector on the other.
ing resistors on the tip boards near the input pins and a 50 Ω transmission
Damp
line on the board transmit the signal from the input pin to the G3PO socket
connector. The probe tip boards are connected to the P7500 probe body with a
very low skew (<1 ps) cable assembly (P75TC).
Page 22
Theory of Operation
The left-side a
adjustment housing. The probe tip spacing is adjustable from 0.030 – 0.180 in.
(0.76 – 4.57 mm) using the thumb-operated screw. Because of the variable spacing
between the two probe tip boards, a gold-plated ground spring is connected
between the probe tip boards to ensure a good common mode ground return n ear
the probe tip pins.
Figure 11: P75PDPM Precision Differential Probing Module
The P75PDPM probe tip circuit boards mount in an articulating metal housing
that also supports the variable spacing control. The angle of the probe tip housing
can be adjusted and locked in place using an articulation screw in the probe holder
bar. The probe holder bar contains mechanical details for retaining the probe tip
cable assembly as well as a retaining clamp for the probe body. The probe holder
bar can be held manually or can be mounted for fixtured probing on an articulating
probe arm using mechanical features in the holder bar.
nd right-side probe tip boards mount at an angle in the P75PDPM
The P75PDPM design features improved mechanical compliance in probe
tip attachment to the DUT. Mechanical compliance is a significant issue for
differential probes because of the difficulty in making reliable contact with two
DUT connections at the same time. The reliability in making this dual point
connection can be improved by a tip structure with good mechanical compliance,
in which there is sufficient give in the probe tips to absorb interconnect surface
irregularity.
The P75PDPM does not have a local DUT ground connection because of the
great difficulty in making a good three-point interconnect without soldering. As a
result, the only low-noise TriMode Input Mode available with the P75PDPM is
the A-B (DIFF) mode, since for differential signals, there is an inherent virtual
ground present in the measurement circuit.
The following four figures illustrate the signal integrity effect of changing the
spacing on the P75PDPM Probing Module. Signal fidelity is best with the tips at
the smallest spacing. The step generator tha t was used as a signal sour ce for the
screenshots has a 30ps 10-90% rise time. The table in each figure contains data
for two rise time m easurements (10-90% and 20-80%). These screenshots can be
used as a rough guide to gauge the effects of probe tip spacing, but actual results
may vary depending on the other factors like characteristics of the device under
test (for example, rise time and impedance) and the model of oscilloscope.
se
12 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 23
Figure 12: P75PDPM with short ground spring, 0.030 in. spacing
Theory of Operation
Figure 13: P75PDPM with short ground spring, 0.050 in. spacing
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 13
Page 24
Theory of Operation
Figure 14: P75PDPM with short ground spring, 0.090 in. spacing
Figure 15: P75PDPM with short ground spring, 0.180 in. spacing
14 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 25
Input Impedance and Probe Loading
When you connect the probe inputs to a circuit, you are introducing a new
resistance, capacitance, and inductance into the c ircuit. Each input of the
differential probe has a characteristic input impedance of 50 kΩ to ground. (See
Figure 16.)
Figure 16: TriMode probe input model
For signals with low source impedance and frequency, the 50 kΩ input impedance
on each input is large enough to prevent the inputs from loading the signal
sources. The more the signal source impedance on an input increases, the more
the probe
source impedances and the higher the signal frequencies, the more you must
take these factors into account.
loads the source and reduces the signal amplitude. The greater the
Theory of Operation
The frequency of the signal also affects signal measurement. As the frequency of
the signal increases, the input impedance of the probe decreases. The lower the
impedance of the probe relative to that of the source, the more the probe loads the
circuit under test and reduces the signal amplitude.
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 15
Page 26
Theory of Operation
Embedded Probe
It is possible t
an embedded connection in your circuit. (See Figure 17.) Connectors that mate to
the P75TC Tip Cable can be incorporated in the circuit board design and carefully
placed to balance any reflections or other characteristics that may affect the
circuit or measurement. An embedded probe connection will generally provide
optimum probe performance because the signal interconnect lead length can be
minimized i
connections, contact Tektronix.
o acquire signals with the P7500 Series TriMode probes by including
f implemented correctly. For more information about embedded probe
Figure
17: Embedded probe fixture
16 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 27
Reference
This section contains information about taking measurements with the TriMode
probes and increasing measurement accuracy.
Single-Ended Measurements Using A and B Modes
A differential probe such as the P7516 TriMode Probe can be used for single-ended
measurement
Single-ended probes such as the P7240 typically have a wider offset range than
differential probes, but with much lower bandwidth performance. (See Table 1.)
Table 1: Offset ranges
s within the limits of its dynamic and offset voltage ranges.
Probe DC Offset, 5X
P7240
P7516 TriMode Probe
(differential mode)
P7516 TriMode Probe
(Single-ended and common-mode)
+/- 5 V
+1.5 V, -1.5 V 1.5 V
+2.0 V, -2.0 V 1.5 V
Differential probes are ideal for a class of single-ended measurements where the
reference voltage is not ground:
SSTL_1,2: VTT,V
PECL: V
To measur
e single-ended signals in this class, connect the negative input of the
=VCC-1.3
REF
P7500 TriMode Probe to V
Adiffer
or DC variation in V
ential probe in these applications displays the true signal despite any AC
REF
the signal plus the variation in V
Differential probes can also be used to make ground referenced single-ended
measurements on either single-ended signals or differential signals like PCI
Express or Serial ATA. To measure ground referenced single-ended signals with
the handheld module, connect the negative input of the P7500 TriMode Probe to
ground.
REF
Dynamic
Range, 5X
4V
=VDD/2
.
REF
PP
PP
PP
DC Offset,
12.5X
–
+1.5 V, -1.5 V 3.5 V
+2.0 V, -2.0 V 3.5 V
Dynamic
Range, 12.5X
—
PP
PP
from its nominal value. A single-ended probe displays
.
REF
Single-ended measurements on differential signals are used to measure common
mode voltage and check for d ifferential signal symmetry. By using the TriMode
er tip, you can easily take these measurements with one connection. Cycle the
sold
Input Mode switch to display the signal that you want to view.
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 17
Page 28
Reference
Channel Isolation
Under ideal con
probe, no part of a signal applied to one input of the probe would appear on the
other input. In reality some portion of the signal on one input does “bleed” over to
the other input, and this effect increases with frequency. Channel isolation is a
measure of how much crosstalk occurs between the two probe inputs. The channel
isolation is defined with S-parameter measurements below, where:
A input = S1, B input = S2, Output = S3
A ISOLATION = 20 log (S32 / S31) | A Mode
B ISOLATION = 20 log (S31 / S32) | B Mode
A typical isolation plot for the P7500 series TriMode probes using an embedded
probe with zero-ground lead length is shown. Channel isolation performance is
highly dependent on probe tip attachment lead length. Good channel isolation
requires keeping the interconnect lead length for both signal and ground
connections very short. (See Figure 18.)
ditions when taking single-ended measurements with a differential
Figure 18: Typical channel isolation for P7500 Series TriMode probes
18 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 29
Reference
Differential
Measurements
A differential probe is optimized to measure high speed differential signals.
Differential signals are formed from two complementary signals with a common
reference vo
Devices designed for differential measurements avoid problems presented by
single-ende
differential amplifiers, and isolators.
A different
differential measurements that reject any voltage that is common to the inputs and
amplifies any difference between the inputs. Voltage that is common to both
inputs is often referred to as the Common-Mode Voltage (V
is different as the Differential-Mode Voltage (V
ltage. (See Figure 19.)
d systems. These devices include a variety of differential probes,
ial probe is basically a differential amplifier, which is used to make
) and voltage that
CM
).
DM
Common
-Mode Rejection
Ratio
Figure 19: Simplified model of a differential amplifier
Differential amplifiers cannot reject all of the common-mode signal. The ability
of a differential amplifier to reject the common-mode signal is expressed as the
Commo
gain (A
n-Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR). The CMRR is the differential-mode
) divided by the common-mode gain (ACM). It is expressed either as
DM
a ratio or in dB.
CMRR generally is highest (best) at DC and degrades with increasing frequency.
A typical CMRR plot for the P7500 Series TriMode probes is shown. (See
Figure 20 on page 20.)
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 19
Page 30
Reference
Figure 20: Typical CMRR for P7500 Series TriMode probes
Assessing CMRR Error
Input Impedance Effects
on CMRR
Differential-Mode
Rejection
The CMRR of the P7500 Series TriMode Probes is shown in graphs assuming a
sinusoidal common-mode signal.
A quick way to a ssess the magnitude of CMRR error when the common-mode
signal is not sinusoidal is to connect both leads to the same point in the circuit. The
oscilloscope displays only the common-mode component that is not fully rejected
by the probe. While this technique may not give you accurate measurements, it
does allow you to determine if the magnitude of the common-mode error signal
is significant. Make the probe tip wires the same length to maximize the probe
CMRR.
The lower the input impedance of the probe relative to the source impedance,
thelowertheCMRRforagivensourceimpedance imbalance. Differences
in the source impedance driving the two inputs lowers the CMRR. Note that
single-ended measurements generally result in asymmetric source impedances
which tend to reduce the differential mode CMRR.
When making common-mode signal measurements (A+B/2 -GND) with the
TriMode probe, it is desirable to reject the differential-mode signal p resent
between the two inputs. This rejection is expressed as the Differential-Mode
Rejection Ratio (DMRR), and is defined as the common-mode gain (A
by the differential-m
ode gain (A
). It is expressed either as a ratio or in dB, and
DM
) divided
CM
degrades at higher frequencies.
20 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 31
Reference
Serial Bus Sta
ndards
The table below lists some popular high-speed data communication standards that
can be measured with the P7500 Series TriMode Probes.
Table 2: Seri
Standard Data Rate Vdm_max Vdm_min Vcm_max Vcm_min
HDMI/DVI 1.65 Gb/s
InfiniBand TX 2.5 Gb/s
InfiniBand RX 2.5 Gb/s
PCI Express TX 2.5 Gb/s
PCI Express RX 2.5 Gb/s
Serial ATA TX 1.5 Gb/s
Serial ATA RX 1.5 Gb/s
XAUI TX 3.125 Gb/s
XAUI RX 3.125 Gb/s
OIF-SxI-5 TX 3.125 Gb/s
OIF-SxI-5 RX 3.125 Gb/s
LV PECL (std ECL) >12 GHz
LV PE CL (RSECL) >12 GHz
al bus standards with dynamic range requirements
800 mV 150 mV 3.3 V 2.8 V
1.6 V 1.0 V 1.0 V 0.5 V
1.6 V 0.175 V 1.0 V 0.5 V
1.2 V 0.8 V
1.2 V 0.175 V
0.6 V 0.4 V 0.3 V 0.2 V
0.6 V 0.325 V 0.3 V 0.2 V
0.4 V
0.1 V
1.0 V 0.5 V 1.23 V 0.72 V
1.0 V 0.175 V 1.30 V 1.10 V
1.66 V
(typ)
1.05 V 0.70 V
1.48 V
AC AC
AC AC
1.3 V (vt) 0.5 V (vt)
1.3 V (vt) 0.5 V (vt)
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 21
Page 32
Specifications
Specification
s
These specific
ations apply to the P7500 Series TriMode Probes installed on an
oscilloscope with a TekConnect interface. When the probe is used with another
oscilloscope, the oscilloscope must have an input impedance of 50 Ω. The probe
must have a warm-up period of at least 20 minutes and be in an environment that
does not exceed the allowed limits. (See Table 3.)
Specifications for the P7500 Series TriMode Probes fall into three categories:
warranted, typical, and nominal characteristics.
Warranted
Characteristics
Warranted characteristics describe guaranteed performance within tolerance limits
or certain type-tested requirements.
Table 3: W
Characteristic Specification (applies to all models unless specified otherwise.)
Rise time
Usinga25
(18 to28ºC+64to+82°F)
DC attenuation accuracy 0.2125 ±2% (5X)
Output O ffset Zero ±3 mV (+20 to +30 °C, +68 to +86 °F) (5X) ±14.1 mV on oscilloscope
Temperature
Humidity
Altitude
1
Measurements taken using an embedded probe fixture
arranted electrical characteristics
1
10–90%
20–80%
0mVstep
P7513 P7516
<40 ps <32 ps
<28 ps <24 ps
0.0833 ±2% (12.5X)
±3 mV (+20
Operatin
Nonoperating: –20 to +71 °C (-4 to +160 °F)
Operating: 20–80% RH, at up to +40 °C (+104 °F)
Nonoperating: 5–90% RH
Operating: 3000 meters (10,000 feet)
Nonopera
to +30 °C, +68 to +86 °F) (12.5X) ±36 mV on oscilloscope
g: 0 to +40 °C (+32 to +104 °F),
ting: 12,000 meters (40,000 feet)
22 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 33
Specifications
Typical Chara
cteristics
Typical characteristics describe typical but not guaranteed performance.
Table 4: Typical electrical characteristics
Characteristic Specification (applies to all models unless specified otherwise.)
Differential input resistance, DC coupled 100 kΩ ±6 kΩ
Input resistance matching
Common-mode input resistance, DC
coupled
Offset voltage range, differential-mode
Offset voltage range, single-ended and
common-mode (ground-referenced)
Offset scale accuracy, differential-mode 0.10 ±2%, referred to input
Offset scale accuracy, single-ended and
common-mode (ground-referenced)
Noise, differential-mode
Noise, single-ended and common-mode
(ground-referenced)
Delay time 4.4 ns ±0.1 ns
Input impedance
(See page 26, Tip Specifications.)
Common-mode rejection ratio,
differential-mode
(See page 26, Tip Specifications.)
Differential-mode rejection ratio,
common-mode
(See page 26, Tip Specifications.)
Channel isolation, single-ended mode
(See page 26, Tip Specifications.)
Maximum non destructive input voltage ±15 V
Differential signal range (DC coupled) ±0.750 V at attenuation setting of 5X
±250Ω side-to-side with respect to ground
50 kΩ ±3 kΩ
–1.5Vto+1.5V
–2.0Vto+2.0V
0.20 ±2%, referred to input
<33 nV/ (5X)
<48 nV/
<38 nV/ (5X)
<52 nV/
(See page 26, Tip Specifications.)
P7513 P7516Bandwidth
13 GHz 16 GHz
>60 dB at DC
>40dBto50MHz(5X)
>35dBto50MHz(12.5X)
>30dBto1GHz
>20dBto7GHz
>15dBto13GHz
>40dBto50MHz(5X)
>35dBto50MHz(12.5X)
>30dBto1GHz
>20dBto7GHz
>15dBto13GHz
>40dBto50MHz(5X)
>35dBto50MHz(12.5X)
>30dBto1GHz
>20dBto7GHz
>15dBto13GHz
(DC + peak AC)
±1.75 V at attenuation setting of 12.5X
(12.5X)
(12.5X)
>60 dB at DC
>40dBto50MHz(5X)
>35 dB to 50 MHz (12.5X)
>30dBto1GHz
>20dBto8GHz
>15dBto16GHz
>40dBto50MHz(5X)
>35 dB to 50 MHz (12.5X)
>30dBto1GHz
>20dBto8GHz
>15dBto16GHz
>40dBto50MHz(5X)
>35 dB to 50 MHz (12.5X)
>30dBto1GHz
>20dBto8GHz
>15dBto16GHz
between each input or between either probe inputs and ground
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 23
Page 34
Specifications
Characteristic Specification (applies to all models unless specified otherwise.)
Operating Voltage Window
Linearity
DC offset drift, differential-mode –0.47 mV/ °C (5X, referred to input)
DC offset drif
common-mode (ground-referenced)
DC voltage measurement accuracy ±2% of input + (2% of offset) + 15 mV + 4.7 mV) 5X
t, single-ended and
-2.0Vto+4.0V
±1% over a dynamic range of –0.75 V to +0.75 V for 5X
±1% over a dynamic range of –1.75 V to +1.75 V for 12.5X
–0.72 mV/ °C (1
+0.47 mV/ °C (5
+0.24 mV/ °C (12.5X, referred to input)
±2% of input + (2% of offset) + 75 mV + 20 mV) 12.5X
2.5X, referred to input)
X, referred to input)
Table 5: Typical mechanical characteristics
Characteristic Description
Dimensions, control box
Dimensions, probe body
Dimensions, cable length
Unit weight
125.4 mm × 41 mm × 35 mm (4.9 in × 1.6 in × 1.4 in)
101.6 mm × 8.89 mm × 19 mm (4.0 in × 0.350 in × 0.750 in)
1.0 m (39.3 i n) (from the probe body to the control box)
1.550 g (3.1 lbs) (probe, accessories and packaging)
Figure 21: Probe body and control box dimensions
24 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 35
Specifications
Nominal Chara
cteristics
Nominal characteristics describe guaranteed traits, but the traits do not have
tolerance limits.
Table 6: Nomi
Characteristic Description
Input configuration
Output coupling DC
Attenuation settings 5X and 12.5X
Terminatio
nal electrical characteristics
n
P75TLRST solder tip: Differential (two signal
inputs, + and –; shared with single-ended))
Single-ende
and two ground inputs)
P75PDPM handheld: Differential (two inputs,
+ and –)
Terminate output into 50 Ω
d (one each + and – signal input
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 25
Page 36
Specifications
Tip Specificat
ions
This section lists specifications that are applicable to the probe when used with
the accessory tips available for the TriMode probes.
P75TLRST Tri
Mode Long
Reach Solder Tip
Probe model
(bandwidth) Rise time CMRR DMRR Channel Isolation
P7513 (>13.0 GHz) 10%–90%:
<40 ps
20%–80%:
<32 ps
P7516 (>16.0
GHz)
10%–90%:
<28 ps
20%–80%:
<24 ps
Specifications are typical and apply to all ranges and input modes unless specified
otherwise.
>60 dB at DC
>40dBat50MHz(5X)
>35dBat50M
>30 dB at 1 GHz
>20 dB at 7 GHz
>15 dB at 13 GH
>60 dB at DC
>40dBat50MHz(5X)
>35 dB at 50 MHz (12.5X)
>30 dB at 1 GHz
>20 dB at 8 GHz
>15 dB at 16 G Hz
Hz (12.5X)
z
>40dBat50MHz(5X)
>35 dB at 50 MHz (12.5X)
>30 dB at 1 GH
>20 dB at 7 GHz
>15 dB at 13 GHz
>40dBat50MH
>35 dB at 50 MHz (12.5X)
>30 dB at 1 GHz
>20 dB at 8 GHz
>15 dB at 16 GHz
z
z (5X)
>40dBat50M
>30 dB at 1 GHz
>20 dB at 7 GHz
>10dBat13GH
>40dBat50MHz
>30 dB at 1 GHz
>20 dB at 8 GHz
>6 dB at 16 GHz
Hz
z
Figure 22:
P75TLRST TriMode Long Reach Solder Tip dimensions
26 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 37
Specifications
The following fi
the P75TLRST solder tip.
Figure 23: P7513 probe with the P75TLRST solder tip
gures show the typical step response of the TriMode probes with
Figure 24: P7516 probe with the P75TLRST solder tip
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 27
Page 38
Specifications
The following fi
TriMode probes with the P75TLRST solder tip.
Figure 25: P75TLRST differential impedance versus lump-element equivalent
gures show the typical impedance and bandwidth plots of the
Figure 26: P75TLRST common-mode impedance
28 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 39
Specifications
Figure 27:
Figure 28: P75TLRST bandwidth on a P7516 probe
P75TLRST bandwidth on a P7513 probe
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 29
Page 40
Specifications
P75PDPM Precision
Differential Probing
Module
Specifications
are typical and apply to all ranges and input modes unless specified
otherwise.
Probe model (bandwidth) Rise time CMRR
P7513 (>13.0 GHz ) 10%–90%: <40 ps
20%–80%: <32 ps
P7516 (>16.0 GHz) 10%–90%: <28 ps
20%–80%: <24 ps
>60dBatDC
>40dBat50MHz(5X)
>35 dB at 50 MHz (12.5X)
>30 dB at 1 GHz
>20 dB at 7 GHz
>15dBat13GHz
>60dBatDC
>40dBat50MHz(5X)
>35 dB at 50 MHz (12.5X)
>30 dB at 1 GHz
>20 dB at 8 GHz
>15dBat16GHz
Figure 29: P75PDPM Precision Differential Probing Module dimensions
30 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 41
Specifications
The following fi
the P75PDPM probing module.
Figure 30: P7513 probe with the P75PDPM probing module
gures show the typical step response of the TriMode probes with
Figure 31: P7516 probe with the P75PDPM probing module
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 31
Page 42
Specifications
The following fi
the TriMode probes with the P75PDPM probing module.
Figure 32: P75PDPM differential impedance versus lump-element equivalent
gures show the typical differential impedance and bandwidth of
Figure 33: P75PDPM bandwidth on a P7513 probe
32 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 43
Specifications
Figure 34:
P75PDPM bandwidth on a P7516 probe
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 33
Page 44
Specifications
34 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 45
User Service
This section covers troubleshooting and probe maintenance.
If your probe does not meet the specifications listed in the Specifications,youcan
send the probe to Tektronix for repair. (See page 48, Preparation for Shipment.)
Error Condit
ion
The LEDs on the probe alert you to error or status conditions affecting the probe.
When the probe is functioning correctly, there is a quick flash of the LEDs on
the probe ju
otherwise appear to be malfunctioning, an error condition may exist. Disconnect
the probe and reconnect it to another channel to isolate the problem. If the
symptoms persist with the probe, call your Tektronix representative for service.
st after connecting to the oscilloscope. If the probe LEDs flash or
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 35
Page 46
User Service
Replaceable Parts
The following parts may need to be replaced due to normal wear and damage.
When you repla ce these components, secure the probe in a small vise or positioner
to simplify the procedure.
Table 7: TriMode probes replaceable parts
Description Replacement part number
Probe body bullet contacts
P75TLRST Solder Tip wires
P75PDPM Probing Module
springs
P75PMT Probing Module
tips (left and right)
P75TC Probing Module Tip
Cable
013-0359-xx, kit of 4
020-2754-xx, Wire Replacement Kit, includes one bobbin
each: 4 mil wire, 8 mil wire, and SAC305 solder
016-1998-xx, kit of 4 (large springs)
016-1999-xx, kit of 4 (small springs)
P75PMT, one pair
P75TC, qty. 1
Refer to the user manual for a list of the accessories that are available for your
probe.
Table 8: Re
Descripti
Connecto
Ground sp
Tweezers
Magnifyi
microscope
Probe pos
vise
1
Nine-digit part numbers (xxx-xxxx-xx) are Tektronix part numbers.
quired equipment
on
r separator tool
ring tool
ng glass or
itioner or bench
Minimum re
Custom to
Custom to
General p
Free standing to allow
hands-fr
Abletoho
quirement
ol
ol
urpose
ee use
ld probe
Recommend
003-1897-xx
003-1900-xx
PPM203B o
ed example
r PPM100
1
36 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 47
User Service
Replacing probe body
bullet contacts
The bullet cont
cycles. Follow these steps to replace the bullets by using the removal tool:
Remove.
1. Squeeze the tool plunger to extend the holder tangs.
2. Insert the tool into the probe body so that the holder tangs surround one of the
bullets.
3. Release the plunger to secure the holder tangs on the bullet.
4. Gently pull the tool outward to remove the bullet.
5. Repeat for the other bullet.
CAUTION. If you cannot extract the bullets with the bullet removal tool, use fine
needle-nosed pliers and a magnifying glass or microscope. Be careful not to
damage the probe body with the pliers.
acts in the probe body should be replaced every 200 insertion
Figure 35: Removing the bullets
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 37
Page 48
User Service
Install. When b
following:
1. Squeeze the to
2. Insert a new bullet into the tool so that the holder tangs surround the bullet.
3. Release the plunger to secure the holder tangs on the bullet.
4. Insert the tool into the probe body and seat the bullet in the recess.
5. Squeeze the tool plunger to release the bullet.
6. Gently pull the tool out of the probe body.
7. Repeat for th
oth bullets have been removed, install new bullets by doing the
ol plunger to extend the holder tangs
e other bullet.
Figure 36: Installing the bullets
38 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 49
User Service
P75TLRST Solder Tip
Wires
The solder vias
small (0.012 in.), and require small wires to attach to your circuit. (Use the 4-mil
and 8-mil wires included with the Wire Replacement kit to make the connections.)
Because of the small dimensions, the solder tips have a limited number of solder
cycles that the vias can withstand before the Solder Tips become unusable.
Therefore, to prolong the life of your solder tips, consider the following points
before you u
CAUTION. To prevent damage to the c ircuit board or circuit board connections
due to accidental movement of the probe and soldered leads, we recommend that
you secure the tip to the circuit board using the adhesive tip tape provided in your
accessory kit. You can also use other materials such as Kapton tape or hot glue.
To avoid damage to the tip or the circuit under test, avoid applying excessive heat
from the soldering iron. Use a low wattage, temperature-controlled soldering iron
and appropriately sized soldering iron tip.
Consider the types of measurements that you plan to take. If you are going to take
a few measurements at one location and then move to another, you may be able to
use lon
may not matter), but the wires can then be cut o r desoldered a t your circuit and
reused, rather than subjecting the solder tip to a desolder/solder cycle.
ger wires. Longer wires may degrade your measurement slightly (which
on the circuit board at the end of the P75TLRST Solder Tip are
se the solder tips.
Perhaps the optional P75PDPM Precision Differential Probing Module is a better
choice for the test points that you do not measure as often. The probing module
can take both single-ended and differential measurements, and when used with
a probe positioner, can provide hands-free access to tight spaces. Depending
on your measurement requirements and circuit geometries, the probing module
ht be a preferable a lternative.
mig
At critical test points such as circuit outputs, you might need to keep the wires
hort as possible. If possible, use the solder tip dimensions shown in the
as s
Specifications section to lay out a matching footprint on your circuit board.
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 39
Page 50
User Service
P75PDPM Probing Module
Springs
Use the followi
Use a low-wattage, temperature-controlled soldering iron and a small mass
soldering iro
possible, while still providing a reliable solder joint.
Use SAC305 so
wires to the circuit under test.
The attachme
spacing. Use care when you solder a tip to a circuit under test to avoid
inadvertently desoldering either the attachment wires or the damping resistor.
For optimum performance and signal integrity, keep the lead length between
the DUT (Device Under Test) and the tip as short as possible, and the lead
lengths the same length.
Equipment Required: ground spring tool, magnifying glass or microscope,
tweezers, probe holder
ng precautions when you solder the tips:
n tip. The soldering iron temperature should be set as low as
lder (included with the wire replacement kit) to attach the tip
nt wires should be bent symmetrically to vary the interconnect
Figure 37: Large and small springs installed
40 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 51
User Service
Remove.
1. Adjust the tip gap using the gap measurement tab on the spring tool. Set the
tool between the tip circuit boards, not the tips.
Figure 38
2. Insert th
Figure 39: Insert tool beneath spring
: Set the gap
e ground spring tool under the top of the spring.
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 41
Page 52
User Service
3. Rock the tool aw
ay from the tips so that the spring clears the seat edge.
Figure 40: Transfer spring from tip to tool
4. Gently pull the tool away; the spring should come away with the tool.
5. Put the spring in the accessory container or a safe place to avoid losing the
spring.
42 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 53
User Service
Install.
1. Two spring sizes are available: the small spring allows 0.030 – 0.090 in.
(0.76 – 2.28 mm) tip span, the large spring allows 0.050 – 0.180 in.
(1.27–4.57mm
2. Check that the tip gap is .032 in. using the gap measurement tab on the spring
tool. Adjust
3. Using tweezers, install the spring on the tool. The tool has a large and small
side, one fo
of the tool as shown.
) tip span.
if necessary.
r each size spring. Make sure the gap in the spring is on the top
Figure 41: Place spring on tool
4. Set the bottom of the spring in the front seats (those c losest to the tip ends).
Maintain a slight pressure on the spring to keep it in the front seats.
Figure 42: Set spring in front seat
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 43
Page 54
User Service
5. Set the top of th
the rear seat with the top of the spring.
e spring in the rear seats by lifting the tool to clear the edge of
Figure 43: Set the spring in the rear seats
6. Gently retract the tool from the spring. Verify that the spring is seated as
shown.
Figure 44: Properly seated spring
44 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 55
User Service
P75TC Probing Module Tip
Cable
Equipment Requ
1. Disconnect the Cable Tip by the inserting the tool between the connectors.
The tapered ed
tip connector.
Figure 45: Disconnecting the tip c able
ired: connector separator tool
ges of the tool gently separate the cable connector from the
P75PMT Probing Module
Tips (Left and Right)
2. Repeat for the other cable and then pull both cables away from the tip
connectors.
Equipment Required: connector separator tool, magnifying glass or microscope
(preferred), tweezers, and probe holder.
NOTE. The probing module tips are electrically matched pairs and should be
replaced together. Failure to do so may degrade the performance of your probe.
Figure 46: Probing module tips
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 45
Page 56
User Service
Remove.
1. DisconnecttheCableTips. (Seepage45,P75TC Probing Module Tip Cable.)
2. Remove the spring. (See page 40, P75PDPM Probing Module Springs.)
3. Adjust the tip gap to maximum width.
4. Use the connector separator tool or a small screwdriver to pry the board up
from the bottom. The bottom tabs are designed to flex; the top tabs are not.
Figure 47: Removing the tip
5. Repeat for the other tip.
Install.
6. Separate the new tip board pair by snapping the board against a sharp edge.
Figure 48: Separating the tip board pair
46 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
Page 57
User Service
7. Select the corr
board is notched to align it to the tip body.
Figure 49: Seating the tip in the top tabs
8. Press the bottom of the board to snap it past the bottom tabs.
ect board (left or right), and seat the board in the top tabs. The
Figure 50: Snapping the tip into the bottom tabs
9. Repeat steps 7 and 8 for the other tip.
10. Attach the spring. (See page 40, P75PDPM Probing Module Springs.)
11. Reattach the cable pair.
P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference 47
Page 58
User Service
Preparation f
or Shipment
If the original packaging is unfit for use or not available, use the following
packaging guidelines:
1. Use a corrugated cardboard shipping carton having inside dimensions at least
2. Put the probe into an antistatic bag or wrap to protect it from d ampness.
3. Place the probe into the box and stabilize it with light-weight packing material.
4. Seal the carton with shipping tape.
5. Refer to Contacting Tektronix on the copyright page of this manual for the
one inch greater than the probe dimensions. The box should have a carton
test strengt
shipping address.
h of at least 200 pounds.
48 P7500 TriMode Probe Family Technical Reference
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