Tektronix P7700 Series TriMode Probe User Manual

P7700 Series

TriMode™ Probes

User Manual

*P071342105*

071-3421-05

P7700 Series

TriMode™ Probes

User Manual

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071-3421-05

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.

TriMode and TekFlex are both trademarks of Tektronix, Inc.

Contacting Tektronix

Tektronix, Inc.

14150 SW Karl Braun Drive

P.O. Box 500

Beaverton, OR 97077

USA

For product information, sales, service, and technical support:

• In North America, call 1-800-833-9200.

• Worldwide, visit www.tek.com to find contacts in your area.

Warranty

Warranty

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 new or reconditioned to like new performance. All replaced parts, modules and
products become the property of Tektronix.

In order to obtain service under this warranty, Customer must notify Tektronix of the defect before the expiration of 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 resulting from attempts by personnel other than
Tektronix representatives to install, repair or service the product; 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. TEKTRONIX' RESPONSIBILITY TO REPAIR OR REPLACE DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS IS THE SOLE 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.

[W2 – 15AUG04]

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 5

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Warranty........................................................................................................................................................................................5

List of Figures................................................................................................................................................................................7

List of Tables................................................................................................................................................................................. 8

Important safety information..........................................................................................................................................................9

General safety summary........................................................................................................................................................9

Terms in the manual...............................................................................................................................................................9

Terms on the product............................................................................................................................................................. 9

Symbols on the product....................................................................................................................................................... 10

Compliance Information...............................................................................................................................................................11

Environmental compliance................................................................................................................................................... 11

Preface........................................................................................................................................................................................12

Probe models.......................................................................................................................................................................12

Key features.........................................................................................................................................................................12

Documentation.....................................................................................................................................................................12

Installation................................................................................................................................................................................... 14

Operating considerations..................................................................................................................................................... 14

Installation overview.............................................................................................................................................................14

Connect to the host instrument............................................................................................................................................ 15

Connect accessories to the TekFlex connector................................................................................................................... 16

Probe comp box controls and indicators..............................................................................................................................17

Input mode buttons and LEDs...................................................................................................................................... 18

Warning LED.................................................................................................................................................................19

Functional check and calibration.................................................................................................................................................21

Functional check.................................................................................................................................................................. 21

TriMode probe DC compensation........................................................................................................................................ 24

Basic operation........................................................................................................................................................................... 28

Probe input model................................................................................................................................................................28

Offset voltage................................................................................................................................................................28

Using the offset voltages......................................................................................................................................................28

Probe setup screen .............................................................................................................................................................29

Connecting to a circuit board............................................................................................................................................... 36

Probe handling best practices..............................................................................................................................................43

S-parameter information...................................................................................................................................................... 44

Accessories and options............................................................................................................................................................. 45

Standard accessories.......................................................................................................................................................... 45

Optional accessories............................................................................................................................................................46

Maintenance................................................................................................................................................................................48

Host instrument firmware..................................................................................................................................................... 48

Browser tip replacement...................................................................................................................................................... 48

Error conditions....................................................................................................................................................................49

Handling the probe...............................................................................................................................................................49

Cleaning the probe...............................................................................................................................................................50

Returning the probe for servicing.........................................................................................................................................50

Index........................................................................................................................................................................................... 51

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 6

List of Figures

List of Figures

Figure 1: Simplified probe input model........................................................................................................................................28

Figure 2: Input dynamic range for solder-in tips and browser..................................................................................................... 28

Figure 3: Probe setup screen .....................................................................................................................................................29

Figure 4: Simplified probe architecture diagram......................................................................................................................... 33

Figure 5: Simplified drawing of input attenuation factor of the tip buffers....................................................................................34

Figure 6: Proper configuration of the Differential Input mode signal and offset voltage..............................................................35

Figure 7: Solder tip measurement configuration......................................................................................................................... 36

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 7

List of Tables

List of Tables

Table 1: P7700 Series TriMode probes....................................................................................................................................... 14

Table 2: Required equipment, functional check with probe tip.................................................................................................... 21

Table 3: Required equipment, functional check with SMA adapter............................................................................................. 21

Table 4: Required equipment, DC compensation........................................................................................................................24

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 8

Important safety information

Important safety information

This manual contains information and warnings that must be followed by the user for safe operation and to keep the product in a safe
condition.

General safety summary

Use the product only as specified. Review the following safety precautions to avoid injury and prevent damage to this product or any
products connected to it. Carefully read all instructions. Retain these instructions for future reference.

This product is not intended for detection of hazardous voltages.

To avoid fire or personal injury

Observe all terminal ratings To avoid fire or shock hazard, observe all rating and markings on the product. Consult the product manual

for further ratings information before making connections to the product.

Do not apply a potential to any terminal, including the common terminal, that exceeds the maximum rating
of that terminal.

Do not operate without covers Do not operate this product with covers or panels removed, or with the case open. Hazardous voltage

exposure is possible.

Avoid exposed circuitry Do not touch exposed connections and components when power is present.

Do not operate in wet/damp
conditions

Do not operate in an explosive
atmosphere

Keep product surfaces clean
and dry

Be aware that condensation may occur if a unit is moved from a cold to a warm environment.

Remove the input signals before you clean the product.

Probes and test leads

Remove all probes, test leads and accessories that are not in use.

Inspect the probe and
accessories

Use only specified replacement parts.

Before each use, inspect probe and accessories for damage (cuts, tears, or defects in the probe body,
accessories, or cable jacket). Do not use if damaged.

Risk assessment warnings and information

Terms in the manual

These terms may appear in this manual:

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.

Terms on the product

These terms may appear on the product:

• DANGER indicates an injury hazard immediately accessible as you read the marking.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 9

• WARNING indicates an injury hazard not immediately accessible as you read the marking.

• CAUTION indicates a hazard to property including the product.

Symbols on the product

When this symbol is marked on the product, be sure to consult the manual to find out the nature of the potential hazards and
any actions which have to be taken to avoid them. (This symbol may also be used to refer the user to ratings in the manual.)

The following symbols may appear on the product:

Important safety information

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 10

Compliance Information

Compliance Information

This section lists the environmental standards with which the instrument complies.

Environmental compliance

This section provides information about the environmental impact of the product.

Product end-of-life handling

Observe the following guidelines when recycling an instrument or component:

Equipment recycling Production of this equipment required the extraction and use of natural resources. The equipment may

contain substances that could be harmful to the environment or human health if improperly handled at the
product’s end of life. To avoid release of such substances into the environment and to reduce the use of
natural resources, we encourage you to recycle this product in an appropriate system that will ensure that
most of the materials are reused or recycled appropriately.

This symbol indicates that this product complies with the applicable European Union
requirements according to Directives 2012/19/EU and 2006/66/EC on waste electrical and
electronic equipment (WEEE) and batteries. For information about recycling options, check
the Tektronix Web site (www.tek.com/productrecycling).

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 11

Preface

This manual describes the installation and operation of the P7700 Series TriMode Probes. Basic probe operations and concepts are
presented in this manual. All documents listed below are accessible from the Tektronix Web site (www.tek.com/manuals).

Probe models

These P7700 Series TriMode Probe family includes these models:

• P7708 8 GHz

• P7713 13 GHz

• P7716 16 GHz

• P7720 20 GHz

Key features

The P7700 Series TriMode Probes allow you to take differential, single-ended, and common mode measurements with one probe
connection. Key features include:

Preface

Documentation

To read about Use these documents

Installation and Operation
(overviews)

In-Depth Operation Use the technical reference manual and this manual.

Specifications Use the technical reference manual.

Table continued…

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 12

Read this manual for information about how to set up and use your probe.

To read about Use these documents

Reordering accessories Use the Accessories and Options section or refer to the insert in your accessory kit when reordering

accessories.

Preface

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 13

Installation

Installation

Before you connect the probe to your instrument, read the following Operating considerations and Overview sections to understand the
operating characteristics and sequence of events necessary to properly install the probe and adapters.

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.

Operating considerations

Table 1: P7700 Series TriMode probes

Characteristic Description Specification

TekFlex solder-in tips P77BRWSR P77C292MM adapter

Input Voltage Dynamic range 2.5 Vpp (single-ended)

5.0 Vpp (differential input)

Operating voltage window ±5.25 V ±10.0 V ±4.0 V

Offset voltage range -4 V to +4 V -10 V to +10 V -4 V to +4 V

Maximum non-destructive
input voltage

Temperature Operating Probe compensation box: 0 °C to 45 °C (32 °F to 113 °F)

Non-operating Probe compensation box: -20 °C to 60 °Cg (-4 °F to 140 °F)

Humidity Operating Probe Compensation Box, Cable, Tips, and SMA adapter: 20% to 80% Relative

Non-operating Probe Compensation Box, Cable, Tips, and P77292MM adapter: 10% to 90% (Relative

-15 V to +15 V (tip attached or detached) -5 V to +5 V

Probe cable, solder tips, and P77292MM adapter: -35 °C to 85 °C (-31 °F to 185 °F);
Minimum Airflow required 46°C to 85°C (114.8 °F to 185 °F)

Probe cable, solder tips, and P77292MM adapter: -35 °C to 85 °C (-31 °F to 185 °F)

Humidity (%RH) at up to 45°C non-condensing

Humidity), non-condensing

6.0 Vpp (single-ended)

12.0 Vpp (differential input)

1.2 Vpp (single-ended)

2.0 Vpp (differential input)

Altitude Non-operating Probe Compensation Box, Cable, Tips, and SMA adapter: 12,000 meters (39,370 feet)

Pollution Degree 2, Indoor use only

Installation overview

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.

1. Connect the probe to the host instrument.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 14

Installation

If it is the first time the probe has been connected to the oscilloscope, the oscilloscope will download the S-parameters stored in the
probe. Once the oscilloscope has stored the S-parameters for the probe, it doesn’t matter which channel the probe is plugged into. The
stored S-parameters will be available for any channel the probe is moved to.

2. Connect the probe tip to the TekFlex connector on the probe.

When a tip is inserted into the probe for the first time, the oscilloscope will download the S-parameter data stored in the tip.

3. The probe performs a self test, and then one Input Mode LED remains on.

4. Open the Calibration menu (found in the Vertical menu).

5. Perform the DC probe calibration procedure using the optional DC probe cal fixture. See TriMode probe DC compensation

on page 24.

6. Use the Probe Setup screen to set the probe parameters as described in the Basic operation section.

Connect to the host instrument

Note: Your TekConnect instrument may require a firmware upgrade to support full functionality of the P7700 Series probes.

Before you connect the probe, check the version requirements. See Host instrument firmware on page 48.

1. Slide the probe into the TekConnect receptacle. The probe clicks into place when fully engaged.

2. Optional. Turn the thumbscrew clockwise (finger-tight only) to secure the probe to the instrument.

Disconnect

1. To disconnect, turn the thumbscrew counter-clockwise.

2. Press the latch release button and pull the probe away from the instrument.

Probe and probe tip power-on

After the connection to the oscilloscope is made:

1. The probe briefly turns on all LEDs during a self-test , and then the A – B Input Mode LED remains on. If a probe tip is attached, an
LED on the tip also turns on when properly attached to the probe.

2. The probe transfers data from the probe and tip to the host instrument, and a message displays on the instrument as the transfer
occurs.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 15

Installation

The data transfer takes a few minutes, and is only done when the host instrument discovers a new probe or new probe tip. The data
transfer only occurs on instruments that are fully compatible with the probe.

3. After the data transfer is done, the probe is ready for a functional check and compensation. See Functional check on page 21 . If the
probe’s status LED is red, the power-on self-test likely failed. See Error conditions on page 49.

Connect accessories to the TekFlex connector

All of the P7700 accessories mate with the new TekFlex (zero insertion force) connector. This connector provides an easy connection with
one handed operation for attaching to the P7700 series accessories. The following procedures show the steps for connecting probe tips to
the TekFlex connector; the procedures for connecting to other accessories are similar.

Connect the tip to the probe TekFlex connector as follows:

1. Pinch the TekFlex connector to open the jaws.

2. Orient the tip with the probe head (notch to the left) and slide the tip connector into the TekFlex connector.

A green LED will light up when the tip is inserted. The LED is the first indication that the tip is powered and is inserted. You also need
to confirm that the connector pins on the TekFlex connector fit through the alignment holes on the tip.

3. Once the tip is fully inserted, release the pinch and the TekFlex connector closes. When closed and properly seated, the top of
connector will be flush with the probe tip housing.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 16

Installation

Probe comp box controls and indicators

Warning LED

The Warning LED glows amber under the following conditions:

• Probe power-on self test failure

• Probe tip over-temperature detected

• The input voltage on either the A or B input exceeds the allowable limit or more than 50 mA is drawn by the inputs on the P77C292MM

The Warning LED clears when the condition causing the warning is removed. A notifier message of a probe warning condition can also be
seen on the oscilloscope.

CAUTION: Do not exceed the input voltage limits of the probe and probe tips. The probe or oscilloscope circuits may be damaged
if the limits are exceeded. Make sure that you understand and work within the limits of the probe and probe tips.

The TriMode feature allows you to view two single-ended signals and the resultant differential waveform and common-mode voltage
without moving the probe connection. Press the Input Mode button to cycle through the waveform views.

TriMode probing

The TriMode feature allows you to view two single-ended signals and the resultant differential waveform and common-mode voltage
without moving the probe connection. Press the Input Mode button to cycle through the waveform views.

This example shows a typical signal on the A and B inputs. The resultant differential waveform and common-mode voltage are shown.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 17

Installation

Input mode buttons and LEDs

The P7700 Series solder-in tips support TriMode operation. TriMode enables you to switch the probe between four different measurement
types without changing the probe’s connection.

Press the Input Mode button to select one of the four TriMode measurements. The modes cycle in the following sequence:

• A – B (for differential signal measurement)

• A – GND (for A input single-ended measurement)

• B – GND (for B input single-ended measurement)

• (A + B)/2 – GND (for common mode measurement)

Note: You can also change the Input Mode in the oscilloscope Probe Setup panel.

Input mode buttons and LEDs

The P7700 Series solder-in tips support TriMode operation. TriMode enables you to switch the probe between four different measurement
types without changing the probe’s connection:

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 18

Press the Input Mode button to
select one of the four TriMode
measurements. The modes
cycle in the following
sequence:

Warning LED

The Warning LED glows amber
under the following
conditions:

Installation

Note: You can also change the Input Mode in the oscilloscope Probe Setup panel.

The Warning LED clears when
the condition causing the
warning is removed. A notifier
message of a probe warning
condition can also be seen on
the oscilloscope.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 19

TriMode probing
The TriMode feature allows

you to view two single-ended
signals and the resultant
differential waveform and
common-mode voltage without
moving the probe connection.
Press the Input Mode button to
cycle through the waveform
views.

This example shows a typical
signal on the A and B inputs.
The resultant differential
waveform and common-mode
voltage are shown.

Installation

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 20

Functional check and calibration

Functional check and calibration

After you connect the probe to the oscilloscope, you can perform a functional check using either the optional deskew fixture designed for
the probe or the optional P77C292MM Adapter.

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.

Functional check

This procedure checks the four TriMode settings on the probe, using the FAST EDGE signal from the front panel of the oscilloscope. It
verifies the signal path of both the probe A and B input signals and their combination in the four TriMode settings. The P7700 Series Probe
deskew fixture is used to connect the FAST EDGE signal to the probe tip input. See Table 2: Required equipment, functional check with

probe tip on page 21. Alternately, the P7700 Series probe with the optional coaxial input adapter can connect directly to the FAST EDGE

signal. See Table 3: Required equipment, functional check with SMA adapter on page 21.

Table 2: Required equipment, functional check with probe tip

Item description Performance requirement

Recommended example

1

Oscilloscope TekConnect Interface Tektronix MSO/DPO70000C/70000DX

Probe tip Solder tip or Browser tip P77STFLXA

Test board Probe deskew fixture

P77DESKEW

2

USB cable assembly USB 2.0, A male to Micro B male, 1 m 174-6919-xx (included with P77DESKEW )

Coaxial cable SMA, 50Ω, male-to-male 174-1120-xx

Table 3: Required equipment, functional check with SMA adapter

Item description Performance requirement Recommended example

Oscilloscope TekConnect Interface Tektronix MSO/DPO70000C/70000DX

SMA adapter Coaxial input SMA adapter

P77C292MM

3

1

Nine-digit part numbers (xxx-xxxx-xx) are Tektronix part numbers

2

Optional accessory

3

Optional accessory

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 21

Test setup with the
P77DESKEW Fixture

Connect the probe to any
channel (1-4) of the
oscilloscope (connection to
CH4 is shown). Set the
oscilloscope to display the
connected channel.

Connect the USB cable
assembly supplied with the
P77DESKEW fixture between
the USB connector on the
fixture board and a USB
connector on the host
oscilloscope. Several white
LEDs under the fixture Port1
and Port2 probe tip clamps will
light up when the fixture is
attached to USB power.

Connect an SMA cable from
the FAST EDGE output
connector on the oscilloscope
to the A input of the Probe
Deskew Fixture.

Connect a P7700 Series probe
tip to either the Port1 or Port2
on the P77DESKEW fixture. If a
TekFlex solder-in tip is used to
make this connection, its tip
input should be inserted into
the plastic clamp of the
deskew fixture port. This is
done by compressing the
spring-loaded clamp, inserting
the probe tip input into the
clamp, and then releasing the
clamp so that it locks the
connection.

An additional set of green
LEDs will light up under the
probe tip clamp when the
solder-down probe tip is
properly inserted into the
clamp.

Finally, connect the TekFlex
connector at the end of the
probe main cable to the probe
tip inserted into the deskew
fixture port. An LED on the
probe tip will also light up
when the tip is properly

Functional check and calibration

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 22

inserted into the TekFlex
connector of the probe.

If a P77BRWSR tip is used
instead of a solder-down tip to
make connection to the
Deskew Fixture, the TekFlex
connector of the probe should
first be connected to the
P77BRWSR tip. The
P77BRWSR tip inputs must
then be pressed into place
against the A and B signal
traces on the P77DESKEW
fixture board edge, located
between the Port1 and Port2
clamps. Either of the two sets
of A and B signal trace
connection patterns located on
the P77DESKEW fixture board
edge may be used.

Test setup with the
P77C292MM adapter

Connect the probe to any
channel (1-4) of the
oscilloscope (connection to
CH4 is shown). Set the
oscilloscope to display the
connected channel. Connect
the probe to the P77C292MM
adapter.

Connect the A cable from the
P77C292MM adapter to the
FAST EDGE output connector
on the oscilloscope. Leave the
B cable disconnected for now.

Test procedure
Set the probe Input Mode to A-

B.
Adjust the oscilloscope to

display a stable waveform (or
press the Autoset button). The
FAST EDGE signal is a 1 kHz
square wave. The amplitude of
the FAST EDGE signal is
attenuated by 2X, compared to
a single path termination, due
to the power splitter built into
the P77DESKEW fixture.

When you see a stable square
waveform, check the amplitude
(use the horizontal cursors).
The attenuated amplitude

Functional check and calibration

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 23

displayed for a DPO70000
oscilloscope FAST EDGE
signal routed through the
Deskew Fixture should be
about 100 mVpp.

Cycle the Input Mode button
through the remaining
selections and compare the
displayed waveforms to the
waveform measured in the
setup steps.

Change the FAST EDGE cable
connection from the Deskew
Fixture A input to the B input.
If using the P77CSMAMM
adapter, disconnect the A SMA
cable from the FAST EDGE
output and connect the SMA B
cable. Repeat the displayed
waveform checks. The
measurements should be
different as follows:

Functional check and calibration

TriMode probe DC compensation

To maximize the amplitude accuracy of measurements made with a P7700 series probe, you should run a probe compensation routine on
each channel that you use. The probe compensation operation minimizes measurement errors by optimizing the DC gain and offset of the
probe. Individual compensation constants are stored for all TriMode settings, on each probe, on each channel.

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.

Table 4: Required equipment, DC compensation

Item description Performance requirement

Recommended example

Oscilloscope TekConnect Interface Tektronix MSO/DPO70000C/70000DX

Table continued…

4

Nine-digit part numbers (xxx-xxxx-xx) are Tektronix part numbers

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 24

4

Functional check and calibration

Item description Performance requirement

Probe tip or

SMA adapter

Solder tip or Browser tip

Coaxial input SMA adapter

Recommended example

P77STFLXA (standard accessory)

P77STFLXB (optional accessory)

4

P77C292MM (optional accessory)

Test fixture Probe DC calibration fixture 090-0103-02 (optional accessory)

Coaxial cable BNC, 50Ω, male-to-male 012-0208-xx (standard accessory)

Check the instrument calibration status

The Calibration Status of the
instrument Signal Path
Compensation test must be
Pass for the probe
compensation routine to run.

From the Utilities menu, select
Instrument Calibration.

In the Calibration box , check
that the Status field is Pass.

If the status is not pass,
disconnect all probes and
signal sources from the
oscilloscope, and run the
Signal Path Compensation
routine.

When the Signal Path
compensation test status is
Pass, continue calibrating the
probe. See Compensate the

probe on page 25.

Compensate the probe

Connect a BNC cable from the
DC Probe Cal output
connector on the oscilloscope
to the BNC connector on the
TriMode DC Calibration board.

Connect the cable from the
TekConnect adapter to the
connector on the calibration
board.

Connect the other end of the
TekConnect adapter cable to

4

Nine-digit part numbers (xxx-xxxx-xx) are Tektronix part numbers

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 25

the Aux In channel on the
oscilloscope.

Connect the probe to any
channel of the oscilloscope.
Allow the probe to warm up for
20 minutes.

Set the oscilloscope to display
the channel.

Depending on your setups, do
one of the following:

Functional check and calibration

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 26

In the oscilloscope menu bar,
select Vertical and then select
Probe Cal.

The Probe Setup dialog box
appears.

Select the Compensate Probe
button.

The probe calibration routine
runs, optimizing the probe to
the oscilloscope for each input
mode setting.

When the compensation
routine completes,
Compensated appears in the
Probe Status box.

Functional check and calibration

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 27

Basic operation

Basic operation

This section includes information about the probe input limits, using the probe controls, and procedures for connecting the probe to your
circuit.

Probe input model

A simplified input model of the probe is shown below to illustrate the probe offset voltage controls. The probe has two symmetrical signal
inputs, the A input and the B input, which you can display independently or in combination by selecting the appropriate probe input mode.
The probe also has independent offset voltage controls for the probe A and B input signals.

Figure 1: Simplified probe input model

Offset voltage

The offset voltage adjusts the probe input dynamic range within the larger probe input operating range, as shown in the following figure.
The probe input dynamic range is the region where an input signal is within the linear operating region of the probe. The probe A and B
offset voltages are set and stored as common settings for all four input modes.

Figure 2: Input dynamic range for solder-in tips and browser

Using the offset voltages

The offset voltage nulls out the DC bias component of an input signal, allowing the (generally smaller) AC component of the signal to be
displayed. The size of the probe input dynamic range depends on the probe tip that you are using, as shown in the diagrams, and can also

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 28

Basic operation

depend on the input mode selected. The probe input dynamic range limits are shown on the oscilloscope display with a momentary
annunciating, arrow-tipped line, when the vertical scale setting is large enough.

To set the offset voltages on the probe, you can use the controls in the Probe Setup screen . See Probe setup screen on page 29.

To display the Probe Setup screen, select Probe Cal from the oscilloscope Vertical menu. You can also use the offset knobs on the
oscilloscope to set the offset voltage of the probe.

Probe setup screen

Use the Probe Setup screen to adjust the probe input settings for the measurement you are taking. To display the Probe Setup screen,
select Probe Cal from the oscilloscope Vertical menu. The Probe Setup screen can be used to select the TriMode Input Mode setting and
is also used to adjust the offset voltage controls for the probe tip A and B inputs.

The following pages describe the controls and status fields in the Probe Setup screen .

Figure 3: Probe setup screen

Selecting the TriMode input mode

The Input Mode button on the probe toggles the internal probe input selector switches among the four input mode selections. The mode
can also be selected from the drop-down menu in the Probe Setup screen . This TriMode feature allows full characterization of a
differential signal from a single connection.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 29

Basic operation

A-B mode The A-B Mode is used for making differential signal measurements and represents the traditional differential probe functionality.
Since the A-B Mode measures the difference between the A and B input signals, it eliminates any common mode voltage, such as a DC
bias common to both inputs, within the CMRR performance capability of the probe.

A-GND mode The A-GND mode is used for making single-ended measurements with the probe A input. The probe ground input connects
the probe tip and main cable shield. The A-GND Mode is designed for minimal coupling from any signal present on the B input within the A
input isolation performance of the probe.

B-GND mode. The B-GND mode is used for making single-ended measurements with the probe B input. The probe ground input connects
the probe tip and main cable shield. The B-GND Mode is designed for minimal coupling from any signal present on the A input within the B
input isolation performance of the probe.

(A+B)/2 mode. The (A+B)/2 Mode is used for making common mode measurements on a differential signal and represents a capability
that previously could only be made using oscilloscope math on multiple channels. For a differential signal, the common mode
measurement indicates the DC bias level and also shows the degree of asymmetry between the A and B inputs. Since the (A+B)/2 Mode
measures the average between the A and B input signals, it eliminates any complementary differential signal voltage, within the DMRR
performance capability of the probe. This measurement also requires a ground connection to the probe.

Selecting the offset voltage

You can set both the A and B offset voltages to levels that are common for all input modes.

Offset voltages may be automatically generated by the probe and can be set automatically using the Auto Offset button and two mode
selection buttons in the Offset section of the Probe Setup screen . You can also enter specific offset values directly in the Offset fields.

There are four manual offset voltage value entry fields which also display the current offset voltage settings. An offset voltage entry field is
activated for adjustment by clicking in the setting window. A single click activates both the setting window and the general purpose knobs
on the oscilloscope front panel. A second click in the setting window when activated also brings up a keypad entry window. Although all
four offset voltage value entry fields are active, only two of the control pairs are independent. The manual controls interact with each other
as follows:

Adjusting the A or B settings affects the Differential and Common settings

• Differential = (A – B)

• Common = (A + B)/2

Adjusting the Differential or Common settings affects the A and B settings

• A = Common + (Differential/2)

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 30

Basic operation

• B = Common – (Differential/2)

The oscilloscope vertical channel offset control also adjusts the selected Input mode offset voltage field.

Auto Offset voltage set buttons

The probe A and B signal inputs are sensed, monitored, and averaged by probe internal circuitry and the sensed values are used by the
automatic offset voltage control buttons .

Auto in Common. This
selection selects the common
value Auto Offset mode. When
this mode is selected and the
Auto Offset button is pushed,
the A and B offset fields are
both set to the mean value
between the A and B signal
levels.

Auto Individually. Click this
selection to select the
individual value Auto Offset
mode. When this mode is
selected and the Auto Offset
button is pushed, Offset A
offset is set to the average
value of the A signal and
Offset B is set to the average
value of the B signal.

Auto Offset

Push this button to initiate a momentary Auto Offset cycle. The Offset A and Offset B values are automatically set based on the selected
Auto Offset mode and the A and B signal input voltages.

Tracking

When this box is selected, the probe continually measures the common mode voltage currently present on the inputs of the probe. Using
the measured common mode values the A, B, and CM offsets will be set automatically. When Tracking is enabled, the A, B, and CM offsets
cannot be changed manually.

The tracking function works best when measuring a differential signal. When making single-ended measurements in Differential Input
mode with a browser tip, set the offset voltage control manually so that the tracking mode will be shut off. If single-ended measurements
are made with tracking mode active, the Offset A voltage will likely not be optimum and will be affected by the duty cycle of the A input
signal. The Offset A voltage should be set manually to the center of the A signal voltage swing.

Termination voltage

For the P77C292MM adapter, the termination voltage adjusts the effective probe DC loading of the 50 Ω input termination. Use the voltage
to minimize the DC loading of the probe input signals. By setting the voltage equal to the DC bias voltage of the input signal, the probe DC
loading is nulled out, as if a DC block was inserted. However, unlike a DC block, the signal DC voltage is still present at the probe input
and might require you to adjust the Offset voltage to move the signal into the probe input dynamic range. There are some signal
measurement applications that benefit from the availability of an adjustable termination voltage and avoid the need for a pair of bias tees.

The probe A and B termination voltages are set and stored independently for each of the four input modes. When using the P77C292MM
adapter, the voltage can be adjusted over a limited operating range before reaching an overload condition.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 31

Basic operation

A graph of the operating limits of the termination voltage with respect to the input voltage is shown for the P77C292MM adapter. The hi and
lo lines represent the hysteresis sections and the limits are the points where the Status light turns on.

Probe tip information

Note: Probe tip ID is fully automatic. Manual selection is not required.

When the probe is first connected to the oscilloscope channel, the oscilloscope queries the probe for status information, including the
probe type, serial number, and the model number of the tip that is connected to the probe. The first time a probe or probe tip is connected
to a host oscilloscope, the probe and probe tip serial numbers are logged and the stored S-parameters are downloaded. If the probe or
probe tip are moved to another channel on the same oscilloscope, the logged information is automatically processed without repeating the
download process.

The Probe Controls described below are accessed using the Probe Controls selection from the oscilloscope Vertical menu.

Controls

Click on the Control button to display the Probe Controls screen. This screen displays a subset of the selections that are available in the
Probe Setup screen. The resulting shorter display height allows more room for the waveform display area.

Improving measurement accuracy

This section covers some of the features and characteristics of the probe that can affect the accuracy of your measurements, and some
steps that you can take to improve the performance of the probe.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 32

Basic operation

Probe architecture

The probe measurement setup, as shown in the simplified drawing below, requires a host TekConnect oscilloscope, a P7700 Series probe,
and probe tips. An active probe tip includes a dual input buffer capable of driving the 50 ohm signal path of the probe TekFlex connector
and probe main cable. The dual input buffer is designed for good matching of the A and B probe tip inputs to support differential
measurements.

Figure 4: Simplified probe architecture diagram

The probe tip dual input buffer also provides high DC resistance input attenuators, which are carefully designed to minimize high frequency
loading on the input signals. The attenuation factor of the buffer input attenuators depends on the probe tip type. Using a different
attenuation factor allows you to trade-off dynamic range for noise performance.

The probe comp box contains the main probe amplifier, as shown above. This main probe amplifier has a differential input termination
network that receives the buffered A and B input signals from the active probe tip. The main probe amplifier has a TriMode input
configuration for switching between differential, single-ended, and common-mode measurements. The probe main amplifier has a wide
gain range with variable gain control for calibrated gain performance and to optimize noise performance. The probe main amplifier is also
capable of driving the 50 ohm signal path of the probe TekConnect interface with the host oscilloscope.

Solder-in tip connection wire length

There are four via locations for soldering wire connections between the probe tip and the measurement DUT.

The via connections include the probe tip A and B inputs for a differential signal and two ground connections for best performance and
flexibility in connecting to a close DUT ground. In general, the probe tip soldered wire connection length should be kept as short as
possible. In addition, the probe tip A and B input wires should be matched in length for best Differential mode measurement performance.

The Differential input mode does not require a ground reference wire connection, since the differential measurement process provides its
own virtual ground. The single-ended input modes, which include A-GND mode, B-GND mode, and Common mode, all require at least one
ground wire connection. However, if there is room for another connection and a circuit ground near the probe tip, hooking up a ground
connection is recommended. This might help avoid a situation where a large potential on the ground plane of the DUT causes the test
signal to drift outside of the linear range of the input amplifier of the probe. Ideally, it is a good idea to hook up the differential inputs and the
ground to avoid clipping of the signal in the probe amplifier.

The measurement performance of the single-ended input modes is affected by the length of the ground wire connection, with high
frequency performance degradation increasing with increased ground wire length. The solder-in probe tip performance is specified using a
test fixture built with a probe tip having a signal wire length of 10 mils (.25 mm) and a ground wire length of 66 mils (1.7 mm).

Please see the Specifications Technical Reference manual available for download at the Tektronix website for more detailed specifications
on wire length as it affects tip performance.

Using offset voltage to extend P7700 series solder-in tip input voltage range

The single-ended linear dynamic range of the TekFlex solder-in tip inputs is specified to be 2.5 V
+1.25 V with zero volt offset. The dynamic range of P7700 Series buffers is limited by the input attenuation factor, which is 2X for the

solder-in probe tips as shown in the simplified drawing. See Figure 5: Simplified drawing of input attenuation factor of the tip buffers

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 33

, which is a range from -1.25 V to

p-p

Basic operation

on page 34. A 2X attenuation factor was selected for the probe tips as a compromise between dynamic range and noise, since a higher
attenuation factor would have increased probe noise.

Although the dynamic range of the probe tip buffer cannot be extended, it is possible to extend the range over which the tip dynamic range
window can be moved by adjusting the probe offset voltage. The offset voltage range of the TekFlex solder-in tips is -4 V to +4 V, which is
adjusted using the Probe Setup screen of the oscilloscope or the offset knobs on the oscilloscope front panel. Using the offset voltage
controls, it is possible to make measurements within any 2.5 V

window between -5.25 V and +5.25 V. For example, by setting the offset

p-p

voltage to +3.0 V, it is possible to measure an HDMI signal, which has a signal swing between about +2.8 V and +3.3 V.

Figure 5: Simplified drawing of input attenuation factor of the tip buffers

The offset voltage affects the probe tip buffer’s measured signal through a resistive summer configuration that forms the buffer’s input
attenuator network. The high value resistors used in the buffer’s input attenuator result in an interaction between the input signal and the
offset voltage DC level.

Calibrated offset voltage performance requires that both the input signal and the offset voltage generator in the probe have a source
resistance that is very small compared to the 25 kΩ attenuator resistors. The source resistance of the offset voltage generator in the probe
is less than an ohm. Typically, when the probe and tip are connected to a DUT, the DUT signals have a source resistance, RS, much less

than 25 kΩ.

If a TekFlex solder-in tip is attached to a probe but not soldered to anything, the inputs will be open which effectively makes the source
resistance look much larger than the 25 kΩ attenuator resistors. As a result, the offset voltage control is no longer calibrated and will have
2X their calibrated effect on the measured probe output. This effect can be helpful in troubleshooting connection issues with the tips. If a
probe tip has been soldered to a DUT and adjusting the offset voltage causes the offset to move 2X the adjustment, it could indicate a
broken solder joint that has left the probe tip input open.

Making single ended measurements using the P77BRWSR differential probe tip

A TriMode tip provides solder connections for a DUT ground reference for both the A and B probe inputs making single-ended
measurements with a TriMode probe tip straightforward. Although the differential input mode of the probe is normally used to make a
differential signal measurement, single-ended measurements can be made using Differential Input mode when the probe input connections
and offset voltage controls are configured properly, This single-ended configuration process is particularly important to understand when
using the tip, since this variable-spacing Browser tip operates only in Differential Input mode. Differential Input mode provides a
measurement of the difference (A – B) between the A and B input signals. If the probe tip B input is connected to a DUT ground, the
resulting Differential Input mode measurement (A – 0 V) results in a display of the single-ended A input signal response.

When making differential signal measurements, the P77BRWSR Offset Voltage control is normally set to the Common-mode (CM)
Tracking mode. With CM tracking mode active, the A and B input signals are monitored and the Offset A and Offset B settings are both
adjusted to match the DC common-mode voltage of the A and B input signals [(A + B)/2]. When making single-ended measurements in
Differential Input mode with a browser tip, the offset voltage control should be set manually, so tracking mode should be shut off. The
Offset A voltage should be set manually to the center of the A signal voltage swing. For a +5 V CMOS logic signal; for example, the

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 34

Basic operation

Offset A voltage should be set to +2.5 V. The A signal input voltage should then range from +5 V to 0 V, which is within the 6 V

dynamic

p-p

range of the Browser tip as long as the offset voltage is set near the center of its expected voltage swing. The Offset B voltage should also
be set manually to 0 V. This Offset B voltage setting is not only at the center of the dynamic range for a grounded B input signal, it also
causes the differential offset voltage to equal the Offset A voltage. This is true because the differential offset voltage equals the difference
between the Offset A voltage setting and the Offset B voltage setting. The differential offset voltage is used by the oscilloscope as the
displayed offset voltage in Differential Input mode.

With the tip configured for a single-ended measurement in Differential Input mode, the displayed signal voltage should match the A input
signal response and the displayed offset voltage should match the Offset A setting. Since the host oscilloscope uses both the displayed
signal voltage and displayed offset voltage in calculating its set of available oscilloscope automated measurements, it is important that both
the Differential Input mode signal voltage and offset voltage are configured properly as shown in the following figure. See Figure 6: Proper

configuration of the Differential Input mode signal and offset voltage on page 35.

Figure 6: Proper configuration of the Differential Input mode signal and offset voltage

The configuration process described in this section will maximize the available dynamic range of the P77BRWSR tip when making single­ended measurements.

Temperature compensation

These probes employ temperature compensation to optimize measurement accuracy. Whenever a probe setting is changed, such as Input
Mode, Offset Voltage, or vertical scale factor, a temperature compensation update occurs. Continuous temperature compensation is not
done to avoid introducing noise into the probe amplifiers.

To maximize measurement accuracy when the probe is first powered on from a cold start condition, you must allow the probe and
oscilloscope a 20 minute warm-up period. After the warm-up period, you should adjust or toggle a probe setting, such as the vertical scale
factor, to trigger the temperature compensation update. Otherwise, a cold temperature compensation value may be used, which would
result in a small gain error.

DSP correction

This series of probes contain S-parameter characterization data for the probe, which is downloaded to the attached oscilloscope when the
probe is first connected. The probe tips also contain S-parameter characterization data for the tip, which is also downloaded to the
attached oscilloscope when the probe tip is attached to the probe. This probe and tip characterization data is used to generate DSP
correction filters that improves high frequency measurement accuracy.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 35

Basic operation

Solder tip measurement configuration

In many of the high-frequency signaling standards that the P7700 Series probes are designed for, a 50 Ω termination at the transmitter is in
parallel with another 50 Ω termination at the end of the transmission line path, effectively making a 25 Ω signal source impedance. In this
application, the solder tip adapter measurement configuration is designed to pick off the transmitted signal at a location in the signal
transmission path.

The input impedance for a solder tip, Z probe, varies with frequency. For a P77STFLXA tip the DC input resistance is about 50 kΩ and
decreases with frequency above about 10 MHz to about 100 Ω above 10 GHz.

Figure 7: Solder tip measurement configuration

Connecting to a circuit board

TriMode tips are necessary to complete the connection between the P7700 Series probes and your circuit. The tips are available as both
standard and optional accessories and provide several connection options.

P77BRWSR browser and accessories (Pen wand and hands free Tri-Pod)

The browser connects to the circuit using two tips with very fine point tips. These tips have built-in compliance (0.02”, 0.5 mm) and
adjustable spacing (.008-.210” (0.2-5.3 mm)). The browser can be held in place with a hand or can be used with the hands free Tri-Pod
accessory or a probe positioner such as the Tektronix PPM203B. See Making single ended measurements using the P77BRWSR

differential probe tip on page 34.

The browser is a differential only probe accessory, but can be used to measure ground referenced, single-ended circuits as well. When
measuring a ground referenced signal, connect the A side (positive) input to the signal to be measured and the B side (negative) to the
ground connection.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 36

Basic operation

Note: The pins on the browser are small and delicate, so use caution when pressing them to make a connection.

If a probe tip breaks, it can be easily replaced. See Browser tip replacement on page 48.

Flex circuit based solder tips

The flex circuit based solder tips are connected to the circuit using thin (38 AWG) wire connected to the vias on the tip. The steps to follow
when soldering the tip to the circuit are shown in the soldering procedure section below.

The flex circuit based solder tips support TriMode operation. To use TriMode, a minimum of three connections are needed, the A and B
side inputs and one of the ground connections.

The flex circuit based solder tips are made with flex circuit material and can be bent and shaped to fit around or into spaces where it is
difficult to reach a test point.

The minimum bend radius for the flex tips is 1.0 in (25.4 mm) . There is no impact on the performance of the tip when it is bent into a
curved shape that conforms to bend radius limits.

Typical life for tips are 30 - 50 bending cycles before replacement is needed.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 37

Basic operation

P77STCABL Solder-in Tip

The P77STCABL solder-in tips have similar input via connections for thin (38 AWG) wire. The steps to follow when soldering this tip to the
circuit are identical to the flex circuit based solder tips and are shown in the soldering procedure section below. These tips are longer than
the flex circuit based solder tips and are more flexible.

These tips support TriMode operation. To use TriMode, a minimum of three connections are needed, the A and B side inputs and one of
the ground connections.

Note: There is no exposed metal surface on the P77STCABL tip except for the TriMode inputs and the TekFlex contacts.

P77C292MM, 2.92 mm Adapter

Use this adapter to connect a P7700 series probe to a DUT with 50 Ω test point connectors. Also use the adapter to connect to SMA
connections.

After connecting the adapter to the flex cable, use the retainer to provide a secure connection to the flex cable to minimize movement or to
attach the adapter to the hand’s free tripod.

An accessory kit is available with linkage adapters for stacking the adapters.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 38

Tip soldering

CAUTION: This procedure uses equipment at high temperature. Avoid touching hot surfaces.

Basic operation

Recommended equipment

• Lead-free solder

• 4 mil diameter (38 AWG) wire (a spool of 38 AWG wire is included as a standard accessory with each P7700 Series probe)

• MetCal Soldering Station + UFTC-7CN04 (Conical UltraFine Soldering Cartridge, max tip temp 775 °F (412 °C)) or equivalent

• Solder-Wick Rosin SD Size #1 (80-1-10) or equivalent

• Tweezers and sharp wire cutters

Tip soldering procedure

Keep the wires short as possible for best signal fidelity. Soldering wires first to the test points and then attaching the P7700 Solder tips is
the best way to keep wire lengths short.

1. Solder wires to the test points. Cut wires with different lengths. This will make it easier to thread the wires onto the solder tips.

2. Thread tip onto wires. The two middle vias are the A(+) and B(-) inputs of the tip.

You may find it useful to use the double-sided foam tape that was shipped with your probe to hold the probe tip in place.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 39

Basic operation

Note: The double-sided foam tape is only good for one use. For maximum strain relief, always use a fresh piece of tape each
time you attach a tip.

3. With the tip in position, quickly solder the wires to the vias. If the soldering iron is left too long on the tip, it may cause the 0201 input
resistors to reflow and move.

4. Trim wires flush with the board on the probe tip.

5. Attach the ground wire for TriMode input to the probe tip. First add solder to the test point and the nearest ground via on the solder tip.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 40

Basic operation

6. Second, solder a short piece of wire between the ground via on the tip and the ground test point. This configuration optimizes the
performance of the probe for differential measurements. Longer wires on the ground path will have an impact on Single-Ended Mode
and Common Mode performance. If there is a ground test point conveniently placed, it would be best to use the same solder technique
shown on the A and B inputs of the tip to ensure the shortest ground path. Once the tip is fully soldered in place, it is recommended to
firmly secure the tip to the board using additional foam tape or hot melt glue.

Tip unsoldering procedure

1. Use small solder-wick to remove the solder and wire from the tip ground via. Size #1 Solder-Wick is recommended due to the small

size of the tip and vias. Do not place the solder wick over the 0201 input resistors and these parts may accidentally be unsoldered from
the board.

2. Use the solder-wick to remove excess solder from the input vias. Again, be careful not to place the solder-wick too close to the input
resistors.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 41

Basic operation

3. If the solder cannot be fully removed from the input via while attached to the test points, it is possible rock the tip side to side while
reflowing the solder in the vias. Since the wires are cut flush to the board, the tip can be slowly removed from the wires using this
method. Once the tip has been removed from the board, use the solderwick to clean out the vias so the tip can be reused.

If you used double-sided foam tape for strain relief rocking and moving the tip from side to side will loosen the tape's adhesion to the
tip. Do not try to pull the tip directly off of the tape. Pulling the tip up without first breaking the tape's adhesion can damage the tip.

Precautions when connecting to the circuit

To achieve the best performance and service life of the probe and tips, observe the best practices below when you make connections:

• Wear the antistatic wrist strap that is supplied with the probe and work at an antistatic-approved workstation.

• The flex circuit based solder tips are built with flexible circuit board material and are susceptible to mechanical overstress and harsh
handling particularly at the ends of the probe tip where the components are mounted. Always support the probe tips by taping or gluing
them to your circuit or by providing a means to prevent strain on the tips and circuit connections.

• The flex circuit based solder tips contain active circuitry. The majority of the tips, including the cover on the buffer amplifier, are non­conductive surfaces. However, the back end of the tips includes some small surface mount devices and pads on the top that present a
small risk of shorting with the DUT circuitry. This was necessary to minimize the size and weight of the probe tips. If you need to use
the flex circuit based solder tips where their topside components might contact the DUT, take care to avoid shorting the exposed
circuitry of the tips to the DUT circuitry. Covering these areas with non-conductive tape is one method to avoid shorting.

• The P77STCABL tip is designed to be more flexible than the flex circuit based solder tips; care should be taken to avoid bending the
connecting cables at too sharp an angle, since overstress can cause damage or reduce signal performance.

• To preserve the cables and maintain the highest signal fidelity, never kink the wires or put undue stress on them. Support the probe
head by taping it to your circuit or providing a means to prevent strain on the circuit connection.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 42

Basic operation

Care of TekFlex solder-in tips

CAUTION: The top of the tips contain active components and can cause shorting if the tips are mounted top-down and the

discrete components on the back end of the tips come into contact with an active circuit. Ensure that metal components do not
touch anything else.

If the tips are mounted with the top up or if the TekFlex connector is attached, it is unlikely that the components on the board will contact
the active circuit. The covers on the buffer amplifier of the tips are non-conductive. There are no conductive surfaces on the bottom of the
tips except for the TriMode inputs and the TekFlex contacts.

Tip dimensions

The dimensions of the solder tip connections are provided here for reference. You can also design the tip footprint into your circuit board
layout for easier test connections.

Probe handling best practices

Tektronix TriMode probes are quality measurement tools and should be treated with care to avoid damage or performance degradation due
to mishandling. Take the following precautions when handling the probe cables:

• Never over-bend the probe main or tip cables, which can put a permanent kink into the cable. When storing the probe do not coil it too
tightly. It is best to use the protective foam carrying case which is designed to not exceed the minimum bend radius for the cable of

2.5 inches. The minimum bend radius for the flex cable is 0.25 inches (6.35 mm).

• To maximize probe life, limit the amount of cable twist relative to the probe comp box to ±180 degrees. Always uncoil a probe cable
gently before applying the twisting forces needed to orient the probe head for connection to the probe tip.

• Do not excessively pull or twist the probe cables when positioning the probe for measurements.

• Never crush the cable, as will occur when you run over the probe with a chair wheel or drop something heavy on the cable.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 43

Basic operation

S-parameter information

The S-parameter files for the probe are unique to each serial numbered probe and accessory tip. The files are stored on the oscilloscope in
a file structure that corresponds to the probe, tip, and serial numbers. The root path for the folders containing the S-parameter is
C:\ProgramData\Tektronix\TekScope\Instrumment (where Instrument is the instrument model, such as
DPO73304). Starting in this folder, look through the folders for the probe, tip model numbers, and serial numbers. At the lowest level, there
are .s3p files unique to the probe and tip.

The S-parameter file names
correspond to the various
settings of the TriMode feature
and the gain setting of the
probe. For example, if the file
name is x_1X_A_0_25X.3Sp,
the TriMode setting is: single­ended A mode, Gain setting =

0.25 (4x attenuation).
Choose a .s3p file that

matches the TriMode setting
that you are using, single­ended (A or B), differential (D),
or common mode (C). Note
that for browser tips, only D
mode is supported.

CAUTION: Changing or deleting the S-parameter files can cause the probes to not operate properly. To avoid problems, do not

change or delete the S-parameter files.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 44

Accessories and options

Accessories and options

You can reorder the following replacement parts and accessories. Note that in some cases, the reorder quantities may differ from those
that ship with the probe.

Standard accessories

The following accessories are shipped with the P7700 Series probes. If no quantity is listed, only one of that item is shipped.

Reorder part number and

Standard accessory

quantity Description

202-0545-xx Wood box carrying case with inserts. This carrying case has

several compartments to hold the probe and accessories.

P77STFLXA

020-3167-xx

016-2111-xx

017-0103-xx

071-7386-xx

006-3415-xx Antistatic wrist strap. When you use the probe, always work at an

– Calibration certificate. A certificate of traceable calibration is

– Data calibration report. The Data Calibration Report lists the

Active tips (2 solder tips)

Adhesive tape

Color bands

Wire kit (38 AWG, 4 mil)

Accessory re-order and info card

antistatic work station and wear the antistatic wrist strap.

provided with every probe.

manufacturing test results of your probe at the time of shipment and
is included with every probe.

071-3421-xx User manual. The manual provides instructions for using the

P7700 Series TriMode Probes. Other documents, such as the
technical reference and other probe literature are located on the
Tektronix web site (www.tek.com/manuals).

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 45

Optional accessories

Optional accessory Part and description

P77STCABL, Solder-in active tip

This tip provides a soldered, multi-point connection that supports full
TriMode measurement capabilities at full probe bandwidth.

P77STFLXA Flex circuit based solder tips

These tips use flex circuit material and provide soldered, multi-point
connections. Designed for the lowest loading across the full
bandwidth of the probe.

P77STFLXB Flex circuit based solder in tips for memory interposer
probing. These tips use flex circuit material and provide soldered,
multi-point connections. Designed to be used with Nexus
Technology memory interposers.

P77DESKEW, Deskew fixture

Use this fixture to compensate a probe, deskew up to 2 probes at
once, or to perform a probe functional check.

Accessories and options

Table continued…

DC probe calibration fixture

Use this fixture (090-0103-02) to perform a DC compensation with
the host instrument.

P77BRWSR , Browser accessory includes these items:

Browser wand. Extends the length of the browser for a more
comfortable grip. (Part number 020-3160-xx.)

Browser hands-free tripod. Holds the browser on a test point
without the need to use your hands. (Part number 020-3161-xx.)

Browser replacement tips. Use to repair any browser tips that are
broken with use. (Part number 020-3162-xx.)

Adapter attachment. Attaches the browser to the hands-free tri­pod or other holders.

Ground lead. Attaches the browser to a circuit ground if necessary.

The browser accessories can be stored in the TekFlex accessories
box that comes standard with the probe.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 46

Optional accessory Part and description

407-6019-xx, Probe adapter

Use this accessory to attach the browser to the PPM203B. probe
arm/positioner

P77C292MM, 2.92 mm adapter

Use this adapter to connect a P7700 series probe to a DUT with
50 Ω test point connectors.

Accessories and options

020-3179-xx, Linkage adapter kit

Use the adapters for stacking two or more P77C292MM 2.92 mm
adapters.

Use two gray adapters to stack two P77C292MM adapters; use two
black adapters to stack three or four P77C292MM adapters.

Insert the linkage adapters into the P77C292MM adapters as shown
(gray linkage adapters shown).

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 47

Maintenance

Maintenance

This section contains maintenance and support information for your probe.

Host instrument firmware

Some oscilloscopes might require a firmware upgrade to support full functionality of the P7700 Series probes. Instruments with lower
versions of firmware might not display all probe controls and indicators on screen, and in some cases require you to power-cycle the
instrument to restore normal instrument operation.

The following table lists the required versions of instrument firmware for some of the oscilloscopes that currently support the P7700 Series
probes.

Instrument Firmware version

MSO/DSA/DPO70000C Series oscilloscope V 10.7.1 or higher

DSA/DPO70000D Series oscilloscope V 10.7.1 or higher

MSO/DPO70000DX Series oscilloscope V 10.7.1 or higher

DPO70000SX Series oscilloscope V 10.7.1 or higher

To check the firmware version on Windows-based instruments, from the menu bar, click Help/About TekScope. If you need to upgrade your
instrument firmware, go to www.tek.com/downloads to download the latest firmware.

Browser tip replacement

Note: It may be helpful to have a magnifying device or glasses when performing this operation.

The tips of the P77BRWSR can break during use. If one of the tips on your browser breaks, it is easy to replace the tip with a new one and
be ready to make measurements again in a few seconds. To replace the tip, you will need a pair of tweezers. Using the tweezers, grip the
shaft of the tip and pull downward to remove it. Dispose of the broken tip.

Once the old tip has been removed, retrieve a new, replacement tip from its storage vial in the accessory kit. Grip the replacement tip with
the tweezers, gently push the tip into the socket on the browser’s front end.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 48

Maintenance

Error conditions

LED indicators

If one of the Input Mode LEDs does not remain on after you connect the probe, an internal probe diagnostic fault exists. Disconnect and
reconnect the probe to restart the power-on diagnostic sequence. If the symptoms continue, connect the probe to another oscilloscope
channel or oscilloscope. If the symptoms remain, return the probe to Tektronix for repair.

There is an amber-colored Status indicator LED located on the top plate of the probe comp box. This LED turns on when any of the
following conditions exist and remains on until the problem condition is cleared:

• Probe power-on self-test failure (clear by disconnecting and reconnecting the probe)

• Probe tip over-temperature detected (may require forced air to be applied to cool the tip)

• Probe input over-voltage detected (reduce input over-voltage to clear)

• Probe over current detected (adjust V

Signal display

If the probe is connected to an active signal source and you do not see the signal displayed on the oscilloscope:

• Perform an Autoset operation on the host oscilloscope. This will automatically adjust the oscilloscope settings to try to display a
useable waveform.

• Check the probe tip connection at the probe TekFlex connector. The LED on top of the accessory tip should be on if the tip is
connected properly.

• Check that the input signal is within the allowable input voltage range. The Auto Offset control in the Probe Setup menu can be used to
set the offset of the probe voltages to maximize the probe tip input dynamic range.

• Perform a functional check procedure. See Functional check on page 21 . This procedure will check that the probe is operating
properly.

or remove input signal to clear)

term

Measurement errors

• If you suspect that your measurement may not be accurate, and you are using a solder in connection, check that the solder tip signal
and ground connections are correct and intact.

• Checking the signal measurement in some of the other TriMode Input modes may provide some clue if there is a measurement
problem. For example, operating the probe in DIFF mode does not require a ground connection. Switching the input mode between
DIFF and SE might point out a grounding problem

• If the signal being measured is a differential signal, temporarily swtich the TriMode input on the probe to A only and B only and verify
that each component of the differential signal looks correct. Switch the probe’s input to the common mode setting and see if there is a
large and unexpected common mode signal present on the probe input.

• Remove the tip from the DUT and perform a DC Probe CAL operation on the probe. Passing this DC CAL check will verify that the
probe DC performance is operating within allowable limits and will optimize the probe DC gain and offset. See TriMode probe DC

compensation on page 24 .

• Perform a Functional Check operation on the probe. This should verify that a fast rise time signal can be measured by the probe with a
comparable probe tip attached. See Functional check on page 21 .

Handling the probe

This probe is a precision high-frequency device; exercise care when you use and store the probe. The probe and cable are susceptible to
damage caused by careless use. Always handle the probe at the comp box and probe body to avoid undue physical strain to the probe
cable, such as kinking, excessive bending, or pulling. Visible dents in the cable will increase signal aberrations.

CAUTION: To prevent damage to the probe, always use an antistatic wrist strap connected to a static-controlled workstation when
you handle the probe. The probe input contains electronic components that can be damaged by contact with high voltages,
including static discharge.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 49

Maintenance

Observe the following precautions when using the probe. Do not do any of the following:

• Drop the probe or subject it to physical shock

• Subject the probe to adverse weather conditions

• Kink or fold the probe main cable tighter than a 2.5 inch radius; minimum bend radius for the solder tips is 0.25 inch (6.35 mm)

• Solder the tips with excessive heat or duration

• Injure yourself with the sharp tips

See Probe handling best practices on page 43.

Cleaning the probe

CAUTION: To prevent damage to the probe, do not expose it to sprays, liquids, or solvents. Avoid getting moisture inside the

probe during exterior cleaning.

Do not use chemical cleaning agents; they may damage the probe. Avoid using chemicals that contain benzine, benzene, toluene, xylene,
acetone, or similar solvents.

Clean the exterior surfaces of the probe with a dry, lint-free cloth or a soft-bristle brush. If dirt remains, use a soft cloth or swab dampened
with a 75% isopropyl alcohol solution and rinse with deionized water. A swab is useful to clean narrow spaces on the probe; use only
enough solution to dampen the swab or cloth. Do not use abrasive compounds on any part of the probe.

Returning the probe for servicing

If your probe requires servicing, you must return it to Tektronix. If the original packaging is unfit for use or not available, use the following
packaging guidelines:

Preparation for Shipment

1. Use a corrugated cardboard shipping carton having inside dimensions at least one inch greater than the probe dimensions. The box

should have a carton test strength of at least 200 pounds.

2. Put the probe into an antistatic bag or wrap it to protect it from dampness.

3. Place the probe into the box and stabilize it with light packing material.

4. Seal the carton with shipping tape.

5. Refer to Contacting Tektronix at the beginning of this manual for the shipping address.

P7700 Series TriMode™ Probes 50

Index

A

accessories

standard 45

Auto Offset 31

B

browser tip dynamic range 35

C

calibration

probe 24
probe DC
TriMode 24

compensation

probe 24
temperature 35
TriMode 24

connecting

tips to the probe TekFlex connector 16

connecting to a circuit board
connecting to circuit with

coaxial adapters

controls and indicators

TriMode 17

H

handling the probe 43, 49
host instrument firmware 48

I

improving measurement accuracy 32
Input Mode selection 29
input network 34
input voltage range

extend using offset voltage 34

installation

connecting accessories 16

L

LED indicators 15–17, 49

M

measurement accuracy

improving 32

measurement configuration

solder tip 36

models 12

D

dimensions

solder tips 43
documentation 45
DSP correction 35
dynamic range

browser tip 35

E

error conditions

LED indicators 49

signal display 49

F

firmware 48
flex circuit description 37
functional check

with deskew fixture

with P77C292MM adapter

O

offset selection 30
offset voltage 28
offset voltage buttons 31

P

P77BRWSR description
P77C292MM adapter

termination voltage 31

P77STCABL 38
probe

calibrating

handling 43, 49
probe architecture 33
probe connection precautions 42
Probe Controls screen 32
probe models 12
Probe Setup panel

input mode selection 29

offset selection 30
Probe Setup screen

input mode selection 29

offset selection 30

|

Probe Setup screen (continued)

offset voltage set buttons 31

R

replacing tips 48
returning the probe 50

S

S-parameter files

storage file structure 44

signal display errors 49
single-ended measurements

using browser differential probe tip 35

solder tip dimensions 43
solder-in tips

P77STCABL 38

standard accessories 45

T

TekFlex

connecting accessories 16

dimensions 43
temperature compensation 35
termination voltage 31
tip replaement 48
tip soldering 39
tri-pod accessory

TriMode

calibration 24

compensation 24

probing 17
TriMode differential probe tip

making single-ended measurements 35

W

wire length

solder-in tip connection 33

|