Tektronix TCP0030 Primary User

TCP0030
120 MHz, 30 A AC/DC Current Probe
Instruction Manual

www.tektronix.com

071-1812-00

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.

Contacting Tektronix

Tektronix, Inc.
14200 SW Karl Braun Drive
P.O . Bo x 5 0 0
Beaverton, OR 97077
USA

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

In North America, call 1-800-833-9200.
Worldwide, visit www.tektronix.com to find contacts in your area.

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 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 ma ke
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 t o 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 integra ted 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 O THER 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 DEFE CTIVE PRODUCTS IS THE SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY
PROVIDED TO THE CUSTOMER FOR BREACH O F 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.

Table of Contents

General Safety Summary .. ................................................................................................................. v

Service Safety Summary .................................................................................................................. vii

Environmental Considerations ............................................................................................................ viii

Preface....................................................................................................................................... x

Documentation......................................................................................................................... x

Conventions Used in this Manual .....................................................................................................x

Returning the Probe for Servicing .................................................................................................... xi

Key Features ............................................................................................................................... 1

Installation .................................................................................................................................. 2

Connecting to the Host Instrument ................................................................................................... 2

Degaussing the Probe................................................................................................................ 3

Probe Controls and Indicators ........................................................................................................ 5

Functional Check.......................................................................................................................... 10

Basic Operation............................................................................................................................ 11

Application Examples...................................................................................................................... 13

Inductance Measurements .......................................................................................................... 14

Measuring Inductor Turns Count .................................................................................................... 17

Table of Contents

Accessories and Options.................................................................................................................. 19

Using Sta ndard Accessories .. ...................................................................................................... 19

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual i

Table of Contents

Probing Principles ......................................................................................................................... 26

Specifications.............................................................................................................................. 39

Performance Verification .................................................................................................................. 50

Optional Accessories ................................................................................................................ 22

Options ............................................................................................................................... 25

Degaussing a Probe with an Unpowered Conductor in the Jaws .. ................................................................ 26

Measuring Differential Current....................................................................................................... 27

Extending Current Range............................................................................................................ 29

Increasing Sensitivity ................................................................................................................ 32

Common M ode Noise/Magnetic Field Errors........................................................................................ 33

AC and DC Coupling.................................................................................................................34

Maximum Current Limits............................................................................................................. 35

Warranted Characteristics ........................................................................................................... 40

Typical Characteristics............................................................................................................... 41

Nominal Characteristics ............................................................................................................. 47

Certifications and Compliances ..................................................................................................... 47

Equipment Required................................................................................................................. 51

Making the DC Current Loop . .. ..................................................................................................... 52

Equipment Setup..................................................................................................................... 53

DC Gain Accuracy ................................................................................................................... 54

Rise Time and Bandwidth . .......................................................................................................... 59

TestRecord .......................................................................................................................... 62

ii TCP0030 Current Pro be Instruction Manual

Table of Contents

Adjustments................................................................................................................................ 63

Equipment Required................................................................................................................. 63

Equipment Setup..................................................................................................................... 63

DC Gain Accuracy ................................................................................................................... 64

Maintenance ............................................................................................................................... 66

Troubleshooting. . .................................................................................................................... 66

Cleaning.............................................................................................................................. 67

Repairing the Probe ................................................................................................................. 68

Probe Head Disassembly............................................................................................................69

Replacement......................................................................................................................... 72

Reassembly.......................................................................................................................... 76

Replaceable Parts ................................................................................................................... 77

Index

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual iii

Table of Contents

iv TCP0030 Current Pro be Instruction Manual

General Safety Summary

Review the following safety precautions to avoid injury and prevent dama ge to this product or any products con nected to it.

To avoid potential hazards, use this product only as sp ecified.

Only qualified personnel should pe rform service procedures.

To Avoid Fire or Personal Injury

Connect and Disconnect Properly. Do not connect or disconnect probes or test leads while they are connected to a voltage

source.

Connect and Disconnect Properly. De-energize the circuit under test before connecting or disconnecting the current probe.

Connect and Disconnect Properly. Connect the probe output to the measurement instrument before connecting the probe to the

circuit under test. Conne ct the probe reference lead to the circuit under test before connecting the probe input. Disconnect the probe
input and th e probe reference lead from the circuit under te st before disconnecting the probe from the measurement instrument.

Observe All Terminal R atings. To avoid fire or shock hazard, observe all ratings and markings on the product. Consult the

product manual for further ratings information before making connections to the product.

Do not connect a current probe to any wire that carries voltages above the current probe voltage rating.

Do Not Operate Without Covers. Do not operate this product with covers or panels removed.

Do Not Operate With Suspected Failures. If you suspect that there is damage to this product, have it inspected by qualified

service personnel.

General Safety Summary

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

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual v

General Safety Summary

Do Not Operate in Wet/Damp Conditions.

Do Not Operate in an Explosive Atmosphere.

Keep Product Surfaces Clean and Dry.

TermsinthisManual

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 condition s or practices that could result in damage to this product or other property.

Symbols and Terms on the Product

These terms may appear on the product:

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

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

CAUTION indicates a hazard to property including the product.

The following symbols may appear on the product:

vi TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Service Safety Summary

Only qualified perso nnel should perform service procedures. Read this Service Safety S ummary and the General Safety Summary
before performing any service procedures.

Do Not Service Alone. Do not perform internal service or adjustments of this product u nless another person capable of

rendering first aid and resuscitation is pre sent.

Disconnect Power. To avoid electric shock, switch off the instrument power, then disconnect the power cord from the mains

power.

Use Care When Servicing With Power On. Dangerous voltages or currents may exist in this product. Disconnect power,

remove battery (if applicable), and disconnect test leads before removing protective panels, soldering, or replacing components.

To avoid electric shock, do not touch exposed connections.

Service Safety Summa ry

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual vii

Environmental Considerations

Environmental Considerations

This section provides information about the environmental impact of the prod uct.

Product End-of-Life Handling

Observe the following guidelines when recycling an instrument or compo nent:

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. In
order 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.

The symbol shown below indicates that this product complies with the European Union’s requirements according to Directive
2002/96/EC on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). For information about recycling options, check the
Support/Service section of the Tektronix Web site (www.tektronix.com).

viii TCP0030 Current Pro be Instruction Manual

Environmental Considerations

Restriction of Hazardous Substances

This product has been classified as Monitoring and Control equip ment, and is outside the scope of the 2002/95/EC RoHS Directive.
This product is known to contain lead, cadmium, mercury, and hexavalent chromium.

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual ix

Preface

Preface

This manual describes the installation and operation of the TCP0030 current probe. Basic probe operations and con cepts are
presented in this manual. You can also access the Tektronix Web site for this document and other related information.

Documentation

To read about Use these documents

TCP0030 Probe: First Time Operation, Functional Check,
Operating B asics, Specifications, Performance Verification

In-depth oscilloscope operation, user interface help, GPIB
commands

*

To access the documentation that is installed on your instrument, click Start in the taskbar and select Programs > TekApplications.

Read this Instruction Manual.

Access the online help from the Help menu on the host
instrument.

*

Conventions Used in this Manual

The following icon is used throughout this manual to indicate a step sequence.

x TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Returning the Probe for Servicing

If your probe requires servicing, you must return the probe 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.

Preface

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual xi

Preface

xii TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Key Features

You can use the TCP0030 current probe to make accurate measuremen ts from DC to 120 MHz. The probe combines proven
Hall-effect techn ology with the new Tektronix TekVPI oscilloscope interface. Key features include:

>120 MHz bandwidth, <2.92 ns rise time

AC/DC Measurement capability

50 A peak pulse current (pulse widths

<10 μs)

5 A and 30 A range settings

1 mA sensitivity (on TekVPI oscilloscopes

that support the 1 mV/div setting)

1% DC Accuracy (typical)

One-button degauss/autozeroing

Probe control through the TekVPI
oscilloscope menus or remotely through
the oscilloscope

Direct scaling and unit readout on host
instruments

Key Features

AC coupling (on TekVPI oscilloscopes that
support AC coupling)

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 1

Installation

Installation

Connecting to the Host Instrument

CAUTION. The probe head is a precision assembly. Do not drop the probe or subject it to physical shock, strain, or sudden changes

in ambien t conditions. Do not insert conductors larger than 3.8 mm diameter into the probe jaw. Damage to the pro be may result.

1. Slide the probe into the TekVPI receptacle.
The probe snaps in when fully engaged.

2. To disconnect, press the latch button and
pull the probe away from the instrument.

When the probe is connected, the host
instrument reads information from the probe
and id entifies the device. All of the probe LEDs
light briefly for a quick visual check.

2 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Degaussing the Probe

1. After the probe is identified by the host

instrument, the screen display prompts you
to run a degauss routine.

The multicolor Degauss/AutoZero status
LED on the probe also indicates that a
degauss is needed, by flashing red.

2. To degauss the probe, press the

Degauss/AutoZero button on the probe

or in the Degauss window on the host
instrument.

NOTE. The DC gain and offset errors are not

guaranteed when this LED flashes red.

3. The mu lticolor Degauss/AutoZero status

LED glows green to indicate a successful
degauss routine was run, and that the
probe is in normal operating mode.

Installation

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 3

Installation

Quick Tip

To maintain measurement accuracy, degauss
your probe in each of the se cases:

After you turn on the measurement system

and allow a 20-minute warm-up period

Before yo u connect the probe to a

conductor

Whenever a current or thermal overload

condition occurs

Whenever you subject the probe to a

strong external magnetic field

4 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Probe Controls and Indicators

When the probe is powered on, all of the
indicator LEDs light briefly, and at lea st two
LEDs remain lighted—one to indicate the
current range selected and one to display the
Degauss/AutoZero status.

NOTE. Theprobewillretaintherangestate

and w ill restore it when it is power cycled.

Jaw Open LED

1. If the Jaw Open LED glows, the probe

slider is unlocked.

2. Lock the probe slider to accurately measure

current or to degauss the probe.

CAUTION. Do not measure condu ctors larger

than 3.8 mm diameter. Damage to the probe
jaws may result.

Installation

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 5

Installation

Overload LED

The multicolor Overload LED alerts you that
the probe specifications are being exceeded.
When the LED:

Glows red, the maximum input continuous

current limit has been exceeded

Glows orange, the safe operating
temperature of the probe has been
exceeded

Flashes red and orange, both the
maximum input continuous current limit
and the safe operating temperature of the
probe have been exceeded

CAUTION. Do not subject the probe to

conditions that cause the Overload LED to light
for extended periods.

Quick Tip

An input current overload can magnetize
the probe. Always degauss the probe after
an overload.

6 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Range Button

1. Press the Range button to select between

the 5 A and 30 A current range settings.

The gree n LEDs indicate the range
selected. The range and units are also
displayed on the oscilloscope screen.

Installation

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 7

Installation

Degauss/AutoZero

When the multicolor Degauss/AutoZero status
LED flashes red, you must degauss the probe.

If th e LED flashes orange, you should degauss
the probe. The DC gain and offset errors are
not guaranteed when this LED flashes orange.

The Degauss/AutoZero function also clears
(AutoZeroes) any DC offset in the probe.

To degauss the probe, do the following:

1. Disconnect the probe from the current
source.

2. Press the Degauss/AutoZero button to
initiate the degauss routine.

The LED glows green a fter successfully
completing the Dega uss/Aut oZero routine.

8 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Menu Button

1. Press the Menu buttontodisplaytheProbe

Setup screen on the o scilloscope.

Use this screen to check or change the
settings on your probe.

NOTE. The Probe Setup screen may include

buttons to a cce ss other probe information,
depending on the oscilloscope model.

2. Press the Menu button again to close the

Probe Setup screen.

Installation

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 9

Functional Check

Functional Check

The following procedure checks that your probe is functioning properly. To verify that your probe meets the warranted specifications,
refer to the Performance Verification procedures. (See page 50.)

CAUTION. The probe jaw opening accommodates insulated c ond uctors with a diameter of 3.8 mm or less. Do not insert

conductors larger than 3.8 mm diameter into the probe jaw. Damage to the probe may result.

To check that your probe functions correctly,
do the following:

1. Connect the probe to any channel of the
oscilloscope.

2. Press the Degauss/AutoZero button.

3. Clamp the probe to your circuit.

4. Set the oscilloscope to display the probe

channel.

5. Adjust the oscilloscope or use the Autoset
function to display a stable waveform.

When you see a stable waveform, your
probe is functioning correctly.

10 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Basic Operation

CAUTION. Do not force con ductors larger than 3.8 mm into the probe jaws. Damage to the probe may result.

The mating surfaces of the probe head transformer are precision-polished and should be handled with care. Measurements may
be degraded by dirt on the mating surfaces of the probe head transformer. Refer to the Maintenance section of this manual for
information on how to properly clean the probe head transformer surfaces.

1. Check the oscilloscope display before

connecting the probe to a conductor.

If there is a DC offset, degauss the probe.
(See page 3, Degaussing the Probe.)

2. Close and lock the probe jaw over the

conductor.

For correct polarity reading, connect the
probe so that the current flow, from positive
to negative, is aligned with the arrow on
the probe jaw.

3. Read the measurement on the oscilloscope

display.

Basic Operation

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 11

Basic Operation

Grounding the Probe

Use the Ground Lead to improve EMI rejection at high frequencies.

1. Clip the Ground Lead to the ground post at

2. Connect the alligator end of the clip to the

the bottom of the probe head.

DUT chassis ground.

12 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Application Examples

This section explains ways to u se your probe in common troubleshooting tasks and how to extend the use of your measurement
system.

Application Examples

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 13

Application Examples

Inductance Measurements

You can use the current probe to m easure the inductance of coils that have either a low-impeda nce or high-impedance pulse
source of a known value.

Low-Impedance Pulse Sources

This figure shows a constant-voltage pulse
generator of extremely low output impedance
connected to an inductor that has low
resistance.

1. Connect the inductor across the output
terminals of the pulse generator.

2. Maintain a co nstant voltage across the
inductor.

3. Clamp the current probe over o ne of the
source leads.

NOTE. If the probe impedance is a significant

part of the total circuit inductance, measurement
accuracy will be affected. Refer to the probe
specifications for probe insertion impedance.

14 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

4. Measure the current ramp. The inductance

is effectively defined by the slope of the
current ramp shown here.

5. Calculate the inductance using the

following formula:

where:

L is the inductance in henries,
E is the voltage of the pulse generator,
dt is the change in time, and
di is the change in current.

Application Examples

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 15

Application Examples

High-Impedance Pulse Sources

If the pulse so urce has a higher impedance of
known resistance , such that the output voltage
drops as the current increases, the inductance
of a coil can be calculated by the time constant
of the charge curve.

The current ramp shows how the values for the
inductance formula are obtained.

Use this formula to calculate the inductance
based on the current measurement:

where:

L is the inductance in henries,
τ is the time required for the current to rise
or fall 63.2% of the total current value, and
R is the source resistance of the pulse
generator.

16 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Measuring Inductor Turns Count

To obtain an approximate turns c ou nt of an
inductor, do th e following:

1. Connect the inductor to a current limited

source, as shown.

2. Measure the input current on one of the

inductor leads.

3. Clamp the current probe around the

inductor and note the current value.

The number of turns is equal to the ratio of coil
current to input current.

The accuracy of this method is limited by the
current measurement accuracy.

Application Examples

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 17

Application Examples

For a more precise turns count, you need a
coil with a known number of turns to use as a
reference. Do t he fo llowing:

1. Repeat steps 1 and 2 above and make the
following changes:

2. Insert the reference coil into the current
probe.

3. Insert the test coil into the current probe
so that the currents oppose each other
as shown. You must observe the polarity
of coil current to determine whether the
test coil has less or more turns than the
reference coil. The turns are calculated b y
using the formula:

where:

N

is the number of turns in the test coil,

2

N

is the number of turns in the reference

1

coil,

I

is the measured coil current, a nd

m

I

is the input current.

1

18 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Accessories and Options

This section lists the standard accessories and provides information on how to use the ac cessories. Specifications are provided
where appropriate so that you can choose the accessory that best fits your needs.

Using Standard Accessories

Probe Ground Lead

1. Fasten the small clip to the ground stub on

the probe body.

2. Clip the alligator clip to your circuit.

3. Attach the probe to your circuit.

Reorder Tektronix part number 196-3120-XX,
qty. 1.

Accessories and Options

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 19

Accessories and Options

Nylon Carrying Case with Pouch
and Inserts

Use the carrying case to hold the probe, the
accessories, and the Instruction Manual.

1. Place the probe, accessories, and manual
in the carrying case.

2. Close the carrying case to transport the
accessories to another location or for
storage.

Reorder Tektronix part number: 016-1952-XX

20 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Protective Cover

At your workbench, put the probe in the padded
protective cover to prevent accidental damage
to the probe.

1. Insert the probe in the protective cover.

2. Close the protective cover with th e strap to

secure the cover to the probe.

Reorder Tektronix part number: 016-1923-XX

Instruction Manual

The instruction man ual provides operating and
maintenance instructions.

Reorder Tektronix part number:

071-1812-XX (English)

071-1813-XX (Japanese)

071-1814-XX (Simplified Chinese)

Accessories and Options

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 21

Accessories and Options

Optional Accessories

This section lists the opt ional accessories that you can purchase to help you with your probing tasks.

Current Loop

Use the 1-turn, 50 Ω current loop for the
performance verification procedures. The
BNC connector allows for easy connections to
current sources.

Reorder Tektronix pa rt number: 015-0601-50

1. Connect the current loop to the current
supply.

2. Connect the probe to the loop.

3. Power on the current supply.

4. Follow the procedure for the specifictask

that you are performing (for example,
Performance Verification or Adjustme nts).

22 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

CT-4 High-Current Transformer

Use the CT-4 transformer with the TCP0030
current probe to provide step -down ratios of
20:1 or 10 00:1. The CT-4 provides a means to
measure high-amplitude AC currents.

1. Clamp the CT-4 transformer around the

conductor you that want to test.

2. Clamp the TCP0030 Probe onto the

measurement po rt on the b ack of the CT-4.

3. Proceed with your measurements.

Reorder Tektronix part number: CT-4

Accessories and Options

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 23

Accessories and Options

Deskew/Calibration F ixture

Connect this fixture to host instruments that
support the probe calibration or deskew
procedures. The deskew procedures
compensate for gain errors and timing
differences between current and voltage
probes. Refer to your oscilloscope manual or
fixture documentation for instructions.

Reorder Tektronix pa rt number: 067-1686-00

Compensation Box Tool

Use this tool to open the compensation box
when servicing the probe (replacing the switch
panel, cable, or compensation box). Refer to
the compensation box replacement procedures
for instructions for using the tool.

Reorder Tektronix pa rt number: 003-1892-00

24 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Options

Service Options

Manual Options

Accessories and Options

Option CA1. Provides coverage for a single Calibration Event

Option C3. Calibration Service 3 years

Option C5. Calibration Service 5 years

Option D1. Calibration Data Report

Option D3. Calibration Data Report, 3 years (with Option C3)

Option D5. Calibration Data Report, 5 years (with Option C5)

Option R3. Repair S ervice 3 years

Option R5. Repair S ervice 5 years

Option L0. English langu age Instruction Manual

Option L5. Japanese language Instruction Manual

Option L7. Simplified Chinese language Instruction Manual

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 25

Probing Principles

Probing Principles

The following information is provided to help you use the full potential of your current probe.

Degaussing a Probe with an Unpowered Conductor in the Jaws

You can degauss your current probe while a conductor of an unpowered circuit is clamped in the jaws. The advantage of
degaussing with an unpowered circuit is that any offset from stray DC magnetic fields is compensated. Degaussing with the
conductor in the probe jaws eliminates the need to manually remove the probe.

NOTE. Be certain that the conductor in the probe jaws is completely unpowered. Any current flowing through the conductor will

cause a re sidual offset in the current probe and may cause an inaccurate measurement or an error condition .

The impedance of your circuit must be higher than 10 mΩ for the degauss procedure to work. (The probe core will not saturate with
a circuit impedance of less than 10 mΩ). While degauss occurs, the probe will induce a 60 mV, 200 Hz signal in the unpowered
circuit. Your circuit must be able to absorb this induced voltage. With low impedance circuits, several amperes may be induced in
the circuit being measured. This may be of concern when you are using very small conductors.

26 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Measuring Differential Current

To simplify your differential or null current
measurements, you can place two conductors
in one current probe.

WARNING. Do not put u ninsulated conductors in the probe. An uninsulated conductor is any conductor without insulation or

without insulation rated for the voltage present on th e conductor under test.

An insulated conduct or is any conductor that is surrounded by an insulating material that is capable of isolating the voltage present
on the conductor. Lacquer coatings like those typically found on transformer windings do not provide sufficient, reliable insulation
for use with current probes. The lacquer coating can be easily nicked or damaged, compromising the insulating capabilities of
the lacquer coating.

Do not force the slide closed. Damage to the probe may result. If you cannot close the slide around the conductor(s), either reduce
the number of conductors you are me asuring, or, if possible, take your measurement on a smaller conductor.

Probing Principles

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 27

Probing Principles

1. Orient the two conductors under test so
that the polarities (+ and –) oppose each
other.

2. Clamp the current probe around the two
conductors. Be careful not to pinch a
conductor in the probe jaws.

3. Measure the current.

Conventional current flows from positive to
negative. A waveform above the baseline
indicates that the conductor with the
conventional current flow in the direction
of the probe arrow is carrying the greater
current.

28 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

4. To adjust for a current null, adjust the

current in one of the conductors until the
displayed measurement is zero.

Extending Current Range

If your measurement exceeds the maximum current rating of the connected probe, you can extend the AC and DC current ranges
without exceeding specified limits by using the following methods.

WARNING. To avoid personal injury or equipment damage, do not exceed the specified electrical limits of the probe or any

applicable accessories. When using multiple conductors, do not exceed current limits on either conductor.

Probing Principles

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 29

Probing Principles

Extending DC Range

If you want to mea sure a low-amplitude AC component that is superimposed on an extremely large steady-state DC component
(such as in a power supply), or if you want to extend the DC current range of your probe, you can add offset (bucking) current with
a second conductor.

WARNING. Do not put more than one uninsulated conductor at a time in the probe jaws. An uninsulated conductor is any

conductor without insulation or w ithout insulation rated for the voltag e present on the conductor under test.

To supply additional bucking current:

1. Place a second conductor that has a pure
DC component of known value in the probe
jaw with the conductor under test.

2. Orient the second cond uctor so that the
bucking current flows in the opposite
direction of the DC flow in the conductor
under test.

3. To determine measurement values, add
the value of the bucking current to the
displayed measurement.

30 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Probing Principles

NOTE. Adding a second conductor to the p robe increases the insertion impedance and reduces the upper bandwidth limit of the

probe. Winding multiple turns further increases the insertion impedance, further reducing the u pper bandwidth limit.

To increase the value of the bucking current:

1. Wind multiple turns of the second

conductor around the probe.

The bucking cu rrent is equal to the current
flowing in the conductor, multiplied by the
number of turns wound around the probe.

For example, if the second conductor has a
current of 100 mA DC and is wrapped around
the probe five times, the DC bucking current is
100 mA multiplied by 5, or 500 mA DC.

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 31

Probing Principles

Increasing Sensitivity

If you are measuring DC or low-frequency
AC signals of very small amplitudes, you can
increase measurement sensitivity of your
Current Probe by doing the following:

1. Wind several turns of the conductor under
test around the probe as shown. The
signal is multiplied by the number of turns
around the probe.

2. To obtain the actual current value, divide
the displayed amplitude by the number of
turns.

For example, if a conductor is wrapped around
the probe three times and the oscilloscope
shows a reading of 3 mA DC, the actual current
flow is 3 mA divided by 3, or 1 mA DC.

NOTE. Winding more turns around the probe increa ses the insertion impedance and reduces the upper bandwidth limit of the probe .

32 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Common Mode Noise/Magnetic Field Errors

Common-mode noise at high frequencies and
strong magnetic fields on the supply side of
your circuit can cause measurement errors. To
avoid this:

1. Measure on the low or ground side of your

circuit.

2. Orient the probe to measure conventional

current flow.

Probing Principles

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 33

Probing Principles

AC and DC Coupling

You can couple the signal input to the oscilloscope with either DC or AC coupling. DC coupling shows both the DC and AC
measurement components. AC coupling removes the DC component from the displayed signal.

1. This low-frequency square wave is
displayed using AC coupling. The signal
exhibits low-frequency rolloff.

2. Press the DC Coupling button to display
the waveform as truly square.

CAUTION. When you use AC coupling, make

sure that the input DC current does not exceed
the probe specifications.

34 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Maximum Current Limits

Current probes have three maximum current ratings: pulsed, continuous, and Ampere-second product. Exceeding any of these
ratings ca n saturate the probe core, which magnetizes the core and causes measurement errors. Refer to the specifications for the
maximum current ratings of the probe. (See Table 2 on page 41.)

Probing Principles

Maximum Pulsed Current (I

maxP

)isthe
maximum peak value of pulsed current the
probe can accurately measure, regardless
of how short (within bandwidth limitations)
the pulse duration is.

Maximum Continuous Current (I

maxC

)isthe
maximum current that can be continuously
measured at DC or at a specified AC
frequency. The maximum continuous
current value is derated with frequency;
as the frequency increases, the maximum
continuous current rating decreases.

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 35

Probing Principles

Ampere-Second Product is the maximum
width of pulsed current that you can
measure when the pulse amplitude is
between the maximum continuous and
maximum pulsed current specifi cations.
The maximum continuous specification
varies by frequency.

To determine if your measurement exceeds
the Ampere-second product, you must first
determine the m a ximum allowable pulse width
or maximum allowable pulse amplitude, as
described in the following section.

NOTE. Always degauss the probe after measuring a current that exceeds the maximum continuous current, maximum pulsed

current, or Ampere-second product rating of the probe. Exceeding these ratings can magnetize the probe and cause measurement
errors.

36 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Maximum Allowable Pulse Width

To determine the maximum allowable pulse
width do the following:

1. Measure the peak current of the pulse.

2. Divide the Ampere-second (or

Ampere-microsecond) speci fi cation
for the range setting of the TCP0030 probe
by the measured peak current of the pulse:

The quotient is th e maximum allowable
pulse width (PW

3. Check that the pulse width at the 50% point

of the measured signal is less than the
calculated maximum allowable pulse width
(PW

).

max

max

).

Probing Principles

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 37

Probing Principles

Maximum Allowable Pulse Amplitude

To determine the maximum allowable pulse
amplitude do the following:

1. Measure the pulse width at the 50% points.

2. Divide the Ampere-second (or

Ampere-microsecond) specification
for the range setting of the TCP0030 probe
by the pulse width.

The quotient is t he maximum allowable
pulse amplitude; the peak amplitude of the
measured pulse must be less than this
value.

For example, the TCP0030 probe has a
maximum Ampere-second product of 500 A-ms
in the 30 A range setting. If a pulse measured
with the probe has a width of 11 ms, the
maximum allowable peak current would be
500 A-ms d ivided by 11 ms, or 45.5 A.

38 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Specifications

The specifications in Tables 1 through 5 are valid under the following conditions:

The probe has been calibrated at an ambient tempe rature of 23 °C ±5 °C.

The probe is connected to a host instrument with an input impedan ce of 1 M Ω.

The probe must have a warm-up period of at least 20 minutes a nd be in an environment that does not exceed the limits
described. (See Table 1).

Specifications for the TCP0030 current probe fall into three categories: warranted, typical, and nominal characteristics.

Specifications

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 39

Specifications

Warranted Characteristics

Warranted characteristics describe guaranteed performance within tolerance limits or certain type-tested requirements. Warranted
characteristics that have checks in the Performance Verification section are marked with the

Table 1: Warranted electrical characteristics

Characteristic Description

DC gain accuracy

Rise time (10% to 90%)

Bandwidth

symbol.

<3% (typical <1% at +23 °C, ± 5 °C)

≤2.92 ns

DC to 120 MHz

40 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Typical Characteristics

Typical characteristics describe typical but not guaranteed performance.

Table 2: Typical electrical characteristics

Characteristic Description

Maximum continuous current — DC and
Low frequency (See Figure 3.)

Maximum peak current (See Figure 3.)

Displayed RMS Noise ≤75 µA RMS. (Limit measurement bandwidth to 20 MHz)

Insertion impedance

Aberrations

Signal delay

Maximum voltage on bare wire Use on insulated conductors only

Maximum Amp·Second product (See
graph on page 49.)

Specifications

5 A Range: 5 A RMS
30 A Range: 30 A RMS

50 A maximum peak pulse

(See Figure 2.)

<50 ns: ≤10% p-p >50 ns: ≤5% p-p

~14.5 ns

5 A Range: 50 A·µs

30 A Range: 500 A·µs

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 41

Specifications

Figure 1: Frequency derating (peak current versus frequency)

42 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Figure 2: Typical differential input im pedance versus frequency

Specifications

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 43

Specifications

Figure 3: Maximum peak pulse versus pulse width

44 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Table 3: Environmental characteristics

Characteristic Description

Temperature

Humidity

Altitude

Operating: 0 to +50 °C (+32 to +122 °F)

Nonoperating: -40 to +75 °C (-40 to +167 °F)

Operating: 5-95% RH, tested up to +30 °C (+86 °F)
5-85% RH, tested at +30 °C to +50 °C (+86 °F to +122 °F)

Nonoperating: 5-95% RH, tested up to +30 °C (+86 °F)
5-85% RH, tested at +30 °C to +75 °C (+86 °F to +167 °F)

Operating: Up to 3000 meters (10,000 feet),

Nonoperating: Up to 12,192 meters (40,000 feet)

Table 4: Typical mechanical characteristics

Characteristic Description

Dimensions, compensation box

Dimensions, probe head

Dimensions, cable length

Unit weight

107mm×41mm×26mm(4.2in×1.6in×1.0in)

197 mm × 1.6 cm × 3.2 cm (7.77 in × 0.625 in × 1.25 in)

2 m (79 in) (from the probe head to the compensation box)

1.550 g (3.44 lbs) (probe, accessories, and packaging)

Specifications

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 45

Specifications

46 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Nominal Characteristics

Nominal characteristics describe guaranteed traits, but the traits do not have tolerance limits.

Table 5: Nom inal electrical characteristics

Characteristic Description

Input coupling

Current ranges

Termination

Compatibility Oscilloscopes equipped with the TekVPI interface

Certifications and Compliances

EC Declaration of Conformity - Low Voltage

Compliance was demonstrated to the following specification as listed in the Official Journal of the European Communities:

Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC, amended by 93/68/EEC.

EN 61010-1:2001. Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement control and laboratory use.

EN 61010-2-032:2002. Particular requirements for handheld current clamps for electrical measurement and test equipment.

Specifications

DC

5 A and 30 A

Terminate output into 1 M Ω

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 47

Specifications

U.S. Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory Listing

Canadian Certification

Additional Compliance

UL 61010B-1:2003. Standard for electrical measuring and test equipment.

UL 6010B-2-032:2003. Particular requirements for handheld current clamps for electrical measurem ent and test equipment.

CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 1010.1:1997. Particular requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and labora tory
use. Part 1.

CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 1010.2.032-96, Particular Requirements for Hand Held Cu rrent Clamps for Electrical Measurement
and Test.

IEC 61010-1:2001. Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use.

IEC 61010-2-032:2002. Particular requ irements for handheld current clamps for electrical measu remen t and test equipment.

48 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Specifications

Equipment Type

Test and measuring equipment.

Pollution Degree Descriptions

A measure of the contaminates that could occur in the environment around and within a product. Typically the internal environment
inside a product is considered to be the same as the external. Products should be used only in the environment for which they
are rated.

Polution Degree 1. No pollution or only dry, nonconductive pollution occurs. Products in this category are generally
encapsulated, hermetically sealed, or loca ted in clean rooms.

Polution Degree 2. Normally only dry, nonconductive pollution occurs. Occasionally a temporary conductivity that is caused by
condensation must be expected. This location is a typical office/home environment. Temporary condensation occurs only
when the product is out of service.

Polution Degree 3. Conductive pollution, or dry, nonconductive pollution that becomes conductive due to condensation. T hese
are sheltered locations where neither temperature nor humidity is controlled. The area is protecte d from direct sunshine,
rain, or direct wind.

Polution Degree 4. Pollution that generates persistent condu ctivity throu gh conductive dust, rain, or snow. Typical outdoor
locations.

Pollution Degree

Pollution Degree 2 (as defined in IEC 61010-1). Note: Rated for indoor use only.

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 49

Performance Verification

Performance Verification

The procedures that follow verify the wa rranted specifications of the probe, listed below. The recommended calibration interval is
one year.

DC gain accuracy

Rise time

Bandwidth

Perform the following verification procedures in the order listed.

50 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Equipment Required

Table 6 lists the equipment required for the performance verification procedure.

Table 6: Test equipment

Description and quantity Performance requirement Recommended example

Oscilloscope TekVPI interface, 500 MHz or greater bandwidth Tektronix DPO4000

High Amplitude Pulse
Generator

Calibrator DCV: 0.2% accuracy, 0 to ±1.5 V, square wave output

DC Current loop 5 turns 18 AWG coated wire on 3 inch form See instructions that follow

HF Current loop 50 Ω ±0.5%, BNC male

BNC-to-Dual banana adapter

BNC Cable 50 Ω , 0.76 m (30 in) length

1

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

Risetime <500 ps, pulse width >100 ns, amplitude
>10 Vpp into 50 Ω

ACA: 0.25% accuracy, 0 to ±6 A, square wave output

Performance Verification

1

Picosecond Labs 2600

Wavetek 9100

015-0601-50

103-0090-00

012-0117-00

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 51

Performance Verification

Making the DC Current Loop

Construct the loop using #18 coated wire and a cylindrical form approximately 3 inches in diame ter:

1. Wind exactly 5 turns of #18 coated wire
around the form.

2. Scrape a bout a half-inch of coating off of
the ends of the wire.

NOTE. Ensure that the current loop has exactly 5 turns. A significant error will result for each turn varian ce from 5 turns.

52 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Equipment Setup

Use the following procedure to set up and warm up the equipment to test the probe.

1. Turn on the oscilloscope.

2. Connect the probe to any channel of the

oscilloscope.

3. Press the Degauss/Autozero button.

4. Set the oscilloscope coupling to DC.

5. Power on the current source and the pulse

generator.

6. Allow 20 minute s for the equipment to

warm up.

7. Photocopy the test record and use it to

record the test results. (See p age 62.)

Performance Verification

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 53

Performance Verification

DC Gain Accuracy

This test checks the DC gain accuracy of the probe by first measuring the DC ga in accuracy of the oscilloscope and then subtracting
that value from the probe gain accuracy measurement. If the m ea surements are out of the specified limits in the test record,
refer to the Adjustments section. (See page 63.)

54 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Measure the Oscilloscope Gain

1. Connect a BNC-to-Dual Banana adapter

to the voltage output terminals of the
calibrator.

2. Connect a BNC cable between the adapter

and the oscilloscope. (Leave the probe
connectedtokeepitwarmedup.)

3. Set the oscilloscope:

Vertical sensitivity to 500 mV/div

Vertical position and offset to 0.0 V

Horizontal to 400 or 500 us/div, trigger

50%

Acquisition mode to avera ge 16

Input to 1 M Ω and coupling to DC

Automeasurement to display

AMPLITUDE

Performance Verification

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 55

Performance Verification

4. Set the calibrator to 1.5 Vpk (3.0 Vp-p)
@500 Hz squarewave.

5. Enable the output of the calibrator.

6. Measure the output amplitude (a).

7. Calculate the oscilloscope DC gain

accuracy (b) using the measured amplitude
value from step 6 and the formula shown.

Use the result to calculate the probe DC
gain accuracy in step 19.

8. Disable the calibrator outp ut.

9. Remove the BNC cable from the test setup.

Example:

56 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Measure the Probe Gain

10. Connect the probe to the oscilloscope

channel you u sed in the previous test.

11. Connect the 5-turn DC current loop to the

calibrator.

12. Set the calibrator to AC Amps.

13. Degauss the probe, and then connect it to

the 5-turn current loop.

14. Set the probe range to 5 A.

15. Set the oscilloscope:

Vertical sensitivity to 500 mA/div

Trigger at 50%

Acquisition mode to avera ge 16

CouplingtoDC

Automeasurement to display

AMPLITUDE

Performance Verification

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 57

Performance Verification

16. Set the calibrator to output a 500 Hz square
wave into the 5-turn current loop.

17. Set the calibrator to the first value in the
Test Record, and enable the output.

18. Measure the waveform amplitude (c).

19. Use the measured waveform amplitude (c)

5 A Range:

from step 18 and the oscilloscope DC gain
accuracy value (b) from step 7 to calculate
the probe DC gain a ccu racy (d).

20. Record the calculated probe DC gain
accuracy value (d) in the test record.

Example:

21. Set the probe range to 30 A.

22. Set the oscilloscope to 5 A/div.

23. Measure the waveform amplitude (e ).

58 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Performance Verification

24. Use the measured waveform amplitude (e)

from step 23 and the oscilloscope DC gain
accuracy value (b) from step 7 to calculate
the probe DC gain accuracy (f).

25. Record the calculated probe DC gain

accuracy value (f) in the test record.

Rise Time and Bandwidth

This procedure verifies that the probe meets the rise time specifi cation on both of the current ranges. The ba ndwidth of the
probe is then calculated using the measured probe rise time.

30 A Range:

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 59

Performance Verification

1. Connect the BNC cable to the output of the
pulse generator.

2. Connect the other end of the BNC cab le to
the HF current loop.

3. Set the pu lse generator output and pulse
width to maximum.

4. Set the oscilloscope:

Vertical sensitivity to 200 mA/div

Horizontal to 2 ns/div

Trigger at 50%

Averaging on (32)

Coupling to DC

Automeasurement to Rise Time

5. Set the probe range to the 5 A set ting.

6. Degauss the probe.

60 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

7. Clamp the current probe around the HF

current loop. Verify that the arrow-shaped
indicator on the probe points away from the
pulse generator.

8. Record the rise time measure ment in the

Test Record.

9. Calculate the probe bandwidth using the

measured rise time in the following formula:

10. Record the calculated bandwidth value in

the test record.

Performance Verification

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 61

Performance Verification

Test Record

Probe Model/Serial Number:

Temperature:

Date of Calibration:

Performance

Range Test

test

Current

Calibrator
squarewave

Expected
output

Certificate Number:

RH %:

Technician:

Mini­mum

Incom­ing

Outgo­ing

Maxi­mum

output

Accuracy

5 A ±1.5 A 0.3 A

30 A ±15 A 3.0 A

pk

pk

3A

30 A

p-p

p-p

-3% +3%DC Gain

-3% +3%

Rise time 5 A ~1 A < 500 ps <2.92 ns NA 2.92 ns

Bandwidth 5 A NA NA >120 MHz 120 MHz NA

62 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Adjustments

The procedures that follow describe adjustments to the probe to bring the performance within the warranted specifications.

DC gain accuracy

Equipment Required

Refer to the Performance Verification procedure for the equipme nt required. You also need an insulated, flat-bladed adjustment tool.

Equipment Setup

Refer to the Performance Verification procedure for the equipment setup.

CAUTION. To avoid ESD damage to the probe, use an antistatic wrist strap and work at a static-approved workstation when

handling the prob e

Adjustments

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 63

Adjustments

DC Gain Accuracy

This procedure de scribes the DC gain accuracy adjustments for the probe at the 5 A and 30 A range settings.

Adjust the 5 A Range

1. Com plete steps 1 through 18 of the DC

Gain Accuracy Test in the Performance
Verification procedu re. (See page 54, DC
Gain Accuracy.)

2. Calculate the waveform target value (g)
using the calculated oscilloscope gain
accuracy value (b) from step 7 of the
performance test, and the formula shown.

3. Adjust the 5 A DC gain control in the probe
compensation box to the calculated target
valuefromstep2,±0.02A.

64 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Adjust the 30 A Range

4. Set the probe range to 30 A.

5. Set the calibrator output to 3.0 A.

6. Set the oscilloscope to 5 A/div.

7. Measure the output amplitude.

8. Calculate the waveform target value (h)

using the calculated oscilloscope gain
accuracy value (b) from step 7 of the
performance test, an d the formula shown.

9. Adjust the 30 A DC gain control in the

probe compensation box to the calculated
target value from step 8, ±0.2A.

10. Disconnect the probe from the current

source.

Adjustments

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 65

Maintenance

Maintenance

This section contains maintenance information for your probe.

Troubleshooting

The TCP0030 cu rrent probe is designed to work with all TekVPI-interface oscilloscopes and adapters. The LEDs on the probe alert
you to error or status conditions affecting the probe. If the probe LEDs do not light as expected, or if some of the probe features do
not work properly, an error c ondition may exist. See the following table.

Table 7: Probe troubleshooting

Symptom

LEDs on the probe do not light. The oscilloscope channel may be bad:

An error message displays on
the oscilloscope.

66 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Possible cause

Try another channel or another oscilloscope. If the probe still does not work, the probe

is defective, and must be returned to Tektronix for repair.

The message will describe the cause and solution. For example, if the Degauss Needed
message appears, perform the degauss procedure.

Cleaning

Protect the probe from adverse weather conditions. The probe is not waterproof.

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 a gents; 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 for cleaning 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.

Maintenance

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 67

Maintenance

Repairing the Probe

The subassemblies listed below can be replaced on the probe. The replacement procedures are on the following pages.

Replaceable component Procedures to use

Transformer Probe Head Disassembly, Transformer Replacement

Cable/Circuit Board Assembly Probe Head Disassembly, Cable/Circuit Board Assembly Replacement,

Compensation Box Compensation Box Replacement

Switch Panel Compensation Box Replacement

Equipment Required

The following equipment is necessary to perform the repair procedures.

Tool Description

Screwdriver #2 Phillips

Soldering iron

Cleaner

Lubricant

Compensation box separator

1

Required for cable, switch panel, and compensation box replacement procedures

Compensation Box Replacement

25 W

Isopropyl alcohol

Silicone-based grease

1

Order Tektronix part number 003-1892-00 (See page 24, Compe nsation Box Tool.)

68 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Probe Head Disassembly

Disassemble the probe hea d as follows:

1. Remove the two screws from the bottom

of the probe.

2. Pull the strain relief boot back.

NOTE. The probe slide contains a tiny metal

ball. In step 3, be careful not to lose the ball by
accidentally letting it fall out.

3. Move the probe slide assembly to the open

position. (See note above).

Maintenance

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 69

Maintenance

4. Hold the bottom half of the probe with one

5. With your other hand, pivot the rear top

6. Slide the top half forward and off of the

7. Remove the metal ball.

hand.

half of the probe body up.

bottom half of the probe body.

70 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

8. Turn the probe upside down, push the slide

back slightly, and remove the slide.

You now have access to the transformer and
cable/circuit board assembly. Use the following
procedures to r eplace these components.

Maintenance

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 71

Maintenance

Replacement

Transformer

To replace the transformer, do the following:

1. Gently lift the front edge of the circuit board
and transformer enough to clear the probe
body.

2. Pull the transformer socket straight off the
circuit board pins.

3. Align the socket of the new transformer to
the circuit bo ard pins and connect them.

4. Seat the components back in the probe.

72 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Cable/Circuit Board Assembly

To replace the cable/circuit board assembly, do
the following:

1. Remove the transformer as described in

the previous procedure. (See page 72,
Transformer.)

2. Lift the plastic cable housing from the

probe body half.

3. Unsolder the probe body connection on

the c ircuit board. Be careful not to damage
the circuit board.

4. Lift the circuit board/cable assembly from

the probe body half.

5. Proceed to the Compensation Box

procedure to detach the cable from the
compensation box. (See page 74.)

6. To reassemble the probe after replacing

the cable, do steps 1 through 5 of this
procedure in reverse. (See following
Caution statement.)

Maintenance

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 73

Maintenance

CAUTION. To avoid damaging the wires inside the probe, caref ully dress the wires in the lower body half to avoid contact with the

slide assembly. Exercise care when fitting the slide back into the probe body; aligning the switch contacts requires precision.

Compensation Box

1. Insert the separator tool into the four

2. Grasp the tool and front section together

3. Pull the cable grommet away from the back

holes to disengage the front and back
compensation box sections from each
other.

with one hand. Hold the back section with
the other hand and gently pull the two
sections apart.

section of the co mpensation box.

74 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

4. Separate the two halves of the

compensation box enclosure.

5. Remove the metal shield from the main

assembly.

6. If you are only replacing the switch panel,

disconnect the panel, replace it, and
reassemble the compensation box.

7. If you are replacing the cable or

compensation box, disconnect the cable
connector.

8. Install the new cable or compensation box

by performing this procedure in reverse. If
you are replacing the cable, refer also to the
Cable/Circuit Board Assembly procedure
to complete the cable replacement.

Maintenance

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 75

Maintenance

Reassembly

1. Before reassembling the probe body, be sure to check:

a. That the gap between the stationary and moveable core pieces is clean. If necessary, use isopropyl alcohol or a similar

b. That the contacts of the slide switch are clean, and if not, clean them.

c. If the plastic slide assembly requires lubrication. If so, apply silicone-based grease sparingly to the parts.

2. Reassemble the probe body by following steps 1 through 8 of the probe head disassembly procedure in reverse. (See

page 69, Probe Head Disassembly.)

NOTE. Exercise care when fitting the slide back into the probe body; aligning the switch contacts requires precision.

If the slider does not work smoothly after tightening the two screws, loosen the screws slightly.

cleaning agent to clean the pieces.

76 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Replaceable Parts

This section contains a list of the replaceable parts for the probe. Use this list to identify and order replacement parts.

Parts Ordering Information

Replacement parts are available through your local Tektronix field office or representative.

Changes to Tektronix instruments are sometimes made to accommodate improved components as they become available and
to give you the benefit of the latest circuit improvement s. Therefore, when ordering parts, it is important to include the following
information in your order:

Part number

Instrument type or model number

Instrument serial number

Instrument modification number, if applicable

Maintenance

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 77

Maintenance

Using the Replaceable Parts List

This section contains a list of the mechanical and/or electrical components that are replaceable for the probe. Use this list to identify
and order replacement parts. Table 8 describes each column in the parts list .

Table 8: Parts List Column Descriptions

Column Column name

1

2 Tektronix Part Number

3and4

5

6

7

8

Figure & Index Number Items in this section are referenced by figure and index numbers to the

Serial Number Column three indicates the serial number at which the part was first effective.

Qty This indicates the quantity of parts used .

Name & Description An item name is separated from the description by a colon (:). Because of

Mfr. Code This indicates the code of the actual manufacturer of the part.

Mfr. Part Number This indicates the actual manufacturer or vendor part number.

Description

exploded view illustrations that follow.

Use this p art number when ordering replacement parts from Tektronix.

Column four indicates the serial number at which the part was discontinued.
No entries indicates the part is good for all serial numbers.

space limitations, an item name may sometimes appear as incomplete. Use
the U.S. Federal Catalog handbook H6-1 for further item name identification.

Abbreviations

Abbreviations conform to American National Standard ANSI Y1.1-1972.

78 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Figure 4: Replaceable Parts

Maintenance

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 79

Maintenance

Table 9: Replaceable Parts

Fig. &
Index
Number

4-1 204-0288-03 1

-2 214-0835-00 1

-3 214-0849-00 1

-4 352-0106-00 1

-5

-6 335-1357-00 1

-7

-8 120-2081-00 1

-9 214-0854-00 1

-10 351-0121-04 1

Tektronix Pa rt
Number

213-0087-00 2

204-0714-06 1

Qty Name & Description Mfr.

Code

BODY HALF,PROBE:UPPER

SPRING,HLCPS:0.127 OD X 2.65 L,SST

RTNR RETURN SPR:BRS CD PL

HOLDER,SPR RTNR:DELRIN

SCREW,TPG,TC:2-32 X 0.5,TYPE
BT,PANHEAD,STEEL,CADMIUM
PLATED,POZIDRIVE

MARKER, ID:PROBE ID

BODY,HALF:LOWER BODY HALF
W/CONTACTS

XFMR SUBASSY:UPPER & LOWER
TRANSFORMER

CONTACT,ELEC:UPPER SHELF,CU BE

CONT ASSY,ELEC:PROBE SLIDE ASSY

80009 204-0288-03

91260

80009 214-0849-00

TK2565 352-0106-00

3M099

0KB05 335-1357-00

80009 204-0714-06

80009 120-2081-00

TK1947 214-0854-00

80009 351-0121-04

Mfr. Part
Number

ORDER BY
DESCRIP­TION

ORDER BY
DESCRIP­TION

80 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Table 9: Replaceable Parts (cont.)

Maintenance

Fig. &
Index
Number

-11 214-0997-00 1

-12 174-5327-00 1

-13 260-2810-00 1

-14 206-0564-00 1

Tektronix Part
Number

Table 10: Part Manufacturers

Mfr. Code Manufacturer

05469

0KB05

18359

3M099

BEARINGS INC 3634 EUCLID PO BOX 6925 CLEVELAND, OH 44101

NORTH STAR
NAMEPLATE INC

PYLON CO. INC. 51 NEWCOMB ST ATTLEBORO, MA

PORTLAND SCREW
COMPANY

Qty Name & Description Mfr.

Code

BALL,BEARING:0.094,SST

BD/CABLE ASSY:CABLE W/PROBE
CIRCUIT BOARD

MEMBRANE SWITCH/CIRCUIT BOARD
ASSY

COMPENSATION BOX ASSY

Address

5750 NE MOORE COURT HILLSBORO, OR

6520 N BASIN AVE PORTLAND, OR 97217

05469

80009 174-5327-00

80009 260-2810-00

00009 206-0564-00

Mfr. Part
Number

ORDER BY
DESCRIP­TION

City, State, Zip Code

97124-6474

02703-1403

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 81

Maintenance

Table 10: Part Manufacturers (cont.)

Mfr. Code Manufacturer

80009

91260

TK1947

TK2548

TK2565

TEKTRONIX INC 14150 SW KARL BRAUN DR PO BOX 500 BEAVERTON, OR

CONNOR FORMED
METAL PRODUCTS

NORTHWEST ETCH
TECHNOLOGY

XEROX
CORPORATION

VISION PLASTICS
INC

Address

1729 JUNCTION AVENUE SAN JOSE, CA 95112

2601 S HOOD ST PO BOX 110610 TACOMA, WA

DIV OF XEROX CORPORATION 7431
EVERGREEN PARKWAY

26000 SW PARKWAY CENTER DRIVE WILSONVILLE, OR

City, State, Zip Code

97077-0001

98411-0610

HILLSBORO, OR 97124

97070

82 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual

Index

Index

A

AC coupling, 34
Accessories

optional, 22

standard, 19
Adjustments, 63
Amp-second product, 36

B

Bucking current, 30

C

Cleaning, 67
Common mode noise, 33
Connect the probe, 2
Coupling modes, 34
Current limitations

amp-second product, 36

maximum continuous, 35

maximum pulsed, 35
Current loop, 52

D

Damage

ESD, 2
DC coupling, 34
DC Gain Accuracy

Adjustment, 64
DC LEVEL control, 34
Degaussing, 3

while connected to a

conductor, 26
Differential current, 27
Documentation, x

E

Equipment required

performance verification, 51
Equipment setup, 53
ESD damage, 2
Extending the current range of the

probes, 29

F

Features, 1

Frequency derating, 35

G

Gain accuracy check, 54

I

Increasing bucking current, 30
Increasing probe sensitivity, 32
Indicators, 5

J

Jaw damage, 10

L

LEDs,flashing, 66

M

Magnetic field errors, 33
Maintenance, 66
Maximum allowable pulse

amplitude, 38

TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual 83

Index

Maximum allowable pulse width, 37
Maximum continuous current

rating, 35
Maximum pulsed c urrent rating, 35
Measuring current

current nulls, 27

differential current, 27

N

Null current, 27

O

Options, 25

P

Performance verification, 50

Probe

disassembly, 69
reassembly, 76

repairing, 68
Probe controls and indicators, 5
Probes

coupling, 34

extending the current range, 29

increasing the current limit, 29

maximum current limits, 35

saturation, 35

R

Record, test, 62
Related documentation, x
Replaceable parts, 77

Replacing

cable/circuit board assy, 72
compensation box, 74
transformer, 72

Rise time check, 59

S

Safety Summary, v
Service options, 25
Specifications, 39

nominal, 47
typical, 41
warranted, 40

T

TekVPI, 2
Test record, 62
Troubleshooting, 66

84 TCP0030 Current Probe Instruction Manual