Differences Between Analog Oscilloscopes and Analog Multimeters
1, Working principle
Analog oscilloscope: The analog oscilloscope is based on an analog circuit (oscilloscope), and its working principle is to emit electrons to the screen through an electron gun. The emitted electrons are focused to form an electron beam and hit the screen. The inner surface of the screen is coated with fluorescent material, and when the electron beam hits a point, it emits light, forming a waveform image of the voltage signal. Analog oscilloscopes mainly rely on analog signal processing technology, which can directly display the waveform of voltage signals changing over time, making it easy for users to observe and analyze the characteristics of the signals.
Analog multimeter: An analog multimeter is an instrument that uses an electromagnetic meter head to measure circuit parameters. Its working principle is to first convert the measured analog electricity into a current signal through a certain measuring mechanism, and then drive the electromagnetic meter pointer to deflect by the current signal. By reading the corresponding scale plate, the measured size can be indicated. The analog multimeter can measure parameters such as DC current, DC voltage, AC current, AC voltage, and resistance, with intuitive and convenient features.
2, Usage scenarios
Analog oscilloscope: Analog oscilloscopes are suitable for situations where voltage signal waveforms need to be observed and analyzed. For example, in circuit debugging, an analog oscilloscope can be used to observe the time-domain waveform of the signal, analyze the frequency, amplitude, phase and other parameters of the signal, and thus determine the working state of the circuit. In addition, analog oscilloscopes can also be used to measure parameters such as pulse width, rise time, and fall time of signals, which is very helpful for studying signal characteristics and debugging circuits.
Analog multimeter: Analog multimeters are more suitable for measuring parameters such as voltage, current, and resistance in circuits. In circuit testing, fault diagnosis, and maintenance, analog multimeters can conveniently measure various parameters in the circuit, helping users quickly locate the problem. In addition, analog multimeters can also be used to measure parameters such as battery voltage and capacitance, and have a wide range of application scenarios.
3, Operational complexity
Analog oscilloscope: The operation of analog oscilloscope is relatively complex. Users need to be familiar with the control panel and the functions of each button of the oscilloscope in order to correctly set the parameters of the oscilloscope and perform measurements. In addition, users also need to adjust the triggering mode, scanning speed, and other parameters of the oscilloscope based on the measured signal characteristics to obtain clear waveform images. Therefore, for beginners, using an analog oscilloscope requires a certain amount of learning and practice.
Simulated multimeter: The operation of a simulated multimeter is relatively simple. Users only need to connect the probe to the measurement point of the circuit, select the appropriate measurement mode and range, and then read the measurement results. In addition, analog multimeters typically have automatic range selection and automatic calibration functions, making it easier for users to measure. Therefore, simulating a multimeter is easier for most users to get started with and operate.
4, Measurement accuracy
Analog oscilloscope: The measurement accuracy of analog oscilloscope is related to vertical resolution and vertical gear. In actual measurement, the accuracy of an oscilloscope is also affected by factors such as gain error and bias error. Therefore, when using an analog oscilloscope for high-precision measurements, it is necessary to carefully adjust the parameters of the oscilloscope and calibrate it.
Analog multimeter: The measurement accuracy of analog multimeters is usually high. Due to its use of an electromagnetic meter head for measurement, it has high sensitivity and stability. In addition, the analog multimeter can also perform automatic range selection and automatic calibration, further improving the accuracy and reliability of measurement.
