Triggering the Oscilloscope

4

Trigger modes: Normal and Auto

An introduction to Normal and Auto trigger modes is given on page 80.

1Press the Mode/Coupling key.

2Press the Mode softkey, then select Normal or Auto.

Normal mode displays a waveform when the trigger conditions are met, otherwise the oscilloscope does not trigger and the display is not updated.

Auto mode is the same as Normal mode, except it forces the oscilloscope to trigger if the trigger conditions are not met.

Auto mode

Use the auto trigger modes for signals other than low-repetitive-rate signals and for unknown signal levels. To display a DC signal, you must use auto trigger mode since there are no edges on which to trigger.

When you select Run, the oscilloscope operates by first filling the pre-trigger buffer. It starts searching for a trigger after the pre-trigger buffer is filled, and continues to flow data through this buffer while it searches for the trigger. While searching for the trigger, the oscilloscope overflows the pre-trigger buffer; the first data put into the buffer is the first pushed out (FIFO). When a trigger is found, the pre-trigger buffer will contain the events that occurred just before the trigger. If no trigger is found, the oscilloscope generates a trigger and displays the data as though a trigger had occurred. In this case, the background of the Auto indicator at the top of the display will flash, and the Auto indicator will change to Auto? indicating that the oscilloscope is forcing triggers.

When you press the Single key, the oscilloscope will fill pre-trigger buffer memory, and continue flowing data through the pre-trigger buffer until the auto trigger overrides the searching and forces a trigger. At the end of the trace, the oscilloscope will stop and display the results.

6000 Series Oscilloscope User’s Guide

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Agilent Technologies 6000 Series manual Trigger modes Normal and Auto, Auto mode

6000 Series specifications

Agilent Technologies has long been recognized as a leader in the field of electronic measurement and test equipment, and the Agilent 6000 Series oscilloscopes exemplify this commitment to innovation and quality. Designed for both professional engineers and researchers, the 6000 Series offers a comprehensive suite of features that enhance usability, accuracy, and efficiency in various applications.

At the heart of the Agilent 6000 Series is its advanced architecture, which integrates a high-performance analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and a sophisticated digital signal processing engine. This combination enables users to capture fast, high-resolution signals with remarkable accuracy, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from automotive to telecommunications.

One of the standout features of the 6000 Series is its bandwidth options, which typically range from 100 MHz to 500 MHz. This flexibility allows users to select an oscilloscope that best fits their specific needs. Coupled with a sampling rate of up to 4 GSa/s, the 6000 Series offers exceptional timing resolution, ensuring that even the most fleeting signals are accurately represented.

The user interface of the 6000 Series is designed for maximum efficiency. The oscilloscopes are equipped with a large, high-resolution display, enabling users to view complex waveforms in detail. Furthermore, the touch screen interface provides a level of interactivity that simplifies navigation through various functions, making it accessible for both seasoned professionals and novices alike.

Additionally, the 6000 Series incorporates advanced triggering capabilities, allowing users to isolate specific events in their signals easily. The wide array of available triggering options includes edge, pulse width, and serial triggering formats, which are vital for analyzing complex digital communications.

Another noteworthy characteristic of the Agilent 6000 Series is its built-in measurement and analysis tools. The oscilloscopes come equipped with automated measurements, enabling users to quickly gather important data about their signals without manual calculations. This reduces the time spent on testing and increases overall productivity.

In terms of connectivity, the 6000 Series includes USB and LAN interfaces, providing easy data transfer and integration with other devices. The inclusion of advanced software options further enhances data analysis capabilities, enabling users to perform extensive post-acquisition analysis.

In summary, Agilent Technologies' 6000 Series oscilloscopes represent a blend of cutting-edge features, user-friendly design, and high-performance technologies, making them an invaluable tool for engineers and scientists engaged in electronic measurements and analysis. Their versatility and power make them well-suited to meet the demands of modern engineering challenges.