Glossary
Glossary–2 TDS 684A, TDS 744A, & TDS 784A User Manual
Attenuation
The degree the amplitude of a signal is reduced when it passes through an
attenuating device such as a probe or attenuator. That is, the ratio of the input
measure to the output measure. For example, a 10X probe will attenuate, or
reduce, the input voltage of a signal by a factor of 10.
Automatic trigger mode
A trigger mode that causes the oscilloscope to automatically acquire if
triggerable events are not detected within a specified time period.
Autoset
A function of the oscilloscope that automatically produces a stable waveform of
usable size. Autoset sets up front-panel controls based on the characteristics of
the active waveform. A successful autoset will set the volts/div, time/div, and
trigger level to produce a coherent and stable waveform display.
Average acquisition mode
In this mode, the oscilloscope acquires and displays a waveform that is the
averaged result of several acquisitions. Averaging reduces the apparent noise.
The oscilloscope acquires data as in the sample mode and then averages it
according to a specified number of averages.
Bandwidth
The highest frequency signal the oscilloscope can acquire with no more than
3 dB (× .707) attenuation of the original (reference) signal.
Burst width
A timing measurement of the duration of a burst.
Channel
One type of input used for signal acquisition. The oscilloscope has four
channels.
Channel Reference Indicator
The indicator on the left side of the display that points to the position around
which the waveform contracts or expands when vertical scale is changed. This
position is ground when offset is set to 0V; otherwise, it is ground plus offset.
Coupling
The association of two or more circuits or systems in such a way that power
or information can be transferred from one to the other. You can couple the
input signal to the trigger and vertical systems several different ways.
Cursors
Paired markers that you can use to make measurements between two waveform
locations. The oscilloscope displays the values (expressed in volts or time) of
the position of the active cursor and the distance between the two cursors.