oscilloscope is one of the key instruments, like any electronic laboratory for industrial use, as well as the usual workshop.With such a device it is possible to determine the failure of electronic circuits and debug their work in designing new devices.However, the price of such devices is very high, and not every radio amateur can afford to buy such a little thing.This article deals with the question of how to make the oscilloscope from your computer.There are many methods of manufacturing such a device, but the foundation is everywhere: as a fee that will take the pulses is a PC sound card, and it joins a special adapter.It serves to harmonize the levels of the measured signal and the input audio card computer.
oscilloscope on the computer: software
One of the main elements of said device is a program that is on the monitor produces the visualization of measured pulses.There is a huge variety of such software, but not all utilities are stable.Especially popular among amateur radio uses software oscilloscope Osci, from the kit AudioTester.It has an interface that looks like a standard analog device, the screen is a grid that will allow to measure the duration and amplitude of the signal.It is convenient to use, and has some extra features not found in programs of this type.But every radio amateur will be able to choose to run the software, which he likes.
Specifications
So, in order to make the oscilloscope from your computer, you need to collect a special attenuator (voltage divider), which will be able to cover as wide a range of the measured voltage.The second function of the adapter - is the protection of the input port of the sound card from damage that can cause a high level of stress.Most sound cards input voltage is limited to 1-2 volts.The oscilloscope from your computer has a frequency range limited capabilities of the sound card.For budget cards he is from 0.1Hz to 20kHz (sine wave).The lower limit of the voltage, which may be measured, limited to the level and background noise of 1 mV, and the top - to limit the parameters of the adapter and can be several hundred volts.
device voltage divider
oscilloscope from your computer has a very simple circuitry.It comprises only two zener diode and three resistors.Value of the resistors depends on the scale of the virtual oscilloscope.This divider for three different scales, with ratios of 1: 1, 1:20 and 1: 100.Accordingly, the device will have three inputs, each of which is connected a resistor.Rated resistor direct input of 1M.Common wire is connected through reverse connection of the two diodes.They are designed to protect the sound card line input overvoltage, when the switch is in the "direct input".In parallel resistors can be connected to the capacitors, they will align the amplitude-frequency component of the device.
Conclusion This computer is no different oscilloscope elegance, but a simple circuit design will allow a wide range of measured voltage.Said device will help in the repair of audio, or can be used as a study measuring device.
