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How to Use a Dual Trace Oscilloscope

An oscilloscope is a technician's test instrument that displays electronic signals on a screen. In 2011, most oscilloscopes sold can simultaneously display two to four signals. A dual trace oscilloscope can handle one or two signals at the same time. It has two independent input channels, one per trace, each having its own connectors and controls. Though multiple traces and inputs add some complexity to the oscilloscope, most of its operation follows the same rules as a single trace model.

Things You'll Need

Dual trace oscilloscope
Two signal oscillators
Two BNC cables

Instructions

- 1
  Connect one signal oscillator to the oscilloscope's channel one input with a BNC cable. In the same manner, connect the second oscillator to the oscilloscope's channel two input.
- 2
  Turn on both signal oscillators and the oscilloscope. Adjust the outputs of the oscillators to about two volts. Set the frequency of one oscillator to about 1,000 Hz, and the other to 2,000 Hz. The frequencies need not be exact.
- 3
  Set the oscilloscope's sweep control to 1 millisecond per division. Set the triggering control to channel one. Adjust the vertical gain controls for channels one and two to one volt per division. The oscilloscope has a selector switch to display channel one, channel two or both channels. Set it to display both.
- 4
  Adjust the position of the two signals with the vertical position controls. Move the channel one trace above the one from channel two if it is not already in this position. Note that the top signal trace is locked and stable, though the bottom one might not be.
- 5
  Set the trigger control to channel two, and observe that the bottom trace stabilizes and the top begins to drift. Change the output waveforms and frequencies of the oscillators. Note that as you change each one, its trace on the oscilloscope changes without affecting the other trace.

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