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Acquisition System
40
Peak Detect Acquisition
The peak detect function of an oscilloscope is a feature that allows for the accurate measurement and
capture of high-frequency and transient signals. It is particularly useful when observing signals that have
rapid voltage changes, such as spikes or glitches.
When the peak detect function is enabled, the oscilloscope samples the input signal at a very high rate,
typically much higher than the instrument's usual sampling rate. This increased sampling rate allows
the oscilloscope to capture and store the highest instantaneous voltage value of the signal during each
sampling period.
By capturing and displaying only the peak voltage values, the peak detect function provides a more
detailed and precise representation of the signal's behavior, allowing users to analyze and troubleshoot
complex waveforms effectively. It helps in detecting voltage anomalies that might otherwise be missed
by the oscilloscope's normal acquisition modes, which usually use lower sampling rates and can miss
brief voltage spikes.
The peak detect function enhances the oscilloscope's ability to capture and display fast and transient
signals accurately, providing valuable insights into signal behavior and aiding in various applications
such as electronics design, testing, and troubleshooting.
The oscilloscope acquires the maximum and minimum values of the signal within the sample interval to
get the signal's envelope or the narrow pulse of the signal that might be lost. Peak Detect can prevent
aliasing, however, the signal is more susceptible to noise.
Figure 4.2 Peak Detect Acquisition
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