User manual

Introduction2

2 Introduction

2.1

Safety symbols

Warning Triangle

This symbol indicates that a safety hazard exists on the indicated

connections if correct precautions are not taken. Read all safety

documentation associated with the product before using it.

2.2

Safety warning

We strongly recommend that you read the general safety information below before

using your oscilloscope for the first time. Safety protection built in to equipment may

cease to function if the equipment is used incorrectly. This could cause damage to

your computer, or lead to injury to yourself and others.

Maximum input range

The PicoScope 3000 A and B Series PC Oscilloscopes and MSOs are designed to

measure voltages in the range -20 V to +20 V. Attempting to measure voltages

outside this range (other than using a differential or isolating probe specifically

designed for this purpose) may expose the user to a risk of electric shock.

The analog inputs of the PicoScope 3000 A and B Series PC Oscilloscopes and MSOs

are protected to ±100 V. The digital inputs of the MSOs are protected to ±50 V.

Contact with voltages outside the protection range may cause permanent damage to

the unit.

Mains (line) voltages

PicoScope 3000 Series oscilloscopes are not designed for use with mains (line)

voltages. To measure mains (or line) voltage, use a differential isolating probe

specifically designed for that purpose.

Safety grounding

PicoScope 3000 A and B Series PC Oscilloscopes connect directly to the ground of a

computer through the USB cable provided to minimize interference.

Avoid connecting the ground input to any potential other than ground. The outer

shells of the BNC connectors, and the ground pins of the MSOs' digital inputs, are all

at the same potential (shorted together). If in doubt, use a meter to check that there

is no significant AC or DC voltage between the ground input of the oscilloscope and

the point to which you intend to connect it, as this may cause a large current to flow.

Failure to check may cause damage to your computer and connected equipment, or

lead to injury to yourself and others.

Do not rely on the product to provide a protective safety earth.

Repairs

The oscilloscope contains no user-serviceable parts. Repair or calibration of the

oscilloscope requires specialized test equipment and must be performed by

Pico Technology.