Second-Generation Isolated Oscilloscope Probes
The TIVP Series, which significantly advance the capabilities of the ground-breaking probes first introduced in 2016.
Tektronix announced its second-generation IsoVu™ Isolated Oscilloscope Probes, the TIVP Series, which significantly advance the capabilities of the ground-breaking probes first introduced in 2016. The second-generation IsoVu probes extend the applications for isolated probe technology to the entire power system design market with a smaller size, improved ease of use, and enhanced electrical performance.
Image courtesy of Tektronix
Making accurate measurements on high-speed ungrounded systems can be nearly impossible using traditional differential probes. Engineers working with wide-bandgap technologies such as SiC and GaN face difficult challenges to accurately measure and characterize devices due to the higher frequencies and switching speeds involved. By galvanically isolating the probe from the oscilloscope, IsoVu probes have completely changed how power researchers and designers make wide bandgap power measurements. “When first introduced, the IsoVu probes represented a true breakthrough for our customers because they could gain actual insight into the performance of the high side of their half-bridge designs, eliminating a significant blind spot,” said Suchi Srinivasan, general manager of Tektronix mainstream solutions. “With this second generation of IsoVU, we are making this cutting edge isolated measurement technology accessible to a broader range of customers for such tasks as product level R&D, validation and EMI troubleshooting.”
IsoVu Gen 2 Features and Options
Like the first generation, the IsoVu Gen 2 probes use patented electro-optical technologies to capture signals and power the probes without the need for an electrical connection to the oscilloscope. Compared to traditional high voltage differential probes, IsoVu probes offer a unique combination of high bandwidth, dynamic range and best-in-class common-mode rejection ratio (CMRR) over the probe’s full bandwidth. Non-isolated probes’ CMRR ratings derate quickly as frequency increases, making higher frequency measurements impossible. The use of optical cables also allows for long cable lengths and makes the probes largely immune to EMI. “IsoVu technology has been critical in our support of customers adopting our Power Conversion technology in their designs.” says Cam Pham, Global Automotive Field Application Engineer Leader, Wolfspeed, a Cree Company. “With its galvanic isolation capability, IsoVu technology enables us and customers to accurately characterize high side events with confidence”
