High-Frequency Voltage Probes Overview
Active voltage probes contain an
active component, usually a field-
effect transistor (FET), and there-
fore need to be powered. A FET
input has the advantage of pro-
viding a very low input capaci-
tance, typically from less than
1 pF to a few pF. This low capaci-
tance results in a high input
impedance on frequencies up to
7 GHz. With such low loading,
active probes can be used on
high-impedance circuits that
would be seriously loaded by
passive probes.
New InfiniiMax probe family.
The innovative InfiniiMax probe
system provides either differential-
or single-ended probing solutions
for the most demanding connec-
tion requirements, without sacri-
ficing performance.
Figure 3.1. Agilent 1130A/31A/32A/34A
InfiniiMax high-performance active probe.
Figure 3.2. Agilent 1156A/57A/58A
active probes for signals up to 4 GHz.
Model Probe Type Applications and Use Page
1130A/31A/32A/34A Active Diff/SE Measure both differential and single-ended signals up to 7 GHz 10
1155A Active Single-Ended Measure fast transitions on low-voltage signals, 2 channels 16
1156A/57A/58A Active Single-Ended Measure fast transitions on low-voltage signals up to 4 GHz 18
1163A Resistive divider Measure fast transitions on a wide range of signal voltages 4
54006A Resistive divider Low-cost alternative for high-frequency probing 21
High-Frequency Probe Advantages Limitations
Timing and voltage measurements more accurate at Active probes are more expensive than general purpose passive probes
high bandwidths
Resistive divider probes cost less than active probes Relatively heavy resistive loading with resistive divider probes
Active probes are least intrusive to circuit under test, Active probes have lower dynamic range, lower maximum voltage and
high input resistance are less rugged compared to passive probes
Resistive divider probes are
passive probes. They feature low
capacitive loading and accurate
timing measurements with high-
bandwidth signals at a much
lower cost than active probes.
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