I’ve got an old oscilloscope and a function generator that I’m trying to use to play around and get more familiar with this kinda stuff. I’m mostly new to electronics (especially analog ones) and I’m having a hard time getting them setup properly.
Both devices turn on and the controls seemingly work, but I never get anything more than a flat line or random noise on the scope.
Any help would be appreciated!
The scope is a Sencore PS148A and the generator is a Heathkit SG-1271.
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If you are completely new I suggest watching a tutorial. Otherwise some basic tips could be
- if oscilloscope has multiple channels, make sure the channel you connected is the channel nel you see on the screen
- make sure you did the ground connection. You need to connect both signal and ground tips if the probe
- make sure voltage range is fine. If you use a large range in the screen, little amplitude you got may seem like a flat line.
- calibrate your probe, if oscilloscope has that option. But an uncalibrated probe doesn’t explain flat line, it would explain distorted square wave, for example.
- Use another probe. They can get broken. If it is broken all you will see will be the noise the cable pics up like an antenna.
- separate the issue. Connect probe ends to a battery with k own voltage and see what you receive. If it doesn’t work, you know either probe or oscilloscope is wrong.
List can get longer really, but I think a tutorial and these can go a long way for the beginning.
We have a council-supported “man cave” - with a couple of funded workshop technicians and lots of unpaid volunteer specialist engineers, mechanics, DIY’ers etc. Plus a very well equipped multi-discipline workshop. So you could take those bits of kit there and someone would give you a hand setting them up, teaching you how to use them, repairing them/maintaining them as needed. Even getting them calibration certificates (thanks to one of the volunteers who has access to calibration equipment). If you don’t have one locally - wouldn’t the technician at a local school/college/university help? Is there a local community online group that you could join and ask for help?