Stuff you need for your PC Oscilloscope
I have tried to list everything that you might need to build your PC scope probe. I made mine out of parts that I found in my junk box so some of the components that are listed may not look the same as in the photos. This should not be a problem as there are many ways to build any circuit.
Find out how to build an even better PC based scope in my book: Sound Card Oscilloscope - Build Better Electronic Projects
If you want to buy an inexpensive yet usable PC based oscilloscope that will do more than the one in this project then try the Hantek 6022BE USB scope. It isn't perfect but it is incredible value for money and great for the hobbyist or anyone that has need for a small portable scope.
The problem with buying electronic components on line is that it can be difficult to get one or two items at an economical price due to the shipping costs so I have concentrated on looking for sets of components that provide good value instead.
You will likely end up with a few components that you do not need for this project alone but you will start to build up a stock of bits and pieces that you will find useful for your next projects. If you were wondering why it is that I have a junk box full of components then this is the reason why.
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Perforated PC Board
The board I used for this project had no copper on either side of the board. You can use board with copper pads around each individual hole and it will work just as well.
Cut the board to size using a small saw.
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500k (470k) Linear Potentiometers
VR1, VR2
These variable pots can be mounted on your perforated board to provide convenient adjustment knobs. I found a couple of large 470k Ohm trimpots in my junk box so I used them to build my scope probe instead of ordering some of the ones in the picture. My board will look a little different to yours for that reason.
Cut the board to size using a small saw.
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3.3k Ohm Resistors
R1, R2
You can either purchase a number of 3.3k Ohm resistors or you can stock up with a range of resistors by buying a
kit of resistors.
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Silicon Diodes
D1, D2, D3, D4
You can use almost any silicon diode. I used a 1N4148 signal diode that I happened to have to hand.
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Probe Cable to PC
It wasn't until I had made up a cable by hand that I realised that I could have used one of these leads that I had in my box. You can simply cut the plug off one end and solder it into your probe circuit. No need to wire up a jack for the other end Duh!
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Hookup wire
I have a reel of bare 21 AWG (22(SWG) solid copper wire which I tend to use for short hook ups. Insulated solid hook up wire will do the same job for you and allow you to use greater lengths without fear of touching the wire to other links or components and causing a short circuit. Just cut to length and strip the insulation from the ends.
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Probe clips
These clips can be very delicate but if you are careful then they do the job of clipping onto tiny wires carrying signals you want to measure very well.
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Comments (50)
But cant find the link ( lin adress ? ) tocharge on the computer ( for simulating the 2 channels of a osciloscope ).?
Could you answersto my mail adress ?
Thank
Your
Bes t regards
Patrick Montpellier France
1. To which port of my do I connect the output probe to? headphones or microphone or line-in?
2. For my experiments, I may have to operate around a voltage of 15 to 22 volts. Will this pose a threat to my sound card?
I want to make this oscilloscope to test sensors and wiring on my car, but the cars voltage is between 12v and 14.4v.
Will this work for me?
Or, are there any changes that I can make to the design so that it will cater to my needs?Thank you.
Can I use the above PC Sound Card based oscilloscope to display the ECHO & TRIG waves of an Ultrasonic Sensor Module(HC SR-04) ?
I see under your other project(s) on this website you are using HC SR-04; So I assume that you are better aware of the details for the same.Regards,
Saurabh
it seems to work right. I have been meaning to ask what the difference is between the poly box ones you use and the ones I used.
still much to learn, but having a great time with your book so far. now on to building the cali/generator. thanks Steve
Steve
Steve
Thank you
i have a doubt thoughHow and why are we selecting a 3.3 k ohm and a 470k pot?
another point that i was wondering about is how does the two zener diodes work.P.S. im a noob in electronics :P
What is a 3K3 resistor, do you mean a
3K Ohm resistor. excellent article
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