Tektronix introduces second generation IsoVu isolated oscilloscope probes

12/15/2020

Tektronix, Inc. announced its second-generation IsoVu^TM Isolated Oscilloscope Probes, the TIVP Series, which significantly advance the capabilities of the ground-breaking probes first introduced in 2016. The second-generation IsoVu^TM 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.

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.

Like the first generation, the new 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.

Building on the success of the original IsoVu series, the IsoVu Gen 2 probes offer an impressive set of upgrades and enhancements across the board, including:

• Smaller size – At about one-fifth the size of the first generation, the TIVP Series probes make it easier to access hard to reach measurement points that were previously inaccessible. Additionally, the separate controller box has been condensed and is now self-contained inside the probe’s compensation box.
• Improved sensitivity – The new probes are more sensitive, with less noise at +/- 50V measurements for greater visibility and voltage sensitivity in wide bandgap measurements.
• Greater accuracy – The new probe offers enhanced accuracy in a number of areas including improved DC accuracy, enhanced gain accuracy over the full input range and improved temperature drift correction. These enhancements enable deeper characterization of wide bandgap designs for increased energy efficiency.
• Less tip swapping – With wider dynamic range at the sensor head, fewer tips are required to cover the same voltage range as IsoVu Gen 1. This shortens the time needed to perform device testing, eliminates potential errors when swapping tips, and lowers the cost for customers that needed to purchase multiple tips on IsoVu Gen 1.

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