How to Measure Frequency Response (Bode Plot)

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MXR-Series Oscilloscope
+ MXR-Series Oscilloscope
MXR-Series Oscilloscope
+ MXR-Series Oscilloscope

Performing frequency response analysis with an oscilloscope

Performing Bode plot analysis, or frequency response analysis (FRA), requires generating waveforms at different frequencies and capturing the input and output waveforms during the sweep. The analysis enables design engineers to characterize their circuits and measure the impact of non-linearities caused by overdriving an active circuit.

Design engineers use an oscilloscope with a built-in waveform generator and frequency response analysis (Bode plot analysis) software to stimulate the circuit under test at various frequency settings and then capture the input and output signals using the digital storage capabilities on the oscilloscope. The characterization helps validate circuit designs meet bandwidth performance specifications and system stability.

Frequency response (Bode plot) measurement solution

Bode plot analysis requires plotting the gain and phase of the input and output waveforms across the range of tested frequencies. It includes measurements of the feedback network's phase margin and gain margin. The Keysight frequency response analysis (Bode plot) measurement solution consists of a Keysight oscilloscopes with embedded frequency response analysis software.  Advanced measurements including phase margin, gain margin, and gain inversion plotting can be added with the optional Power Software Package.  The oscilloscope frequency response analysis solution enables engineers to characterize passive and active circuits without requiring a dedicated network analyzer or FRA test instrument. 

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