Floating Measurement with Isolated Channel Oscilloscope
Application Notes
Making accurate and safe measurements on power electronics, power semiconductors, and other electronics applications can be challenging when the signal reference is floating rather than referenced to earth ground potential. Under these conditions, not all oscilloscopes are suitable viewing waveforms. Obtaining floating measurements without the proper instrument and probe can pose safety hazards to the tester. Using the wrong measurement equipment can result in incorrect measurement results, as well as damage the circuit and scope. This application note explains what floating measurements are, the danger floating measurements present, and why it’s advisable to use an isolated-channel handheld scope for power electronic applications.