High-Bandwidth Fidelity of Voltage Probes

Application Notes

The Truth About the Fidelity of High-Bandwidth Voltage Probes

 

Who Should Read This Application Note?

This application note is intended for users of high-bandwidth voltage probes. It presents an analysis of high-bandwidth voltage probes that is detailed enough to accurately describe their behavior, yet is simple enough to maintain a clear understanding of what is going on and why. The analysis reveals a fundamental tradeoff between fidelity and ease of use that exists with all high-bandwidth probes. A new topology that alleviates this fundamental tradeoff will be presented, along with measurements that compare the new topology to older ones.