American International University- Bangladesh (AIUB)

Faculty of Engineering (EEE)

Introduction to Electrical
Course Name : Course Code :
Circuit Lab
Semester : Sec : U
Lab Instructor : Md Sajid Hossain

Experiment No : 07
Experiment Name : To be familiar with the operations of an oscilloscope
03396
Submitted by
Linkon Sen Student ID: 23-54623-3
(NAME):

Group Members ID Name

1. Syed Ashfakul Islam 23-54552-3
2. Md. Asibul Hasan Asib 23-54584-3
3. Rifa Tamanna 23-54624-3
4. Md. Nazmul Islam 23-54433-3
5. Md. Ashiqur Rahman 23-54596-3

Performance Date : 22. 12. 2024 Due Date : 29. 12. 2024

Marking Rubrics (to be filled by Lab Instructor)

Proficient Good Acceptable Secured
Category Unacceptable [1]
[6] [4] [2] Marks
All information, All Information Most information
Theoretical Much information
measures and variables provided that is correct, but some
Background, Methods missing and/or
are provided and sufficient, but more information may be
& procedures sections inaccurate.
explained. explanation is needed. missing or inaccurate.
Experimental results
All of the criteria are Most criteria are met,
don’t match exactly Experimental results
met; results are but there may be some
Results with the theoretical are missing or
described clearly and lack of clarity and/or
values and/or analysis incorrect;
accurately; incorrect information.
is unclear.
Demonstrates thorough Hypotheses are clearly
Conclusions don’t
and sophisticated stated, but some Some hypotheses
match hypotheses, not
understanding. concluding statements missing or misstated;
Discussion supported by data; no
Conclusions drawn are not supported by data conclusions not
integration of data from
appropriate for or data not well supported by data.
different sources.
analyses; integrated.
Title page, placement
of figures and figure
Minor errors in Major errors and/or
General formatting captions, and other Not proper style in text.
formatting. missing information.
formatting issues all
correct.
Writing is strong and
Writing is clear and
easy to understand;
easy to understand; Most of the required
ideas are fully
ideas are connected; criteria are met, but
elaborated and
Writing & effective transitions some lack of clarity, Very unclear, many
connected; effective
organization between sentences; typographic, spelling, errors.
transitions between
minor typographic, or grammatical errors
sentences; no
spelling, or are present.
typographic, spelling,
grammatical errors.
or grammatical errors.

Total Marks
Comments:
(Out of 30):
 Familiar with the operations of an oscilloscope

Abstract: This experiment involves the familiar with the operation of an oscilloscope and corresponding AC
quantities from the waveform obtained from the oscilloscope. The experiment explores the basic concepts of
using the oscilloscope with the help of the waveform.

Introduction:
The main objective of this experiment is to
a) To familiar with the operation of an oscilloscope.
b) To set up the instrument of an oscilloscope.
c) To connect the channel with the function generator.
d) To measure peak value, peak-to-peak value, average value, rms value, time period, frequency and
phase difference using oscilloscope.

Theory and Methodology:

i) Function Generator: Typically, a function generator is a piece of electronic test apparatus that
produces various electrical waveforms throughout an extensive frequency range. Several
frequently occurring waveforms generated by the function generator include sine, square, triangle,
and sawtooth configurations. These waveforms can be single-shot or repeating, depending on
whether an external or internal trigger source is needed. Function generator integrated circuits (ICs)
are another name for integrated circuits used to create waveforms. Function generators may handle
radio frequencies as well as audio.

Figure – 1: Typical Function Generator and Different Wave shapes

ii) Oscilloscope: An oscilloscope serves as a tool to observe and measure electrical signals and
*waveforms. Traditional analog models use a cathode ray tube (CRT) to depict graphs, typically
illustrating voltage over time. These models
incorporate at least one amplifier that directs
voltage signals to the CRT, alongside a time
base system to create the time dimension on the
display. Modern versions, however, often
employ a liquid crystal display (LCD) for
showing the same data. The display is adjustable
through three main controls: focus, intensity,
and a beam finder. Additionally, the device

Experiment 1: Page - 2
 features a vertical section for
adjusting the voltage
Figure-2: An Oscilloscope
scale and a horizontal section for
time scale adjustments. This
instrument is capable of rendering
live graphs of voltage against time,
enabling the examination and
comparison of different electrical
waveforms within circuits. It's
common f(Morris, 1996)or such
devices to display two waveforms at
the same time, with dual channels
available for inputting voltage
waveforms. The oscilloscope presents the waveform's voltage amplitude on the Y-axis and the
passage of time on the X-axis. Figure-3: Functional Diagram of Oscilloscope

iii) Oscilloscope Probe: An oscilloscope probe is a specialized connector cable crafted with
precision to minimize the interception of extraneous signals such as radio frequency (RF) or
power line interference. These probes prove invaluable when dealing with delicate low voltage
signals or high frequency signals that are prone to noise contamination.

Figure – 4: Oscilloscope Probe

iv) Basic Operations of an Oscilloscope:

The Trace: Among the fundamental functions of an oscilloscope is the trace operation. It
involves the oscilloscope drawing a horizontal line, known as the trace, across the screen. The
speed at which this trace, also referred to as a sweep, is drawn is determined by the time base
control. As the voltage fluctuates, either positively or negatively, the trace on the screen exhibits
corresponding positive or negative deviations.

Vertical and Horizontal Sensitivity Controls: These features enable users to manually adjust
the sensitivity in both vertical and horizontal directions. Such controls make oscilloscopes
versatile, allowing them to handle input signals of various amplitudes.

Focus Control: This feature lets users fine-tune the clarity of the trace on the screen. In newer
models with flat panel displays, this adjustment is automated.

Beam Finder: This function is designed to prevent the trace from veering off the visible screen
area or from being obstructed. While the beam finder helps keep the trace within view, it might
temporarily alter the trace's appearance.

Time Base Control: This essential feature allows users to dictate the speed at which the
oscilloscope traces its display. By manually adjusting the time base control, users can select the

Experiment 1: Page - 3
 sweep speed, typically measured in seconds per unit on the square grids (graticule) visible on the
oscilloscope display.

Intensity Control: Responsible for regulating the brightness of the trace, the intensity control
governs how vividly the trace appears on the screen. In CRT models, higher intensity settings are
preferable for fast traces, while lower intensity is suitable for slower ones. However, speed
considerations are irrelevant for LCD models.

Types of Sweeps: Oscilloscopes feature four main sweep types: triggered, recurrent, single, and
delayed. Triggered sweeps automatically reset the display each time the trace completes its journey
to the right edge of the screen, making them ideal for analyzing periodic signals such as sine waves.
Recurrent and single sweeps, often found in earlier oscilloscope models, offer limited utility for
qualitative signal observation. Delayed sweeps, on the other hand, provide an in-depth view of
voltage variations, enabling precise examination of specific signal segments.

AC Fundamentals:

Wave shape: The shape of the curve is obtained by plotting the instantaneous values of voltage
or current as the ordinate against time as an abscissa (X-axis value) is called waveform or wave
shape [1].

Cycle: One complete set of positive and negative values of an alternating quantity is called a
cycle. One complete cycle is 2π or 360 degree[1].

Time Period: The time required to complete one cycle of the alternating quantity is called a
period, expressed by the symbol T [1].

Frequency: The no. of cycle per second is called the frequency of the alternating quantity. Unit
is Hertz (Hz). Frequency, f = (1/T) Hz [1].

Peak Value: The maximum instantaneous value of a function or waveform is called the peak
amplitude [2].

Peak to Peak Value: It is the sum of the magnitude of the positive peak and negative peak of a
given wave form [2]. For a voltage waveform it is denoted by VP-P = |Vm| + |-Vm| = 2Vm.

Figure – 5: Characterization of sinusoidal time varying signal

Average Value: The steady current that transfers across any circuit the same charge as is
transferred by that alternating current during the same time expresses the average value of a
sinusoid [3]. Vavg = 0.636Vm, where Vm is the maximum value of the sinusoid.

RMS Value: The Root Mean Square (RMS) value is the DC equivalent value of an alternating
quantity which is given by that steady current which when flowing through a given circuit for a
given time produces the same heat as produced by the alternating current when flowing through
Experiment 1: Page - 4
the same circuit for the same time [3]. Vrms = 0.707Vm, where Vm is the maximum value of the
sinusoid.
The digital multimeter (DMM) is used to measure DC currents and voltages. The DMM in the
AC Mode can also be used to measure the RMS value of an AC waveform.

Phase Difference: Phase difference is the difference of phases corresponding to similar point of
two alternating wave (if frequency of both waves must be same).

Leading & Lagging Waves: In figure 7, there are two waves, Wave I1 and Wave I2. Wave I1
leads Wave I2 by angle α or Wave I2 lags Wave I1 by angle α.

Figure-6: The phase difference between two waves

Experiment 1: Page - 5
Measurements from Oscilloscope:

Figure – 7: Simulation Value using Multisim

Figure Name: Lab Work

Experiment 1: Page - 6
In figure-8, Vertical: 5volt/Div and Horizonal: 0.5 ms/Div. Peak to Peak value, Vp-p = 17 Volt. Peak value,
Vp = 8.45 Volt. Average value, Vavg = 0.636 × 8.45 V = 17 Volt. RMS value, 0.707 × 8.45 = 11.95 V. Time
Period, T = 1ms. Frequency, f = 1/T = (1/1ms) = 1kHz

Apparatus:

1. Function General
2. Oscilloscope
3. Probes and Connecting Wires

Precautions:
a) All equipment was ensured to be properly grounded to prevent electrical hazards.
b) All connections between the function generator, oscilloscope, and probes were double-checked for
secure attachment and correct configuration.
c) The oscilloscope and function generator were verified to be correctly calibrated before starting
measurements.
d) The oscilloscope probe was used correctly, ensuring it was rated for the voltages being measured.
e) The oscilloscope and probes were handled with care to avoid damage and prevent exposure to
excessive heat, moisture, or physical shocks.

Experimental Procedure:
1. The function generator output was connected to the CH1 input of the oscilloscope. The probe was
also connected to the CH1 input. Grounding was ensured for all devices.
2. The function generator and oscilloscope power supplies were activated.
3. It was set to produce a sine wave. The frequency was adjusted to 1kHz, followed by 2.5kHz, and
finally 5kHz. The peak-to-peak amplitude was set to 10V.
4. The wave shape observed on the oscilloscope was sketched.
5. The time period of the wave was determined, and from this, the frequency was calculated.
6. The frequency was changed to 2.5kHz, and the alterations in the wave's display on the oscilloscope
were noted. Subsequently, the frequency was increased to 10kHz, with observations and sketches of
the wave shapes being made for both cases.
7. The peak value, peak-to-peak value, average value, and rms value for all the observed frequencies
were measured.
Data Table:

Table – 1:
Frequency Time Period VP-P VP Vavg Vrms
(KHz) (ms) (Volts) (Volts) (Volts) (Volts)
1 1 17 8.45 5.37 11.95
2.5 0.4 17 8.45 5.37 11.95
5 0.2 17 8.45 5.37 11.95

Table – 2 (Simulation):

Frequency Time Period VP-P VP Vavg Vrms

(KHz) (ms) (Volts) (Volts) (Volts) (Volts)
1 1 17 8.45 5.37 11.95
2.5 0.4 17 8.45 5.37 11.95
5 0.2 17 8.45 5.37 11.95

Experiment 1: Page - 7
Calculation:
Here,
Vp = 8.45 volts

Now,
Vavg = 0.636 × 𝑉p
= 0.636 × 8.45
= 5.37 volt
And,
𝑉𝑝
Vrms = √2
8.45
= √2
= 11.95 volt

The calculated average voltage (5.37 volts) represents the effective value of the waveform's voltage over
time, while the root mean square voltage (11.95 volts) signifies the equivalent DC voltage that would
produce the same heating effect. These calculations align with theoretical expectations and provide essential
insights into the AC signal's characteristics and behavior.

Discussion:

In this experiment, the function generator and oscilloscope were crucial in analyzing the behavior of AC
signals across different frequencies. By setting specific frequencies and amplitudes on the function generator
and observing the resulting waveforms on the oscilloscope, precise measurements of various waveform
characteristics could be obtained. These tools are indispensable in electronic testing and troubleshooting,
enabling engineers to study signal integrity, frequency response, and behavior under simulated conditions.
Practical applications include designing and testing electronic components and circuits, educational purposes
in laboratories, and maintenance in telecommunications and engineering fields.

Conclusion:
The experiment successfully demonstrated how to use a function generator and oscilloscope to measure and
analyze AC signal characteristics across different frequencies. By meticulously setting the equipment to
generate specific waveforms and adjusting the oscilloscope to capture these signals, we effectively observed
changes in waveform shape and calculated values like peak-to-peak, RMS, and average voltages. The
objectives of familiarizing with the operational aspects of these instruments and measuring corresponding
AC quantities were clearly met. This practical application not only reinforced theoretical concepts but also
highlighted the essential role of such equipment in electronic diagnostics and design.

References:

[1] N. M. Morris, "Alternating current circuits," , 1996. [Online]. Available:

https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-1-349-13705-3_9. [Accessed 16 4 2024].
[2] B. M. Grafov and E. A. Ukshe, "Electrochemical Processes in an Alternating Current," Russian
Chemical Reviews, vol. 44, no. 11, pp. 933-937, 1975.
[3] R. . Boylestad, Introductory Circuit Analysis, ed., vol. , , : , , p. 857.
[4] M. G. Say, "The Performance And Design Of Alternating Current Machines Ed.3rd," Birchandra State
Central Library,tripura, vol. , no. , p. , 1958.
[5] Oscilloscope. [Art]. Google Image, 2022.
Experiment 1: Page - 8
[6] Indiamart, Artist, Typical Function Generator and Different Wave shapes. [Art]. Google Image, 2023.
[7] Ppt-online, Artist, Functional Diagram of Oscilloscope. [Art]. Google Image, 2024.
[8] Characterization of sinusoidal time varying signal. [Art]. Google Image, 2024.

Experiment 1: Page - 9