PICO PicoScope 5000 A User manual

User's Guide
ps5000ab.en r5
Flexible Resolution Oscilloscopes
PicoScope® 5000 A and B

Contents
I
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved.ps5000ab.en r5
Contents
1 Welcome ............................................................................................................................. 1
2 Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 2
1 Safety information .................................................................................................................................. 2
1 Symbols ...................................................................................................................................... 2
2 Product usage ............................................................................................................................ 3
3 Maximum input ranges .............................................................................................................. 3
4 Grounding ................................................................................................................................... 4
5 External connections ................................................................................................................. 4
6 Environment ............................................................................................................................... 5
7 Care of the instrument ............................................................................................................... 5
2 Conformance .......................................................................................................................................... 6
1 FCC notice .................................................................................................................................. 6
2 CE notice ..................................................................................................................................... 6
3 Software license conditions .................................................................................................................. 6
4 Trademarks ............................................................................................................................................ 7
5 Warranty .................................................................................................................................................. 7
6 Minimum system requirements ............................................................................................................ 7
3 Pack contents ..................................................................................................................... 8
4 Installation .......................................................................................................................... 9
5 Product information ......................................................................................................... 10
1 Model comparison tables .................................................................................................................... 10
2 Connector diagrams ............................................................................................................................ 11
3 Connector information ......................................................................................................................... 12
4 Probe compensation ............................................................................................................................ 13
6 Glossary ............................................................................................................................ 14
Index ..................................................................................................................................... 16

PicoScope 5000 A and B Series Flexible Resolution Oscilloscopes User's Guide 1
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved. ps5000ab.en r5
1 Welcome
Thank you for buying a PicoScope 5000 Series Flexible Resolution Oscilloscope from PicoTechnology!
The PicoScope 5000 A and B Series of Flexible Resolution
Oscilloscopes from PicoTechnology are a range of high-
specification real-time measuring instruments that connect to the
USB port of your computer and use the PicoScope software to work
as oscilloscopes and spectrum analyzers. With various options of
portability, resolution, deep memory, fast sampling rates and high
bandwidth, these highly versatile oscilloscopes suit a wide range of
applications.
B
5V
A
Ext G
PicoScope
www.picotech.com
PicoScope 5000 Series
BCD
5V
A
Ext G
PicoScope
www.picotech.com
PicoScope 5000 Series
The A models are high-speed portable oscilloscopes with a function generator:
PicoScope 5242A
PicoScope 5243A
PicoScope 5244A
PicoScope 5442A
PicoScope 5443A
PicoScope 5444A
The B models are as the A models, but feature an arbitrary waveform generator (AWG) and deeper memory:
PicoScope 5242B
PicoScope 5243B
PicoScope 5244B
PicoScope 5442B
PicoScope 5443B
PicoScope 5444B
Here are some of the benefits provided by the PicoScope 5000 A and B Series oscilloscopes:
· Programmability: The PicoScope 5000A SDK lets you write your own programs, in your chosen
programming language, to control all the features of the scope. Using the API functions, you can develop
your own programs to collect and analyze data from the oscilloscope. Refer to the PicoScope 5000 Series
(A API) Programmer's Guide for more information.
· Long-term support: Software upgrades and beta versions are available to download from our website.
You can also call or email our technical specialists for support, or visit our support forum. All of these
services are available free of charge for the lifetime of the product.
· Five-year warranty: Your oscilloscope is covered for five years from the date of purchase against
manufacturing faults.
For further information on the PicoScope 5000 A and B Series oscilloscopes, see the model comparison
tables in this manual and the specifications tables in the PicoScope 5000 Series data sheet, available on our
website.

Introduction2
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2 Introduction
2.1 Safety information
To prevent possible electrical shock, fire, personal injury, or damage to the product, carefully read this safety
information before attempting to install or use the product. In addition, follow all generally accepted safety
practices and procedures for working with and near electricity.
The product has been designed and tested in accordance with the European standard publication EN 61010-
1: 2010, and left the factory in a safe condition. The following safety descriptions are found throughout this
guide:
A WARNING identifies conditions or practices that could result in injury or death.
A CAUTION identifies conditions or practices that could result in damage to the product or equipment to
which it is connected.
Each of these safety instructions applies to all of the PicoScope 5000 Series oscilloscopes covered by this
User's Guide, unless otherwise specified.
2.1.1 Symbols
These safety and electrical symbols may appear on the product and throughout this guide.
Symbol
Description
Direct current
Alternating current
Earth (ground) terminal
The terminal can be used to make a
measurement ground connection. The terminal is
NOT a safety or protective earth.
Chassis ground terminal
The ground terminals of connectors marked with
this symbol are all connected together, and
connected to the host PC via the screen of the
USB cable.
Possibility of electric shock
Caution
Appearance on the product indicates a need to
read this Safety and operation instruction.
Static awareness. Static discharge can damage part(s).
IEC 61010 overvoltage category
Do not dispose of this product as unsorted municipal
waste

PicoScope 5000 A and B Series Flexible Resolution Oscilloscopes User's Guide 3
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved. ps5000ab.en r5
2.1.2 Product usage
WARNING
To prevent injury or death, use the product only as instructed and use only accessories
supplied or recommended. Protection provided by the product may be impaired if used in a
manner not specified by the manufacturer.
2.1.3 Maximum input ranges
Observe all terminal ratings and warnings marked on the product.
The table below indicates the full scale measurement range and overvoltage protection range for each
oscilloscope model. The full scale measurement ranges are the maximum voltages that can be accurately
measured by the instrument. The overvoltage protection ranges are the maximum voltages that will not
damage the instrument.
WARNING
To prevent electric shock, do not attempt to measure voltages outside the specified full scale
measurement range below.
Model
Full scale measurement
range
Overvoltage protection (voltages that will not damage)
Input channels / External
trigger
Signal generator
All PicoScope 5000 A and B
Series oscilloscopes
±20V
±100 V pk max.
±20 V pk max.
WARNING
Signals exceeding the voltage limits in the table below are defined as "hazardous live" by EN
61010. To prevent electric shock, take all necessary safety precautions when working on
equipment where hazardous live voltages may be present.
Signal voltage limits of EN 61010
±70V DC
33 V AC RMS
±46.7V pk max.
WARNING
The PicoScope 5000 Series oscilloscopes are not designed to measure hazardous live signals
as defined by EN 61010. To prevent electric shock, do not attempt to measure voltages outside
of the limits shown in the table above or the specified full scale measurement range, whichever
is lower.
WARNING
To prevent injury or death, the oscilloscope must not be directly connected to the mains (line
power). To measure mains voltages, use a differential isolating probe specifically rated for
mains use, such as the TA041 listed on the Pico website.
CAUTION
Exceeding the overvoltage protection range on any connector can cause permanent damage to
the oscilloscope and other connected equipment.

Introduction4
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved.ps5000ab.en r5
2.1.4 Grounding
WARNING
The oscilloscope's ground connection through the USB cable is for measurement purposes only.
The oscilloscope does not have a protective safety ground.
WARNING
Never connect the ground input (chassis) to any electrical power source. To prevent personal
injury or death, use a voltmeter to check that there is no significant AC or DC voltage between
the oscilloscope ground and the point to which you intend to connect it.
CAUTION
Applying a voltage to the ground input is likely to cause permanent damage to the oscilloscope,
the attached computer, and other equipment.
CAUTION
To prevent measurement errors caused by poor grounding, always use the high-quality USB
cable supplied with the oscilloscope.
2.1.5 External connections
WARNING
To prevent injury or death, when supplied use only the power cord and adaptor supplied with the
product. These are approved for the voltage and plug configuration in your country.
Power supply options and ratings
Model
USB 2.0 cable
External DC power supply
Single-headed
Double-headed
Voltage (V)
Current (A)
Power (W)
2-channel models
ü
N/A
N/A
N/A
4-channel models
ü
ü
5 V
1.5 A pk
7.5 W
For instructions on connecting your oscilloscope, see Installation.
CAUTION
Take care to avoid mechanical stress or tight bend radii for all connected leads, including all
coaxial leads and connectors. Mishandling will cause deformation of sidewalls, and will degrade
performance and measurement accuracy.

PicoScope 5000 A and B Series Flexible Resolution Oscilloscopes User's Guide 5
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved. ps5000ab.en r5
2.1.6 Environment
WARNING
To prevent injury or death, do not use in wet or damp conditions, or around explosive gas or
vapor.
CAUTION
To prevent damage, always use and store your oscilloscope in appropriate environments.
Storage
Operating
Temperature
–20°C to +60°C
0°C to +40°C
(+20°C to +30°C for quoted accuracy)
Humidity
5% to 95% RH
(non-condensing)
5% to 80% RH
(non-condensing)
Altitude
2000 m (maximum)
Pollution degree
2 (maximum)
2.1.7 Care of the instrument
The product contains no user-serviceable parts. Repair, servicing and calibration require specialized test
equipment and must only be performed by Pico Technology or an approved service provider. There may be a
charge for these services unless covered by the Pico five year warranty.
WARNING
To prevent injury or death, do not use the product if it appears to be damaged in any way, and
stop use immediately if you are concerned by any abnormal operations.
WARNING
To prevent electric shock, do not tamper with or disassemble the oscilloscope, case parts,
connectors or accessories.
WARNING
When cleaning the product, use a soft cloth and a solution of mild soap or detergent in water.
To prevent electric shock, do not allow liquids to enter the oscilloscope casing, as this will
compromise the electronics or insulation inside.

Introduction6
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved.ps5000ab.en r5
2.2 Conformance
2.2.1 FCC notice
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to
Part 15 Subpart B of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment
in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference which the user will be required to correct at their
own expense.
2.2.2 CE notice
The PicoScope 5000 A and B Series oscilloscopes meet the intent of Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
Directive 2014/30/EU and have been tested to EN 61326-1:2013 Class A Emissions and Immunity
standard.
The oscilloscopes also meet the intent of Low Voltage Directive (LVD) 2014/35/EU and have been designed
to the BS EN 61010-1:2010 (safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and
laboratory use) standard.
2.3 Software license conditions
Grant of license. The material contained in this release is licensed, not sold. Pico Technology Limited ('Pico')
grants a license to the person who installs this software, subject to the conditions listed below.
Access. The licensee agrees to allow access to this software only to persons who have been informed of
and agree to abide by these conditions.
Usage. The software in this release is for use only with Pico products or with data collected using Pico
products.
Copyright. Pico claims the copyright of and reserves the rights to all material (software, documents etc)
contained in this release.
Liability. Pico and its agents shall not be liable for any loss or damage, howsoever caused, related to the use
of Pico equipment or software, unless excluded by statute.
Fitness for purpose. No two applications are the same, so Pico cannot guarantee that its equipment or
software is suitable for a given application. It is therefore the user's responsibility to ensure that the product
is suitable for the user's application.
Mission-critical applications. Because the software runs on a computer that may be running other software
products, and may be subject to interference from these other products, this license specifically excludes
usage in 'mission-critical' applications, for example life-support systems.
Viruses. This software was continuously monitored for viruses during production. However, the user is
responsible for virus checking the software once it is installed.
Support. No software is ever error-free, but if you are dissatisfied with the performance of this software,
please contact our technical support staff.

PicoScope 5000 A and B Series Flexible Resolution Oscilloscopes User's Guide 7
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2.4 Trademarks
Pico Technology Limited and PicoScope are trademarks of Pico Technology Limited, registered in the United
Kingdom and other countries.
PicoScope and Pico Technology are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Linux is the registered trademark of Linus Torvalds, registered in the U.S. and other countries.
Mac and OS X are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
Windows is a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation, registered in the U.S. and other
countries.
2.5 Warranty
Pico Technology warrants upon delivery, and for a period of 5 years unless otherwise stated from the date of
delivery, that the Goods will be free from defects in material and workmanship.
Pico Technology shall not be liable for a breach of the warranty if the defect has been caused by fair wear
and tear, willful damage, negligence, abnormal working conditions or failure to follow Pico Technology's
spoken or written advice on the storage, installation, commissioning, use or maintenance of the Goods or (if
no advice has been given) good trade practice; or if the Customer alters or repairs such Goods without the
written consent of Pico Technology.
2.6 Minimum system requirements
To ensure that your PicoScope 5000 Series oscilloscope operates correctly, you must have a computer with
at least the minimum system requirements as shown in the following table. The performance of the
oscilloscope will be better with a more powerful PC, and will benefit from a multi-core processor.
Specification
Operating system
Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10*. 32 bit and 64 bit versions.
Beta software is also available for Linux and OS X operating systems.
Processor
As required by the operating system
Memory
Free disk space
Ports
USB 3.0 or USB 2.0 port(s)
*PicoScope version 6.11 and PicoSDK are compatible with Windows XP SP3 and Vista SP2 in
addition to the Windows versions listed above. For best performance we recommend Windows 7 or later.

Pack contents8
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved.ps5000ab.en r5
3Pack contents
A PicoScope 5000 A or B Series oscilloscope is supplied with the following items:
· Standard USB cable (4-channel scopes only)
· Double-headed USB cable
· AC adaptor (4-channel scopes only)
· Software and Reference CD
· Quick Start Guide
· Two or four probes (see model comparison tables for probe details)

PicoScope 5000 A and B Series Flexible Resolution Oscilloscopes User's Guide 9
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved. ps5000ab.en r5
4 Installation
Please note the various power supply options below. Full instructions are in the Quick Start Guide supplied
with your oscilloscope.
Powering 2-channel scopes
Connect your PicoScope 5000 Series 2-channel oscilloscope to two free, powered USB ports on the PC or
USB hub using the double-headed USB cable supplied (see image 1 below).
Powering 4-channel scopes
When using one or two channels of the 4-channel PicoScope 5000 Series oscilloscopes, you have two
options for power.
1. If your computer or USB hub does not have two free, powered USB ports, connect your PicoScope 5000
Series oscilloscope to the PC or hub using the single-headed USB cable supplied. Plug the power adaptor
into the mains and connect the DC cable to the DC power socket on the rear of the oscilloscope (see
image 2 below).
2. If your computer or USB hub has two free, powered USB ports, connect your PicoScope 5000 Series
oscilloscope to two ports on the PC or hub using the double-headed USB cable supplied (see image 1
below).
When using three or four channels on the 4-channel PicoScope 5000 Series oscilloscopes, connect your
oscilloscope to the PC or hub using the single-headed USB cable supplied. Plug the power adaptor into the
mains and connect the DC cable to the DC power socket on the rear of the oscilloscope (see image 2
below).
Note: If you connect or disconnect the AC adaptor while the oscilloscope is in operation it will restart
automatically and any unsaved data will be lost.
Checking the installation
Once you have installed the PicoScope software and connected the oscilloscope to the PC, start the
software. The software should now display any signal connected to the scope inputs. If you have a probe
connected to your oscilloscope, you should see a small 50or 60Hz signal in the oscilloscope window when
you touch the probe tip with your finger.

Product information10
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved.ps5000ab.en r5
5Product information
5.1 Model comparison tables
For full specifications and further information, refer to the PicoScope 5000 Series page on our website or to
the PicoScope 5000 Series data sheet, available on our website and on your Software and Reference CD.
2-channel models
Model
Maximum
bandwidth
Buffer memory*
Waveform output
Probes supplied
8-bit mode
12-bit mode or
higher
PicoScope 5242A
60 MHz
16 MS
8 MS
Func. Gen.
2 x 60 MHz
PicoScope 5242B
60 MHz
32 MS
16 MS
Func. Gen. and
AWG
2 x 60 MHz
PicoScope 5243A
100 MHz
64 MS
32 MS
Func. Gen.
2 x 150 MHz
PicoScope 5243B
100 MHz
128 MS
64 MS
Func. Gen. and
AWG
2 x 150 MHz
PicoScope 5244A
200 MHz
256 MS
128 MS
Func. Gen.
2 x 250 MHz
PicoScope 5244B
200 MHz
512 MS
256 MS
Func. Gen. and
AWG
2 x 250 MHz
*Shared between active channels
4-channel models
Model
Maximum
bandwidth
Buffer memory*
Waveform output
Probes supplied
8-bit mode
12-bit mode or
higher
PicoScope 5442A
60 MHz
16 MS
8 MS
Func. Gen.
4 x 60 MHz
PicoScope 5442B
60 MHz
32 MS
16 MS
Func. Gen. and
AWG
4 x 60 MHz
PicoScope 5443A
100 MHz
64 MS
32 MS
Func. Gen.
4 x 150 MHz
PicoScope 5443B
100 MHz
128 MS
64 MS
Func. Gen. and
AWG
4 x 150 MHz
PicoScope 5444A
200 MHz
256 MS
128 MS
Func. Gen.
4 x 250 MHz
PicoScope 5444B
200 MHz
512 MS
256 MS
Func. Gen. and
AWG
4 x 250 MHz
*Shared between active channels
How maximum sampling rate varies by resolution and the number of channels in use
Resolution
Maximum sampling rate with number of channels in use
Any 1 channel
Any 2 channels
Any 3 channels
All channels
8-bit
1 GS/s
500 MS/s
250 MS/s
250 MS/s
12-bit
500 MS/s
250 MS/s
125 MS/s
125 MS/s
14-bit
125 MS/s
125 MS/s
125 MS/s
125 MS/s
15-bit
125 MS/s
125 MS/s
-
-
16-bit
62.5 MS/s
-
-
-

PicoScope 5000 A and B Series Flexible Resolution Oscilloscopes User's Guide 11
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved. ps5000ab.en r5
5.2 Connector diagrams
PicoScope 5000 A and B Series oscilloscopes
B
5V
A
ExtG
PicoScope
www.picotech.com
PicoScope5000 Series
A
B
34
1
2
PicoScope
www.picotech.com
PicoScope5000 Series
5VDC
5
6
7
BCD
5V
A
ExtG
PicoScope
www.picotech.com
PicoScope5000 Series
A
B
C
D
34
1
2
A. Input channel A
B. Input channel B
C. Input channel C
D. Input channel D
1. Probe compensation output
2. LED: red when scope is connected but not operating. Flashes green when the oscilloscope is capturing
data.
3. External trigger input
4. Signal generator output
5. DC power socket: for use with the AC adaptor supplied. See Installation for details.
6. USB 2.0 port: connects to your PC using the Hi-Speed USB cable supplied. See Installation for powering
options.
7. Ground terminal: Some laptop power supplies can produce electrical noise which may interfere with your
measurements. If this occurs, you can connect the earth terminal to an external ground point (for
example, on the system you are testing) to provide a ground reference for the scope. This can help
prevent external noise from interfering with your measurements. Alternatively you can run the laptop
using battery power.

Product information12
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved.ps5000ab.en r5
5.3 Connector information
Standard oscilloscope connectors
The PicoScope 5000 A and B Series Flexible Resolution Oscilloscopes have input channels with standard
BNC connectors and standard input impedance. They are therefore compatible with most oscilloscope
probes including 10:1 and switched 1:1/10:1 types.
The probes supplied with the PicoScope 5000 A and B Series oscilloscopes have been trimmed specifically
for use with the scopes they are supplied with. For optimum performance, please use the probes supplied.
Although other oscilloscope probes can be used, the specified performance cannot be guaranteed. You can
order replacement probes matched to your PicoScope device from Pico Technology.
Signal generator (Gen) output
The Gen connector is the output of the oscilloscope's built-in signal generator, which can generate
waveforms for a number of built-in functions. On the B models, the signal generator also produces user-
defined arbitrary waveforms. Connect a BNC cable between this output and one of the channel inputs to
send a signal to that channel.
· If you are using the PicoScope 6 program, refer to the PicoScope 6 User's Guide for information on how to
configure the signal generator.
· If you are writing your own software, refer to the PicoScope 5000 Series (A API) Programmer's Guide.
· You can find both of these documents on your Software and Reference CD, or download the most recent
versions for free from www.picotech.com/downloads,
External trigger (Ext) input
The Ext input can be used as a trigger source. It is selected using the trigger drop-down menu in the
PicoScope software, or using a function call if you are writing your own software.
The external trigger input uses dedicated circuitry with a software-configurable threshold to detect a trigger
signal. This has the advantage of freeing the analog channels for viewing signals. The external trigger input
has the same characteristics as a scope channel so that a supplied probe can be trimmed on one of the
channels and then used with the Ext input to give best vertical accuracy. If trigger timing accuracy is critical,
we recommend using one of the main input channels as the trigger source. These channels use digital
triggering (accurate to one sample period) and have a vertical resolution of 1 least significant bit.

PicoScope 5000 A and B Series Flexible Resolution Oscilloscopes User's Guide 13
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5.4 Probe compensation
We recommend that you compensate each oscilloscope probe before using it with your PicoScope.
Compensation instructions specific to the probe are included in the leaflet supplied with the probe.
Connecting a probe for compensation
1. Plug the probe's BNC connector into the appropriate input channel on the scope.
2. Fit the spring hook (supplied with the probe) on the probe tip.
3. Attach the spring hook to the probe compensation output located on the front panel.
4. Attach the ground lead (supplied) to the probe and connect the crocodile clip to the ground shell of one
of the scope's BNC inputs.
5. Run the PicoScope software. Set the input coupling to AC and then click Auto Setup, which ensures that
the correct input range and collection time are selected.
6. Follow the compensation (or 'trimming') instructions in the probe leaflet.
Note: if the probe is moved to a different scope channel, the compensation procedure must be repeated.

Glossary14
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved.ps5000ab.en r5
6 Glossary
API. Application Programming Interface. A set of function calls that give programmers access to the
PicoScope 5000 A and B Series driver.
AWG. Arbitrary waveform generator (PicoScope 5000B models only). A circuit that can generate a waveform
of almost any shape, as defined by the user.
Bandwidth. The range of input frequencies over which the measured signal amplitude is no more than 3
decibels below its true value.
Block mode. A sampling mode in which the computer prompts the oscilloscope to collect a block of data
into its internal memory before stopping the oscilloscope and transferring the whole block into computer
memory. This mode of operation is effective when the input signal being sampled is high frequency. Note:
To avoid aliasing effects, the maximum input frequency must be less than half the sampling rate.
Buffer memory. The buffer memory is used by the oscilloscope to store data temporarily. This allows the
oscilloscope to sample data independently of the speed at which it can transfer data to the computer. The
size of the buffer memory is measured in samples.
Collection time. The time represented by the horizontal axis of the PicoScope display. On traditional
oscilloscopes, this function is often known as the timebase.
Coupling control. To switch from AC coupling to DC coupling, or vice versa, select AC or DC from the control
on the oscilloscope toolbar of the PicoScope software application. The AC setting filters out any DC
component of the input signal, and is suitable for viewing small AC signals superimposed on a DC or slowly-
changing offset. In this mode you can measure the peak-to-peak amplitude of an AC signal but not its
absolute value. Use the DC setting for measuring the absolute value of a signal.
Driver. A program that controls a piece of hardware. The driver for the PicoScope 5000 A and B Series
oscilloscopes is supplied in the form of a 32-bit or 64-bit Windows DLL, ps5000a.dll. This is used by the
PicoScope software, and by user-designed applications, to control the oscilloscopes.
External trigger. This is the BNC connector marked Ext on the PicoScope 5000 A and B Series
oscilloscopes. It can be used as a trigger source but not as a waveform input. See also Connector
information.
Flexible resolution oscilloscope. The instrument formed by connecting a PicoScope 5000 A and B Series
oscilloscope to a computer running the PicoScope software application.
Input range.The range of input voltages that the oscilloscope can measure. For example, a voltage range of
±20 V means that the oscilloscope can measure voltages between –20 V and +20 V. Input voltages outside
this range will not be measured correctly, but will not damage the instrument as long as they remain within
the protection limits stated in the specifications.
Maximum sampling rate. A figure indicating the maximum number of samples the oscilloscope can acquire
per second. Maximum sample rates are usually given in MS/s (megasamples per second) or GS/s
(gigasamples per second.) The higher the sampling rate of the oscilloscope, the more accurate the
representation of the high-frequency details in a fast signal.
MS/s. Megasamples per second. Used to quantify the sampling rate of an oscilloscope.
PicoScope software. This software product accompanies all our oscilloscopes. Along with your PicoScope
device, it turns your PC into an oscilloscope and spectrum analyzer. You can download free updates and
beta versions of the software from www.picotech.com/downloads.

PicoScope 5000 A and B Series Flexible Resolution Oscilloscopes User's Guide 15
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Signal generator. A built-in circuit that generates signals suitable for driving an external device under test.
Its output is the BNC connector marked Gen on the oscilloscope. See also Connector information.
USB 1.1. An early version of the USB standard, found on some older PCs. PicoScopes will operate slowly
using a USB 1.1 port; performance will be greatly improved by using the recommended USB 2.0 or 3.0 port.
USB 2.0. A USB 2.0 port uses signaling speeds of up to 480 megabits per second and is backwards-
compatible with USB 1.1.
USB 3.0. A USB 3.0 port uses signaling speeds of up to 5 gigabits per second and is backwards-compatible
with USB 2.0 and USB 1.1.
Vertical resolution. A value, in bits, indicating the precision with which the oscilloscope converts input
voltages to digital values. The resolution enhancement function in PicoScope can improve the effective
vertical resolution.

Index16
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved.ps5000ab.en r5
Index
A
AC adaptor 4, 9
AC/DC switch 14
API 14
Arbitrary waveform generator 10, 12, 14
AWG 14
B
Bandwidth 10, 14
Block mode 14
Buffer memory 10, 14
C
Care of the instrument 5
CE notice 6
Collection time 14
Compensation output 11, 13
Connections 11
Coupling control 14
D
DC power socket 11
Driver 14
E
Ext connector 11, 12, 14
External trigger 11, 12, 14
F
FCC notice 6
Flexible resolution oscilloscope 14
Function generator 10, 12
G
Gen connector 11, 12
Glossary 14
Ground terminal 11
I
Input channel 11, 12
Input range 14
Installation 9
L
LED 11
License conditions 6
M
Maximum sampling rate 10, 14
Memory 10
Model comparison 10
O
Oscilloscope probe 9, 10, 12
compensation 13
P
Pack contents 8
PicoScope software 9, 12
Power supply 4
R
Resolution 15
S
Safety 2
care of the instrument 5
environment 5
external connections 4
grounding 4
maximum input ranges 3
product usage 3
symbols 2
warning 6
Signal generator 10, 11, 12
Software license conditions 6
Specifications 10
System requirements 7
T
Timebase 14
Trademarks 7
U
USB 4, 9, 15
double-headed cable 4, 9
port 11
single-headed cable 4, 9

PicoScope 5000 A and B Series Flexible Resolution Oscilloscopes User's Guide 17
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved. ps5000ab.en r5
V
Vertical resolution 15
Voltage range 14
W
Warranty 7

Pico Technology
James House
Colmworth Business Park
St. Neots
Cambridgeshire
PE19 8YP
United Kingdom
Copyright © 2013–2017 Pico Technology Limited. All rights reserved.
ps5000ab.en r5 2017-09-04
Pico Technology
320 N Glenwood Blvd
Tyler
Texas 75702
United States
Pico Technology
Room 2252, 22/F, Centro
568 Hengfeng Road
Zhabei District
Shanghai 200070
PR China
[e-mail]
[e-mail]
[e-mail]
Asia-Pacific regional
office
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
North Americal regional
office
United Kingdom global
headquarters
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Tel: [phone]
www.picotech.com