6 GHz Active Differential Probe Provides Excellent Signal Fidelity and Connectivity

The Z-Active architecture combines a traditional passive probe topology feeding an active probe amplifier, a major step forward for high-speed probing. The P7360 delivers superior signal fidelity while also offering the highest input impedance in its class. This minimizes the DC loading that can interfere with logic device thresholds and cause attenuation of signal voltage levels. It also has the lowest AC loading out to the bandwidth of the probe. When combined with Tektronix instruments such as the new DPO70000 and DSA70000 oscilloscope series, Tektronix offers customers the complete solution for connection, validation, debug, compliance, and analysis of high speed serial data standards.

In addition to the P7360, existing Z-Active probes include the 8 GHz P7380 and the 12.5 GHz P7313.

The tip of any oscilloscope probe is a consumable item. Its performance can be expected to degrade under the normal wear and tear of everyday use, and periodic replacement is necessary. In the world of high-speed differential probes, this can be a costly problem. The P7360’s detachable Tip-Clip™ Assemblies provide enhanced solder or handheld connectivity and make it possible to replace a tip for a fraction of the cost formerly associated with such hardware changes. The cost of competitors’ solder probe tips can range from £150 to £200 (€235 to €300) each compared to the £15 to £19 (€21 to €27) cost for each solder Tip-Clip.

Moreover, the Tip-Clip Assemblies are interchangeable depending on the connectivity needs. The P7360 is compatible with all of the Tip-Clip Assemblies that have been introduced for the Z-Active family of probes. A variety of solder Tip-Clips are shipped standard with the P7360. A complete list of Tip-Clip

The P7360 employs the patented TekConnect interface, which has become the standard interface for the high-performance oscilloscope models from Tektronix. Designed to preserve signal fidelity through the critical transition from the “outside” world to the oscilloscope’s internal acquisition hardware, the TekConnect interface supports high bandwidths including the 15 GHz TDS6154C oscilloscope. The interface also exchanges control information with the oscilloscope: scaling factors, identifiers, and offset ranges as well as calibration adjustments and more.

The P7360 provides market leading performance and signal fidelity, and brings the Z-Active benefits down to lower priced performance levels. The P7360 is priced from £4,400 / €6,430.