OWON PDS5022T Portable Digital Storage Oscilloscope and Digital Multimeter

Introduction

The OWON PDS5022T is a 25 MHz, two-channel portable digital oscilloscope designed for various electronics applications, including circuit testing, electrical engineering education, and hobbyist projects. It features a maximum real-time sample rate of 100 MS/s and a record length of 5 kpts per channel, enabling detailed waveform acquisition. The device incorporates edge and video triggering, two basic math functions, FFT (Fast Fourier Transform), 20 automatic measurements, and an auto-scale function. Connectivity is provided via USB for PC integration.

What's in the Box?

• OWON PDS5022T portable digital oscilloscope
• (2) Passive voltage probes
• CD-ROM PC software
• USB interface cable
• Power cord (for 100 to 240VAC, 50/60Hz, CAT II)
• Instructions manual

Setup

1. Power Connection: Connect the provided power cord to the oscilloscope and a suitable power outlet (100 to 240VAC, 50/60Hz). The device can also operate on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (sold separately).
2. Probe Connection: Attach the passive voltage probes to the CH1 and CH2 input BNC connectors on the front panel. Ensure a secure connection.
3. Probe Compensation: Before taking measurements, perform probe compensation. Connect the probe tip to the PROBE COMP terminal (typically 5V, 1kHz square wave) and the ground clip to the ground terminal. Adjust the compensation trimmer on the probe until a flat-top square wave is displayed on the screen.
4. Initial Power On: Press the power button to turn on the oscilloscope. The 8-inch color TFT-LCD will display the startup sequence.
5. PC Software Installation (Optional): If connecting to a PC for data transmission or remote operation, install the provided software from the CD-ROM onto your computer. Connect the oscilloscope to the PC using the USB interface cable.

Operating Instructions

The front panel of the PDS5022T features a clear layout for intuitive operation. Refer to the image above for control locations.

Front Panel Controls Overview

• Display: 8-inch color TFT-LCD with 640 x 480 pixel resolution for waveform viewing.
• Function Buttons (F1-F5): Context-sensitive buttons located to the right of the display, used to select options from on-screen menus.
• Vertical Controls (VOLTS/DIV, POSITION): Independent controls for Channel 1 (CH1) and Channel 2 (CH2). The VOLTS/DIV knobs adjust the vertical scale (voltage per division), while the POSITION knobs adjust the vertical position of the waveform.
• Horizontal Controls (SEC/DIV, POSITION): The SEC/DIV knob adjusts the horizontal time base (seconds per division), and the horizontal POSITION knob shifts the waveform left or right.
• Trigger Controls (TRIG LEVEL, TRIG MENU, SET TO 50%, FORCE TRIG, SET TO ZERO): These controls manage how the oscilloscope synchronizes with the input signal. The TRIG LEVEL knob sets the voltage level at which the trigger occurs.
• Input Connectors: BNC connectors for CH1, CH2, and EXT TRIG (external trigger). The EXT TRIG allows triggering from a third source.
• Utility Buttons:
  • SAVE/RCL: Saves or recalls waveform data and settings. Up to four waveforms can be stored internally.
  • MEASURE: Accesses automatic measurement functions (e.g., period, frequency, peak-to-peak).
  • CURSOR: Activates and controls screen cursors for manual voltage and time measurements.
  • ACQUIRE: Configures acquisition settings.
  • DISPLAY: Adjusts display settings.
  • MENUS: Navigates through various menu options.
  • AUTOSET: Automatically adjusts vertical, horizontal, and trigger settings to display a stable waveform.
  • AUTOSCALE: Similar to AUTOSET, selects optimal settings for displaying a waveform. Can be disabled for educational purposes.
  • RUN/STOP: Starts or stops waveform acquisition.
• Math Menu: Provides access to waveform math functions, including addition, subtraction, and FFT (Fast Fourier Transform).

Basic Operation Steps

1. Connect Signal: Connect the probe from the desired channel (CH1 or CH2) to the circuit point you wish to measure.
2. Power On: Turn on the oscilloscope.
3. Auto-Setup: Press the AUTOSET or AUTOSCALE button to quickly obtain a stable display of the input signal.
4. Adjust Vertical Scale: Use the VOLTS/DIV knob for the active channel to adjust the vertical sensitivity, making the waveform fit the screen appropriately.
5. Adjust Horizontal Scale: Use the SEC/DIV knob to adjust the time base, allowing you to view more or less of the waveform horizontally.
6. Adjust Trigger: Use the TRIG LEVEL knob to stabilize the waveform. The trigger point is indicated on the screen. For complex waveforms, use the TRIG MENU to access advanced trigger settings like edge, video, and trigger hold-off.
7. Measurements: Press the MEASURE button to display automatic measurements. Use the CURSOR button to activate and position cursors for manual measurements.
8. Math Functions: Press the MATH MENU button to perform operations like adding or subtracting channels, or performing an FFT analysis.
9. Saving Data: Use the SAVE/RCL button to save waveform data or instrument settings to internal memory.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the oscilloscope. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth with mild detergent may be used. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Storage: Store the device in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Probe Care: Handle probes carefully. Avoid bending or stressing the cables excessively. Keep probe tips clean.
• Battery Care (if applicable): If using a rechargeable battery, follow the manufacturer's guidelines for charging and storage to maximize battery life.

Troubleshooting

• No Display/Power: Ensure the power cord is securely connected and the power outlet is functional. If using battery, ensure it is charged.
• Unstable Waveform: Adjust the TRIG LEVEL knob. Check trigger settings in the TRIG MENU. Ensure the input signal is within the oscilloscope's bandwidth and voltage range.
• No Signal Displayed: Verify probes are correctly connected to both the oscilloscope and the circuit. Check probe compensation. Ensure the VOLTS/DIV and SEC/DIV settings are appropriate for the signal being measured.
• Distorted Waveform: Check probe compensation. Ensure the input signal does not exceed the oscilloscope's input voltage limits.
• PC Connection Issues: Verify USB cable connection. Ensure PC software is correctly installed and drivers are up to date.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or contact OWON customer service. OWON products are manufactured by Fujian Lilliput Optoelectronics Technology, a company founded in 1993 and meeting International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard 9001.