Provides a convenient method for current measurement

Current probes are designed to provide a convenient way to measure current. They can be AC-coupled, using current transformer technology, or AC/DC coupled. Regardless of the type, the probes include a split core geometry for easy insertion into a current-carrying conductor without disassembly. The Teledyne LeCroy CP030 is a typical example of an AC/DC current probe, capable of measuring currents up to 30 A with a bandwidth of 50 MHz. The CP030 uses a hybrid technology, incorporating a Hall effect device for DC and low-frequency AC signals and a current transformer for high-frequency AC signals. The CP030 uses a split ferrite core for quick insertion into a conductor carrying the measured current. It incorporates a Hall effect sensor and a feedback winding within the core gap. The Hall effect sensor, when properly biased, generates an output current proportional to the magnetic flux in the core. This output is amplified to drive the feedback winding, bringing the core to a zero-flux state. At this point, due to the current-carrying conductor, the current through the feedback winding is proportional to the magnetic flux. The output terminal converts this current into a voltage. Because the Hall effect sensor output decreases with increasing frequency, the feedback winding acts as a current transformer, thus accurately measuring the high-frequency portion of the measured signal. The CP030 has a sensitivity of 1 V/A. The probe transmits this information to the oscilloscope via the ProBus interface. The oscilloscope automatically adjusts the scale of the channel into which the probe is inserted to read the amperage value. The probe will be automatically recognized, as shown in the "Probe" input box. The correct scale is automatically entered into the "Units/V" input box, and the vertical units are set to "Amperes".