Pico 20:1 Attenuator PP198

The PP198 is a passive 20:1 attenuator. This means that a 20 V signal at its input will appear as a 1 V signal on the output. As the signal is attenuated, the PP198 allows voltages of up to 300 V to be measured (see the safety precautions).

The PP198, when used with Pico PC Oscilloscopes provides increased input protection against overloads when working with inductive signals such as injectors and primary ignition. Under no circumstances attempt to use this attenuator to measure secondary ignition (HT) waveforms, the PP178 Secondary Ignition Pickup lead should be used for this purpose.

How to Use the 20:1 Attenuator

The PP198 connects in series between the oscilloscope and the test lead (right photograph). The PP198 is only suitable for use with an input channel — it is not suitable for use with an external trigger input.

PicoScope can be configured to work with a 20:1 attenuator probe by selecting first the Settings menu and the the Probes menu. Select 20:1 attenuation for the channel the PP198 is plugged into.

Safety Precautions

The PP198 is designed for measuring automotive signals such as fuel injector and primary ignition voltages (nominally 6, 12 or 24 volts). This attenuator must not be used to measure mains voltages or other hazardous voltages.

Fuel injector and primary ignition signals contain short duration high voltage spikes “inductive kicks”. We therefore recommend the use of two ground connections between the oscilloscope and the vehicle under test. One ground connection is made using the measurement test lead. A second ground lead should be connected between one of the BNC connectors on the oscilloscope and a secure ground point on the vehicle such as the negative terminal of the battery. Misconfiguration and/or failure to follow these warnings may cause damage to the product and/or computer and could cause injury to yourself or others.