Flexible Resolution

Core Summary

Flexible Resolution is an ADC design adopted by the PicoScope 5000 series, allowing for a trade-off between sampling rate and vertical resolution within the same device based on the task: prioritizing sampling rate when observing fast signals, and prioritizing resolution (up to approximately 16 bits) when observing small signals. For scenarios where both pulse measurement and ripple observation are required, a single device can accommodate both.

I. What Problem Does It Solve

Traditional oscilloscopes have a fixed vertical resolution, typically 8 bits, dividing the input range into 256 levels. When measuring small ripples superimposed on a small DC, quantization steps can obscure details, making it difficult to distinguish between the naked eye and data. Flexible Resolution achieves this by paralleling or time-multiplexing multiple ADCs, allowing for higher resolution sampling of the same signal when needed.

II. Difference from "Fixed High Bit Count"

Fixed high-resolution models often sacrifice sampling rate, allowing only for slow signal observation. The advantage of Flexible Resolution is its ability to switch based on the scenario: high sampling for communication pulses, and high bit depth for power supply ripple. A single device can handle both types of tasks, eliminating the need to purchase separate devices for different jobs.

III. What to Consider When Using It

• The sampling rate decreases in high-resolution mode, making it unsuitable for measuring high-frequency transients. When selecting, don't just look at the bit count.

• The signal should occupy a suitable range, otherwise the bit count advantage won't be realized. The range setting is more practical than the bit count.

• Specific specifications should be based on the original manufacturer's datasheet, as the "upper limit" in public materials usually corresponds to specific settings.