Modular active test probe and removable tip module therefor
First Claim
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1. A method for probing a circuit under test and transmitting a signal therefrom to a circuit under test signal measuring apparatus, comprising the steps of:
- (a) selecting a probe tip module from among a plurality of probe tip modules each said probe tip module comprising a probe tip, an amplifier having an input solidly connected to the respective said probe tip, an identification circuit suitable for providing identification data signals regarding the probe tip module in which the identification circuit is positioned, and an output connected to a respective output connector;
(b) providing a distinct probe body having a controller suitable for communicating with said identification circuit, said probe body adapted to receive the output connectors of said plurality of probe tip modules;
(c) connecting the selected probe tip module and said probe body together at said output connector;
(d) receiving the circuit under test signal at said input of said amplifier;
(e) amplifying the circuit under test signal and providing the amplified circuit under test signal to said probe body through said output connector; and
(f) transmitting the amplified circuit under test signal from said probe body to the signal measuring apparatus.
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Abstract
A modular active test probe and removable tip module therefor. Within the scope of the invention, there is a probe tip module comprising a first probe tip adapted for probing a circuit under test to receive a signal therefrom. The probe tip module includes an amplifier having a first input solidly connected to the probe tip, an output connected to an output connector, and a housing for supporting the probe tip, the amplifier, and the output connector. A probe body is cooperatively adapted with the housing for repeatably removably receiving at least the output connector.
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8 Claims
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1. A method for probing a circuit under test and transmitting a signal therefrom to a circuit under test signal measuring apparatus, comprising the steps of:
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(a) selecting a probe tip module from among a plurality of probe tip modules each said probe tip module comprising a probe tip, an amplifier having an input solidly connected to the respective said probe tip, an identification circuit suitable for providing identification data signals regarding the probe tip module in which the identification circuit is positioned, and an output connected to a respective output connector; (b) providing a distinct probe body having a controller suitable for communicating with said identification circuit, said probe body adapted to receive the output connectors of said plurality of probe tip modules; (c) connecting the selected probe tip module and said probe body together at said output connector; (d) receiving the circuit under test signal at said input of said amplifier; (e) amplifying the circuit under test signal and providing the amplified circuit under test signal to said probe body through said output connector; and (f) transmitting the amplified circuit under test signal from said probe body to the signal measuring apparatus. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)
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Specification