The Aim I-prober 520 positional current probe is unlike any other current measurement device available.
Calibrated measurement of current normally requires the current to be passed through a closed magnetic loop. Typically this is done using some form of split clamp loop of magnetic material as in a standard current probe. Whereas this is suitable for individual wires, it is of no use for measuring current in PCB tracks.
The I-prober 520 achieves something radically new.
It can observe and measure currents in PCB tracks and other conductors where conventional current probes can’t be used. This includes captive wires into components, the legs of integrated circuits, and PCB ground planes.
The I-prober 520 enables currents, from dc up to 5MHz, to be observed and measured simply by placing its insulated tip onto the conductor.
The concept of a positional current probe is not entirely new. However, previous attempts have been physically large and suitable only for measuring high currents at low bandwidth.
The high excitation frequency miniature sensor within the I-prober 520 provides it with levels of positional accuracy, sensitivity, bandwidth and dynamic range that are superior to anything previously achieved by several orders of magnitude.
In consequence, the Aim I-prober 520 is the first and only probe that can be used to measure currents from amps down to milliamps at frequencies from DC up to MHz, making practical measurement of PCB track currents a reality.
- Observe and measure current in a PCB track
- Make measurements via non-contact probing
- Suitable for observation and measurement of current in
- component leads & ground planes as well as PCB tracks
- Wide dynamic range of 10mA to 20A pk to pk
- Wide bandwidth of DC to 5MHz
- Low noise equivalent to <6mA rms at full bandwidth
- Minimal disturbance to circuit conditions through very low
- insertion impedance and stray capacitance
- Safety rated to 300V Cat II (600V Cat I)
- Suitable for connection to any oscilloscope
- High accuracy general purpose H-field probe
- Convertible into ‘closed magnetic circuit’ current probe
Learn about the technical problems of current measurement in PCB tracks
This is a challenge that probe designers have battled with over the years without success – until now.
Aim-TTi have used a new patented technology to enable currents to be observed and measured by precise positional measurement of field.
