PC-based automotive scope adds EV test diagnostics

The new PicoScope 4425A EV Oscilloscope Kit is designed to provide a comprehensive diagnostics capability for all types of vehicles with electric (BEV, MHEV, PHEV, Fuel-cell) and internal combustion (diesel, gasoline, LPG) powertrains. It provides service shops with a futureproof system for analyzing vehicles with high-voltage batteries and electric motor systems. In combination with the extensive range of Pico accessories, the PC-connected 4425A kit is an easy-to-use system that includes extensive technician guidance to investigate engines, motors, sensors, actuators, communications buses, and noise/vibration/harshness on the latest vehicle designs.

The importance of electric traction is evident in the effort to move to clean and renewable energy, with the consequent reduction of harmful emissions and particulates. Pico Technology has produced an analysis kit that allows technicians to be as safe, efficient, and effective working with electric powertrains as they are with conventional internal combustion engines. The PicoScope 4425A EV Kit contains all of the test equipment required to work safely on electric vehicles and to investigate faults likely to cause safety issues.

The EV systems covered includes:
DC HV energy system or the ac motor/generator drive system
Charging behavior and 12-V/HV battery current split issues
‘CP/PP’ communications between the charging system and vehicle
Three-phase current measurements to check winding balance under load
All 12-V and 48-V systems

In addition to the new EV capability, the 4425A offers ConnectDetect smart sensor detection, ±200-V voltage input range, floating input system, high sample rate (up to 400 MSa/sec), high vertical resolution (12-bit to 16-bit enhanced), a SuperSpeed USB 3.0 interface, and 20-MHz signal bandwidth. To assist with diagnostics has advanced triggering and filtering, a large buffer memory (250MSa), math channels, measurement and phase rulers, a Pico reference waveform library, more than 150 guided tests, and free Pico software upgrades. The PicoScope 7 software, supplied free, delivers ease of use even for less experienced technicians and offers more advanced features when needed. The PC-connected 4425A allows for the use of large-screen displays in workshops, making measurements clearly visible at all times, even to customers if necessary. PicoScope test results can be printed and data can even be shared across a network.

The PicoScope 4425A EV Oscilloscope Kit offers comprehensive coverage on all types of vehicles (automobiles, trucks, buses, motorcycles, agricultural and construction equipment, off-highway, and industrial systems) for finding most vehicle faults quickly. Made by Pico Technology, Europe’s award-winning test and measurement manufacturer, the PicoScope 4425A EV Oscilloscope Kit is available now from Saelig Company, Inc. the USA technical distributor. For detailed specifications, free technical assistance, or additional information, see http://www.saelig.com/picoscope-4425a/pq196.htm or contact Saelig 888-7SAELIG, via email: info@saelig.com.