Description
One device can draw a trickle in sleep and amps when it transmits. The Rohde & Schwarz RT-ZC31 probe follows both. It is a clamp-on oscilloscope current probe. In fact, the R&S family page says these clamps measure DC and AC current without breaking the circuit. It also reaches 120 MHz and offers three selectable ranges. Lost in HCM rents and sells it in Vietnam.
Three ranges in one clamp
| Range | Sensitivity |
|---|---|
| 30 A RMS | 0.1 V/A |
| 5 A RMS | 1 V/A |
| 0.5 A RMS | 10 V/A |
In short, a higher sensitivity gives more volts per amp at the scope. So the 0.5 A range turns 50 mA into 500 mV, which is easy to read. Then the 30 A range takes over when the load current climbs.
Where the Rohde & Schwarz RT-ZC31 probe earns its place
- Battery-powered IoT nodes that wake, transmit and sleep.
- Phone, wearable and power bank charging circuits.
- Board supply rails during power-up sequencing.
- Small motor and solenoid drivers on control boards.
Each job spans a wide current swing, from idle to full load. As a result, a single probe with switchable ranges saves you a second clamp.
Power and connection
The listing names a BNC input on the scope plus the R&S RT-ZA13 external probe power supply. So budget for that supply, or ask Lost in HCM to include one. Also follow the Rohde & Schwarz steps for degaussing, zeroing and deskew before you trust a reading.
Short study or long-term tool
A rental covers a battery-life study or a design review well, because those jobs end. Meanwhile, a product team with many low-power designs may prefer to buy. To start, request a quote from Lost in HCM with the scope model, current levels and project dates. Compare other oscilloscope probes here, see the Rohde & Schwarz current probe range, or contact SMK Vietnam.
Choosing and using the RT-ZC31
Which range should I start on?
Start on 30 A when the current is unknown, so you avoid overload. Then step down to 5 A or 0.5 A for a larger trace.
How does the RT-ZC31 differ from the RT-ZC30?
Both reach 120 MHz. However, the RT-ZC30 has a single 5 A RMS range at 1 V/A, while the RT-ZC31 adds 30 A and 0.5 A ranges.
What powers the Rohde & Schwarz RT-ZC31 probe?
It runs from the R&S RT-ZA13 external supply, as the listing states.
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