Description
Sometimes the scope cannot sit beside the board. The Tektronix TAP1500L active probe answers that case with a 7 m cable between the probe head and the TekVPI connector. It is a single-ended active voltage probe, so an amplifier near the tip reads one node against ground. With the DSP filter that Tektronix requires, it reaches 1.5 GHz. Lost in HCM rents it, sells it and arranges service on request in Vietnam.
Why a 7 m lead changes the setup
A long cable lets the scope stay outside a test fixture, a cabinet or a large machine while the tip stays on the circuit. For example, the operator can watch the screen from a convenient spot while the equipment runs. It also helps when a rack or enclosure leaves no room near the board. However, the extra length has a cost on the scope side, as the next section explains.
The DSP filter is not optional
The listing ties the 1.5 GHz figure and the rated rise time to a DSP filter that Tektronix recommends. That filter supports 4, 5 and 6 Series oscilloscopes. So before the first capture, confirm that your scope belongs to one of those series. Then check that the filter is installed and that the firmware is current. Without the filter, do not expect the listed bandwidth.
Tektronix TAP1500L active probe specifications
| Item | TAP1500L |
|---|---|
| Bandwidth | 1.5 GHz with required DSP filter |
| Interface | TekVPI |
| Attenuation | 10X ±2% |
| Input | 1 MΩ, under 1 pF typical |
| Linear dynamic range | ±8 V |
| Input offset range | ±10 V |
| Nondestructive limit | ±15 V DC plus peak AC |
| Cable length | 7 m |
Where remote probing fits
Typical jobs include control boards inside large equipment, boards in a test fixture, and assemblies that must stay closed while they run. In each case, the 1 MΩ tip keeps DC loading low on sensor and bias lines. Meanwhile, the ±8 V linear range covers common logic and control levels. Keep the ground connection at the tip short, even though the cable itself is long.
A short checklist before you order
- Scope: 4, 5 or 6 Series with TekVPI inputs.
- DSP filter installed and firmware current.
- Signal levels inside ±8 V, with offset if needed.
- Tips and leads that reach your test points.
Then request a TAP1500L quote from Lost in HCM. Rent it for a one-off installation test, or buy it if remote work is routine. You can also look through other oscilloscope probes, visit tek.com, or contact SMK Vietnam about the Tektronix TAP1500L active probe.
TAP1500L FAQ
Will it reach 1.5 GHz on any TekVPI scope?
No. The listing ties that figure to the DSP filter, which supports 4, 5 and 6 Series scopes.
Is the 7 m cable the only difference from the TAP1500?
The cable and the filter requirement are the clear differences in the two listings. Both give 1 MΩ, ±8 V and ±10 V.
How accurate is the 10X ratio?
The listing gives 10X ±2%. Check the Tektronix data sheet for the test conditions.
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