The Tektronix TCPA300 is an AC/DC Current Probe Amplifier designed for use with Tektronix oscilloscopes that have a TekProbe™ interface. When paired with compatible current probes (like the TCP312A, TCP305A, or TCP303), it forms a comprehensive current measurement system.

Here’s a breakdown of its key features and characteristics:

Key Features:

• AC/DC Measurement: Capable of measuring both alternating and direct currents.
• Wide Bandwidth: DC to 100 MHz (when used with compatible probes). The actual bandwidth of the system depends on the specific probe connected.
• Automatic Scaling and Units: When used with Tektronix oscilloscopes featuring the TekProbe interface, the oscilloscope automatically recognizes the probe and displays the current magnitude and units (Amps) on the screen. This eliminates manual calculations and reduces measurement errors.
• Low Insertion Impedance: Minimizes the loading effect on the device under test, ensuring more accurate measurements.
• Split-Core Construction (via compatible probes): Allows for easy connection to the circuit without breaking the current path. The probes typically have a clamp-like mechanism.
• Status Indicators: Provides visual feedback on the operating status and potential error conditions such as degauss, probe open, overload, incorrect termination (into 50 Ω), and incompatible probe type.
• Low DC Drift and Noise: Enables improved accuracy for low-level current measurements.
• Safety Certified: Complies with relevant safety standards.
• TekProbe Interface: Automatically communicates probe information and settings to compatible Tektronix oscilloscopes.
• Requires a Probe: The TCPA300 is an amplifier and requires a compatible Tektronix TCP300 series current probe (TCP312A, TCP305A, or TCP303) to function as a complete current measurement system.

Specifications (Typical, may vary slightly):

• Bandwidth: DC to 100 MHz (with TCP312A probe)
• Maximum Current: Depends on the connected probe (e.g., ±30 A DC for TCP312A, ±50 A DC for TCP305A, ±150 A DC for TCP303 continuous).
• Input Coupling: AC/DC
• Output: Voltage proportional to the measured current (e.g., 1 A/V or 10 A/V depending on the probe and range).
• Power Requirements: Typically powered via the TekProbe interface of the oscilloscope. Some models might have an external power supply option.
• Dimensions: Approximately 17.3 cm (6.8 in) Height x 9.14 cm (3.6 in) Width x 16.7 cm (6.6 in) Depth.
• Weight: Approximately 1.14 kg (2.5 lb).
• Operating Temperature: 0 °C to +50 °C.

Applications:

• Power supply design and analysis (switching and linear).
• Semiconductor device analysis (SCRs, IGBTs, MOSFETs, BJTs).
• Power inverters and converters.
• Motor drive analysis.
• Industrial and consumer electronics testing.

In summary, the Tektronix TCPA300 is a crucial amplifier unit for making accurate AC/DC current measurements when used in conjunction with compatible Tektronix TCP300 series current probes and Tektronix oscilloscopes with a TekProbe interface. It simplifies current measurements by providing automatic scaling and units readout on the oscilloscope display.