How to Make My Own Oscilloscope
Scientists who need to observe and monitor changes in wave shapes of electrical signals and other radio waves frequently use an oscilloscope. Lab-grade oscilloscopes can quickly run up in cost, especially if you need to accurately measure the waves and record data related to the waves you are monitoring. However, if you need a basic oscilloscope, you can easily create your own using some wiring tools and an old TV. Not only is this cheaper than buying one but it's also a fun project that makes use of old electronics and is perfect for a science fair.
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Things You'll Need
- Working CRT television
- Wire cutters
- Wire stripping tool
- Screwdriver
- Insulated wiring
- Electrical tape
Instructions
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Unplug an old CRT television and press the power button a couple of times to remove any residual power that may be stored inside the TV's power supply.
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Set the television right side up on a flat surface and remove the rear casing, using a screwdriver.
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3
Find the deflector coil, which will be one of the larger components exposed after removing the TV's rear casing. The deflector coil is a large coil that runs around the neck of the TV's tube at the middle of the TV.
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4
Find the wires that are connected to the deflector coil. There will be four in total; two are horizontal and two are vertical. Disconnect the wires using wire cutters by cutting them at the base of the deflector coil, leaving a small bit of wire still attached to the deflector coil. Keep track of which ones were horizontal and which ones were vertical by making a mental note or marking one of the pairs with tape.
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Swap the connections of the horizontal and vertical wires. Connect the horizontal wires to the vertical wiring connections on the deflector coil. The vertical wires will not be reconnected to the deflector coil.
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Strip off a small piece of insulation from the insulated wire to expose the bare wiring. Wrap the two wires that were previously connected to the vertical connections of the deflector coil around the exposed bare wiring. Use electrical tape to insulate and secure the connection.
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Strip off a small amount of insulation at the other end of the wire.
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Plug the TV into a power outlet and turn it on. Connect the insulated wiring, with a small end of it exposed, to a power source such as a battery to observe the wave changes on the television. The horizontal line displayed by the TV will remain flat when no electricity is connected to it and will change once the wire is connected to a power source.
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Tips & Warnings
Working with electronics, especially television sets, can be dangerous. Do not open up the TV or perform this procedure if you are unsure of your ability to complete it or if you feel uncomfortable with any of the steps.
References
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