ABS
Antilock Brake System
AC
Alternating Current
AC Coupling
A mode of signal transmission that passes the dynamic (AC) signal component to the
input (INPUT A or INPUT B), but blocks the DC component. Useful to observe an AC
signal that is normally riding on a DC signal, e.g. charging ripple.
Acquisition
The process of gathering measurement data into the instrument’s memory.
Acquisition Rate
The number of acquisitions performed per second
Actuator
A mechanism for moving or controlling something indirectly instead of by hand.
Alternating Current
An electrical signal in which current and voltage vary in a repeating pattern over time.
Alternator
An AC generator with diode rectification.
Amplitude
The difference between the highest and the lowest level of a waveform.
Attenuation
The decrease in amplitude of a signal
Auto Range
Activat es an aut omatic adaptat ion of the instrument t o the input signal in amplit ude,
timebase, and triggering.
Bandwidth
A frequency range.
Baud Rate
Communication parameter that indicates the data transfer rate in bits per second.
Blower
A device designed to supply a current of air at a moderate pressure. The blower case is
usually designed as part of a ventilation system.
BNC
Coaxial type input connector used for INPUT A and INPUT B.
Bottom Display
The lower part of the display, where the function key menu is listed.
Bypass
Providing a secondary path to relieve pressure in the primary passage.
Carburetor
A mechanism which automatically mixes fuel with air in t he proper proportions to
provide a desired power output from a spark ignition internal combustion engine.
Catalytic Converter
An in-line exhaust system device used to reduce the level of engine exhaust emissions.
Closed Loop (Engine)
An operating condition or mode which enables modification of programmed instructions
based on a feedback system.
Continuity
Instrument setup to check wiring, circuits, connectors, or switches for breaks (open
circuit) or closed circuits.
Contrast
This setting (expressed in a percentage) determines the contrast ratio between display
text or graphics and the LCD background. (0 % is all white. 100 % is all black.)
Conventional
Ignition system that uses a distributor.
Ignition System
G-1
GLOSSARY
Terminology
Description