Courses: P4, P14, P16
Using a fixed L and a fixed C, the resistance can be varied to show underdamped ringing, overdamped slow recovery, and critical damping.
To use, press "Erase" and "Auto-store." Then press and hold the circuit switch until the trace settles down, and release the button to show the inverse voltage change. If you then adjust the resistance and press Auto-store without pressing Erase, you can plot the new curve superimposed on the previous curve(s).
Setup: requires a camera on the oscilloscope. Currently I use the HP 54600 scopes; I've found it more difficult to get the trigger and plot location fixed properly on the newer scopes. The switch is set to apply 5 volts when pressed, and to close the circuit (zero volts) when released, so the circuit can both charge and discharge. Scope is set to "single" trigger mode. Trigger level should be just above zero, increasing.
Tags: LRC