DPScope - Build Your Own USB/PC-Based Oscilloscope

Step 32 Assembly Step 20: Software Installation

If you haven’t already done so, go to the DPScope website ( http://www.dpscope.com ) and download:

 

•   The oscilloscope software

•   The FTDI USB driver

•   The USB driver installation guide

 

First install the USB driver – follow the installation guide for that. Note that the installer will actually install two different drivers on your computer, i.e. go through two installation cycles. Make sure to complete both of them.

 

Then install the DPScope software as well (unpack the files and click on Setup.exe).

 

Attach the DPScope to a free USB port on your computer. Wait for a minute or two to give the computer time to recognize the new instrument (you should get a screen message when that happens.

 

The DPScope’s frontpanel LED should blink a few times and then stay on. The blinking should last for about one second total. If that’s the case then your oscilloscope has just passed the first functional test!

 

Note 1: The DPScope software needs a screen resolution of at least 1024 x 768 pixels.

 

Note 2: It is recommended to connect the DPScope to a USB port of your computer itself, or to a powered USB hub. Unpowered hubs tend to have large voltage drops, and the DPScope’s level accuracy is dependent on a steady 5V supply voltage from the USB. You can test the voltage by connecting a voltmeter to the pins labeled “+” and “-” on the expansion header (bottom right on the PCB).