Digital Multimeter & Oscilloscope Diagnostics
INS 101 is a 10-lesson online course designed for technicians seeking practical mastery of digital multimeters and oscilloscopes. Learners explore DMM concepts such as true RMS versus averaging, input impedance, burden voltage, CAT safety ratings, and diode/continuity/capacitance/frequency testing. Oscilloscope topics cover bandwidth, sampling theory, probe compensation, grounding, triggering, cursors, automated measurements, and FFT analysis. Students apply these skills to measure ripple, PWM, and serial signals common in embedded and power electronics systems. Two simulated/bench labs reinforce safe, hands-on instrument use, while a final capstone assignment challenges learners to apply systematic troubleshooting methodology to diagnose a faulty circuit using both instruments, synthesizing all course concepts into a real diagnostic workflow.
InstructorJacob CalhounCourse outline
Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.
Syllabus
["Week 1: Lesson 1: DMM Fundamentals: True RMS vs Averaging, Impedance & Burden Voltage", "Week 2: Lesson 2: Safety First: CAT Ratings, Probes & Safe Measurement Practices", "Week 3: Lesson 3: DMM Advanced Functions: Diode, Continuity, Capacitance & Frequency", "Week 4: Lesson 4: Lab: Hands-On DMM Measurements on Bench Circuits", "Week 5: Lesson 5: Oscilloscope Fundamentals: Bandwidth, Sampling & Signal Fidelity", "Week 6: Lesson 6: Probes, Grounding & Triggering Techniques", "Week 7: Lesson 7: Cursors, Automated Measurements & FFT Analysis", "Week 8: Lesson 8: Lab: Oscilloscope Signal Capture & Analysis", "Week 9: Lesson 9: Measuring Ripple, PWM & Serial Signals in Real Circuits", "Week 10: Lesson 10: Capstone: Systematic Troubleshooting Diagnostic Project"]