Triggered Engine Idle Test

How to connect the oscilloscope

Example waveform and notes

How to connect the oscilloscope

Connect the First Look Sensor to Channel A on the PicoScope using the 25ft BNC to BNC cable as shown in Figure 1.0, then attach the sensor to the exhaust pipe as shown in Figure 1.1.

Now connect the Secondary Ignition pick-up Lead to Channel B of the scope and attach the clamp to the cylinder 1 plug lead. Start the engine and allow to warm up. With the engine idling adjust the timebase and voltage scales to achieve best signal display.

This test is useful in assessing overall engine condition taking into account the fuel delivery system.

Example FirstLook sensor waveform

FirstLook sensor waveform notes

This waveform shows a consistent signal pattern on Channel A as triggered against Channel B on the same time line. Cursor lines are added to show trigger reference (sparkplug 1) and show the time between trigger events. We can use this information to determine the approximate cranking speed of this engine.