Using the FirstLook Sensor with PicoScope
Using the FirstLook Sensor with PicoScope is as easy as 1,2,3...
1. Connect the FirstLook Sensor
Depending on what test you want to perform the FirstLook Sensor is placed either in the exhaust tailpipe, or in the vacuum pressure regulator of the vehicle to be tested.
2. Connect the PicoScope Automotive Oscilloscope
Using the supplied BNC-to-BNC cable, connect the FirstLook Sensor to your PicoScope automotive oscilloscope.
Simply by selecting FirstLook from the Automotive menu in PicoScope Automotive software you can automatically set up the scope to perform one of several standard tests. As well as automatically configuring your PicoScope, the automotive software will also display full details of how to perform the test along with sample waveforms.
3. Take Your Readings
The FirstLook sensor can be used with both petrol (gasoline) and diesel vehicles. The waveform below is from a 4 cylinder diesel engine. The waveform consists of a series of stable and repeatable waves, indicating that the engine is in a good condition.
Four cylinder diesel engine at idle
To simulate a fault, an injector was disabled. The captured signal below shows how this has clearly affected the waveform — making it easy to see that there is a problem with the engine. If a suitable ignition signal had been used to trigger the scope it would then be possible to tell what cylinder of the engine was faulty.
Four cylinder diesel engine with a faulty injector
As you can see, using the FirstLook Sensor with PicoScope it is possible to diagnose faults fast and accurately — a relative compression test can typically be completed in only two minutes, while a cylinder efficiency test can be completed in just five minutes.
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