Innovation Award Profile: Pico Technology TA511 PicoBNC+ 1400V Differential Probe Kit
Q: What makes this product innovative?
A: The TA511 is the first of its kind, being a 1400V differential probe that is fully automated for voltage range selection. This means there are no switches or adjustments on the probe. The user simply connects the probe to the scope via BNC+ and chooses the range in the software just like any other voltage measurement.
Q: What was the inspiration behind creating this product?
A: Prior to the TA511, Pico didn't offer a purpose built differential probe for automotive use. Users had to previously adapt to using the TA041 and TA057 from the test & measurment side.
Q: How will this product improve the lives of technicians and shop owners?
A: This product allows 4225A and 4425A users to have a true differential measurement that can be used from 5V to 1400V on signals up to 20MHz. Technicians can use the TA511 to capture differential signals on everything from CAN bus and other high-speed networks (such as Flexray and CAN FD) all the way up to HEV 1400V signals safely and easily.
Q: Anything else our readers should know?
A: Another great feature of the TA511 is that it requires no batteries or external power supply. The probe is powered directly off the 4225A or 4425A using BNC+ technology.
The TA511 PicoBNC+ 1400V Differential Probe Kit from Pico Technology offers all of the PicoBNC+ benefits to high-voltage measurements, including probe recognition and elimination of manual switching and batteries. Technicians can use up to three probes simultaneously with the PicoScope 4425A Automotive scope while still meeting all safety requirements. The TA511 is rated to 1000V CAT III and equally effective at handling high-voltage signals for EV and hybrid systems as it is handling low-voltage differential signals, such as 5V communications.
About the Author
Nadine Battah
Editor-in-Chief
Nadine Battah is the editor-in-chief of Professional Tool & Equipment News (PTEN) and Professional Distributor magazines. She has been covering the automotive aftermarket since 2021, after graduating from Kent State University with a bachelor's degree in journalism and marketing.
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