Scope probe 1x vs 10x setting, when does it matter?
Posted: Tue Jul 07, 2026 11:00 am
Finally got a used Rigol DS1052E. Probe has a 1x/10x switch. Nobody explained when to use which.
What I gathered:
Also: scope has to know probe setting (menu) or math is wrong. Missed this, read 10x voltage as 1x = confused for an hour.
Scope users: rule of thumb for probe setting? Just leave 10x always?
What I gathered:
- 10x: divides signal by 10, but higher bandwidth + less circuit loading
- 1x: full amplitude, but limited bandwidth + loads the circuit
Also: scope has to know probe setting (menu) or math is wrong. Missed this, read 10x voltage as 1x = confused for an hour.
Scope users: rule of thumb for probe setting? Just leave 10x always?