Across universities in the UK and abroad, Pico Technology oscilloscopes and vector network analysers are increasingly used in both teaching and research. Based on conversations with educators and researchers, their applications generally fall into three main areas.
Undergraduate teaching and lab work
Universities can equip labs with PicoScopes at a fraction of the cost of traditional benchtop oscilloscopes. This enables a 1:1 student-to-scope ratio, giving students more hands-on experience without the need to share equipment.
The compact, USB-powered design is highly portable, making it ideal for both remote learning and quick setup of fully functional lab environments using a personal computer.
PicoScope 7 software includes features that would often be expensive extras on traditional oscilloscopes:
- Serial protocol decoding: Students can decode protocols like I²C, SPI, and Manchester to debug digital systems.
- Spectrum analysis: Built-in spectrum analyser for frequency-domain studies, essential for RF and signal-processing courses.
- Arbitrary Waveform Generator (AWG): Generates a variety of test signals.
- Seamless data integration: Capture, save, and paste waveforms directly into assignments.
- Lab work submission: Free PicoScope 7 software allows emailing of .psdata files for assessment.
Examples include the University of Birmingham, where the PicoScope 2204A is used for “First Year Experiments,” and Leeds Beckett University, where the 3403D MSO supports Industrial Automation labs.
Research and postgraduate projects
Beyond entry-level education, Pico’s high-performance 6000 Series oscilloscopes - with deep memory, fast sampling, high bandwidth, and flexible resolution - are widely used in postgraduate and research projects. These instruments support advanced applications such as high-speed communications, signal integrity, and embedded-system development. The VNA106 and VNA108 vector network analysers are also adopted for a variety of specialised research tasks.
- Mixed-Signal Oscilloscopes (MSOs): Ideal for projects involving microcontrollers, FPGAs, and power supplies, analysing analogue and digital signals simultaneously.
- Software Development Kits (SDKs): Free SDKs allow custom control and automated testing via Python, C++, MATLAB, and LabVIEW.
Examples include Northumbria University, where the 6000E and 9400 are used for postgraduate research into sensors and software-defined radio, and Istanbul Technical University, which employs the VNA106 for medical research and testing concrete infrastructure post-earthquake.
Curriculum development and specialised training
- Mixed-Signal and Oscilloscope Training Boards: These demo boards guide students through exercises to master oscilloscope functionality and are integrated into curricula such as at Leeds Beckett University.
- Network Metrology Training Kits: Covering the basics of RF measurements, these kits include manuals to guide practical exercises when used with a VNA.
Rapid is proud to offer Pico Technology products, supporting universities in providing reliable, hands-on learning and research experiences. See how we help universities like Coventry University with test and measurement solutions from leading brands such as Tektronix here
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