This week I have found several software programs that claim to allow the use of an ordinary home computer as a low-frequency (less than 20 kHz) oscilloscope, by using the microphone input jack on a sound card (embedded or USB) for A to D conversion and/or data acquisition. Each package provides a graphical user interface that makes the computer screen "look" like an oscilloscope, with most of the standard controls and knobs as sliders. Functionality includes Fourier analysis, timing, voltage measurement, plotting of signals from one or two channels, and use as a signal generator. While all the packages warn of potential harm to the computer/soundcard from excess voltage, the idea of using a free or cheap piece of software instead of buying a $700 oscilloscope is attractive.
1) Does anyone on this list use any such software?
2) Which one? Why? How? Pros/Cons? Please tell.
3) Would buying a cheap USB soundcard be sufficient to protect the computer from voltage spikes, or would additional controls and conditioning be advised? What kind? How much?
4) Ant other thoughts, ideas, warnings, or suggestions?
Thanks!
- Ann R.
Dr. Ann M. Reagan
Adjunct Faculty
Department of Math/Physics/Engineering
College of Southern Maryland, Leonardtown Campus