TV&VGA-to-scope converter circuits

Hot Topics:

By Collin Cunningham
Posted 2008/06/02 @ 10:48 am
Category Art & Design, Electronics

Yet another entry for the scope-abilities list -
These projects offer the ability to convert composite or VGA video signals for oscilloscope display. You’ll need a scope with Z/intensity input in addition to the X & Y axes in order to pull this one off. Hey, how else are you going to get that authentic analog-green shot for the music vid? – seriously, anyone?

- TV-to-scope converter

- VGA-to-scope converter

Related:

Youscope (oscilloscope demo)

Vector-based Pong on an Oscilloscope

Oscilloscope Tetris
&
AVR Oscilloscope clock

In the Maker Shed

Cube 3D Printer

BrushBots

Brooklyn Aerodrome Flying Wing Kit

Getting Started with Arduino Kit v3.0

4 Responses to TV&VGA-to-scope converter circuits

anachrocomputer on June 2nd, 2008 at 3:24 pm said:

It’s vitally important to keep at least one green-screen monitor in working order. I have one that I use for Matrix-style video hacks on old 8-bit machines, for the full glowing green characters effect.

Just a small point about the dual 555 circuit shown above, it’ll generate slightly non-linear scan ramps because the capacitors are being charged through fixed resistors. For truly linear scans, connect the 555 to a constant-current circuit instead of those 1Mohm trimmers.

Reply ↓
TheDonkey on June 2nd, 2008 at 7:25 pm said:

Now, I know NOTHING about oscilliscopes,

but wouldn’t moving the “head” around that much damage it or wear it out excessively?

Reply ↓
Collin Cunningham on June 3rd, 2008 at 3:00 am said:

@TheDonkey: no, I don’t believe so – NTSC video signal writes one field(1/2 frame) 60 times a second – or 60hz – most analog/CRT oscilloscopes are rated well into the megahurtz – so that scope won’t feel a thing. It’s just doin’ its job proper.

There is some danger of very intense signals marring the phosphor screen tho – the above project page talk abit on that.

Reply ↓
Cybasumo on June 3rd, 2008 at 3:04 am said:

Nice tips! i did not knew that they are all somewhat connected.

Reply ↓