convert your PC to an oscope for $1

[Admin]

The full article:
http://www.roboticsindia.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=112

basically, use a sound jack and hook it up to your circuit:


then run this program:
http://poly.phys.msu.su/%7Ezeld/oscill.html


or create your your own signals (function generator)
http://www.virtins.com/



(note: I haven't actually tried it myself)

[rgcustodio]

good for low speed devices. if you go up to 10MHz++ it might be overwhelmed.

[krich]

I seem to remember reading that this won't work with DC voltages due to some filtering going on in the typical sound card.  I may be wrong...actually, I hope I am.

[BANE]

what about just for standard servos and stuff?  For only a $1 it might be worth a shot.

BTW, the first link Admin posted says "forbidon"  does it say that when anyone else tries?

Bane

[JonHylands]

Thing you have to remember - it only costs $1 until you fry your PC, then suddenly it costs a lot more...

- Jon

[izua]

You can't fry the pc thateasy. I fried a mike input, though, attempting someting similar. Line signal has a 1V swing, so that's +-0.5. keep that in mind when delivering signals to your audio card.

[krich]

The software is here:

http://www.zelscope.com/

And look what I found in the FAQ.   

Q: Can Zelscope display DC voltage?
A: No. All known sound cards contain a capacitor which provides AC coupling and prevents DC from reaching the card's analog to digital converter. Low-frequency oscillations (below 15-20Hz) usually get through, but may be distorted.