Tektronix TCP0020 20 A AC/DC Current Probe (TekVPI)

Key Features At A Glance

• Bandwidth DC to ≥50 MHz with ≤7 ns rise time across the series
• Measures current as low as 10 mA (on oscilloscopes supporting a 1 mV/div setting)
• Maximum bare-wire voltage 150 V CAT II (300 V CAT II with insulated wire)
• DC accuracy of ±1% typical, ±3% warranted; DC coupling only
• Maximum current from 15 ADC + Peak AC to 20 ARMS; peak pulse 50 A to 100 A across the family
• Split-core construction for easy circuit connection
• Interface options across the series: TekVPI, TekProbe, and BNC output
• Automatic units scaling and on-screen readout on supported oscilloscopes

The Tektronix TCP0020, TCP2020, and TCP202A are a family of high-performance, easy-to-use AC/DC current probes designed for use with a variety of oscilloscopes. Each clamps around a conductor to measure both AC and DC current, presenting low insertion impedance to the circuit under test. The three models differ primarily in their oscilloscope interface and maximum current range.

A current probe lets an engineer measure current without breaking into the circuit, displaying the result as a waveform on a connected oscilloscope. Tektronix lists the intended applications for this family as power supplies, semiconductor devices, power inverters and converters, electronic ballasts, industrial and consumer electronics, mobile communications, motor drives, and transportation systems.

Compare Other Models in This Series

The TCP0020, TCP2020, and TCP202A make up a single Tektronix family of AC/DC current probes built for use with a variety of oscilloscopes. They share a 50 MHz-class measurement capability and a common AC/DC current-measurement approach, while differing in how they connect to the host instrument and in their maximum current range.

Tektronix designs the TCP0020 for direct connection to oscilloscopes with the TekVPI interface and the TCP202A for direct connection to oscilloscopes with the TekProbe interface, while the TCP2020 is built for any instrument with BNC inputs and greater-than-100 kΩ termination. This lets a buyer match the probe to the oscilloscope or measurement equipment already on the bench.

Each new model below is its own dedicated product page with condition-matched pricing. Select the model that fits your oscilloscope interface and current range, then choose the new listing that matches your budget and availability needs.

The TCP0020 connects directly to oscilloscopes with the TekVPI probe interface and is powered through that interface, with no separate adapter required. It provides automatic units scaling and readout on the oscilloscope display, one-button degauss and AutoZero control, an on-screen probe menu for setup and operating-status information, and remote-control capability through the TekVPI oscilloscope. It offers 20 ARMS maximum current capability and 100 A peak pulse current capability.

The clearest differences across the family are interface and current handling. The TCP0020 (TekVPI) and TCP2020 (BNC output, AC-adapter powered) both provide 20 ARMS maximum current and 100 A peak pulse current, while the TCP202A (TekProbe interface) provides 15 ADC + Peak AC maximum current and 50 A peak pulse current. Maximum amp-second product is 1000 A·µs for the TCP0020 and TCP2020 and 500 A·µs for the TCP202A.

Power and control also vary: the TCP0020 draws power from the TekVPI interface, the TCP202A draws power from the TekProbe interface (or through TekVPI with the TPA-BNC adapter), and the TCP2020 is powered by an AC adapter whose plug option is specified at order time. The TCP2020 additionally offers 10 mA/mV sensitivity. The comparison table below summarizes these per-model differences.

Additional differences in specifications beyond the few shown above are not listed here — see each model's full specifications below.

Accessories Supplied

• Instruction Manual (English) (071-3002-xx)
• Probe Ground Lead – 6 in. length (196-3120-xx)
• Nylon Carrying Case (016-1952-xx)

Product Core & Specifications

Important: The TCP2020's BNC output requires greater-than-100 kΩ input termination.

Important: The TCP2020 is powered by an AC adapter; specify the power plug option when ordering.

Important: The TCP202A is powered directly by oscilloscopes with the TekProbe interface, or through the TekVPI interface when used with the TPA-BNC adapter.

Important: The maximum bare-wire voltage is 150 V CAT II (300 V CAT II with insulated wire).

Recommended pairing: the 067-1686-xx Deskew/Calibration Fixture for probe deskew, and the 067-2396-xx Current Loop (1 turn, 50 Ω, with BNC connector) for performance verification.

About this New unit

This is a brand-new, factory-sealed unit, supplied exactly as it arrives from the manufacturer and backed by the full manufacturer warranty. For the exact configuration, available options, included accessories, or current lead time for your application, our Test Architects can confirm the details before you order.

ValueTronics supplies both new and used test and measurement equipment. New units ship factory-sealed, exactly as received from the manufacturer; every used unit is inspected and functionally verified in-house at our 20,000 sq ft secure facility in Elgin, Illinois before it ships. Our Test Architects can help you select the condition, calibration, and configuration that fit your application.

Please review the Manufacturer's Data Sheet to verify published specifications. Feedback on this webpage is always welcome — please reach out to your Test Architect at any time for questions or concerns. Thank you, we truly appreciate you being our customer.