Test and measurement tools: “A logic analyzer is used to display a timing diagram.” Decide if this statement is accurate, considering how logic analyzers capture and present digital signals.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Correct

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Logic analyzers are essential when debugging digital systems with many lines or buses. Unlike oscilloscopes that show analog waveforms, logic analyzers sample logic levels and present timing relationships across multiple channels, often as digital timing diagrams and decoded protocol views.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Digital signals are captured as 0/1 using thresholding.
  • Multiple channels are sampled simultaneously or interleaved with time stamps.
  • Tooling renders channels and bus states over time for interpretation.


Concept / Approach:
A timing diagram shows when signals transition relative to each other and to reference clocks. Logic analyzers trigger on events, capture sample windows, and display transitions and state changes, precisely fulfilling the role of producing timing diagrams suitable for debugging setup/hold, bus contention, or protocol timing.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Connect analyzer pods to relevant digital lines.Set trigger conditions and sample rate to meet Nyquist-like needs for edges.Acquire and render the capture; view bus groups and protocols as timing diagrams.Analyze edge placement, pulse widths, and inter-signal timing.


Verification / Alternative check:
Vendor manuals describe timing/state modes and protocol decoders; screenshots are classic timing diagrams across channels with cursors and measurements.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Incorrect: Contradicts the primary display mode of logic analyzers.
  • Only for analog oscilloscopes: Oscilloscopes show analog voltage; logic analyzers abstract to digital states.
  • Only with protocol decoders: Decoders are optional; raw timing diagrams are the base feature.
  • Sampling rate caveat: Rate affects fidelity, not the instrument’s purpose.


Common Pitfalls:
Expecting analog amplitude details from a logic analyzer; for analog timing fidelity and edge shape, use an oscilloscope in tandem.


Final Answer:
Correct

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