COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY - DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS
The cathode ray oscilloscope is a useful tool in experimental physics and electronics. It can be used to measure potential differences which change rapidly with time - too rapidly to be followed by a simple voltmeter. It is important that you become familiar with the use of the oscilloscope; you are encouraged to explore its operation by manipulating all of its controls.
There is one precaution which you must take in order to protect the instrument: When the spot on the screen is stationary keep the intensity very low, in order not to damage the fluorescent screen by ``burning a hole'' in it at that point. In general, do not leave the intensity higher than necessary for reasonable visibility.