The RIGOL RP1018H is a 1000:1 passive high-voltage probe for measuring ground-referenced high-voltage signals with a digital oscilloscope. It combines a maximum low-frequency input of 18kV with DC–100MHz bandwidth for testing high-voltage power supplies, industrial electronics, display systems and other grounded high-voltage circuits.
A 200MΩ input resistance and approximately 1.5pF input capacitance reduce loading on the circuit under test. The probe requires no external power supply and connects directly to a compatible oscilloscope BNC input.
Key Features
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1000:1 attenuation: Converts high-voltage signals into an amplitude suitable for oscilloscope measurement.
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Up to 18kV low-frequency input: Supports short-duration measurement of high-voltage ground-referenced circuits within CAT II limits.
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DC–100MHz bandwidth: Enables observation of fast waveform components when the signal remains within the frequency-dependent voltage limit.
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200MΩ input resistance: Reduces current drawn from high-impedance high-voltage circuits.
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1.5pF input capacitance: Limits capacitive loading during higher-frequency measurements.
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10pF–35pF compensation range: Allows the probe response to be matched to compatible oscilloscope inputs.
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CAT II rating: Complies with EN61010-031 CAT II requirements under the specified voltage conditions.
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2m test cable: Provides additional working distance between the operator, oscilloscope and high-voltage circuit.
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Passive operation: Requires no battery or external probe power supply.
Voltage Rating and Frequency Derating
The maximum permissible input voltage decreases as signal frequency increases. The 18kV rating and 100MHz bandwidth are separate operating limits and do not apply simultaneously.
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Maximum DC+AC peak input: 18kV CAT II at low frequency
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Maximum AC RMS input: 12kV CAT II
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Pulse-voltage limit: less than 12kVpp
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Typical derating point at 60Hz: 18kV
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Typical derating point at 10kHz: 9kV
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Typical derating point at 100kHz: 2kV
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Typical derating point at 100MHz: 150V
The RP1018H can measure up to 18kVDC for a maximum duration of one minute. For longer measurements of up to one hour, the DC input must remain below 9kV.
Measurement Performance
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Bandwidth: DC–100MHz
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Rise time: 3.5ns
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Attenuation ratio: 1000:1
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Input resistance: 200MΩ
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Input capacitance: approximately 1.5pF
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Maximum loading current: 90µA
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DC voltage accuracy: within 3% of full range
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AC voltage accuracy: within 3% at 1kHz
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Signal-to-noise ratio: greater than 60dB at 1kHz and greater than 50dB at 1MHz
Typical Applications
- High-voltage DC power-supply testing
- CRT and display-system servicing
- Industrial high-voltage equipment diagnostics
- Ground-referenced converter measurements
- Ignition and pulse-circuit testing
- Laboratory high-voltage waveform analysis
- Electronic maintenance and troubleshooting
Probe Compensation
The probe response can be adjusted to match oscilloscope input capacitances from 10pF to 35pF. Correct compensation improves square-wave response and amplitude accuracy across the measurement bandwidth.
For measurements above 40MHz, RIGOL specifies the shorter grounding connection to obtain improved grounding and frequency response.
Compatibility and Probe Selection
The RP1018H is compatible with RIGOL digital oscilloscopes and other suitable grounded oscilloscopes whose input capacitance falls within the 10pF–35pF compensation range.
This is a single-ended, ground-referenced probe. It is intended for circuits where the probe ground lead can be connected to a reliable earth-referenced ground. Floating switching nodes, bridge circuits and measurements between two non-grounded points require a high-voltage differential or isolated probe instead.
Safety-Oriented Design
- CAT II high-voltage measurement rating
- Long insulated probe body
- 2m measurement cable for additional working distance
- Dedicated ground connection
- Indoor operation from -10–55°C
- Protective carrying case for storage and transport
The ground connection is essential to correct and safe operation. The ground lead is connected before the probe tip contacts the high-voltage source, and the probe tip is removed before disconnecting the ground lead. The RP1018H is intended for trained personnel experienced in high-voltage measurement procedures.
Physical Specifications
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Cable length: 2±0.2m
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Probe dimensions: 80×80×320mm
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Weight: approximately 460g
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Operating temperature: -10–55°C
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Storage temperature: -20–70°C
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Maximum humidity: 85%RH at 35°C
Why Choose the RIGOL RP1018H?
The RP1018H is designed for high-voltage applications that exceed the range of conventional passive oscilloscope probes. Its 1000:1 attenuation, 200MΩ input resistance and frequency-dependent measurement capability make it suitable for qualified users working with grounded high-voltage systems up to 18kV.
