Talk to your Oscilloscope
Tektronix has introduced an innovative software package
that provides design engineers and technicians with a
voice-controlled, multi-lingual user interface for its TDS Series
of oscilloscopes. With the advent of VocalLinkTM software,
Tektronix delivers simplified operation of the oscilloscope to
aid users dealing with complex probing situations
The new software from Tektronix is designed to help users by keeping
them focused on the important task of actually making the measurement.
For example, when making critical measurements, an engineer's full
attention needs to be focussed on what is actually being measured.
Sometimes the user needs both hands to hold the probes or manipulate
the device under test. A simple distraction such as adjusting oscilloscope
settings or looking away from the device to check an on-screen reading
may mean the difference between success and failure.
A similar situation occurs when critical measurements have to be made
on closely spaced, fine-pitched parts while the user is holding two or
more probes. Just when everything is positioned correctly, an oscilloscope
setting may need changing, with the result that the probes have to be
repositioned all over again. On other occasions, the user may just want
to be able to control the oscilloscope while concentrating on the
measurement results without distraction.
Voice control software
All these situations and more can be tackled using the VocalLink voice
control software. VocalLink allows full control of measurements with
simple, spoken commands. It also completes the link by providing
audible feedback of commands, confirming they have been implemented
as spoken. In addition, audible results of measurements are provided
without the user having to look at the display or push any buttons.
Set-up is simple and easy. This software is compatible with a wide
variety of Tektronix oscilloscopes. With the recently introduced TDS7000
Series of Digital Phosphor Oscilloscopes, the VocalLink software can
be installed directly from the oscilloscope's CDROM; then the user only
has to plug in the headset, and voice-controlled measurements can be
started in a matter of minutes. For use with other compatible Tektronix
oscilloscopes (TDS500/ 600/700 Series and TDS3000 Series),
a computer-to-oscilloscope control link must first be established prior
to installing the software.
To operate the software, the user first speaks a simple phrase into the
microphone (as prompted on the oscilloscope screen), allowing the
VocalLink software to set the correct voice level. The VocalLink software
will then recognise and immediately implement over 60 standard
oscilloscope commands. This enables most common oscilloscope
measurements to be made on spoken command.
The recognition capability of VocalLink software is very robust. After
the one-phrase voice-level setup, the measurement system can be
controlled with ease and clarity - even in noisy environments such as
the manufacturing floor or in close proximity to process equipment.
VocalLink software can accommodate multiple users, often without
any adjustment. It easily accommodates variations in tonal inflections,
enunciation and accent of the user. And, since audible feedback is
provided, the user can be sure a command has been correctly
received and implemented.
Languages
VocalLink is also multi-linguistic. Multiple languages can beloaded
at initial set-up, with switching between available languages being
carried out by a simple menu selection. If an additional language is
needed at a later stage, the software set-up can be updated from the
CD-ROM. The software supports nine spoken languages - English,
German, French, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Castilian
Spanish and Mandarin Chinese (with on-screen menus available in
both simplified and traditional Chinese character sets).
All feedback is provided in the selected language - both audible
feedback and on-screen displays - and all the software features are
available in the selected language.
Macro capabilities
A macro facility is available which allows complex measurement
sequences to be recorded so that they can be implemented with
a single voice command. Macros can contain just a few simple
steps to help make routine, repetitive measurements with ease,
or they can consist of many detailed steps to ensure that the correct
sequence is followed when making complex measurements. They are
equally suited to 'one of a kind' repetitive tests or complex test routines
(e.g. pass/fail scenarios) for a manufacturing test line.
Conclusion
VocalLink voice control software can change the way oscilloscope
measurements are made. Users no longer need to keep one hand
free to change oscilloscope settings, or continuously look away from
the focus of the measurement to get the results.
Whether engineers are working with semiconductors, computers,
communications or other applications, Tektronix oscilloscopes are
available for every development, testing or debugging need. Now,
with VocalLink software, the measurement task has become
significantly easier.
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For further information, contact:-
Tektronix
Tel: +44(0) 1344 392 000
November 2000