Tektronix Type 536 X-Y scope, 10 MHz

The Tektronix Type 536 is an X-Y oscilloscope designed for phase measurements and curve tracing, featuring identical vertical and horizontal amplifiers that deliver equal bandwidth in both axes. Introduced in 1957, the instrument accepts two letter-series and 1-series plug-in units, enabling configuration flexibility for diverse laboratory applications. With a T5360 CRT, it achieves 11 MHz bandwidth in both directions.

When equipped with a Type T Time-Base Generator plug-in, it functions as a conventional oscilloscope with triggered time base capability.

Technical Specifications

• Vertical and horizontal amplifiers: DC to 11 MHz (direct connection to deflection plates)


• DC to 10 MHz with Type G Differential Plug-In Pre-amplifiers


• DC to 15 MHz with fast-rise plug-in preamplifier units


• Vertical-deflection amplifier risetime: 0.03 µsec


• Horizontal-deflection amplifier risetime: 0.03 µsec


• Type N Sampling Unit enables 0.6 nsec risetime (approximately 600 MHz maximum bandpass)


• Type K Plug-In Preamplifier: 12 nsec risetime for DC to 30 MHz passband


• Bandwidth reduces below 2 MHz at sensitivities exceeding 0.05 V/cm; approximately 350 kHz at 1 mV/cm Deflection System (Main Unit)


• Vertical deflection factor: 0.1 volt/div


• Horizontal deflection factor: 0.1 volt/div


• Linear deflection: 10 divisions (3–8 inches)


• CRT accelerating potential: 4,000 volts


• CRT viewing area: 8 by 10 cm Phase Measurement


• Less than 1° relative phase difference from DC to 15 MHz (with Type G Differential Plug-In Pre-amplifiers)


• Phase balance obtainable at any frequency to over 25 MHz Triggering (with Type T Time-Base Generator)


• Trigger sources: Line frequency, external, AC or DC coupled, automatic, or high-frequency sync


• Triggering point: Adjustable on rising or falling slope


• Required signal for triggering: 0.2 volts to 50 volts


• Automatic mode eliminates triggering adjustments in standard applications

Key Features

• Identical amplifier design ensures consistent phase and amplitude relationships across X and Y axes


• Direct deflection plate connection supports DC measurements


• Phosphor options include P1, P7, and P11


• Configurable for high-speed transient capture via Type N Sampling Unit

Typical Applications

• Phase relationship analysis


• Curve tracing and component characterization


• Lissajous pattern generation


• Triggered waveform capture (with Type T plug-in)

Compatibility & Integration The Type 536 accepts letter-series and 1-series plug-in units for both horizontal and vertical axes. Type G Differential Pre-amplifiers extend bandwidth to DC–10 MHz and improve phase accuracy. Type T Time-Base Generator plug-in converts the instrument to conventional time-base operation. Type N Sampling Unit and Type K Preamplifier support higher bandwidth applications.