3-Phase Measurement Guide

Get a practical guide to measuring three-phase motor drives with an oscilloscope. Learn setup tips, key measurements, and analysis techniques for PWM signals, power, speed, torque, efficiency, and overall system behavior.
Nov. 11, 2026

This primer describes methods for making measurements using inverter, motor and drive analysis software on oscilloscopes to provide stable, accurate electrical measurements on the inputs, DC buses, and outputs of variable frequency drives, as well as mechanical measurements on the motor.

In this primer you will learn:

  • Basic variable frequency drive structure
  • Fundamentals of pulse width modulation (PWM)
  • How to select and set up oscilloscope probes
  • Selecting the proper wiring configuration
  • How to make measurements on variable frequency drives
    • Electrical measurements
      • Input Measurements
      • DC Bus Measurements
      • Output Measurements
      • DQ0 Measurements
    • Mechanical Measurements
      • Speed, Direction and Acceleration
      • Torque
      • Mechanical Power
      • System Efficiency

Get this practical reference to help you set up your oscilloscope with confidence, capture stable and accurate measurements, and gain deeper insight into the performance and efficiency of your motor drive system.