The Cathode Oscillograph as Used in the Study of Lightning and Other Surges on Transmission Lines

Visible records of the effects of lightning surges and transients on transmission lines are described in this paper, which explains the operation of a specially constructed cathoderay oscillograph. The outstanding feature of this oscillograph is its ability to record phenomena of a microsecond in duration, while at the same time the instrument is maintained in an exposed position for as much as a million times as long as the occurrence. Methods of eliminating load frequency are discussed. Different types of lightning surges are reproduced. The use of the oscillograph for making graphic records of switching surges on transmission lines is also demonstrated.