The 1X and 10X factors on an oscilloscope probe refer to the attenuation of the probe. A 1X probe does not attenuate the signal, while a 10X probe attenuates the signal by a factor of 10. A 10X probe is often used to reduce the loading effect of the probe on the circuit being measured and to provide higher measurement range. For example, if the input signal is 5 volts and a 10X probe is used, the oscilloscope will measure 0.5 volts on its front end. Some oscilloscopes and probes automatically scale the reading on the display, while others require the user to multiply readings by 10.