USB flexible power PicoScope oscilloscopes can be powered from a variety of sources. Many models can be powered directly from the USB connection, while the highest-performance models require an external AC adaptor. Some models can operate with USB power with two channels turned on, but require an AC adaptor to support four-channel operation. When you plug in a flexible-power scope, PicoScope shows you a power options panel like this. The range of options depends on the capabilities of the scope.