Now available from TTi is the Tektronix AFG3000 series of arbitrary/function generators, consisting of six models with the market-leading 240MHz, dual-channel, 2GS/s AFG3252 at the head of the series
Thanks to an innovative architecture based on a powerful 'generator on a chip' (GoC) ASIC, the AFG3000 series delivers industry-leading performance in its class, says TTi (Thurlby Thandar Instruments).
At the same time, the platform's user interface is straightforward and easy to use, maximising productivity.
The AFG3000 series spans a broad range of applications.
The 240MHz models at the top of the series will appeal to designers developing high-performance computing or communications equipment and video products.
The high 2Gs/s sampling rate and wide analogue bandwidth provide a minimum rise time of less than 2.5ns.
Both rise and fall times can be independently adjusted on single or dual channels up to a maximum of 62.5seconds.
The AFG3000 supports 12 standard functions (waveform shapes), including sinusoidal waves at frequencies up to 240MHz.
A built-in arbitrary waveform generator capable of delivering sample rates up to 2GS/s (an industry first in this class of signal sources) and 14-bit amplitude resolution can generate or replicate any waveform.
This exceptional performance is essential for maintaining narrow test margins, and it protects the user's investment as bandwidth requirements increase over time.
All the instruments in the series are equipped with a stable time base whose drift is only +/-1part per million per year.
The dual-channel models provide completely independent selection of waveform and frequency for each channel.
Designers working with mixed-signal devices, for example, will be able to drive the device with both analogue and digital signals simultaneously, at two distinct frequencies if necessary.
Similarly, two serial bit streams - one 'ideal' and the other impaired, can be fed to a component at the same time.
By using the 'phase align' and 'phase adjust' features, the dual-channel versions are also ideal for generating I and Q channels for testing of communications equipment components.
The large (5.6 inch) LCD display on every AFG3000 series model is easy to read at a glance, offering ample space for both graphical waveforms and instrument settings.
This display supports an information-rich user interface that is patterned after the proven graphical interface used in Tektronix oscilloscopes.
Simple on-screen menus are supplemented by shortcut keys that control the most common waveform parameters.
AFG3000 Series users can move quickly around the front panel to set up even the most complex modulated signals.
The 0.18microseconds Asic at the heart of the AFG3000 series instruments integrates a host of essential features into a single CMOS chip encompassing the core signal-generating functions.
The GoC incorporates a direct digital synthesis (DDS) circuit, a digital-to-analogue convertor, and other signal-generating elements including a pulse generator with variable period and independently adjustable rise and fall times, a modulation source, a noise source, and a frequency sweep generator.
The Asic also includes up to 128K of arbitrary waveform memory.
Standard function generator waveforms are stored in separate memory.
The GoC design enables better performance and lower cost than has been previously available in this class of instrument.
USB, GPIB and Lan interfaces are provided, with an additional front panel USB connector for waveform storage on a memory device.
