Wednesday, March 09, 2013: A function generator is a category of signal source, for which the technology has evolved tremendously to impact performance, accuracy and ease of use. Starting from the vintage tube device and adding the microprocessor technology, to finally introducing a new generation of synthesised function generators, these generators have developed with time and requirements. Over the past two decades, direct digital synthesis (DDS) has been the waveform generation technology of choice in function generators, which has its intrinsic limitations. But today’s technology enables users to easily upgrade and expand the instruments’ capabilities when they need to increase bandwidth, and add true point-by-point arbitrary waveforms and deeper waveform memory. Here are some of the latest function generators launched in 2012.
Models: 4007B and 4013B, Brand: B&K Precision, Manufacturer: B&K Precision Corporation, USA, Prices: $375 and $425, respectively
Launched in January 2013, the 4007B and 4013B are the two new direct digital synthesis (DDS) sweep function generators. These models can generate sine and square waveforms from 0.1 Hz to 7 MHz and 0.1 Hz to 12 MHz, respectively.
Key features
The models provide variable output voltages from 0 to 10 Vpp into 50 ohms or 20 Vpp into open circuit •Variable DC offset from -4.5 V to 4.5 V, and adjustable 20 to 80 per cent duty cycles of up to 1 MHz for square and triangle waveform output •Comes with built-in overvoltage protection (OVP), overcurrent protection (OCP) and short circuit protection on the main output
Contact details: James Schada, product marketing engineer, Ph: (714) 921-9095, [email protected], www.bkprecision.com
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Model: SDG5000 series; Brand: Siglent Technologies, Manufacturer: Siglent Technologies Co Ltd, China
Launched in November 2012, SDG5000 series is an arbitrary waveform generator with excellent functions. With a maximum frequency of 160MHz, a maximum wavelength of 512Kpts, and 500M sample rate for both channels, SDG5000 stands out among all other similar products. With an improved module of the amplifier in the analogue channel, SDG5000 series in 20Vpp can output a frequency of 40 MHz while 10Vpp matches 100 MHz frequency.
Key features
High frequency and high amplitude •Isolated from earth, hence, more accurate test results •Minimum output signal is 2mV (high impedance), hence, deleting disturbances with output of small signals is ensured •Unique pulse wave generating technology •Applies Siglent’s own pulse generating technology
Contact details: Javen Zong (marketing), Ph: 0086-755-26616667, [email protected], www.siglent.com
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Model: FG-20DDS, Brand: Falcon Manufacturer: Falcon, India
Upgraded in November 2012, the FG-20 DDS is a 20 MHz DDS function generator, which uses DDS techniques with frequency stability and high 12-bit resolution to generate different signals at a 100MSa/s sampling rate. This instrument can be interfaced to a computer via the USB port. It has a large back lit LCD display screen, which is menu-driven for the selection of either of the two output channels with parameter settings. An external modulation source and synchronisation signal output provision gives it an edge over other similar types of function generators.
Key features
DDS technique with frequency stability and high resolution •High speed digital circuit and D/A converter •100MSa/s sampling rate •12-bit resolution •USB interface •Frequency sweep of FSK, ASK, PSK and burst •External modulation source •Synchronisation signal output •External trigger input
Contact details:Shankar Narayanan Nair, AGM, sales, Ph: 09341484462; [email protected], www.falconindia.biz
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Model: 33500B Series, Brand: Agilent Technologies, Manufacturer: Agilent Technologies, USA, Price: Starts from $1650 to $3250
Launched in August 2012, 33500B series of waveform generators offers trueform signal generation technology. It offers unmatched capabilities for generating a full range of signals for the most demanding measurements required when designing electronic devices. This new family of generators includes eight new one- and two-channel models. The instruments’ 16 bits of resolution allows engineers to make output changes down to 1 uV, giving them the ability to test today’s low-voltage circuits and designs. With this feature, engineers can enjoy the advantage of easy software upgrades to expand the instruments’ capabilities.
Key features
Provides the lowest jitter and lowest total harmonic distortion •Total harmonic distortion of less than 0.04 per cent and non-harmonic spurs of less than 75 dBc •Waveform summing and combining capability •Variable bandwidth noise allowing users with built-in noise generators to control the frequency content of their signals •Waveform sequencing allowing the user to create multiple configured waveforms with several common segments.
Contact details: Michael Saba, US sales manager, Ph: 510-845-3390, 1800-11-2929, [email protected], www.agilent.co.in
India branch: Agilent Technology Pvt Ltd
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Model: S Series, Brand: Scientech, Manufacturer: Scientech Technologies P Ltd, India, Price: Ranging from Rs 20,500 to Rs 24,900
Launched in August 2012, the S-series of synthesised function generators are based on the direct digital synthesis technique to generate stable and accurate output waveforms. With built-in internal modulation, a frequency counter and linear sweep, these function generators are the most user-friendly instruments for a variety of applications in laboratories.
Key features
Frequency range of 1–10 MHz •Sine, square, triangle, ramp, pulse, data and TTL •Internal modulations of AM, FM, FSK, PWM and burst •Direct digital synthesis technique •20Vpp output (OC) •Rise/fall time of ≤ 20ns •DC offset •60dB attenuation •LCD display •50 MHz frequency counter
Contact details: Manish Joshi, deputy CEO; Ph: 9827023723; [email protected], [email protected]; www.ScientechWorld.com
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Model: AFG2000; Brand: Tektronix, Manufacturer: Tektronix Inc, USA, Price: Starts from Rs 100,000
Launched in August 2012, AFG2000 relies on direct digital synthesis (DDS) techniques, which synthesise waveforms by using a single clock frequency to generate any frequency within the instrument’s range. DDS architecture provides exceptional frequency agility, making it possible to programme fast frequency and phase changes, which is useful for testing radio and satellite system components, amplifiers and filters. Enabled with ArbExpress software, it allows users to import real world signals captured with an oscilloscope onto a PC. The 2U height and half rack width form factor allows it to be stacked on other bench instruments. Its 8.9 cm (3.5 inch) colour TFT screen shows relevant parameters in both graphic and text formats. With a 20 MHz bandwidth, 14-bit resolution and 250 MS/s sample rate, this generator can create simple and complex signals.
Key features
1 uHz to 20 MHz frequency range •250 MS/s sample rate and ±1ppm time base •14 bit vertical resolution •8.9 cm (3.5 inch) colour TFT display •Innovative UI based on the popular AFG3000 design •2U height and half rack width form factor •ArbExpress software •SignalExpress software •Standard 3-year warranty
Contact details: Tomas Berghall, marketing director, Ph: 1-800-833-920; www.tek.com
India branch: Tektronix India
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