Arbitrary/function generators feature intuitive operation

The range consists of two models: the single-channel FG410 and the two-channel FG420: both generating signals of up to 20 V peak-to-peak over the frequency range from 0.01 µHz to 30 MHz. Operation is via front-panel pushbuttons and a 3.5-inch LCD screen which displays alphanumeric values alongside the generated waveforms.

The instruments incorporate a number of basic waveforms as standard, including sine, DC, ramp, square and pulse.

Advanced functions include sweep (frequency, phase, amplitude, DC offset and duty), modulation (FM, FSK, PM, PSK, AM, DC offset and PWM) and burst (auto, trigger, gate and triggered gate).

Up to 128 arbitrary waveforms of up to 512 kW per waveform can be generated and saved to the instrument's internal non-volatile memory, and can then be selected from a displayed list.

The waveforms can be created in the FG400 or with the free editing software included. Sequences of different waveform patterns can be generated and edited by programming the appropriate parameters.

The instruments can also generate arbitrary waveforms based on signals that have been acquired by measuring instruments. Troubleshooting is made easier as the instrument can then generate waveforms that are difficult to reproduce, such as noise that only occurs on site.

With the free editing software, waveforms that are acquired using a Yokogawa DL850E ScopeCorder or DLM4000 mixed-signal oscilloscope, for example, can be analysed on a PC to find the abnormal waveform. This abnormal part can then be clipped, saved and generated using the FG400.

The instruments also provide 25 different types of application-specific waveforms including those needed to evaluate the response characteristics of mechanical/electrical circuits and to emulate power supply circuits. As the parameters of these application-specific waveforms can be changed like those of basic waveforms, waveforms are quicker and easier to generate.

The two output channels of the FG420 can be linked. In this mode, both output signals vary when either channel is adjusted. In addition, up to six units can be linked and synchronised to provide up to 12 output channels. The phase of each channel is synchronised to the master unit and can be individually adjusted.

The generators also have an external input terminal which allow them to be used with a higher-accuracy external frequency reference such as a rubidium frequency standard.

Both instruments are bench top units each measuring 216 (W) × 88 (H) × 332 (D) mm and weighing approximately 2.1 kg.