User’s Guide
Publication Number 33120-90006 (order as 33120-90104 manual set) Edition 6, March 2002
© Copyright Agilent Technologies, Inc. 1994-2002
For Safety information, Warranties, and Regulatory information, see the pages following the Index.
Agilent 33120A
15 MHz Function /
Arbitrary Waveform Generator
Note: Unless otherwise indicated, this manual applies to all Serial Numbers.
The Agilent Technologies 33120A is a high-performance 15 MHz synthesized function generator with built-in arbitrary waveform capability. Its combination of bench-top and system features makes this function generator a versatile solution for your testing requirements now and in the future.
Convenient bench-top features
œ10 standard waveforms
œBuilt-in 12-bit 40 MSa/s arbitrary waveform capability
œEasy-to-use knob input
œHighly visible vacuum-fluorescent display
œInstrument state storage
œPortable, ruggedized case with non-skid feet
Flexible system features
œFour downloadable 16,000-point arbitrary waveform memories
œGPIB (IEEE-488) interface and RS-232 interface are standard
œSCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) compatibility
œAgilent IntuiLink Arb Waveform Generation Software for Microsoft® Windows® included
Agilent 33120A
15 MHz Function /
Arbitrary Waveform Generator
1 |
Function / Modulation keys |
5 |
Recall / Store instrument state key |
2 |
Menu operation keys |
6 |
Enter Number key |
3 |
Waveform modify keys |
7 |
Shift / Local key |
4 |
Single / Internal Trigger key |
8 |
Enter Number “units” keys |
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(Burst and Sweep only) |
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2
You can enter numbers from the front-panel using one of three methods.
Use the knob and the arrow keys to modify the displayed number.
Use the arrow keys to edit individual digits.
Increments the flashing digit.
Decrements the flashing digit.
Moves the flashing digit to the right.
Moves the flashing digit to the left.
Use the “Enter Number” mode to enter a number with the appropriate units.
Use “Enter” for those operations that do not require units to be specified (AM Level, Offset, % Duty, and Store/Recall State).
3
The menu is organized in a top-down tree structure with three levels.
A: MODulation MENU
1: AM SHAPE 2: AM SOURCE 3: FM SHAPE 4: BURST CNT 5: BURST RATE
6: BURST PHAS 7: BURST SRC 8: FSK FREQ 9: FSK RATE 10: FSK SRC
B:SWP (Sweep) MENU
1:START F 2: STOP F 3: SWP TIME 4: SWP MODE
C:EDIT MENU*
1: NEW ARB [ 2: POINTS ] [ 3: LINE EDIT ] [ 4: POINT EDIT ] [ 5: INVERT ] [ 6: SAVE AS ] 7: DELETE
*The commands enclosed in square brackets ( [ ] ) are “hidden” until you make a selection from the NEW ARB command to initiate a new edit session.
D: SYStem MENU
1: OUT TERM 2: POWER ON 3: ERROR 4: TEST 5: COMMA 6: REVISION
E: Input / Output MENU
1: HPIB ADDR 2: INTERFACE 3: BAUD RATE 4: PARITY 5: LANGUAGE
F:CALibration MENU*
1:SECURED or [ 1: UNSECURED ] [ 2: CALIBRATE ] 3: CAL COUNT 4: MESSAGE
*The commands enclosed in square brackets ( [ ] ) are “hidden” unless the function generator is UNSECURED for calibration.
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Adrs |
Function generator is addressed to listen or talk over a remote interface. |
Rmt |
Function generator is in remote mode (remote interface). |
Trig |
Function generator is waiting for a single trigger or external trigger (Burst, Sweep). |
AM |
AM modulation is enabled. |
FM |
FM modulation is enabled. |
Ext |
Function generator is set for an external modulation source (AM, FSK, Burst). |
FSK |
FSK (frequency-shift keying) modulation is enabled. |
Burst |
Burst modulation is enabled. |
Swp |
Sweep mode is enabled. |
ERROR |
Hardware or remote interface command errors are detected. |
Offset |
The waveform is being output with an offset voltage. |
Shift |
“Shift” key has been pressed. Press “Shift” again to turn off. |
Num |
“Enter Number” mode is enabled. Press “Shift-Cancel” to disable. |
Arb |
Arbitrary waveform function is enabled. |
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Sine waveform function is enabled. |
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Square waveform function is enabled. |
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Triangle waveform function is enabled. |
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Ramp waveform function is enabled. |
To review the display annunciators, hold down the Shift key as you turn on the function generator.
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1 |
Chassis ground |
5 |
External Trigger / FSK / Burst modulation |
2 |
Power-line fuse-holder assembly |
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input terminal |
3 |
Power-line voltage setting |
6 |
GPIB (IEEE-488) interface connector |
4 |
AM modulation input terminal |
7 |
RS-232 interface connector |
Use the front-panel Input / Output Menu to:
œSelect the GPIB or RS-232 interface (see chapter 4).
œSet the GPIB bus address (see chapter 4).
œSet the RS-232 baud rate and parity (see chapter 4).
6
Quick Start Chapter 1 prepares the function generator for use and helps you get familiar with a few of its front-panel features.
Front-Panel Menu Operation Chapter 2 introduces you to the front-panel menu and describes some of the function generator’s menu features.
Features and Functions Chapter 3 gives a detailed description of the function generator’s capabilities and operation. You will find this chapter useful whether you are operating the function generator from the front panel or over the remote interface.
Remote Interface Reference Chapter 4 contains reference information to help you program the function generator over the remote interface.
Error Messages Chapter 5 lists the error messages that may appear as you are working with the function generator. Each listing contains enough information to help you diagnose and solve the problem.
Application Programs Chapter 6 contains several remote interface application programs to help you develop programs for your application.
Tutorial Chapter 7 discusses the fundamentals of signal generation and modulation techniques.
Specifications Chapter 8 lists the function generator’s specifications.
For information on using the Phase-Lock Option for the 33120A, refer to the User’s and Service Guide included with the Option 001.
If you have questions relating to the operation of the 33120A,
call 1-800-452-4844 in the United States, or contact your nearest Agilent Technologies Sales Office.
If you believe your 33120A has failed, refer to “Operating Checklist”, “Types of Service Available”, and “Repackaging for Shipment” at the beginning of chapter 6 in the 33120A Service Guide.
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8
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To prepare the function generator for use 15 If the function generator does not turn on 16 To adjust the carrying handle 18
To set the output frequency 19 To set the output amplitude 20 To set a dc offset voltage 21 To set the duty cycle 22
To output a stored arbitrary waveform 23 To output a dc voltage 24
To store the instrument state 25
To rack mount the function generator 27
Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation
Front-panel menu reference 31 A front-panel menu tutorial 33
To select the output termination 40 To output a modulated waveform 41 To output an FSK waveform 44
To output a burst waveform 47 To output a frequency sweep 49 To trigger a burst or sweep 51
To turn off the comma separator 52
Chapter 3 Features and Functions
Output Configuration 55
Amplitude Modulation (AM) 71
Frequency Modulation (FM) 76
Burst Modulation 81
Frequency-Shift Keying (FSK) Modulation 90
Frequency Sweep 94
Triggering 98
Arbitrary Waveforms 103
System-Related Operations 109
Remote Interface Configuration 114
Calibration Overview 118
Power-On and Reset State 123
Contents
9
Contents
Contents
Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference
SCPI Command Summary 127 Simplified Programming Overview 136 Using the APPLy Command 138 Output Configuration Commands 145 AM Modulation Commands 154
FM Modulation Commands 157
Burst Modulation Commands 160 Frequency-Shift Keying (FSK) Commands 167 Frequency Sweep Commands 170
Arbitrary Waveform Commands 174 Triggering 186
System-Related Commands 188 Calibration Commands 193 RS-232 Interface Configuration 195 RS-232 Interface Commands 200 The SCPI Status Registers 201 Status Reporting Commands 209
An Introduction to the SCPI Language 211 Halting an Output in Progress 216
To set the GPIB address 217
To select the remote interface 218 To set the baud rate 219
To set the parity 220
SCPI Conformance Information 221 IEEE-488 Conformance Information 225
Chapter 5 Error Messages
Execution Errors 229
Self-Test Errors 237
Calibration Errors 238
Arbitrary Waveform Errors 240
10
Contents
Chapter 6 Application Programs
BASIC Programs 244
C Language Programs 244 QuickBASIC Language Programs 247 Using the APPLy Command 248 Using the Low-Level Commands 252
Downloading an Arbitrary Waveform over GPIB 255 Using the Status Registers 261
Downloading an Arbitrary Waveform over RS-232 267
Chapter 7 Tutorial
Direct Digital Synthesis 273
Signal Imperfections 276
Creating Arbitrary Waveforms 278
Output Amplitude Control 280
Floating Signal Generators 282
Attributes of AC Signals 283
Modulation 287
Chapter 8 Specifications
Frequency Characteristics 298
Sinewave Spectral Purity 298
Signal Characteristics 298
Output Characteristics 298
Modulation Characteristics 299
Frequency Sweep 299
System Characteristics 299
General Specifications 300
Product Dimensions 301
Index 303
Declaration of Conformity 309
Contents
11
Contents
Contents
12
1
1
Quick Start
Quick Start
One of the first things you will want to do with your function generator is to become acquainted with its front panel. We have written the exercises in this chapter to prepare the function generator for use and help you get familiar with some of the front-panel operations.
The front panel has two rows of keys to select various functions and operations. Most keys have a shifted function printed in blue above
the key. To perform a shifted function, press Shift (the Shift annun-
ciator will turn on). Then, press the key that has the desired label above it. For example, to select the AM (amplitude modulation)
function, press Shift AM |
(the shifted version of the |
key). |
If you accidentally press |
Shift , just press it again to turn off the |
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Shift annunciator. |
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Most keys also have a number printed in green next to the key.
To enable the number mode, press Enter Number (the Num annunciator
will turn on). Then, press the keys that have the desired numbers printed next to them. For example, to select the number “10”,
press Enter Number 1 0 |
(next to the |
and Recall keys). |
If you accidentally press |
Enter Number |
, just press Shift Cancel |
to turn off the Num annunciator. |
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Chapter 1 Quick Start
To prepare the function generator for use
1
To prepare the function generator for use
The following steps help you verify that the function generator is ready for use.
1 Check the list of supplied items.
Verify that you have received the following items with your function generator. If anything is missing, contact your nearest Agilent Technologies Sales Office.
One power cord.
One RS-232 serial cable.
This User’s Guide. One Service Guide.
One folded Quick Reference card.
Certificate of Calibration.
Agilent IntuiLink Arb Waveform Generation Software.
2Connect the power cord and turn on the function generator.
The front-panel display will light up while the function generator performs its power-on self-test. The GPIB bus address is displayed.
Notice that the function generator powers up in the sine wave function at 1 kHz with an amplitude of 100 mV peak-to-peak (into a 50W termination).
To review the power-on display with all annunciators turned on, hold down Shift as you turn on the function generator.
3Perform a complete self test.
The complete self-test performs a more extensive series of tests than those performed at power-on. Hold down Shift as you press the Power switch to turn on the function generator; hold down the key for more than 5 seconds. The self-test will begin when you release the key.
If the self-test is successful, “PASS” is displayed on the front panel. If the self-test is not successful, “FAIL” is displayed and the ERROR annunciator turns on. See the Service Guide for instructions on returning the function generator to Agilent for service.
15
Chapter 1 Quick Start
If the function generator does not turn on
If the function generator does not turn on
Use the following steps to help solve problems you might experience when turning on the function generator. If you need more help, see the Service Guide for instructions on returning the function generator to Agilent for service.
1Verify that there is ac power to the function generator.
First, verify that the function generator’s Power switch is in the
“On” position. Also, make sure that the power cord is firmly plugged into to the power module on the rear panel. You should also make sure that the power source you plugged the function generator into is energized.
2Verify the power-line voltage setting.
The line voltage is set to the proper value for your country when the function generator is shipped from the factory. Change the voltage setting if it is not correct. The settings are: 100, 120, 220, or 240 Vac (for 230 Vac operation, use the 220 Vac setting).
See the next page if you need to change the line-voltage setting.
3Verify that the power-line fuse is good.
The function generator is shipped from the factory with a 500 mAT fuse installed. This is the correct fuse for all line voltages.
See the next page if you need to change the power-line fuse.
To replace the 500 mAT fuse, order Agilent part number 2110-0458.
16
Chapter 1 Quick Start
If the function generator does not turn on
1
1Remove the power cord. Remove the fuse-holder assembly from the rear panel.
2Remove the line-voltage selector from the assembly.
3Rotate the line-voltage selector until the correct voltage appears in the window.
Fuse: 500 mAT (for all line voltages)
Part Number: 2110-0458
4Replace the fuse-holder assembly in the rear panel.
100, 120, 220 (230), or 240 Vac
Verify that the correct line voltage is selected and the power-line fuse is good.
17
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To adjust the carrying handle
To adjust the carrying handle
To adjust the position, grasp the handle by the sides and pull outward. Then, rotate the handle to the desired position.
Bench-top viewing positions |
Carrying position |
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Freq
Enter Number
1 . 2
¾MHz m Vpp
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To set the output frequency
1
To set the output frequency
At power-on, the function generator outputs a sine wave at 1 kHz with an amplitude of 100 mV peak-to-peak (into a 50W termination).
The following steps show you how to change the frequency to 1.2 MHz.
1Enable the frequency modify mode.
The displayed frequency is either the power-on value or the previous frequency selected. When you change functions, the same frequency is used if the present value is valid for the new function.
1.000,000,0 KHz
2Enter the magnitude of the desired frequency. 1
Notice that the Num annunciator turns on and “ENTER NUM” flashes on the display, indicating that the number mode is enabled.
1.2
To cancel the number mode, press Shift Cancel .
3Set the units to the desired value.
The units are selected using the arrow keys on the right side of the front panel. As soon as you select the units, the function generator outputs the waveform with the displayed frequency. To turn off the flashing digit, move the cursor to the left of the display using the arrow keys.
1.200,000,0 MHz
1You can also use the knob and arrow keys to enter a number. See “Front-Panel Number Entry” on page 3 for more information.
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Ampl
Enter Number
5 0
Shift
¿kHz
m Vrms
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To set the output amplitude
To set the output amplitude
At power-on, the function generator outputs a sine wave with an amplitude of 100 mV peak-to-peak (into a 50W termination).
The following steps show you how to change the amplitude to 50 mVrms.
1Enable the amplitude modify mode.
The displayed amplitude is either the power-on value or the previous amplitude selected. When you change functions, the same amplitude is used if the present value is valid for the new function.
100.0 mVPP
2Enter the magnitude of the desired amplitude. 1
Notice that the Num annunciator turns on and “ENTER NUM” flashes on the display, indicating that the number mode is enabled.
50
To cancel the number mode, press Shift Cancel .
3Set the units to the desired value.
The units are selected using the arrow keys on the right side of the front panel. As soon as you select the units, the function generator outputs the waveform with the displayed amplitude. To turn off the flashing digit, move the cursor to the left of the display using the arrow keys.
50.00 mVRMS
1You can also use the knob and arrow keys to enter a number. See “Front-Panel Number Entry” on page 3 for more information.
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Chapter 1 Quick Start
To set a dc offset voltage
1
To set a dc offset voltage
At power-on, the function generator outputs a sine wave with a dc offset voltage of 0 volts (into a 50W termination). The following steps show you how to change the offset to –1.5 mVdc.
Offset |
1 Enable the offset modify mode. |
The displayed offset voltage is either the power-on value or the previous offset selected. When you change functions, the same offset is used if the present value is valid for the new function.
Enter Number
1 . 5
Shift
¿kHz
m Vrms
+0.000 VDC
2 Enter the magnitude of the desired offset. |
1 |
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Notice that the Num annunciator turns on and “ENTER NUM” flashes on the display, indicating that the number mode is enabled. Notice that toggles the displayed value between + and – .
-1.5
To cancel the number mode, press Shift Cancel .
3Set the units to the desired value.
At this point, the function generator outputs the waveform with the displayed offset. Notice that the Offset annunciator turns on, indicating that the waveform is being output with an offset. The annunciator will turn on when the offset is any value other than 0 volts. To turn off the flashing digit, move the cursor to the left of the display using the arrow keys.
-01.50 mVDC
1You can also use the knob and arrow keys to enter a number. See “Front-Panel Number Entry” on page 3 for more information.
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Chapter 1 Quick Start
To set the duty cycle
To set the duty cycle
Applies only to square waves. At power-on, the duty cycle for square waves is 50%. You can adjust the duty cycle for a square waveform from 20% to 80%, in increments of 1% (for frequencies above 5 MHz, the range is 40% to 60%). The following steps show you how to change the duty cycle to 45%.
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Select the square wave function. |
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annunciator turns on, indicating that the |
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square wave function is enabled. |
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Shift |
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% Duty |
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Enable the duty cycle modify mode. |
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The displayed duty cycle is either the power-on value or the previous |
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value selected. |
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Enter Number
4 5
Enter
50 % DUTY
This message appears on the display for approximately 10 seconds. Repeat this step as needed.
3Enter the desired duty cycle. 1
Notice that the Num annunciator turns on and “ENTER NUM” flashes on the display, indicating that the number mode is enabled.
45
To cancel the number mode, press Shift Cancel .
4 Output the waveform with the displayed duty cycle.
45 % DUTY
1You can also use the knob and arrow keys to enter a number. See “Front-Panel Number Entry” on page 3 for more information.
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Chapter 1 Quick Start
To output a stored arbitrary waveform
1
To output a stored arbitrary waveform
There are five built-in arbitrary waveforms stored in non-volatile memory for your use. You can output these waveforms directly from non-volatile memory. The following steps show you how to output an “exponential rise” waveform from memory.
Shift |
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Arb List |
1 Display the list of arbitrary waveforms. |
The list contains the five built-in arbitrary waveforms (sinc, negative ramp, exponential rise, exponential fall, and cardiac). The list may also contain up to four user-defined arbitrary waveform names. The first choice on this level is “SINC”.
SINC
This message appears on the display for approximately 10 seconds.
Repeat this step as needed.
> >
Enter
2Move across to the EXP_RISE choice. 1
EXP_RISE
3Select and output the displayed arbitrary waveform.
Notice that the Arb annunciator turns on, indicating that the output is an arbitrary waveform. The waveform is output using the present settings for frequency, amplitude, and offset unless you change them.
The selected waveform is now assigned to the Arb key. Whenever you press this key, the selected arbitrary waveform is output.
1You can also use the knob to scroll left or right through the choices in the list. See “Front-Panel Number Entry” on page 3 for more information.
23
Enter Number
1 5 5
Shift
¿kHz
m Vrms
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To output a dc voltage
To output a dc voltage
In addition to generating waveforms, you can also output a dc voltage in the range – 5 Vdc (into a 50W termination). The following steps show you how to output +155 mVdc.
1 Press the Offset key and hold it down for more than 2 seconds.
To enter the dc voltage mode, press the Offset key or any key in the top row of function keys and hold it down for more than 2 seconds. The displayed voltage is either the power-on value or the previous offset voltage selected.
DCV
+0.000 VDC
2Enter the magnitude of the desired voltage. 1
Notice that the Num annunciator turns on and “ENTER NUM” flashes on the display, indicating that the number mode is enabled.
155
To cancel the number mode, press Shift Cancel .
3Set the units to the desired value.
At this point, the function generator outputs the displayed dc voltage. Notice that the Offset annunciator turns on (all other annunciators are off), indicating that a dc voltage is being output. The annunciator will turn on when the offset is any value other than 0 volts.
+155.0 mVDC
1You can also use the knob and arrow keys to enter a number. See “Front-Panel Number Entry” on page 3 for more information.
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Chapter 1 Quick Start
To store the instrument state
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To store the instrument state |
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You can store up to three different instrument states in non-volatile |
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memory. This enables you to recall the entire instrument configuration |
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with just a few key presses from the front panel. The following steps |
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show you how to store and recall a state. |
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1 Set up the function generator to the desired configuration. |
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The state storage feature “remembers” the function, frequency, |
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amplitude, dc offset, duty cycle, as well as any modulation parameters. |
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Store |
2 Turn on the state storage mode. |
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Three memory locations (numbered 1, 2, and 3) are available to store |
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instrument configurations. The instrument configuration is stored in |
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non-volatile memory and is remembered when power has been off. |
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STORE 1 |
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This message appears on the display for approximately 10 seconds. |
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Repeat this step as needed. |
¾3 Store the instrument state in memory location “2”. 1
Use the up and down arrow keys to select the memory location.
STORE 2
To cancel the store operation, press Shift Store again or let the display time-out after 10 seconds.
Enter |
4 Save the instrument state. |
The instrument state is now stored. To recall the stored state, turn to the next page.
1You can also use the knob or “enter number” mode to enter a memory location. See “Front-Panel Number Entry” on page 3 for more information.
25
Recall
Enter
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To store the instrument state
To verify that the state was stored properly, you can turn the power off before recalling the state.
5Recall the stored instrument state.
To recall the stored state, you must use the same memory location used previously to store the state. Use the up and down arrow keys to change the displayed storage location.
RECALL 2
To cancel the restore operation, press Recall again.
This message appears on the display for approximately 10 seconds. Repeat this step as needed.
6Restore the instrument state.
The function generator should now be configured in the same state as when you stored the setup on the previous page.
When power is turned off, the function generator automatically stores its state in memory location “0”. You can recall the power-down state, but you cannot store the state to location “0” from the front panel.
Use the POWER ON LAST STATE command in the SYS MENU to automatically recall the power-down state when power is turned on. See chapter 2 for more information on using the front-panel menus.
26
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To rack mount the function generator
1
To rack mount the function generator
You can mount the function generator in a standard 19-inch rack cabinet using one of three optional kits available. Instructions and mounting hardware are included with each rack-mounting kit.
Any Agilent System II instrument of the same size can be rack-mounted beside the 33120A Function Generator.
Remove the carrying handle, and the front and rear rubber bumpers, before rack-mounting the function generator.
To remove the handle, rotate it to the vertical position and pull the ends outward.
Front |
Rear (bottom view) |
To remove the rubber bumper, stretch a corner and then slide it off.
27
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To rack mount the function generator
To rack mount a single instrument, order adapter kit 5063-9240.
To rack mount two instruments side-by-side, order lock-link kit 5061-9694 and flange kit 5063-9212.
To install one or two instruments in a sliding support shelf, order shelf 5063-9255, and slide kit 1494-0015 (for a single instrument, also order filler panel 5002-3999).
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