Thurlby Thandar Instruments TG1006 User Manual

TG1006
10MHz DDS Function Generator
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Table of Contents
Specifications 2 EMC 6 Safety 7 Installation 8 Connections 9 General 10 Standard Waveform Operation 11 Sweep 13 FSK 15 Store and Recall 16 LIST 17 Amplitude Modulation 17 External Counter 18 Calibration & Maintenance 18
This manual is 48591-1250 Issue 3
Note: The latest revision of this manual can be downloaded from: http://tti1.co.uk/downloads/manuals-generator.htm
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Range:
1mHz to 10MHz.
Resolution:
1mHz or 6 digits.
Accuracy:
10 ppm for 1 year; ± 1mHz below 0.2Hz.
Temperatur e Stability:
Typically <1 ppm/ºC outside 18° to 28°C.
Output Level:
1mV to 10Vpp into 50Ω.
<30dBc to 10MHz (typically <35dBc).
Nonharmonic Spurii:
<–55dBc to 1MHz, <–55dBc + 6dB/octave 1MHz to 10MHz.
Range:
1mHz to 10MHz.
Resolution:
1mHz or 6 digits.
Symmetry Control:
20% to 80%, 1mHz to 10MHz.
Accuracy:
10 ppm for 1 year; ± 1mHz below 0.2Hz.
Output Level:
1mV to 10Vpp into 50Ω.
Rise and Fall Times:
<25ns.
Aberrations:
<5% + 2mV.
Range:
1mHz to 1 MHz.
Resolution:
1mHz or 6 digits.
Accuracy:
10 ppm for 1 year; ± 1mHz below 0.2Hz.
Output Level:
1mV to 10Vpp into 50Ω.
Linearity Error:
<0.5% to 100 kHz.
Carrier Waveforms:
All
Sweep Mode:
Manual, linear or logarithmic, single or continuous.
setting of the start and stop frequency.
Sweep Time:
100ms to 999.99s (10ms resolution).
Sweep SYNC:
Start of sweep trigger available from SYNC output.
front panel MAN TRIG key.
frequency between the Start and Stop frequencies.
Specifications apply at 18°- 28°C after one hour warm-up, at maximum output into 50Ω.

WAVEFORMS

Standard waveforms of Sine, Squar e, Triangle and DC.

Sine

Harmonic Distortion: <0.3% THD to 20kHz (typically 0.1%).

Square

Specifications
<–45dBc to 300kHz.

Triangle

OPERATING MODES

Continuous
Continuous cycles of the selected waveform are output at the programmed frequency.

Sweep

Sweep Width:
Sweep Trigger Source: The sweep may be free run or a single sweep may be trigger ed from the
From 0.1Hz to 10MHz in one range. Phase continuous. Independent
Manual Sweep Mode: An analogue control can be used to set the gener ator to any intermediate
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Carrier Frequency:
From 1mHz to 10MHz.

Carrier Waveforms:

All.

Modulation Frequency:
400Hz internal. DC to 20kHz external.
External Modulation:
AM/COUNT IN socket.
Carrier frequency:
From 0.1Hz to 10MHz.
Carrier waveforms:
All.
Switch repetition rate:
DC to 10kHz (internal trigger).
Switching signal source:
Manual (front panel MAN TRIG key) or internal trigger g ener at or.
Carrier Waveforms:
All.

Frequency List:

Up to 10 frequencies fr om 1m Hz to 10MHz.

Switching Source:

Manual from front panel MAN TRIG key.

Output Impedance:
50and 600(not independent).
range. Amplitude can be displayed in Vpk-pk or Vrms.
Attenuator:
0, -20dB, -40dB, or -60dB.
Amplitude Flatness:
±0.2dB to 500kHz; ±2dB to 10MHz.
plus waveform attenuated proportionally by the attenuator.
Resolution:
3 digits for both Amplitude and DC Offset.
the same as that of the waveform at MAIN OUT.
oscilloscope.
Output Signal Level:
Output impedance 50nominal. Logic levels of <0. 8V & >3V.
Input Impedance:
40kΩ.
Input Sensitivity:
Approximately 2V peak-peak for 100% modulat ion.

Amplitude Modulation

Frequency Shift Keying (FSK)

Phase coherent switching between two selected frequencies at a rat e defined by the switching signal source.

Frequency List

Step through up to 10 stored frequencies.

OUTPUTS

Main Outputs

Amplitude:
DC Offset Range:

SYNC Out

Automatically selected to be either Waveform Sync or Sweep Sync.
Waveform Sync:
Sweep Sync: Outputs a trigger signal at t he s tart of sweep to synchronize an
2mV to 20V pk-pk open circuit, ( 1m V t o 10V pk-pk into 50/600) in four switch selectable ranges with 20dB vernier control within each
±10V. DC off set plus signal peak limited to ±10V from 50/600Ω; CLIP shows in display when offset plus signal peak exceeds ±10V. DC off s et
A square wave at the main waveform frequenc y. Symmetry is 50% for sine and triangle waves at MAIN OUT; for square waves symmetry is

INPUTS

AM In

The AM/COUNT IN socket is set to AM input when EXT AM is selected.
Maximum Allowable Input Voltage:
3
±10V.
Input Impedance:
1M//20pF.
Input Sensitivity:
50mVrms (sinewave).
1Vrms above 1MHz.
typically ±5% of range full scale.
corrected for attenuator setting.
Frequency Range:
3Hz to >120MHz.
Frequency Resolutuion:
Up to 7 digits displayed.
Input Sensitivity:
Better than 50mVrms (sinewave).
Measurement Time:
Automatic.
Accuracy:
±1 digit ± t imebas e accuracy.
1ppm/°C.
Display:
LCD.
by rotary control.
volatile memory.
Size:
260(W) x 88(H) x 235(D)
Weight:
1.45kg. (3.2lb.)
adjustable internally; 35VA max. Installation Category II.
Operating Range:
+5°C to 40°C, 20-80% RH.
Storage Range:
-20°C to + 60°C.
Environmental:
Indoor use at altitudes up to 2000m, Pollution Degr ee 2.
Safety & EMC:
Complies with EN61010-1 & EN61326.

Count In

The AM/COUNT IN socket is set to external frequency measurement when EXT COUNT is selected.
Maximum Allowable Input Voltage:

DISPLAY FUNCTIONS

The LCD shows generator frequenc y sett ing at a resolution of 4 digits simultaneously with output amplitude/offset, together with various status annunciators. Alternatively, the generator frequency setting can be displayed independently of amplitude/ offset to a resolution of 6 dig it s . The LCD also functions as the external fr equency measurement display with up to 7 digits of resolution.

Internal Measurement Accur acy

Amplitude: Display shows peak-to-peak amplitude or rms value. Display corrected
for attenuator setting and waveform type. 3-digit resolution, accuracy
DC Offset: 3-digit resolution; accuracy typically ±2% of setting ±1 digit. Display

External Frequency Measurement

30Vdc/30V
rms to 50Hz/60Hz with respect to ground
, reducing to
Timebase Accuracy: <±5ppm initial error; <± 5 ppm/ year ageing rate; typically less than

GENERAL

Data Entry: Keyboard selection of mode; value entry direct by numeric keys or
Stored Settings: Up to 10 output frequencies may be stor ed and recalled from non-
Power: 110-120V AC or 220V-240V AC ±10%, 50/60Hz,
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Performance levels achieved are detailed in the user manual.
EC Declaration of Conf ormity
We Thurlby Thandar Instruments Ltd Glebe Road Huntingdon Cambridgeshire PE29 7DR England
declare that the
TG1006 10MHz Function Generator
meets the intent of the EMC Directive 2004/108/EC and the Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC. Compliance was demonstrated by conformance to the following specifications which have been listed in the Official Journal of the European Comm unit ies.
EMC Emissions: a) EN61326-1 (2006) Radiated, Class B
b) EN61326-1 (2006) Conducted, Class B c) EN61326-1 (2006) Harmonics, referr ing to EN61000-3-2 (2006)
Immunity: EN61326-1 (2006) Immunity Table 1, referring to:
a) EN61000-4-2 (2009) Electrostatic Discharge b) EN61000-4-3 (2006) Electromag netic Field c) EN61000-4-11 (2004) Voltage Interrupt d) EN61000-4-4 (2004) Fast Transient e) EN61000-4-5 (2006) Surge f) EN61000-4-6 (2009) Conducted RF
Safety EN61010-1 Installation Category II, Pollution Degree 2.
CHRIS W ILDING TECHNICAL DIRECTOR 2 January 2013
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This instrument has been designed to meet the requirements of the EMC Directive 2004/108/EC. Compliance was demonstrated by meeting the test limits of t he following standards:

Emissions

EN61326-1 (2006) EMC product standard for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use. Test limits used were:
a) Radiated: Class B b) Conducted: Class B c) Harmonics: EN61000-3-2 (2006) Class A; the instrument is Class A by product category.

Immunity

EN61326-1 (2006) EMC product standard for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use.
Test methods , limits and performance achieved are shown below (requirement shown in brackets):
a) EN61000-4-2 (2009) Electrostatic Discharge : 4kV air, 4kV contact, Performance A (B). b) EN61000-4-3 (2006) Electromagnetic Field: 3V/m, 80% AM at 1kHz, 80MHz – 1GHz:
c) EN61000-4-11 (2004) Voltage I nt er rupt: ½ cycle and 1 cycle, 0%: Performance A (B);
d) EN61000-4-4 (2004) Fast Transient, 1kV peak (AC line only; signal connections <3m,
e) EN61000-4-5 (2006) Surge, 0·5kV (line to line), 1k V ( line to ground), Performance A (B). f ) EN61000-4-6 (2009) Conducted RF, 3V, 80% AM at 1kHz (AC line only; signal
connections <3m, therefor e not tested
In a sufficiently large RF field at 80-90MHz, the generator output may be affected such that the signal fidelit y ma rginally fails specification limits; however, in all other respects the instrument will operate correctly (Perform ance A) in fields up to 3V/m.
††
Signal lines were not tested on the basis that typical use will be with connections <3m, for which there is no tes t r equirement. Immunity performance with connections >3m is not guaranteed.
Performance B
(A) and 1.4GHz to 2GHz: Performance A (A); 1V/m, 2.0GHz to 2.7GHz:
Performance A (A).
25 cycles, 70% : Performance A(C) and 250 cycles, 0%: Performance B (C).
therefore not tested
††
) Performance A (B).
), Performance A (A).
EMC
According to EN61326-1 the definitions of performance criteria are:
Performance criterion A: ‘During test normal performance within the specification limits.’ Performance criterion B: ‘During t es t , temporary degradation, or loss of function or
performance which is self-recovering’. Performance criterion C: ‘During t est, temporary degradation, or loss of function or
performance which requires operator int er vention or s ystem r eset occurs. ’

Cautions

To ensure continued compliance with the EMC directive observe the following precautions: a) Connect the generator to ot her equipment using only high quality, doublescreened cables.
This instrument met the Class B e m is s io n lim its with the 50Ω Main Output connected via 1m coax to a 50Ω load; note that emission levels may be higher when connected to a test system.
b) After opening the case for any reason, ensure that all signal and ground connections are remade correctly and that the case screws are correctly fitted and tightened.
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may damage the instrument.
terminal connected to chassis ground.
alternating current.
Safety
This instrument is Safety Class I accor ding to IEC classification and has been designed to meet the requirements of EN61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory Use). It is an Installation Category II instrument intended for operation from a normal single phase supply.
This instrument has been tested in accordanc e with EN61010-1 and has been supplied in a safe condition. This instruction manual contains some information and warnings which have to be followed by the user to ensure safe operation and to r etain the inst r um ent in a safe condition.
This instrument has been designed f or indoor use in a Pollution Degree 2 environment in the temperature range 5°C t o 40°C, 20% - 80% RH (non-condensing). It may occasionally be subjected to temperatures between +5°C and –10°C without degradation of its safety. Do not operate while condensation is present.
Use of this instrument in a manner not spec ified by these instructions may impair the safety protection provided. Do not operate the inst r um ent outside its rated supply voltages or environmental range.
WARNING! THIS INSTRUMENT MUST BE EARTHED
Any interruption of the mains earth conduct or inside or outside t he inst r um ent will make the instrument dangerous. Int entional interruption is prohibited. The protective action must not be negated by the use of an extension cord without a protective conductor.
When the instrument is connected to its supply, terminals may be live and opening the covers or removal of parts (except those to which access can be gained by hand) is likely to expose live parts. The apparatus shall be disconnected from all voltage sources before it is opened for any adjustment, replacement, m aint enance or repair.
Any adjustment, maintenance and repair of the opened instrument under voltage shall be avoided as far as possible and, if inevitable, shall be carried out only by a skilled person who is aware of the hazard involved.
If the instrument is clearly def ec t ive, has been subject to mechanical damage, excessive moisture or chemical corrosion the safety protection may be impaired and the apparatus should be withdrawn from use and returned for checking and repair.
Make sure that only fuses with the required rated current and of the specified type are used f or replacement. The use of makeshift fuses and the short-circuiting of fuse holders is prohibited.
Do not wet the instrument when cleaning it. The following symbols are used on the instrument and in this m anual:-
Caution - refer to the accompanying documentation, incorrect operation
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Mains Operating Voltage

The operating voltage of the instr ument is shown on the rear panel. Should it be necessary to change the operating voltage from 230V t o 115V or vice-versa, proceed as follows:
1. Disconnect the instr um ent from all voltage sources.
2. Unclip the front bezel by gently pulling the centre of each long edge up and forward. The case halves are held together by 4 plastic push-rivets. Use the blade of a s m all scr ewdriver
in the slot beside each rivet to first ease out t he r ivet head and t hen fully remove the rivet body. Separate the case halves. Visit www.tti-test.com
3. Remove the 6 screws securing the main pcb to the case upper and lift the pcb free, complete with front and rear panels.
4. Change the appropr iat e zero-ohm links beside the transformer on t he pcb: Link LK2 only for 230V operation Link LK1 and LK3 only for 115V operation
5. Refit t he pcb t o the case upper, ensuring all connections (especially safety earth) are remade as before, and refit the case lower.
6. To comply with safety standard requirements the operating voltage m ar ked on the rear panel must be changed to clearly show the new voltage setting.
7. Change the fuse to suit the new operating voltage, see below.
Installation
for further details.

Fuse

The correct time-lag fuse must be fitted for the selected operating voltage. For 230V operation use 125mA (T) 250V HBC. For 115V operation use 250mA (T) 250V HBC. Make sure that only fuses with the required rated cur rent and of the specified type are used for
replacement. The use of makeshift fuses and the short-circuiting of fuse holders are prohibited.

Mains Lead

Connect the instrument to the AC supply using the mains lead provided. Should a mains plug be required for a different mains outlet socket, a suitably rated and approved mains lead set should be used which is fitted with the required wall plug and an IEC60320 C13 connector for t he instrument end. To determine the minimum current rating of the lead-set for the intended AC supply, r efer to the power rating informat ion on t he equipment or in the Specification.
Any interruption of the mains earth conduct or inside or outside t he inst r um ent will make the instrument dangerous. Intentional interruption is prohibited.
WARNING! THIS INSTRUMENT MUST BE EARTHED
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symmetry is the same as that of t he waveform at MAIN OUT.
oscilloscope.
Output Signal Level:
Output impedance 50nominal. Logic levels of <0. 8V & >3V.
Input Impedance:
1M//20pF.
Input Sensitivity:
50mVrms (sinewave).
to 1Vrms above 1MHz.
Input Impedance:
40kΩ.
Input Sensitivity:
Approximately 2V peak-peak for 100% modulat ion.
Connections
MAIN OUT (50Ω and 600Ω)
This is the main output from t he generator with an output source impedance of either 50or 600Ω; the outputs are not independent. Either output will provide up to 20V peaktopeak e.m.f. which will give 10V peak-to-peak into a matched load. The outputs can tolerate a short cir cuit for 10 minutes.
Do not apply external voltages to these outputs.

SYNC

Automatically selected to be either Waveform Sync or Sweep Sync.
Waveform Sync:
Sweep Sync: Outputs a trigger signal at t he s tart of sweep to synchronize an
SYNC will withstand a short circu it.
Do not apply an external voltage to this output.
A square wave at the main waveform frequency. Symmetry is 50% for sine and triangle waves at MAIN OUT; for square waves

AM/COUNT IN

The AM/COUNT IN socket is set to external frequency measurement when the EXT COUNTER switch is ON
Maximum Allowable Input Voltage:
.
30Vdc/30V
rms to 50Hz/60Hz with respect to ground
, reducing
The AM/COUNT IN socket is set to AM input when EXT AM is selected (EXT COUNTER switch OFF
9
).
Maximum Allowable Input Voltage:
±10V.
This section is a general introduction to t he or ganisation of the instrument and is intended to be read before using the gener at or for the first time. Detailed operation is covered in later sections starting with Standard Waveform Operation.
In this manual front panel controls and sock ets ar e shown in capitals, e.g . AM DEPTH, MAIN OUT; parameter values and messages displayed on the LCD are shown in a different typefont, e.g
. SWP-LOG, Func oFF.

DDS Principles

In this instrument waveforms are g ener ated by Direct Digital Synthesis (DDS). A phase accumulator is incremented at a rate pr opor tional to the required output freq uenc y. The most significant 12 bits of the accumulat or ar e us ed t o addr es s a look-up table ROM that converts the phase information into sinewave amplitude data; this data is then passed to a 10-bit Digital-to­Analogue Converter (DAC) which produces the output waveform. For t r iangle waves the ROM look-up table is by-passed and the phase accumulator output is passed dir ect ly to t he DAC.
At low frequencies all 4096 points in the output wave are stepped throug h, but as the frequency increases points are progressively missed out. Sinewaves and triangles are subseq uent ly f iltered to smooth the steps in the DAC output; t his t ec hniq ue ens ur es good sinewave purity up to the maximum frequency of the generator but the practical limit to which excellent triangle linearity is maintained is only about 100kHz. Squarewaves and pulses are derived from the sinewave using a variable threshold comparator; this permits symm et r y contr ol of these waveforms across the whole instrument frequency range.
General
The major advantages of DDS over conventional analogue gener ation are:
• Frequency accuracy and stability is that of the crystal oscillator.
• Frequencies can be set with high resolution from mHz to MHz.
Low phase noise and distortion.
Very wide frequency sweeps are possible.
• Fast phase continuous frequency switching.

Switching On

Switch on the generator using the POWER ON/OFF switch on the rear panel. To fully disconnect from the AC supply unplug the mains cord from the back of t he inst rument or switch off at the AC supply outlet; make sure that the m eans of disconnection is readily accessible. Disconnect from the AC supply when not in use.
Ensure that the push-button switches in the AMPLITUDE MOD and EXT COUNTER sections of the control panel are all set to the out ( modes (see below) are not enabled, i.e. set the gener ator to its normal free run mode; select sinewave on the FUNCTION buttons. The display will show the frequency and peak-to-peak output amplitude with appropriate range annunciators.

Shift Functions

This instrument has shift functions to select (and set up) Sweep, FSK, List, Store and Recall; press SHIFT (the display shows SHIFt) followed by the required f unction or parameter. Sweep, FSK and List are defined as operating modes and as suc h must be enabled and disabled. It is only possible to run one of these operating modes at any given time; enabling a sec ond operating mode will disable the first. For confirmation, whenever an operating mode is enabled or disabled a notification is displayed momentarily, e.g. LISt on is displayed when Frequency List is enabled. If an operating mode was already running, t his is t ur ned off before the new function is enabled and the display shows, for example, FS oFF (if FSK was running) bef or e LISt on is displayed. All shift function operating mode paramet er s e. g. SWEEP TIME, sweep START frequency, etc., can be set whilst any of the shift function operating modes ar e enabl ed or whilst all are disabled. When a shift function operating mode parameter is set, donE is displayed.
) position and that Sweep, FSK and List operating
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Data Retention at Power-down

Whenever the instr um ent is switched off the following parameters are stored to non-volatile memory: main generator frequency, the 10 user-defined frequenc ies, sweep time, sweep start and stop frequencies, lin or log s elect ion, FSK frequencies F0 & F1, and the FSK rate.

Standard Display Screens

The instrument has 3 standard display screens -
High resolution frequency display and entry – accessed by pressing the FREQ key and used to edit and display the continuous generator output frequency at a higher resolution of 6 digits. This screen is not available whilst any of t he shift funct ion oper at ing m odes
are enabled.
Amplitude level with lower resolution frequency display – accessed by pressing the PK­PK/RMS key and used to display the main output amplitude level in either peak-to-peak volts or r.m.s volts, together with the generator output freq uenc y at a lower resolution of 4 digits. This is the default screen at power-up.
Offset level with lower resolution frequency display – accessed by pressing the OFFSET key and used to display the main output offset level together with the g enerator output frequency at a lower resolution of 4 digits.
Note: The user has the choice between the amplitude and offset scr eens when any of t he shif t function operating modes are enabled.

Standard Waveform Operation

Frequency Setting

Pressing the FREQ key displays the high resolut ion frequency screen. The frequency can be entered directly from the k eyboard in any convenient units, e.g. 12.34kHz can be entered directly in kHz but can also be entered as 12340Hz or 0.01234MHz. Display annunciators show or
MHz. The CE key deletes the last digit that was entered and the ESCAPE key returns t o t he
high resolution frequency screen, leaving the generator frequency unchanged. Pr ess ing the JOG key enables the Jog capability. When Jog is enabled, turning the rotary control will increment or decrement the numeric value in steps determined by the position of t he edit c ur sor (blinking digit); the cursor is moved by one digit to t he left each time the JOG key is pressed. Once t he edit cursor position reaches the firs t digit, the next press of JOG r eturns the cursor to the last digit. The JOG function can be disabled by pressing the JOG OFF key thus disabling t he rotary control and avoiding accidental unwanted modification of the generator frequency.
Note that pressing the FREQ key not only allows for frequency entry but also terminates/disables any shift function operating mode that may be enabled. This provides a quick method of returning to a continuous fixed f r equency operating mode.

Waveform

The output waveform shape is selected by depressing one of the three function buttons to g ive sine, square or triangle. With all three switches out (accomplished by half -depressing any one) the output will be a DC level only; this is useful as it permits input threshold testing of a cir cuit without having to connect up an exter nal DC supply.
When the square waveform is selected, SYMMETRY is enabled and the SYMMETRY control can be used to vary the duty cycle from 20% to 80% to produce variable pulse-width waveforms (centre detent for 50% dut y). When SYMMETRY is enabled the SYM annunciator is displayed.
Hz, kHz

Amplitude

The amplitude of the MAIN OUT output is set by the AMPLITUDE control and the ATTENUATOR switches. Maximum output is 20 volts peak-to-peak open-circuit, 10 volts peak-to-peak when terminated with the outputs characteristic impedance.
The AMPLITUDE control has greater than 20dB r ange; the ATTENUATOR switches permit selection of up to -60dB attenuation (bot h s witches press ed t ogether). Used together t hese
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controls provide a range of 20V peak-to-peak down to 2mV peak-to-peak, or 10V peak-to-peak down to 1mV peak-to-peak into the output’s characteristic impedanc e.
Still greater attenuation of the 50MAIN OUT can be achieved by using standard 50Ω BNC attenuators. To maintain waveform integrity only 50cable should be used and the receiving end should be terminated with a 50load.
The MAIN OUT outputs will withstand a short circuit for a period of 10 minutes at maximum output and greater periods at lower output levels. However, dam age will occur if an external voltage is connected to the output sockets. The 50and 600outputs are not independent; terminating one will affect the amplitude of t he other.
The amplitude is displayed on the right-hand side of t he LCD; the PK-PK/RMS key alternates the reading between peak-to-peak volts and r.m.s. volts; display annunciators give the units as
mV
shape. The display shows open circuit voltage; the actual voltage at the socket will be half the displayed value when the output is terminated with its characteristic impedance.

DC Offset

The DC OFFSET control has a range of ±10 volts fr om 50/600in all output modes; the control has a centre detent for 0 volts. DC offs et plus signal peak is limited to ±10V (±5V into the characteristic output impedance); CLIP shows in the display when this limit is exceeded. DC offset plus waveform is attenuat ed pr opor tionally by the ATTENUATOR switches.
The DC offset can be displayed in place of the output amplitude by pressing the OFFSET key. The display shows open circuit voltage offset (in Volts) and a at the socket will be half the displayed value when the output is terminated with its characteristic impedance.
Vp-p,
p-p, Vrms or mVrms. The readout is correctly adjusted for attenuator setting and waveform
DC annunciator; the actual voltage

SYNC Output

The SYNC output provides a TTL/CMOS level output that is automatically switched between the following:
Waveform sync: A sync signal phase coincident with the MAIN OUT waveform. For
Sweep sync: Outputs a trigger signal at t he s tart of sweep with a width of half of

Error Messages

An error message (Error) is shown in the display when an illegal setting is attempted, most generally a number outside the range of values permit t ed.If this occurs whilst the main generator frequency is being set then the ent r y is rej ec t ed and t he frequency setting is left unchanged.
However if this occurs whilst a shift function oper at ing parameter is being set, the value is set to the maximum or minimum value permitted accordingly: Entered value <Range minimum: value is set to the minimum r ange value.
Entered value >Range maximum: value is set to the maximum rang e value. An error message is also shown if the Tr iang le waveform is selected whilst the MAIN output
frequency is greater t han 1MHz; this will result in the frequency being set to 1MHz. However such a condition is also possible during any shift function operating mode or even during frequency counter mode; if such a condition does occur then the main output fr equency and appropriate shift funct ion oper at ing mode parameters are changed automatically. For further information on the outcome of such a condition or other possible error conditions see Sweep, FSK, Save and Recall and Frequency Counter sections.
During an error message the buzzer sounds twice to indicate that an error has occurred.
sine and triangle waves the sync waveform rising edge is at the 0º phase point of MAIN OUT and the falling edg e is at t he 180º phase point. For square waves and pulses both phase and symmetry are coincident with MAIN OUT.
the total sweep (midpoint) to synchronize an oscilloscope.
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Principles of Sweep Operation

All waveforms can be swept phase-continuously from 0.1Hz up to the maximum f requency for the selected waveform. Although the frequency is stepped, not truly swept as in an analogue generator, the short step interval (500us) gives a close approximation to an analogue instrument except for the widest sweeps in the shortest time; see the Fr equency Stepping Resolution section for further discus sion.
The frequency steps are calculated and updated in real -time at a rate of 2kHz with full precision, following either a linear or log sweep law as selected by the user.
Sweep mode is turned on and off by pressing the SHIFT key followed by SWEEP (numeric key
7) on the keyboard; the enabling sweep mode; however, disabling sweep mode is additionally possible by either enabling an alternative operating mode (FSK or LIST) or by pressing the FREQ key which disables all shift functions.
SWP annuciator shows in the display. This is the only method for

Sweep Range

The maximum sweep range for all waveforms is 0.1Hz to 10MHz, except triangle ( up t o 1MHz). The Sweep range is defined by start and stop frequencies which set the two end points of the sweep. These points are entered directly from the numeric keyboard with a resolution of 0.1Hz. The sweep function has the capability of sweeping either up or down in freq uenc y; t he sweep direction is determined by the sweep start and stop freq uenc ies as t he s weep will always run from the start f r equency to the stop frequency. Thus, setting the stop frequency to a value that is greater than the start frequency results in an upward sweep whereas setting the stop frequenc y to a value that is less than the start frequency results in a downward sweep.
Sweep
The start and stop freq uenc ies can be chec ked and updated by pressing the SHIFT key followed by either START (numeric key 5) or STOP (numeric key 6) respectively. When either the start or stop frequency are selected the cur rent frequency is displayed to a 4 digit resolution; this value can then be modified via direct keyboard entry or be left unchanged by pressing SHIFT, ESCAPE or any of the display screen keys (

Sweep Time

The sweep time can be set from 0·1s t o 999.99s with 10ms resolution by direct keyboard entry. The shortest sweep times will have the fewest steps (a 100ms sweep will have only 200 steps whereas a 10s sweep will have 20,000 steps) and will consequently have a coarse stepping resolution with very wide sweeps, see Frequency St epping Resolution section for more discussion.
The sweep time can be checked and updated by pressing the SHIFT key followed by SWEEP TIME (numeric key 4). Upon selection of t he s weep time the c ur r ent sweep time value is displayed to a 10ms resolution (or 5 digits). This value can then be modified via direct k eyboard entry or be left unchanged by pressing SHIFT, ESCAPE or any of the display screen keys.

LIN / LOG Selection

The sweep function has the capability for producing a swept output that follows either a linear or log sweep law as selected by the user. Selection between LIN and LOG is performed by pressing the SHIFT key followed by LIN (numeric key 8) or LOG (numeric key 9) for a linear or logarithmic sweep respectively. This is a toggle selection so selecting one also deselects the other.
FREQ, PK-PK/RMS or OFFSET).
If the sweep function is enabled then the
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LIN or LOG annunciator will be displayed accordingly.

Manual Sweep

When the sweep func t ion oper at ing mode is enabled, its default condition of manual sweep is initialised. This allows the user to manually sweep from the start frequency to the stop fr equency using the MANUAL SWEEP control. Manual sweep provides a total of 510 frequency steps between the start and stop frequencies. The frequency of the current step of the sweep is displayed with a resolution of 4 digits. The frequency can be manually swept following either a linear or logarithmic sweep law; its current value can also be stored using the store function, see Store and Recall section for more discussion. If the Triangle waveform is selected and the manual sweep frequency is taken beyond the 1MHz limit, an error message is displayed and the start and stop frequencies ar e adj us t ed acc or dingly to be limited to a maximum frequency of 1MHz.

Sweep Triggering

When the sweep func t ion oper at ing mode is enabled and in its default setting i.e. manual sweep mode, the user can select between either a single or cont inuous sweep. A single sweep is initialised by pressing the MAN TRIG key; this pr oduces a single sweep from the start frequency to the stop frequency in the defined sweep time. Upon completion of the sweep the instrument returns to manual sweep mode at the fr equency step determined by the position of the MANUAL SWEEP control. Continuous sweep mode is initialised by pressing the RUN key; this produces continuous sweeps between the start and stop frequencies in the def ined sweep time. Dur ing a running sweep (either single or continuous) an indication of t he c ur r ent s weep frequency is displayed to a resolution of 4 digits at an update rate of 8Hz, unless a sweep time of less than or equal to one second is defined, in which case run is displayed because the frequency changes are too fast to display meaningf ully. If Triangle waveform is selected and the current sweep frequency is above the 1MHz limit, an error message is displayed and the start and stop frequencies are adjusted acc or dingly to be limited to a maximum frequency of 1MHz.
Pressing either the MAN TRIG or RUN k ey whilst a single or cont inuous sweep is running r esults in the termination of the running sweep and the instr um ent returns to manual sweep mode at the frequency step determined by the position of the MANUAL SWEEP control.

Sweep Sync

Sweeps are generally used with an oscilloscope or hardcopy device to investigate the frequency response of a circuit. The MAIN OUT is connected to the circuit input and t he c irc uit out put is connected to an oscilloscope or, for slow sweeps, a recorder. An oscilloscope can be triggered by connecting its trigger input to t he generator’s SYNC ouput; the SYNC output defaults to a Sweep Sync when a sweep is running (either continuous or single sweep). Sweep Sync goes high at the start of sweep and low half way through the sweep. In m anual sweep mode the SYNC output reverts to its default state of Waveform Sync and outputs a signal that is phase coincident with the MAIN OUT waveform.

Frequency Stepping Resolution

The generator fr equency is stepped, not truly linearly swept, between the Start and Stop frequencies. The number of discrete frequency steps in a sweep is determined by the sweep time set; the size of each step, i. e. the frequency stepping resolution, is deter m ined by the number of steps and the sweep range (differ ence between the Start and Stop frequencies). At the shortest sweep times ( i.e. the fewest steps) with the widest frequency spans the frequency changes will be quite large at each step; if the output is applied to a filter, for example, the response will be a succession of step-change levels with (at higher f r equencies) many cycles of the same frequency at each step. This is a limitation of a DDS generator in sweep mode but in part, of course, this eff ect can only be created because of the very wide sweeps that can be achieved with DDS techniques; analogue generators usually have more restricted capabilities.
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General

FSK (Frequency Shift Keying) mode permits fast phase-continuous switching between two frequencies within the range of 0. 1Hz to 10MHz at a rate of up to 10kHz. All other parameters of the waveform (amplitude, offset, symm et r y) r em ain t he same as the freq uency is switched.
FSK mode is turned on and off by pressing the SHIFT key followed by FSK (numeric key 1); FS on momentarily shows in the display when it is turned on, and FS oFF shows when it is turned off. This is the only method for enabling FSK mode; however, disabling FSK mode is additionally possible by either enabling an alternative operating mode (SWEEP or LIST) or by pressing the FREQ key which disables all shift f unc t ions.

Frequency Setting

The two frequencies F0 and F1, between which the waveform is switched, are checked and updated by pressing the SHIFT key followed by F0/F1 (numeric key 2). This will display either F0 or F1 and its corresponding current frequency to a resolution of 4 digits. Switching between the F0 and F1 frequency information is achieved with alternate pres ses of the MAN TRIG key. This frequency value can then be modified via direct keyboard entr y or be left unchanged by pressing SHIFT, ESCAPE or any of the display screen keys (
FSK
FREQ, PK-PK/RMS or OFFSET).

Rate Setting

The waveform can be continuously switched between the two frequencies F0 and F1 at a rate defined by the rate entry. This rate can be set within the range of 0.1ms to 100s at a resolution of 0.1ms. The FSK rate can be checked and updat ed by pressing the SHIFT key followed by RATE (numeric key 3). Upon selection of the FSK rat e t he current FSK rate is displayed to a 5 digit resolution in seconds (indicated by an S following t he value). This value can then be modified via direct keyboard entry or be left unchang ed by pressing SHIFT, ESCAPE or any of the display screen keys.

FSK Triggering

Frequency shift keying between freq uencies F0 and F1 c an either be achieved manually with alternate presses of the MAN TRIG key or can be switched at the user-defined FSK rat e by pressing the RUN key. When manually switching, the frequency currently selected is displayed to a resolution of 4 digits. When switching at the rate defined by the user, run is displayed because the frequency is generally changing too fast to read. When running at the FSK rate a second press of the RUN key halts the running .
15

General

Store and Recall functions permit up to 10 user-defined fr equencies be saved to, and restored from, non-volatile memory, with no limit to the number of overwrites to each memory location. The stored values can be any frequency within the range of 1m Hz to 10MHz.

Store

Storing a frequency value is initiated by pressing the SHIFT k ey f ollowed by STORE (numeric key 0). Confirmation of the intention to store a frequency value is requested by displaying StorE ; this remains displayed until a memor y location from 0-9 is selected at which the frequency value will be stored. W hen a locat ion is select ed using keys 0-9 the display momentarily shows the confirmation message donE before returning to the standard display screen. A second store operation to the same location overwrites the data at that location with the new data. The store function is able to not only store the cont inuous generator frequency but also the current manual sweep frequency and both FSK f requencies, by using the same method in both the Sweep and FSK functions respectively. It is not capable of storing a running sweep (single or continuous) frequency value or an FSK frequency value whilst FSK is running at the user-defined rate; att em pt ing either results in the Error message.

Erase

Store and Recall
Recall
A stored frequency value can be erased from memory by initiating the Store function (SHIFT key then STORE), followed by a single press of the CE key. Confirmation of the intention to erase a stored frequency value is requested by displaying ErASE; this r emains displayed until the memory location (0-9) to be erased is selected by pressing t he appr opriate numeric key. By pressing 0, for example, the frequency value that is stored in location 0 is erased; recalling f r om this location will then return null, see below.
A frequency value can be recalled by pressing the SHIFT key followed by RECALL (.). Confirmation of the intent ion t o r ecall a frequency value is requested by displaying rECALL; this remains displayed until the memory location (0-9) containing the required frequency is selected by pressing the appropriate numeric key. The frequency stored in the selected location is recalled and used as the continuous generator frequency. Recalling from a memory location that has no stored freq uenc y value results in null being displayed momentar ily and the gener at or frequency is left unchanged. Recall cannot be used whilst Sweep or FSK operating modes are in use; attempting either res ults in the Error message.
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General

Frequency LIST mode permits stepping through a list of up to 10 user-defined fr equency values. These frequency values are the ones saved by the user in memory locations 0-9 using the Store function; see Store and Recall section for more discussion.
LIST mode is turned on and off by pressing the SHIFT key followed by LIST (the CE key); LISt on momentarily shows in the display when it is turned on, and LISt oFF shows when it is turned off. This is the only method for enabling LIST mode; however, disabling LIST mode is additionally possible by either enabling an alternative operating mode (SWEEP or FSK) or by pressing the FREQ key which disables all shift functions.

Step

Stepping through the list can only be executed in one direction, from 0 to 9 (increment), and is performed by pressing the MAN TRIG key. Once the current step r eaches t he last s t ored frequency value, one further step causes a loop back to the first stored frequency value. The function only steps through memory locations with stored frequencies; therefore, if only memory locations 0 and 2 (for example) have frequenc ies st or ed, the list function will only step between these two frequencies. All other memory locations are read as null and therefore s kipped.
LIST
It is also possible to skip to a specific mem ory location within the LIST function by recalling the desired memory location using the Recall function (s ee Store and Recall section for more information); the LIST f unct ion will then increment from this point onwards.

Amplitude Modulation

Depressing the AM ON/OFF button selects AM. The depth of modulation can be adjusted over a 0% to 100% range using the AM DEPTH control. When AM is selected the output amplitude will drop to 50% at 0% modulation.
With the AMPLITUDE MOD INT/EXT button in the INT (internal) position, the modulation sour ce is an internal 400Hz sinewave oscillator. The
With the AMPLITUDE MOD INT/EXT button in the EXT (external) position, and the EXT COUNTER ON/OFF button in the OFF (EXT AM) position, external AM modulation is possible via the AM/COUNT IN socket; the should have no DC offset or should be AC coupled. A 2V peak-to-peak signal gives approximately 100% modulation with the modulation control at maximum. Modulating the generator with a squarewave gives step changes in the output am plitude which are suitable for testing signal compressors and aut om atic gain controlled circuits.
Applying a DC offset of approximately 1V gives suppressed carrier modulation. The DC offset should first be adjusted to suppres s the carrier, and the modulating signal then applied.
AM-EXT annunciator is displayed. The modulating signal applied
INT-AM annunciator is displayed.
Applying a DC offset greater than 1V will invert the MAIN OUT outputs with respect to the SYNC output.
The generator can also be asynchronously gated on and off using the AM facility. Select EXT AM and apply a suitably offset squarewave to the AM/COUNT IN input. The squarewave V be approximately 1V to give carrier suppression and the V normal full output.
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should be +3V to +4V to give
high
low
should
External Counter
Selecting EXT COUNTER ON sets the COUNT IN socket to external frequency measurement. The display changes to show a 6/7-digit frequency measurement and the in the display to indicate external measurement.
Note: With no input sig nal pr esent the counter displays 00. until an adequate input signal is applied.
In external counter mode the COUNT IN socket has an impedance of 1Min parallel with 20pF. Input frequency range is 3Hz to >120MHz (typically 150MHz).
Care should be taken when measuring input signals above 350mV rms (the onset of diode clipping) with poor signal to noise ratios as under these circum stances it is possible for noise to generate spurious counts. To ensure a correct count, theref or e, noisy signals should be attenuated externally before being presented t o t he c ounter. A convenient attenuation factor of 10 can be achieved by the use of a x10 oscilloscope probe.
The function generator c ont inues t o per form normally when EXT COUNT is selected; however, all keyboard keys are disabled, leaving the generator fixed in its last set condition prior to enabling the counter. Due to the continuation of normal generator oper ation whilst in external count mode, selecting the triang le waveform when the main out put frequency exceeds 1MHz still results in an error condition. Thus an error message interrupts t he c ount and t he main output frequency and any appropriate shift function operating mode parameters are updated.
EXT annunciator shows

Calibration

The DDS generator and external frequency meter use a crystal oscillator reference which is factory adjusted to meet the initial accuracy specifications. However, crystal ageing will affect the long-term accuracy and the ref erence should be re-adjusted annually to ensure continued compliance with the accuracy specifications, see below.

Maintenance

The Manufacturers or their ag ents overseas can pr ovide a routine calibrat ion ser vice and also a repair service for any unit developing a fault. Where owners wish to undertake their own maintenance work, this should only be done by skilled personnel in conjunction with the Service Guide which may be obtained directly from the Manufacturers or their agents overseas.

Cleaning

If the instrument r equires cleaning use a cloth that is only lightly dampened with water or a mild detergent.
WARNING! TO AVOID ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR DAMAGE TO THE INSTRUMENT, NEVER ALLOW WATER TO GET INSIDE THE CASE. TO AVOID DAMAGE TO THE CASE NEVER CLEAN WITH SOLVENTS.

Calibration & Maintenance

18
Ltd
.
)
Thurlby Thandar Instruments
Glebe Road • Huntingdon • Cambridgeshire • PE29 7DR • England (United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0)1480 412451 • Fax: +44 (0)1480 450409
International web site:
www
.aimtti.com • UK web site:
www
.aimtti.co.uk
Email: info@aimtti.com
Aim Instruments and Thurlby Thandar Instruments Book Part No. 48591-1250 Issue 3
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