Thurlby Thandar Instruments TG1010 User Manual

TG1010

Programmable 10 MHz

DDS Function Generator

User Manual

Manual Copyright © 1994 T T Instruments Ltd. All rights reserved.

Software Copyright © 1994 T T Instruments Ltd. All rights reserved.

Book Part Number 48591 - 0440 Issue 4

Table of Contents

Introduction 2

Specifications 4

Safety 9

EMC 10

Installation 11

Connections 12

Front Panel Connections 12
Rear Panel Connections 12

General Operation 14

Main Generator Operation 17

Main Generator Parameters 17
Warning and Error Messages 20
Auxiliary Output 22
Waveform Generation Options 22

Sweep Operation 25

Triggered Burst and Gate 28

Triggered Burst 28
Gated Mode 30

Amplitude Modulation 31

FSK 33

Special Waveforms 34

Staircase 34
Arbitrary 34
Noise 36

HOP 37

System Operations 39

Storing and Recalling Set-ups 39
System Settings 39

Synchronising Generators 41

Calibration 43

Application Examples 45

DDS Operation and Further Waveform Considerations 49

Remote Operation 52

Remote Commands 62

Remote Command Summary 69

Appendix 1. Warning and Error Messages 72

Appendix 2. Factory System Defaults 74

Appendix 3. Instructions for using TG1010 with WaveForm DSP 74

Appendix 4. Application Information Notes 76

Appendix 5. Calibration Password 78

1

This Programmable Function Generator uses direct digital synthesis to provide high performance
and extensive facilities at a breakthrough price. It can generate a variety of waveforms between

0.1mHz and 10MHz with a resolution of 7 digits and an accuracy better than 10ppm.

Direct digital synthesis for accuracy & stability

Direct digital synthesis (DDS) is a technique for generating waveforms digitally using a phase
accumulator, a look-up table and a DAC. The accuracy and stability of the resulting waveforms is
related to that of the crystal master clock.

The DDS generator offers not only exceptional accuracy and stability but also high spectral purity,
low phase noise and excellent frequency agility.

Introduction

A wide range of waveforms

High quality sine, square and pulse waveforms can be generated over the full frequency range of

0.1mHz to 10MHz.

Triangle waveforms, ramp waveforms and multi-level squarewaves can also be generated but
with limitations as to the maximum useable frequencies.

Variable symmetry/duty-cycle is available for all standard waveforms.

Arbitrary waveform capability

Arbitrary waveforms can be loaded via the digital interfaces and then used in a similar way to the
standard waveforms.

Up to five arbitrary waveforms of 1024 10-bit words can be stored in non-volatile memory. The
waveform clock is 27.48MHz maximum.

This facility considerably expands the versatility of the instrument making it suitable for the
generation of highly complex waveform patterns.

In addition, numerous “complex” waveforms are pre-defined in ROM, including commonly used
waveshapes such as sinex/x, exponentially decaying sinewave, etc. Further waveshapes will be
added to the library in response to customer requests.

Sweep

All waveforms can be swept over their full frequency range at a rate variable between 10
milliseconds and 15 minutes. The sweep is fully phase continuous.

Sweep can be linear or logarithmic, single or continuous. Single sweeps can be triggered from
the front panel, the trigger input, or the digital interfaces. Two sweep markers are provided.

AM

Amplitude Modulation is available for all waveforms and is variable in 1% steps up to 100%. An
internal AM source is incorporated. Alternatively modulation can be controlled from an external
generator.

FSK

Frequency Shift Keying provides phase coherent switching between two selected frequencies at
a rate defined by the switching signal source.

The rate can be set from dc to 50kHz internally, or dc to 1MHz externally.

Trigger/Burst & Gated

All waveforms are available as a triggered burst whereby each positive edge of the Trigger signal
will produce one burst of the carrier, starting and stopping at the phase angle specified by the
start-stop phase setting.

2

The number of cycles in the burst can be set between 0.5 and 1023. The Gated mode turns the
output signal On when the gating signal is high and Off when it is low.

Both Triggered and Gated modes can be operated from the internal Trigger Generator (0.005Hz
to 50kHz) or from an external source (dc to 1MHz).

Waveform Hop & Noise

The generator can be set up to ‘hop’ between a number of different waveform set-ups either at a
pre-determined rate or in response to a manual trigger.

Up to 16 different hop waveforms can be defined in terms of frequency, amplitude, function, offset
and duration, which is variable in 1ms steps up to 60s. The generator can also be set to simulate
random noise within the bandwidth .03Hz to 700kHz with adjustable amplitude and offset.

Multiple phase-locked generators

The signals from the Clock In/Out socket and the Sync Out socket can be used to phase lock two
or more generators.

This can be used to generate multi-phase waveforms or locked waveforms of different
frequencies.

Easy and convenient to use

All of the main generator parameters are clearly displayed together on a backlit LCD with 4 rows
of 20 characters. Sub menus are used for the modulation modes and other complex functions.

All parameters can be entered directly from the numeric keypad. Alternatively most parameters
can be incremented or decremented using the rotary encoder.

This system combines quick and easy numeric data entry with quasi-analogue adjustment when
required.

Fully programmable

Addressable RS-232 standard, GPIB optional

The generator has an RS-232 interface as standard which can be used for remote control of all of
the instrument functions or for the down-loading of arbitrary waveforms.

As well as operating as a conventional RS-232 interface, it can also be used in addressable
mode whereby up to 32 instruments can be linked to one PC serial port as part of a TTi “ARC”
system.

Alternatively, a GPIB interface conforming to IEEE-488.2 is available as an option.

3

Specifications

Specifications apply at 18°-28°C after one hour warm-up, at maximum output into 50Ω

FREQUENCY

Range:

Resolution:
Accuracy: Typically ± 10 ppm for 1 year, 18°C to 28°C
Temperature Stability: Typically <1 ppm/°C

SYMMETRY

Range: Sine, Triangle, Ramp - 1% to 99% at all frequencies

Resolution:

0.1 mHz to 10 MHz.
All waveforms are available up to 10 MHz. However, the purity of

triangle, ramp and multi-level squarewave waveforms is not
specified above the frequencies indicated in the appropriate
WAVEFORM section. In Arbitrary mode all waveform points are
continuously output up to approximately 27 kHz beyond which
they are sampled.

0.1mHz (7 digits)

Squarewave,Pulse -

0.1%

1% to 99% to 30kHz, 20% to 80% to 10MHz.

WAVEFORMS

Sine, square, positive pulse, negative pulse, multi-level squarewave, triangle, ramp up, ramp
down, DC, ARB and Noise.

Sinewave

Output level: 5mV to 20V p-p open circuit o/p.
Harmonic Distortion: <0.3% THD to 500kHz;

<-60dBc to 20kHz; <-50dBc to 1MHz; <-35dBc to 10MHz.

Non-harmonic Spurii: <-55dBc to 7MHz; <-50dBc to 10MHz.

Squarewave

Output level: 5mV to 20V p-p open circuit o/p.
Rise and Fall Times: <25ns

Triangle

Output level: 5mV to 20V p-p open circuit o/p.
Linearity error:

Positive and Negative Ramp

Output level: 5mV to 20V p-p open circuit o/p.
Linearity error:

Positive and Negative Pulse

Output level:
Rise and Fall Times: <25ns

Multi-Level Squarewave

<0.5% to 30 kHz

<0.5% to 30 kHz

2.5mV to 10V p-p open circuit o/p.

Up to 16 steps available per cycle, each step selectable for amplitude (10 bit resolution) and
duration (1 to 1024 samples). Allows generation of 3 level squarewave, staircase, multiplexed
LCD driver signals etc.

Frequency Range: All waveform points can be continuously output up to

approximately 27kHz, above which sampling will introduce a 1

clock edge uncertainty (1 clock = 36ns).
Output level: 5mV to 20V p-p open circuit o/p.
Rise and Fall Times: <25ns

4

Arbitrary

A number of frequently required waveforms are pre-programmed in ROM. Alternatively,
waveforms can be downloaded via the generator’s RS232 or GPIB interfaces and stored in non­volatile RAM.

Frequency range: All waveform points can be continuously output up to

approximately 27 kHz, above which they are sampled.
Output level: 5mV to 20V p-p open circuit o/p.
Number of samples: 1024
Sample levels: 1024 (10 bits)

HOP

Up to 16 different waveforms can be output in sequence at a rate determined by either the
internal timer, an external trigger a remote command, or from the keyboard. Each waveform can
be set to any waveshape (except noise), frequency, amplitude and offset. Frequency only
changes are phase-continuous.

Noise

White noise output with a typical -3dB bandwidth of 0.03Hz to 700kHz. Amplitude and offset
adjustable. Noise can only be used with Gated and AM modulation modes.

MODULATION MODES

Trigger/Burst

Phase coherent signal keying - each positive edge of the trigger signal will produce one burst of
the carrier, starting and stopping at the phase angle specified by the Start/Stop phase setting.

Carrier frequency:

0.1mHz to at least 1MHz
Carrier waveforms: All.
Number of cycles:

1 to 1023 (resolution 1 cycle) or 0.5 to 511.5 (resolution 0.5

cycle).
Trigger rep. rate: dc to 50 kHz internal, dc to 1MHz external.
Source: Internal from keyboard or trigger generator. External from EXT

TRIG input or remote interface.

Gated

Non-phase coherent signal keying - output carrier wave is on while Gate signal is high and off
while low.

Carrier frequency:
Carrier waveforms: All
Trigger rep. rate: dc to 50 kHz internal, dc to 1 MHz external.
Gate signal source: Internal from keyboard or trigger generator. External from EXT

From 0.1 mHz to 10 MHz.

TRIG input or remote interface.

Sweep

Carrier Waveforms: All
Sweep Mode: Linear or logarithmic, single or continuous.
Sweep Width:

From 0.1 mHz to 10 MHz in one range. Phase continuous.

Independent setting of the start and stop frequency.

Sweep Time: 10ms to 999s (3 digit resolution).
Markers: Two, variable during sweep. Available at the rear panel

TRIG/SWEEP OUT socket.

Sweep Trigger source: The sweep may be free run or triggered from any of the following

sources: Internal from keyboard. External from EXT TRIG input

or remote interface.

Amplitude Modulation

Carrier frequency:

5

From 0.1mHz to 10 MHz.

Carrier waveforms: All.
Depth: Variable 0 to 100% typical, resolution 1%.
Internal source:
External: See VCA In

Frequency Shift Keying (FSK)

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

Carrier frequency:
Carrier waveforms: All.
Switch repetition rate: dc to 50 kHz internal, dc to 1 MHz external.
Switching signal source: Internal from keyboard or trigger generator. External from EXT

Start/Stop Phase

Carrier frequency:
Carrier waveforms: All.
Range: -360 to +360 degrees.
Resolution: 1 degree.
Accuracy: Typically 1 degree to 30 kHz.

1 kHz fixed sinewave or 0.005 Hz to 50 kHz squarewave.

From 0.1mHz to 10 MHz.

TRIG input or remote interface.

0.1 mHz to at least 1MHz.

Trigger Generator

Internal source 0.005 Hz to 50 kHz squarewave adjustable in 20µs steps. 3 digit resolution.
Available for external use from TRIG/SWEEP OUT socket.

OUTPUTS

Main Output

Output Impedance:
Amplitude:

Amplitude Accuracy:
Amplitude Flatness:
DC Offset Range:
DC Offset Accuracy: typically ±3% ±10mV, unattenuated.
Resolution: 3 digits for both Amplitude and DC Offset.
Pulse Aberrations: <5% + 2mV.

Aux Out

CMOS/TTL levels with symmetry and frequency of main output and phase of Start-Stop Phase
setting.

Trig/Sweep Out

50Ω or 600Ω
5mV to 20V pk-pk open circuit, (2.5mV to 10V pk-pk into

50Ω/600Ω). Output can be specified as EMF (open circuit value)
or P.D (potential difference) in pk-pk, r.m.s. or dBm.

typically ±3% ±1mV at 1kHz into 50Ω/600Ω.
±0.2dB to 200 kHz; ±1dB to 5 MHz; ±2.5dB to 10 MHz.
±10V. DC offset plus signal peak limited to ±10V from 50Ω/600Ω.

Multifunction output depending upon mode. Except in Sweep and HOP modes the output is that
of the Trigger Generator at CMOS/TTL levels from 1kΩ. In Sweep mode the output is a 3-level
waveform, changing from high (4V) to low (0V) at start of sweep, with narrow 1V pulses at each
marker point. In HOP mode the output goes low at the entry to each step, followed by a rising
edge after the frequency and waveshape have changed for the new step.

INPUTS

Ext Trig

Frequency Range: DC - 1 MHz.
Signal Range: Threshold nominally TTL level; maximum input ±10V.

6

Minimum Pulse Width: 50ns, for Trigger, Gate and FSK modes; 1ms for Sweep and

HOP modes.
Input Impedance:

10kΩ

VCA In

Frequency Range: DC - 100 kHz.
Signal Range:
Input Impedance:

2.5V for 100% level change at maximum output.

typically 6kΩ.

PHASE LOCKING

The signals from these sockets are used to phase lock two or more generators.

Clock In/Out

TTL/CMOS threshold level as an input. Output logic levels nominally 1V and 4V from typically
50Ω as an output.

Sync Out

TTL/CMOS logic levels from typically 50Ω.

INTERFACES

Full remote control facilities are available through the RS232 (standard) or optional GPIB
interfaces.

RS232: Variable Baud rate, 9600 Baud maximum. 9-pin D-connector.

Fully compatible with Thurlby-Thandar ARC (Addressable

RS232 Chain) system.
IEEE-488: Conforming with IEEE488.1 and IEEE488.2

GENERAL

Display: 20 character x 4 row alphanumeric LCD.

Data Entry: Keyboard selection of mode, waveform etc.; value entry direct by

numeric keys or by rotary control.

Stored Settings: Up to 9 complete instrument set-ups may be stored and recalled

from battery-backed memory.

Size: 3U (130mm) height; half-rack (212mm) width; 330mm long.
Weight:
Power: 100V AC, 110-120V AC or 220V-240V AC ±10%, 50/60Hz,

4.1kg. (9lb.)

adjustable internally; 30VA 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 Degree 2.
Options: IEEE-488 interface; 19 inch rack mounting kit.
Safety: Complies with EN61010-1.
EMC: Complies with EN61326.

7

EC Declaration of Conformity

We Thurlby Thandar Instruments Ltd
Glebe Road
Huntingdon
Cambridgeshire PE29 7DR
England

declare that the

TG1010 DDS Function Generator with GPIB Option

meets the intent of the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC and the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC.
Compliance was demonstrated by conformance to the following specifications which have been
listed in the Official Journal of the European Communities.

EMC

Emissions: a) EN61326 (1998) Radiated, Class B

b) EN61326 (1998) Conducted, Class B

c) EN61326 (1998) Harmonics, referring to EN61000-3-2 (2000)

Immunity: EN61326 (1998) Immunity Table 1, Performance B, referring to:

a) EN61000-4-2 (1995) Electrostatic Discharge

b) EN61000-4-3 (1997) Electromagnetic Field

c) EN61000-4-11 (1994) Voltage Interrupt

d) EN61000-4-4 (1995) Fast Transient

e) EN61000-4-5 (1995) Surge

f) EN61000-4-6 (1996) Conducted RF

Safety

EN61010-1 (1993) Installation Category II, Pollution Degree 2.

8

................................................................

CHRIS WILDING
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

2 July 2001

Safety

This function generator is a Safety Class I instrument according 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 accordance 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 retain the instrument in a safe condition.

This instrument has been designed for indoor use in a Pollution Degree 2 environment in the
temperature range 5°C to 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 specified by these instructions may impair the safety
protection provided. Do not operate the instrument outside its rated supply voltages or
environmental range.

WARNING! THIS INSTRUMENT MUST BE EARTHED

Any interruption of the mains earth conductor inside or outside the instrument will make the
instrument dangerous. Intentional 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, maintenance 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 defective, 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 for
replacement. The use of makeshift fuses and the short-circuiting of fuse holders is prohibited.

This instrument uses a Lithium button cell for non-volatile memory battery back-up; typical life is 5
years. In the event of replacement becoming necessary, replace only with a cell of the correct
type, i.e. 3V Li/Mn0
in accordance with local regulations; do not cut open, incinerate, expose to temperatures above
60°C or attempt to recharge.

Do not wet the instrument when cleaning it and in particular use only a soft dry cloth to clean the
LCD window. The following symbols are used on the instrument and in this manual:-

Caution -refer to the accompanying documentation, incorrect operation may
damage the instrument.

20mm button cell type 2032. Exhausted cells must be disposed of carefully

2

terminal connected to chassis ground.

mains supply OFF.

l

9

mains supply ON.

alternating current.

This instrument has been designed to meet the requirements of the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC.
Compliance was demonstrated by meeting the test limits of the following standards:

Emissions

EN61326 (1998) 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 (2000) Class A; the instrument is Class A by product category.

Immunity

EN61326 (1998) EMC product standard for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and
Laboratory Use.

Test methods, limits and performance achieved were:
a) EN61000-4-2 (1995) Electrostatic Discharge : 4kV air, 4kV contact, Performance A.
b) EN61000-4-3 (1997) Electromagnetic Field, 3V/m, 80% AM at 1kHz, Performance A.
c) EN61000-4-11 (1994) Voltage Interrupt, 1 cycle, 100%, Performance B*.
d) EN61000-4-4 (1995) Fast Transient, 1kV peak (AC line), 0.5kV peak (signal lines and

e) EN61000-4-5 (1995) Surge, 0.5kV (line to line), 1kV (line to ground), Performance A.
f) EN61000-4-6 (1996) Conducted RF, 3V, 80% AM at 1kHz (AC line only; signal

EMC

RS232/GPIB ports), Performance A.

connections <3m not tested), Performance A.

According to EN61326 the definitions of performance criteria are:

Performance criterion A: ‘During test normal performance within the specification limits.’

Performance criterion B: ‘During test, temporary degradation, or loss of function or

performance which is self-recovering’.

Performance criterion C: ‘During test, temporary degradation, or loss of function or
performance which requires operator intervention or system reset occurs.’

*Note: To achieve Performance B it is necessary to set the instrument such that 'power down'
settings are restored at power up; set POWER UP = POWER DOWN on the SYStem settings
menu.

Cautions

To ensure continued compliance with the EMC directive the following precautions should be
observed:

a) connect the generator to other equipment using only high quality, double-screened cables.

b) after opening the case for any reason ensure that all signal and ground connections are

c) In the event of part replacement becoming necessary, only use components of an identical

remade correctly before replacing the cover. Always ensure all case screws are correctly
refitted and tightened.

type, see the Service Manual.

10

Check that the instrument operating voltage marked on the rear panel is suitable for the local
supply. Should it be necessary to change the operating voltage, proceed as follows:

1) Disconnect the instrument from all voltage sources.

2) Remove the screws which retain the top cover and lift off the cover.

3) Change the transformer connections as follows:

for 230V operation connect the live (brown) wire to pin 15
for 115V operation connect the live (brown) wire to pin 14
for 100V operation connect the live (brown) wire to pin 13

4) Refit the cover and the secure with the same screws.

5) To comply with safety standard requirements the operating voltage marked on the rear panel
must be changed to clearly show the new voltage setting.

6) Change the fuse to one of the correct rating, see below.

Installation

Fuse

Ensure that the correct mains fuse is fitted for the set operating voltage. The correct mains fuse
types are:

To replace the fuse, disconnect the mains lead from the inlet socket and release the fuse drawer
below the socket pins by depressing both clips together, with miniature screwdrivers, so that the
drawer can be eased open. Change the fuse and replace the drawer.

The use of makeshift fuses or the short-circuiting of the fuse holder is prohibited.

Mains Lead

When a three core mains lead with bare ends is provided it should be connected as follows:-

Any interruption of the mains earth conductor inside or outside the instrument will make the
instrument dangerous. Intentional interruption is prohibited. The protective action must not be
negated by the use of an extension cord without a protective conductor.

Mounting

This instrument is suitable both for bench use and rack mounting. It is delivered with feet for
bench mounting. The front feet include a tilt mechanism for optimal panel angle.

A rack kit for mounting one or two of these Half-width 3U high units in a 19” rack is available from
the Manufacturers or their overseas agents.

for 230V operation: 250 mA (T) 250 V HRC
for 100V or 115V operation: 500 mA (T) 250 V HRC

Brown - Mains Live

Blue - Mains Neutral

Green / Yellow - Mains Earth

WARNING! THIS INSTRUMENT MUST BE EARTHED

11

Front Panel Connections

MAIN OUT

This is the 50Ω output from the main generator. It will provide up to 20V peak-to-peak e.m.f.
which will yield 10V peak-to-peak into a matched 50Ω load. It can tolerate a short circuit for 60
seconds.

Do not apply external voltages to this output.

AUX OUT

This is a TTL/CMOS level output synchronous with MAIN OUT. Symmetry is the same as that set
for the main output but the phase relationship between MAIN OUT and AUX OUT is determined
by the PHASE setting specified on the TRIGger menu.

AUX OUT logic levels are nominally 0V and 5V from typically 50Ω. AUX OUT will withstand a
short-circuit.

Do not apply external voltages to this output.

Connections

EXT TRIG

This is the external trigger input for Trigger, Gate, Sweep, FSK and HOP operating modes. It is
also the input used to synchronise the generator (as a slave) to another (which is the master).

Do not apply external voltages exceeding ±10 V.

Rear Panel Connections

CLOCK IN/OUT

The function of the CLOCK IN/OUT socket is set from the SYStem menu as follows:

INPUT The socket becomes an input for an external clock.

OUTPUT This is the default setting. The internal clock is made available at the

socket. When two or more generators are synchronised the ‘master’ is
set to OUTPUT and the signal is used to drive the CLOCK IN inputs of
the slaves.

PHASE LOCK When two or more generators are synchronised the slaves are set to

PHASE LOCK.

As an output the logic levels are nominally 1V and 4V from typically 50Ω. CLOCK OUT will
withstand a short-circuit. As an input the thresholds is TTL/CMOS compatible.

Do not apply external voltages to this output exceeding +7.5 V or -2.5 V.

VCA IN

This is the input socket for external voltage controlled amplitude (VCA). Input impedance is
nominally 6kΩ. Apply 2.5V for 100% level change at maximum output.

Do not apply external voltages exceeding ±10V.

12

SYNC OUT

When two or more generators are synchronised the SYNC OUT socket on the master generator
is connected to the EXT TRIG inputs of slave generators.

SYNC OUT logic levels are nominally 0V and 5V from typically 50Ω. SYNC OUT will withstand a
short-circuit.

Do not apply external voltages to this output.

TRIG/SWEEP OUT

The function of this output is automatically determined by the generator operating mode.

Except in sweep and HOP modes the output is that of the internal trigger generator, a fixed
amplitude square-wave whose frequency is set on the TRIG or GATE menus. The rising edge of
the trigger generator initiates trigger, burst, gate, etc.

In sweep mode the output is a 3-level waveform, changing from high (4V) to low (0V) at start of
sweep, with narrow 1V pulses at each marker point.

In HOP mode the output goes low on entry to each waveform step and high after the new
frequency and waveshape of that step have been set.

Output levels are nominally 0V and 4V from 1kΩ. TRIG/SWEEP OUT will withstand a short­circuit.

Do not apply external voltages to this output.

RS232

9-pin D-connector compatible with the Thurlby Thandar ARC (Addressable RS232 Chain)
system. The pin connections are shows below:

Pin 2, 3 and 5 may be used as a conventional RS232 interface with XON/XOFF handshaking.
Pins 7,8 and 9 are additionally used when the instrument is connected to the ARC interface.
Signal grounds are connected to instrument ground. The ARC address is set from the front panel
using the I/F menu.

GPIB (IEEE-488)

Pin Name Description

1 - No internal Connection
2 TXD Transmitted data from instrument
3 RXD Received data to instrument
4 - No internal connection
5 GND Signal ground
6 - No internal connection
7 RXD2 Secondary received data
8 TXD2 Secondary transmitted data
9 GND Signal ground

The GPIB interface is an option. It is not isolated; the GPIB signal grounds are connected to the
instrument ground.

The implemented subsets are:

SH1 AH1 T6 TE0 L4 LE0 SR1 RL1 PP1 DC1 DT1 C0 E2

The GPIB address is set from the front panel using the I/F menu.

13

This section is a general introduction to the features and organisation of the function generator
intended to be read before using the instrument for the first time. Detailed operation is covered in
later sections starting with Main Generator Operation.

DDS Principles

In this instrument waveforms are generated by Direct Digital Synthesis (DDS). One complete
cycle of the waveform is stored in RAM as 1024 10-bit amplitude values. As the RAM address is
incremented, the waveform values are output to a Digital-to-Analogue Converter (DAC) which
reconstructs the waveform. Sinewaves and triangles are subsequently filtered to smooth the
steps in the DAC output. The frequency of the waveform is determined by the rate at which the
RAM addresses are changed. Further details of how this rate is varied, i.e. how the frequency is
changed, are given later in the DDS Operation section; it is sufficient to know that at low
frequencies the addresses are output sequentially but at higher frequencies the addresses are
sampled. The major advantages of DDS over conventional analogue generation are:

General Operation

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.

• Non-standard waveforms such as multi-level squarewaves are easily generated.

• Basic arbitrary waveform capability in the same instrument.

In addition, being a digital technique, it is easier to make every parameter programmable from the
keyboard, or remotely via RS232 or GPIB interfaces.

The fundamental limitation of the DDS technique is that, as the generator frequency is increased,
each waveform cycle is constituted from fewer samples. This is not a problem with sinewaves
which, because they are filtered, can be produced with low distortion up to the frequency limit of
the generator. With DDS squarewaves and pulse waveforms the 1 clock edge uncertainty sets a
practical limit to the upper frequency. However, on this instrument the generation technique
changes at 30kHz (but is overridable by the user) to use a comparator driven by the DDS
sinewave; this ensures jitter-free squarewaves and pulses up to the frequency limit of the
generator. Ramp and staircase waveforms are, by default, unfiltered (although filtering can be
selected) and therefore become degraded above the frequencies indicated in the Specification;
all waveforms are, however, available up to the maximum frequency of the generator.

Switching On

The power switch is located at the bottom left of the front panel.

At power up the generator displays the installed software revision whilst loading its RAM with
waveforms; if an error is encountered the message “SYSTEM RAM ERROR, BATTERY FLAT?”
will be displayed, see the Warnings and Error Messages section.

Loading takes a few seconds, after which the Main menu is displayed, showing the generator
parameters set to their default values, with the MAIN OUT set off. Refer to the System Menu
section for how to change the power up settings to either those at power down or to any one of
the stored settings.

Change the basic generator parameters as described in the Main Generator Operation section
and switch the MAIN OUT on with the OUTPUT key; the ON lamp will light to show that the
output is on. Note that AUX OUT, CLOCK OUT, etc. are always running and are not switched by
the OUTPUT key.

14

Display Contrast

All parameter settings are displayed on the 20 character x 4 row backlit liquid crystal display
(LCD). The contrast may vary a little with changes of ambient temperature or viewing angle but
can be optimised for a particular environment by using the front panel contrast control. Insert a
small screwdriver or trimmer tool through the adjustment aperture marked LCD and rotate the
control for optimum contrast.

Keyboard

The keys can be considered in 7 groups:

• FUNCTION keys permit direct selection of the waveform function. Repeated presses of each
of the 3 keys steps the function selection through each of the 2 or 3 choices associated with
that key; the current selection is indicated by the illuminated lamp. Pressing a different key
selects the function last selected with that key. In this way it is therefore possible to select
between, for example, sine, square and triangle with single key presses, or between positive
pulses and negative pulses, etc.

• SET keys permit direct selection of the four main generator parameters shown on the Main
menu of the display, ready for value entries from the NUMERIC/UNIT keys.

• NUMERIC/UNIT keys permit direct entry of a value for the parameter currently selected;
parameter selection is either directly (by the SET keys) for the main parameters, or by moving
the cursor to the appropriate parameter in other menus. Thus to set a new frequency of
100kHz, for example press FREQ/PER, 1, 0, 0, kHz; or to change symmetry to 40%, press
SYMMETRY, 4, 0, %.

• FIELD and DIGIT keys are used, together with the ROTARY CONTROL, to edit parameters on
the current menu. Their use is explained more fully in the ‘Principles of Editing’ section below.

• MODE keys are used both to directly switch the respective mode (TRIG, GATE, AM, etc.) on
or off and to select the menus for setting up these special functions. Alternate presses of a
MODE key will turn the function on or off; when on the associated lamp is lit. Pressing the blue
EDIT key followed by a MODE key displays the edit menu for that mode; the associated lamp
flashes whilst the edit menu is displayed.

• UTILITIES keys give access to the STORE, RECALL and Interface parameter menus; the
MAN/SYNC key is used for manual triggering and synchronising two or more generators when
suitably connected together.

• Lastly, the CONFIRM, ESCAPE, and CE (Clear Entry) keys have self-explanatory functions.

Numeric entries are automatically confirmed when the appropriate unit key (Hz, kHz, MHz,
etc.) is pressed but CONFIRM can be used to enter a number in the parameter’s basic units or
to confirm entries with fixed units (e.g. phase) or no units (e.g. burst count). It is also used to
confirm certain options when prompted.

Pressing ESCAPE returns a setting being edited to its last value; a second press (when
appropriate) will return the display from an edit menu to the Main menu.

CE (Clear Entry) undoes a numeric entry digit by digit.

Further explanations will be found as appropriate in the detailed descriptions of the generator’s
functions.

15

Principles of Editing

FIELD and DIGIT keys are used, together with the rotary control, to edit parameters shown on the
current menu. The Main menu shows all the basic generator parameters and is the one displayed
unless editing of a special function has been selected. These edit menus are accessed by
pressing the blue EDIT key, followed by the appropriate MODE key or a numeric key which has a
secondary function printed in blue.

FIELD keys move the flashing edit cursor forward or backwards from one editable field to the
next; all the digits of a numeric parameter value are treated as a single field. When the
parameters of a particular function occupy two or more pages of the display, e.g. the sweep mode
parameters, the further pages are indicated by MORE>>> shown in the display and the FIELD
keys are also used to step between the end of one page and the start of another, and vice-versa.
The attributes of the flashing edit cursor can be changed by the user if desired, see SYStem
Menu section.

DIGIT keys operate in more than one mode. When a numeric parameter value field is selected by
the FIELD keys, DIGIT keys step the edit cursor forward or backwards through the digits of the
field. When the edit cursor is positioned in a parameter name (e.g. FREQ) pressing either digit
key will step the parameter through each of the alternative forms in which a value may be entered
(e.g. FREQ is changed to PERiod); the parameter numeric value and units change accordingly.
Note that where there is no alternative form for the parameter (e.g. SYMMETRY) the edit cursor
cannot be stepped into that field. When the edit cursor is positioned in a parameter selection field
(e.g. SOURCE = on the TRIG menu), the DIGIT keys step through all possible choices for that
parameter (e.g. SOURCE = TGEN, SOURCE = EXT, etc.) Lastly, when the edit cursor is
positioned in the units field of a parameter value, the DIGIT keys increment or decrement the
numeric value of the parameter by a factor of 10 each press; the units change each time the
display autoranges.

The ROTARY CONTROL works as follows. With the cursor in any field other than a numeric
value field turning the control acts in exactly the same way as pressing the DIGIT keys. With the
edit cursor positioned anywhere in a parameter numeric field, turning the control will increment or
decrement the value; the step size is determined by the position of the edit cursor within the
numeric field.

Thus for FREQ = 1.000
display will auto-range up or down as the frequency is changed, provided that autoranging
permits the increment size to be maintained; this will in turn determine the lowest or highest
setting that can be achieved by turning the control. In the example above, the lowest frequency
that can be set by rotating the control is 1 kHz, shown on the display as

FREQ = 1.000000 kHz

This is the limit because to show a lower frequency the display would need to autorange below
1kHz to

FREQ = xxx.xxx Hz

in which the most significant digit represents 100Hz, i.e. the 1kHz increment would be lost. If,
however, the starting setting had been

FREQ = 1.0000

i.e. a 100 Hz increment, the display would have autoranged at 1kHz to

FREQ = 900.0000 Hz

00 MHz rotating the control will change the frequency in 1kHz steps. The

00 MHz

16

and could then be decremented further right down to

FREQ = 000.0000 Hz

without losing the 100 Hz increment.

Turning the control quickly will step numeric values in multiple increments.

When first switched on, and at all subsequent power-ups unless specified otherwise on the
SYStem menu, the generator will be set to the factory defaults, with the output off. The basic
parameters can be set from the Main menu as described below.

Main Generator Parameters

Frequency

FREQ=10.00000kHz
EMF =+20.0 Vpp 50Ω

DC=+0.00mV (+0.00mV)
SYM=50.0% (50.0%)

With the flashing edit cursor anywhere on the first line of the Main menu the frequency can be
changed directly from the keyboard by entering the number and appropriate units only, e.g. 1kHz
can be set by entering 1,kHz or ., 0, 0, 1, MHz or 1, 0, 0, 0, Hz, etc. However, the display will
always show the entry in the most appropriate engineering units, in this case 1.000000 kHz. If
this cursor is not already in a top line field it is first necessary to press the FREQ/PER key before
making the number and unit entry. Note that this always returns the cursor to the parameter name
field which can then be alternated between FREQ and PERiod with successive presses of either
DIGIT key, or by turning the rotary control.

Main Generator Operation

PER =100.0000us
EMF =+20.0 Vpp 50

Ω

DC=+0.00mV (+0.00mV)
SYM=50.0% (50.0%)

When PER= shows in the display instead of FREQ=, the frequency can be set in terms of a
period; enter the number and units (ns, µs, ms or s) in the same way as for frequency. Note that
the precision of a period entry is restricted to 6 digits; 7 digits are displayed but the last significant
one is always zero. The hardware is always programmed in terms of frequency; when a period
entry is made the synthesised frequency is the nearest equivalent value that the frequency
resolution and a 6-digit conversion calculation gives. If the frequency is displayed after a period
entry the value may differ by a digit from the expected value because of these considerations.
Further, once the setting has been displayed as a frequency, converting back again to display
period will give an exact 6-digit equivalent of the 7-digit frequency, but this may differ, by a digit,
from the period value originally entered. If the edit cursor is moved to the numeric field, turning
the rotary control will increment or decrement the numeric value in steps determined by the edit
position within the field. The FIELD keys move the cursor to the field and the DIGIT keys move it
within the field; this is more fully explained in the Principles of Editing section. Lastly, with the edit
cursor in the units field, pressing the DIGIT keys or turning the rotary control will change the value
in decade increments; the decimal point will move and/or the units will change as appropriate.
Full 7-digit precision is maintained as the value is decremented until the 0.1mHz resolution limit of
the instrument is reached; values which would have had least significant bits <0.1mHz are
truncated with further decrements and the precision is consequently lost when the number is
incremented again.

Output Level

The second line of the Main menu permits the output level to be set in terms of EMF (open circuit
voltage) or PD (potential difference into a matched load) or dBm (referenced to the specified
source impedance). Both EMF and PD can be set in terms of peak-peak volts (Vpp) or r.m.s. volts
(Vrms). Note that in both cases the true peak-peak or r.m.s. values are shown for the selected
waveform, even an arbitrary waveform. However, in the case of Vrms the DC Offset (see next

17

section) is ignored in the calculation and must be taken into consideration by the user if the DC
Offset is non-zero.

FREQ=10.00000kHz
EMF=+20.0 Vpp 50Ω

DC=+0.00mV (+0.00mV)
SYM=50.0% (50.0%)

The desired form of the output level display can be selected whilst the edit cursor is in the
parameter name field by stepping through all the options with the DIGIT keys or the rotary control;
bring the cursor to the parameter name field first, if necessary, by pressing EMF/PD, or by using
the FIELD keys.

With the appropriate parameter form selected, the value is entered as a number followed by units,
e.g. 100mV can be entered as 1, 0, 0, mV or ., 1, V etc. The software acts intelligently in certain
situations; for example, even if EMF or PD is the selected parameter form, entering a number
followed by the dBm key will cause the number to be entered as dBm. Similarly, with dBm as the
selected parameter form, entering a number followed by V or mV will cause the number to be
entered as PD=Vrms. 0dBm is 1mW into the specified impedance; low signal levels are specified
by using the +/- key to enter negative dBm. See also the last paragraph of this section for the use
of the +/- key for output inversion.

Moving the edit cursor to the numeric field permits the set value to be varied by the rotary control
in steps determined by the cursor position within the field. The FIELD keys move the cursor to the
field and the DIGIT keys move it within the field; this is explained more fully in the Principles of
Editing section.

Moving the edit cursor to the units field permits the numeric value to be changed in decade steps
by the DIGIT keys or rotary control; the decimal point will move and/or the units will change as
appropriate. Further increments are inhibited if the next decade step would take the value above
the maximum level or below the minimum level. Decade stepping with the DIGIT keys or rotary
control is also inhibited when the level is displayed in dBm.

Wherever the cursor is positioned on the second line of the display, alternate presses of the +/­key will invert the MAIN OUT output; if DC OFFSET is non-zero, the signal is inverted about the
offset. The one exception to this is if the output level is specified in dBm; since low signals are
specified in -dBm, the - sign is interpreted as part of a new output level entry and not as a
command to invert the signal. The output level must be shown as an EMF or PD value for the +/­key to operate as a signal invert key.

If an amplitude change is made which involves switching the attenuator, the output is switched off
for 45ms whilst the change is made to prevent any transients appearing at the output.

Output Impedance

The impedance of the MAIN OUT output is selected in the last field of the second line. Move the
edit cursor to this field and use the DIGIT keys or rotary control to toggle between 50Ω and
600Ω. The output level is unchanged but the displayed value in dBm will change because the
0dBm reference level (1mW into the specified impedance) changes with the impedance.

DC Offset

The DC Offset is set on the third line of the Main menu. With the cursor anywhere in the third line
the DC offset can be changed directly from the keyboard by entering the number and appropriate
units, e.g. 100mV can be set by entering 1, 0, 0, mV or ., 1, V, etc. If the cursor is not already in
the third line of the display it is first necessary to press the DC OFFSET key, to position the
cursor, before making the number and unit entry. Note that, unlike the FREQ= or EMF=
parameter fields, the cursor does not move into the DC OFFSET name because it has no
alternative.

18

With the edit cursor in the numeric field, turning the rotary control will increment or decrement the
numeric value in steps determined by the edit cursor position within the field. The DC OFFSET or

FIELD keys move the cursor to the field and the DIGIT keys move it within the field; this is more
fully explained in the Principles of Editing section. Because DC offset can have negative values,
the rotary control can take the value below zero; although the display may autorange to a higher
resolution if a step takes the value close to zero, the increment size is maintained correctly as the
offset is stepped negative. For example, if the display shows

DC = +2

with the cursor in the most significant digit, the rotary control will decrement the offset in 100mV
steps as follows:

DC = +205.mV

DC = +105.mV

DC = +5

DC = -9

DC = -1

The +/- key can also be used at any time to set the offset value negative; alternative presses
toggle the sign between + and -. Alternatively the sign of the offset can be changed as part of the
entry of a new value, e.g. if the offset is +2.00V it can be changed to -100mV by pressing
+/-, 1, 0, 0, mV.

The actual DC offset at the MAIN OUT socket is attenuated by the fixed-step output attenuator
when this is in use. Since it is not obvious when the signal is being attenuated the actual offset is
shown in brackets as a non-editable field to the right of the set value.

For example, in the display below, the pk-pk output is not attenuated by the fixed attenuator and
the actual DC offset (in brackets) is the same as that set.

05. mV

.00 mV

5.0 mV

95. mV

FREQ=10.00000kHz
EMF=+2.50 Vpp 50Ω

DC=+150.mV (+150.mV)
SYM=50.0% (50.0%)

If the output level is now reduced to 250mV pk-pk, which introduces the attenuator, the actual DC
offset changes by the appropriate factor:

The above display shows that the set DC offset is +150mV but the actual offset is +15.1mV. Note
that the actual offset value also takes into account the true attenuation provided by the fixed
attenuator, using the values determined during the calibration procedure. In the example
displayed the output signal is 250mV pk-pk exactly and takes account of the small error in the

-20dB fixed attenuator; the offset is 15.1mV exactly, taking account of the effect of the known

attenuation (slightly less than the nominal -20dB) on the set offset of 150mV.

Whenever the set DC offset is modified by a change in output level in this way a warning
message that this has happened will be displayed. Similarly, because the DC offset plus signal
peak is limited to ± 10V to avoid waveform clipping, a warning message will be displayed. This is
explained more fully in the Warnings and Error Messages section.

DC Output

The DC Offset control can be used to provide an adjustable DC output level if the waveform is off;
the recommended set-up is as follows:

FREQ=10.00000kHz
EMF=+250.mVpp 50Ω

DC=+150.mV (+15.1mV)
SYM=50.0% (50.0%)

19

Select GATE edit mode and set the SOURCE to MAN/REMOTE. Exit edit mode and turn on
GATE mode with the GATE key. Provided that GATE mode is not triggered, the MAIN OUT will
now remain at the level set by the DC Offset control.

On the main menu set the output level to 1Vpp; this ensures that the software does not warn of
clipping (output level too high) and that the output attenuator is not switched in (which would also
attenuate the DC Offset). With the cursor in the DC Offset field the MAIN OUT can now be
adjusted over the range ±10V EMF.

Symmetry

Pressing the SYMMETRY key moves the flashing edit cursor directly to the symmetry numeric
field on the bottom line of the display. This is the only field that can be edited; the bracketed field
on the right-hand side shows the actual symmetry which might differ from that set if the set value
is outside that permitted for the selected frequency and waveform combination, see Specification
section. For example, in the display below the frequency is set to 100kHz and a squareware is
selected.

FREQ=100.0000kHz
EMF=+20.0 Vpp 50Ω

DC=+0.00mV (+0.00mV)
SYM=90.0% (80.0%)

The symmetry is set to 90% but the actual symmetry is 80%, the limit for squarewaves and pulse
waveforms above 30kHz.

The flashing cursor can be moved within the field using the DIGIT keys; turning the rotary control
will then increment or decrement the setting in steps determined by the position of the cursor in
the field.

Should the symmetry be set outside the permitted range for the selected frequency and waveform
combination a warning message will be shown on the display, see Warnings and Error Messages
section below.

Warning and Error Messages

Two classes of message are displayed on the screen when an illegal combination of parameters
is attempted.

WARNING messages are shown when the entered setting causes some change which the user
might not necessarily expect. Examples are:

1. Changing the EMF from 2.5Volts pk-pk to 250mV pk-pk brings in the step attenuator; if a non­zero offset has been set then this will now be attenuated too. The message ‘DC OFFSET
CHANGE BY OUTPUT LEVEL’ will be shown temporarily on the screen but the setting will be
accepted; in this case the actual, attenuated, offset will be shown in brackets to the right of the
set value.

2. With the output level set to 10V pk-pk, increasing the DC offset beyond ± 5V will cause the
message ‘DC OFFSET + LEVEL MAY CAUSE CLIPPING’. The offset change will be accepted
(producing a clipped waveform) and the user may then choose to change the output level or
the offset to produce a signal which is not clipped.

20

3. With 100kHz squarewave selected, increasing symmetry beyond 80% will cause the message
‘SYMMETRY TOO WIDE FOR FUNC/FREQ’ to be displayed. The setting will be accepted but
the actual symmetry will be limited to 80% as shown in the bracketed field beside the setting. If
this out-of-specification setting is changed by reducing the frequency below 30kHz or by
changing the waveform then the warning ‘SYMMETRY CHANGED BY FUNC/FREQ’ is
displayed.

ERROR messages are shown when an illegal setting is attempted, most generally a number
outside the range of values permitted. In this case the entry is rejected and the parameter setting
is left unchanged. Examples are:

1. Entering a frequency of 100 MHz. The error message ‘FREQUENCY/PERIOD VAL OUT OF
RANGE’ is shown.

2. Entering an EMF of 25V pk-pk. The error message ‘MAX OUTPUT LEVEL EXCEEDED’ is
shown.

3. Entering a DC offset of 20V. The error message ‘MAX DC OFFSET EXCEEDED’ is shown.

The messages are shown on the display for approximately two seconds. The last two messages
can be viewed again by pressing the blue EDIT key followed by MSG (the 0 number key). Each
message has a number and the full list appears in Appendix 1, together with some further
explanation where the message is not entirely self-explanatory.

The default set-up is for all warning and error messages to be displayed and for a beep to sound
with each message. This set-up can be changed on the ERRor menu, accessed by pressing the
blue EDIT key followed by ERRor key (the 2 number key). The ERRor menu is shown below:

ERROR BEEP=ON
ERROR MESSAGE=ON
WARNING BEEP=ON
WARNING MESSAGE=ON

The flashing cursor can be moved through each of the four editable fields in turn using the FIELD
keys. The field can then be toggled between ON and OFF, using the DIGIT keys or rotary control,
to create the desired setting. If the new setting is required for future use it should be saved by
changing the POWER UP= setting on the SYStem menu to POWER UP=POWER DOWN, see
System Menu section.

21

Auxiliary Output

AUX OUT is a TTL/CMOS level output synchronous with MAIN OUT and with the same
symmetry. However, the phase of the AUX OUT can be varied with respect to the MAIN OUT by
changing the PHASE setting on the TRIGger edit menu.

Auxiliary Output Phase

Sine

Square

Triangle

Ramp

AUX 0º

AUX 90º

The convention adopted for phase in this instrument is
illustrated in the diagram. 0° is always the first data point in
waveform memory. On symmetrical waveforms 0° is the
rising edge ‘zero-crossing’ point for sine, square, triangle
and pulse waveforms; 0° is the start point of ramps,
staircase and arbitrary waves. When the phase is set to 0°
the rising edge of the AUX OUT squarewave is at 0° too.
When the phase is set to a positive value, e.g. +90°, the
AUX OUT squarewave follows MAIN OUT by 90°, when the
phase is set to a negative value AUX OUT leads MAIN
OUT.

The phase is set by pressing the blue EDIT key followed by
TRIG to select the trigger edit menu; the edit cursor is then
moved to the PHASE field using the FIELD keys. PHASE
can be entered directly from the keyboard, using the +/- key
to change the sign if necessary, or by rotary control.

Above 30kHz the AUX OUT accompanying sine, triangle,
square and pulse waveforms is automatically switched such
that it is derived from the comparator (driven by the DDS
sinewave) used to generate higher frequency MAIN OUT
squarewaves and pulses; see the DDS Principles section
for further information. This ensures a jitter-free AUX OUT
signal up to the maximum frequency of the generator but
means that phase shifting between MAIN OUT and AUX
OUT is not then possible. However, this constraint can be
removed by changing the setting on the OPTions menu
from AUX OUTPUT=AUTO to AUX OUTPUT=LOW FREQ;
the AUX OUT signal then continues to be generated
independently, with phase adjustable with respect to the
MAIN output, although the 1 clock (36ns) jitter will become
increasingly significant at higher frequencies. Changing
AUTO settings is described more fully in the next section,
Waveform Generator Options.

22

The AUX OUT signal accompanying ramp, staircase and

AUX 180º

0º 180º 360º

arbitrary waveforms is, by default, always generated
independently; phase shift is adjustable across the
frequency range but again clock jitter becomes increasingly
significant at higher frequencies.

Waveform Generation Options

A number of parameters are, by default, switched automatically either when the frequency is set
above 30kHz or when the operating mode is changed such that the best overall performance is
achieved across the whole generator frequency range; see the DDS Principles section for further
details of the 30kHz changeover. In addition, triangle, ramp, staircase and arbitrary waveforms
can be inhibited from being set above 100kHz, to ensure that they are not used accidentally at
frequencies where the waveshape is noticeably deteriorating. In all cases, however the default
choice can be overridden by the user by changing the setting on the OPTions menu.

The OPTions edit menu shown above is selected by pressing the blue EDIT key followed by
OPTN (the shifted function of 1). The following descriptions, grouped together in this section for
reference convenience, should be read in conjunction with the main explanations of the
appropriate parameter elsewhere in this manual. Each parameter is altered by moving the edit
cursor to the appropriate field with the FIELD keys and using the DIGIT keys or rotary control to
change the setting.

Squarewave Generation

In LOW FREQency mode the squarewave and pulse waves are generated digitally; in this way
precision squarewaves can be generated down to very low frequencies without the edge
uncertainty that would be associated with conventional ramp-and-comparator techniques. Above
approximately 27kHz (clock frequency, 27.487MHz, ÷1024) the waveforms are sampled and the
1 clock (36ns) uncertainty introduces edge jitter which becomes increasingly significant at higher
frequencies. In HIGH FREQuency mode the squarewave and pulses are derived from the output
of a comparator driven by the DDS generated sinewave. The sinewave is, by default, filtered and
jitter-free; the high frequency squareware and pulse waveforms are thus jitter free too.

SQWAVE GEN=AUTO
FILTER=AUTO
AUX=AUTO FSTOP=ON
SWEEP TGEN OUT=AUTO

In AUTO mode (the default) the generation of squarewave and pulse waveforms is automatically
switched from low to high frequency mode when the frequency exceeds 30kHz. However, when
these waveforms are used in sweep and FSK modes, over a frequency range which includes the
30kHz changeover point, the generation mode will not change even though AUTO is selected.
Instead, the mode in use before sweep or FSK are turned on is maintained across the frequency
range; this can of course be overridden by selecting either high or low frequency mode on the
Options menu, as described above.

Filter

The generator contains a 7-stage elliptical filter which exhibits a sharp cut-off beyond the
maximum generator frequency, reducing intermodulation spurii and clock harmonics to a very low
level. With the default condition of FILTER=AUTO set on the Option menu, the filter is switched in
automatically for sine, triangle, high frequency squarewave and high frequency pulse waveforms
(although the squarewave and pulse waveforms themselves do not pass through the filter); the
filter is automatically switched out for low frequency squarewave and pulses, ramp, staircase and
arbitrary waveforms because of the degrading effect it has on fast transitions in the waveform.
However, for all these waveforms the filter can be set to be always on (FILTER=ON) or always off
(FILTER=OFF); this has the advantage that, for example, an arbitrary waveform with an
essentially sinusoidal content can be output with the filter on.

When Noise is selected, see Special Waveforms section, this 7-stage filter is always off, whatever
the FILTER = setting, and a simple 700kHz low pass RC filter is switched in instead.

Auxiliary Output

When sine, triangle, squarewave or pulse waveforms are selected and with AUX
OUTPUT=AUTO the auxiliary output squarewave generation switches automatically at 30kHz
from DDS generation to a signal derived from a comparator driven by the DDS sinewave; the
advantages of this approach are the same as those detailed previously in the Squarewave
Generation section. However, as detailed in the Auxiliary Output Phase section, the high
frequency generation mode has the disadvantage that a phase difference can no longer be set
between AUX OUT and MAIN OUT. The automatic switchover at 30kHz can therefore be
overridden by setting AUX OUTPUT=LOW FREQuency, to maintain it in true DDS mode, or AUX
OUTPUT=HIGH FREQuency to lock it in high frequency mode. With AUX OUTPUT=AUTO there
is no automatic mode changeover if ramp, staircase or arbitrary waveforms are selected; high
frequency mode can however be forced by setting AUX OUTPUT=HIGH FREQ.

23