User’s Guide
Test Equipment Depot - 800.517.8431 - 99 Washington Street Melrose, MA 02176 - TestEquipmentDepot.com
Publication Number 33220-90002 (order as 33220-90100 manual set)
Edition 4, May 2007
Copyright © 2003, 2005, 2007 Agilent Technologies, Inc.
Agilent 33220A
20 MHz Function/
Arbitrary Waveform Generator
Agilent 33220A at a Glance
The Agilent Technologies 33220A is a 20 MHz synthesized function
generator with built-in arbitrary waveform and pulse capabilities.
Its combination of bench-top and system features makes this function
generator a versatile solution for your testing requirements now and in
the future.
Convenient bench-top features
• 10 standard waveforms
• Built-in 14-bit 50 MSa/s arbitrary waveform capability
• Precise pulse waveform capabilities with adjustable edge time
• LCD display provides numeric and graphical views
• Easy-to-use knob and numeric keypad
• Instrument state storage with user-defined names
• Portable, ruggedized case with non-skid feet
Flexible system features
• Four downloadable 64K-point arbitrary waveform memories
• GPIB (IEEE-488), USB, and LAN remote interfaces are standard
• LXI Class C Compliant
• SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) compatibility
Note:
Unless otherwise indicated, this manual applies to all Serial
2
Numbers.
The Front Panel at a Glance
1 Graph Mode/Local Key
2 On/Off Switch
3 Modulation/Sweep/Burst Keys
4 State Storage Menu Key
5 Utility Menu Key
6 Help Menu Key
7 Menu Operation Softkeys
8 Waveform Selection Keys
9 Manual Trigger Key (used for
Sweep and Burst only)
10 Output Enable/Disable Key
11
Knob
12
Cursor Keys
13
Sync Connector
14
Output Connector
Note: To get context-sensitive help on any front-panel key or menu softkey,
press and hold down that key.
3
The Front-Panel Display at a Glance
Menu Mode
Numeric
Readout
Mode
Information
Trigger
Information
Softkey Labels
Units
Output
Status
Graph Mode
To enter or exit the Graph Mode, press the key.
Parameter
Name
Parameter
Value
Display
Icon
Signal
Ground
In Graph Mode, only one parameter label
is displayed for each key at one time.
4
Front-Panel Number Entry
1. Use the keys below the knob to move the cursor left or right.
1. Key in a value as you would on a typical calculator.
You can enter numbers from the front-panel using one of two methods.
Use the knob and cursor keys to modify the displayed number.
2. Rotate the knob to change a digit (clockwise to increase).
Use the keypad to enter numbers and the softkeys to select units.
2. Select a unit to enter the value.
5
The Rear Panel at a Glance
1
External 10 MHz Reference Input Terminal
(Option 001 only)
2
Internal 10 MHz Reference Output Terminal
(Option 001 only)
3 External Modulation Input Terminal
Input: External Trig/FSK/Burst Gate
4
Output: Trigger Output
.
.
5 USB Interface Connector
6 LAN Interface Connector
7 GPIB Interface Connector
8 Chassis Ground
Use the menu to:
• Select the GPIB address (see chapter 2).
• Set the network parameters for the LAN interface (see chapter 2).
• Display the current network parameters (see chapter 2).
Note: The External and Internal 10 MHz Reference Terminals (1 and 2,
above) are present only if Option 001, External Timebase Reference, is
installed. Otherwise, the holes for these connectors are plugged.
WARNING For protection from electrical shock, the power cord ground must not be
defeated. If only a two-contact electrical outlet is available, connect the
instrument’s chassis ground screw (see above) to a good earth ground.
6
In This Book
Quick Start Chapter 1 prepares the function generator for use and
helps you get familiar with a few of its front-panel features.
Front-Panel Menu Operation Chapter 2 introduces you to the frontpanel menu and describes some of the function generator’s menu features.
Features and Functions Chapter 3 gives a detailed description of the
function generator’s capabilities and o peration. You will find t his chapter
useful whether you are operating the function generator from the front
panel or over the remote interface.
Remote Interface Reference
to help you program the function generator over the remote interface.
Error Messages Chapter 5 lists the error messages that may appear
as you are working with the function generator. Each listing contains
information to help you diagnose and solve the problem.
Application Programs Chapter 6 contains several remote interface
application programs to help you develop programs for your application.
Tutorial Chapter 7 discusses the fundamentals of signal generation
and modulation techni ques.
Specifications Chapter 8 lists the function generator’s specifications.
Chapter 4 contains reference information
7
You can contact Agilent Technologies at one of the following telephone
numbers for warranty, service, or technical support information.
In the United States: (800) 829-4444
In Europe: 31 20 547 2111
In Japan: 0120-421-345
Or use our Web link for information on contacting Agilent worldwide.
8
Contents
Chapter 1 Quick Start 13
To Prepare the Function Generator for Use 15
To Adjust the Carrying Handle 16
To Set the Output Frequency 17
To Set the Output Amplitude 18
To Set a DC Offset Voltage 20
To Set the High-Level and Low-Level Values 21
To Select “DC Volts” 22
To Set the Duty Cycle of a Square Wave 23
To Configure a Pulse Waveform 24
To View a Waveform Graph 25
To Output a Stored Arbitrary Waveform 26
To Use the Built-In Help System 27
To Rack Mount the Function Generator 29
Chapter 2 Front-Panel Menu Operation 31
Front-Panel Menu Reference 33
To Select the Output Termination 35
To Reset the Function Generator 35
To Output a Modulated Waveform 36
To Output an FSK Waveform 38
To Output a PWM Waveform 40
To Output a Frequency Sweep 42
To Output a Burst Waveform 44
To Trigger a Sweep or Burst 46
To Store the I nstrument State 47
To Configure the Remote Int erface 48
Chapter 3 Features and Functions 53
Output Configuration 55
Pulse Waveforms 70
Amplitude Modulation (AM) 74
Frequency Modulation (FM) 79
Phase Modulation (PM) 85
Frequency-Shift Keying (FSK) Modulation 89
Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) 93
Frequency Sweep 99
Burst Mode 106
Contents
9
Contents
Contents
Triggering 115
Arbitrary Waveforms 120
System-Related Operations 126
Remote Interface Configuration 135
External Timebase Reference (Option 001) 144
Calibration Overview 146
Factory Defa ul t Sett in gs 150
Chapter 4 Remote Interface Reference 153
SCPI Command Summary 155
Simplified Programming Overview 168
Using the APPLy Command 170
Output Configuration Commands 179
Pulse Configuration Commands 192
Amplitude Modulation (AM) Commands 197
Frequency Modulation (FM) Commands 200
Phase Modulation (PM) Commands 204
Frequency-Shift Keying (FSK) Commands 207
Pulse Width Modulation (P WM) Commands 210
Frequency Sweep Commands 215
Burst Mode Commands 223
Triggering Commands 231
Arbitrary Waveform Commands 234
State Storage Commands 245
System-Related Commands 249
Interface Configuration Commands 254
Phase-Lock Commands (Option 001 Only) 258
The SCPI Status System 260
Status Reporting Commands 270
Calibration Commands 274
An Introduction to the SCPI Language 276
Using Device Clear 281
10
Contents
Chapter 5 Error Messages 283
Command Errors 285
Execution Errors 288
Device Dependent Errors 303
Query Errors 304
Instrument Errors 305
Self-Test Errors 306
Calibration Errors 308
Arbitrary Waveform Errors 309
Chapter 6 Application Programs 311
Introduction 312
Program Listings 314
Chapter 7 Tutorial 321
Direct Digital Synthesis 323
Creating Arbitrary Waveforms 326
Square Waveform Generation 328
Pulse Waveform Generation 329
Signal Imperfections 330
Output Amplitude Control 332
Ground Loops 333
Attributes of AC Signals 335
Modulation 337
Frequency Sweep 342
Burst 343
Contents
11
Chapter 8 Specifications 345
Waveforms 346
Waveform Characteristics 346
Common Characteristics 347
Modulation 347
Sweep 348
Burst 348
Trigger Characteristics 348
Programming Times 348
General 349
Product Dimensions 350
Index 351
Contents
12
1
1
Quick Start
1
Quick Start
One of the first things yo u will want to do w ith your function ge nerator is
to become acquainted with the fron t panel. W e have written the exercises
in this chapter to prepare the instrument for use and help you get
familiar with some of its front-panel operations. This chapter is divided
into the following sections:
• To Prepare the Function Generator for Use, on page 15
• To Adjust the Carrying Handle, on page 16
• To Set the Output Frequency, on page 17
• To Set the Output Amplitude, on page 18
• To Set a DC Offset Voltage, on page 20
• To Set the High-Level and Low-Level V alues, on page 21
• To Select “DC Volts”, on page 22
• To Set the Duty Cycle of a Square Wave, on page 23
• To Configure a Pulse Waveform, on page 24
• To View a Waveform Graph, on page 25
• To Output a Stored Arbitrary Waveform, on page 26
• To Use the Built-In Help System, on page 27
• To Rack Mount the Function Generator, on page 29
14
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Prepare the Function Generator for Use
To Prepare the Function Generator for Use
1 Check the list of supplied items.
Verify that you have received the following items with your instrument.
If anything is missing, please contact your nearest Agilent Sales Office.
1
Power
Switch
• Power cord (for country of destination).
• Certificate of Calibration.
• Agilent 33220A Product Reference CD (product software,
programming examples, and manuals).
• Agilent Automation-Ready CD (Agilent IO Libraries Suite).
• USB 2.0 cable.
2 C onnect the power cord and turn on the function generator.
The instrument runs a short power-on self test, which takes a few
seconds. When the instrument is ready for use it displays a message
about how to obtain help, along with the current GPIB address and
USB identification string. The function generator powers up in the sine
wave function at 1 kHz with an amplitude of 100 mV peak-to-peak (into
a 50Ω termination).
enable the Output
If the function generator does not turn on, verify that the power cord is
firmly connected to the power receptacle on the rear p a ne l (t he po w er -line
voltage is automatically sensed at power-on). You should also make sure
that the function generator is connected to a power source that is energized
Then, verify that the function generator is turned on.
At power-on, the
connector, press the key
Output
connecto r
.
is disabled. To
4
.
If the power-on self test fails, “Self-Test Failed” is displayed along with an
error code. See the Agilent 33220A Service Guide for information on
error codes, and for
Agilent for service.
instructions on returning the function generator to
15
1
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Adjust the Carrying Handle
To Adjust the Carrying Handle
To adjust the position, grasp the handle by the sides and pull outward.
Then, rotate the handle to the desired position.
Retracted
Carrying
Position
Extended
16
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Set the Output Frequency
To Set the Output Frequency
At power-on, the function generator outputs a sine wave at 1 kHz with
an amplitude of 100 mV peak-to-peak (into a 50Ω termination).
The following steps show you how to change the frequency to 1.2 MHz.
1
1Press the “Freq” softkey.
The displayed frequency is either the power-on value or the frequency
previously selected. When you change functions, the same frequency is
used if the present value is valid for the new function. To set the
waveform period instead, press the Freq softkey again to toggle to the
Period softkey (the current selection is highlighted).
2 Enter the magnitude of the desired frequency.
Using the numeric keypad, enter the value “1.2”.
3 Select the desired units.
Press the softkey that corresponds to the desired units. When you select
the units, the function generator outputs a waveform with the displayed
frequency (if the output is enabled). For this example, press MHz
.
4
Note: Y
keys.
ou can also enter the desired value using the knob and cursor
17
1
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Set the Output Amplitude
To Set the Output Amplitude
At power-on, the function generator outputs a sine wave with an
amplitude of 100 mV peak-to-peak (into a 50Ω termination).
The following steps show you how to change the amplitude to 50 mVrms.
1Press the “Ampl” softkey.
The displayed amplitude is either the power-on value or the amplitude
previously selected. When you change functions, the same amplitude is
used if the present value is valid for the new function. To set the amplitude
using a high level and low level, press the Ampl softkey again to toggle to
the HiLevel and LoLevel softkeys (the current selection is highlighted).
2 Enter the magnitude of the desired amplitude.
Using the numeric keypad, enter the value “50”.
3 Select the desired units.
Press the softkey that corresponds to the desired units. When you select
the units, the functio n ge ner ator out puts the wave form w ith the disp layed
amplitude (if the output is enabled). For this example, press mV
Note: Y
keys.
18
ou can also enter the desired value using the knob and cursor
RMS
.
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Set the Output Amplitude
You can easily convert the displayed amplitude from one unit to another.
For example, the following steps show you how to convert the amplitude
from Vrms to Vpp.
4 Enter the numeric entry mode.
Press the key to enter the numeric entry mode.
5 Select the new units.
Press the softkey that corresponds to the desired units. The displayed
value is converted to the new units. For this example, press the Vpp
softkey to convert 50 mVrms to its equivalent in volts peak-to-peak.
1
4
To change the displayed amplitude by decades, press the right-cursor
key to move the cursor to the units on the right side of the display.
Then, rotate the knob to increase or decrease the displayed amplitude
by decades.
19
1
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Set a DC Offset Voltage
To Set a DC Offset Voltage
At power-on, the function generator outputs a sine wave with a dc offset
of 0 volts (into a 50Ω termination). The following steps show you how to
change the offset to –1.5 mVdc.
1Press the “Offset” softkey.
The displayed off set voltage is either the power-on value or the offset
previously selected. When you change functions, the same offset is used
if the present value is valid for the new function.
2 Enter the magnitude of the desired offset.
Using the numeric keypad, enter the value “–1.5”.
3 Select the desired units.
Press the softkey that corresponds to the desired units. When you select
the units, the functio n ge ner ator out puts the wave form w ith the disp layed
offset (if the output is enabled). For this example, press mV
Note: Y
keys.
20
ou can also enter the desired value using the knob and cursor
DC
.
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Set the High-Level and Low-Level Values
To Set the High-Level and Lo w-Level Values
You can specify a signal by setting its amplitude and dc offset values, as
described previously. Another way to set the limits of a signal is to
specify its high-level (maximum) and low-level (minimum) values. This
is typically convenient for digital applications. In the following example,
let's set the high-level to 1.0 V and the low-level to 0.0 V.
1 Press the "Ampl" softkey to select "Ampl".
2 Press the softkey again to toggle to "HiLevel".
Note that both the Ampl and Offset softkeys toggle together, to HiLevel
and LoLevel, respectively.
1
4
3 Set the "HiLevel" value.
Using the numeric keypad or the knob, select a value of "1.0 V". (If you
are using the keypad, you will need to select the unit, "V", to enter the
value.)
4 Press the "LoLevel" softkey and set the value.
Again, use the numeric keyp ad or the knob to enter a value of "0.0 V".
Note that these settings (high-level = "1.0 V" and low-level = "0.0 V") are
equivalent to setting an amplitude of "1.0 Vpp" and an offset of "500
mVdc".
21
1
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Select “DC Volts”
To Select “DC Volts”
You can select the "DC Volts" feature from the “Utility” menu, and then
set a constant dc voltage as an "Offset" value. Let's set "DC Volts" = 1.0
Vdc.
1 Press and then select the DC On softkey.
The Offset value becomes selected.
2 Enter the desired voltage level as an "Offset".
Enter 1.0 Vdc with the numeric keypad or knob.
You can enter any dc voltage from -5 Vdc to +5 Vdc.
22
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Set the Duty Cycle of a Square Wave
To Set the Duty Cycle of a Square Wave
At power-on, the duty cycle for square waves is 50%. You ca n adjust the
duty cycle from 20% to 80% for output frequencies up to 10 MHz. The
following steps show you how to change the duty cycle to 30%.
1
1 Select the square wave function.
Press the key and then set the d esired output frequency to any
value up to 10 MHz.
2Press the “Duty Cycle” softkey.
The displayed duty cycle is either the power-on value or the percentage
previously selected. Th e duty cycle represents the amount of time per
cycle that the square wave is at a high level (note the icon on the right
side of the display).
3 Enter the desired duty cycle.
Using the numeric keypad or the knob, select a duty cycle value of “30”.
The function generator adjusts the duty cy cle immediately and outputs a
square wave with the specified value (if the output is enabled).
4
23
1
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Configure a Pulse Waveform
To Configure a Pulse Waveform
You can configure the function generator to output a pulse waveform
with variable pulse width and edge time. The following steps show you
how to configure a 500 ms pulse waveform with a pulse width of 10 ms
and edge times of 50 ns.
1 Select the pulse function.
Press the key to select the pulse function and output a pulse
waveform with the default parameters.
2 Set the pulse period.
Press the Period softkey and then set the pulse period to 500 ms.
3 Set the pulse width.
Press the Width softkey and then set the pulse width to 10 ms. The pulse
width represents the time from the 50% threshold of the rising edge to
the 50% threshold of the next falling edge (note the display icon).
4 Set the edge time for both edges.
Press the Edge Time softkey and then set the edge time for both the
rising and falling edges to 50 ns. The edge time represents the time from
the 10% threshold to the 90% threshold of each edge (note the display icon
24
).
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To View a Waveform Graph
To View a Waveform Graph
In the Graph Mode, you can view a graphical representation of the
current waveform parameters. The softkeys are listed in the same order
as in the normal display mode, and they perform the same functions.
However, only one label (for example, Freq or Period) is displayed for
each softkey at one time.
1 Enable th e Graph Mode.
1
4
Press the key to enable the Graph Mode. The na me of the
selected
parameter’s numeric value field are both highlighted.
2 Select the desired paramet er.
To select a specific parameter, note the softkey labels at the bottom of
the display.
• As in the normal disp lay mode , you can e dit numb ers using either the
•
• To exit the Graph Mode, press again.
parameter,
For example
numeric keypad or the knob and cursor keys.
Param ete rs w h ic h n o rmally tog g le when you p re ss a key a seco nd t im e
also toggle in the Graph Mode. Howev er, you can see on ly on e label
for each softkey at one time (for example, Freq or Period).
The key also serves as a key to restore front-panel control
after remote interface operations.
shown in the up per-left corne r of the display, a nd the
, to select period, press the Period softkey.
currently
25
1
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Output a Stored Arbitrary Waveform
To Output a Stored Arbitrary Waveform
There are five built-in arbitrary waveforms stored in non-volatile memory
The following steps show you how to output the built-in “exponential fall”
waveform
For information on creating a custom arbitrary waveform, refer to
“To Create and Store an Arbitrary Waveform” on page 120.
1 Select the arbitrary waveform function.
When you press the key to select the arbitrary waveform function,
a temporary message is displayed indicating which waveform is currently
selected (the default is “exponential rise”).
2 Select the active waveform.
Press the Select Wform softkey and then press the Built-In softkey to
select from the five built-in waveforms. Then press the Exp Fall softkey.
The waveform is output using the present settings for frequency,
amplitude, and offset unless you change them.
from the front panel.
.
The selected waveform is now assigned to the key. Whenever you
press this key, the selected arbitrary waveform is output. To quickly
determine which arbitrary waveform is currently selected, press .
26
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Use the Built-In Help System
To Use the Built-In Help System
The built-in help system is designed to provide context-sensitive
assistance on any front-panel key or menu softkey. A list of help topics
is also available to assist you with several front-panel operations.
1
1 View the help information for a function key.
Press and hold down the key. If th e message contains
information than will fit on the di spla y, pre s s th e ↓ softkey or turn the
knob clockwise to view the remaining information.
Press DONE to exit Help.
2 View the help information for a menu softkey.
Press and hold down the Freq softkey.
information than will fit on the di spla y, pre s s th e ↓ softkey or rotate the
knob clockwise to view the remaining information.
Press DONE to exit Help.
If the message con tai ns
more
more
4
27
1
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Use the Built-In Help System
3 View the list of help topics.
Press the key to view the li st of available help topics. To scroll
through the list, press the ↑ or ↓ softkey or rotate the knob. Sele ct the
third topic “Get HELP on any key” and then press SELECT.
Press DONE to exit Help.
4 View the help information for displayed messages.
Whenever a limit is exceeded or an y other invali d config uration i s found,
the function generator will display a message. For example, if you enter
a value that exceeds the frequency limit for the selected function,
a message will be displayed. The built-in help system provides additional
information on the most recent message to be displayed.
Press the k ey, select the first top ic “
and then press SELECT.
Press DONE to exit Help.
Local Language Help: The built-in help system in available in multiple
languages. All messages, context-sensitive help, and help topics appear
in the selected language. The menu softkey labels and status line
messages are not translated.
To select the local language, press the key, press the System
softkey, and then press the Help In softkey. Select the desired
language.
View the last message displayed”,
28
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Rack Mount the Function Generator
To Rack Mount the Function Generator
You can mount the Agilent 33220A in a standard 19-inch rack cabinet
using one of two optional kits available. Instructions and mounting
hardware are included with each rack-mounting kit. Any Agilent
System II instrument of the same size can be rack-mounted beside the
Agilent 33220A.
Note:
before rack-mounting the instrument.
Remove the carrying handle, and the front and rear rub ber bumpers
4
1
,
To remove the handle, rotate it to vertical and pull the ends outward.
Front
To remove the rubber bumper, stretch a corner and then slide it off.
Rear (bottom view)
29
1
Chapter 1 Quick Start
To Rack Mount the Function Generator
To rack mount a single instrument, order adapter kit 5063-9240.
To rack mount two instruments side-by-side, order lock-link kit 5061- 8769
and flange kit 5063-9212. Be sure to use the support rails in the rack cabinet.
In order to prevent overheating, do not block the flow of air into or out of
the instrument. Be sure to allow enough clearance at the rear, sides, and
bottom of the instrument to permit adequate internal air flow.
30
Loading...