Signal Generators
What is a signal generator? Why are signal generators necessary?
A signal generator is an analog or digital device that generates voltage waveforms at a predetermined frequency and applies them to a device under test (DUT). A signal generator is an essential tool for circuit design testing. A signal generator is easy to operate thanks to the main panel's buttons and switches, which enable you to change the most significant aspects of a waveform, such as its speed, amplitude, and offset, as well as add basic distortion and modulation.
What are the most common signal generators?
When it comes to possible applications, we'll go through a few of the most common signal generators, each of which serves a different function. For the purpose of generating simple repetitive waveforms – and for the improvement, test, and repair of electronic equipment – you can use a function generator. The sine wave is the most common waveform, but sawtooth, step (pulse), square, and triangle waveform oscillators are also common. You also can use them to test amplifiers or to insert an error signal into a control loop. The option to add a DC offset is another feature found on many function generators. Function generators are typically used with analog circuits.
Even though function generators cover both audio and RF frequencies, they are rarely used in applications that need low distortion or stable frequency signals. Other signal generators would be better appropriate when those characteristics are required.
A complex signal generator, an arbitrary waveform generator (AWG or ARB), creates arbitrary waveforms within specified frequency range, accuracy, and output level constraints. Unlike a function generator, which can only output a limited number of waveforms, an AWG enables you to select a source waveform in a variety of ways. If you want an application with a higher-end design and test, you will use an AWG.
RF signal generators are applied in wireless communication applications. They generally support analog modulation such as AM, FM, and PM. RF signal generators are aimed, therefore, at everyone involved in RF or microwave testing and development.
Audio signal generators are signal generators used for the audio range, from 20 Hz to 20 kHz and more. They produce sine waves for audio applications. Thereby, their most notable features are audio measurements of frequency response and distortion measurements. Audio signal generators should have a flat response and low levels of harmonic distortion.
Looking for signal generators? What does Elektor offer?
A signal generator is one of the most important and flexible pieces of testing equipment for your electronics workbench. Elektor offers both function and arbitrary waveform generators that provide outstanding quality and flexibility, such as the Siglent SDG1032X 2-ch Signal Generator (30 MHz) and the OWON XDG3102 2-ch Arbitrary Waveform Generator. The signal forms vary from the most common ones, such as sine wave, to Lorenz pulse or exponential rise/fall, and more. The frequency ranges serve particular goals, so there is a solution for every electrical engineer, maker, and electronics enthusiast. Furthermore, Elektor offers a variety of DIY kits.
Need accessories for your signal generators?
Elektor stocks accessories for signal generators. Besides the signal generator itself, test leads with alligator clips and probes and patch cords of various lengths can further improve the quality. For even better results, you have the possibility of a memory upgrade and bandwidth extension.
Why should you buy a signal generator from Elektor?
Ready to start looking for a signal generator? Elektor stocks a variety of signal generators to meet the various needs of a wide range of customers. With some of the products, we include handy reviews that detail the generators’ specs and functions.
