AimTTi TGA1240 Series User manual

TGA1240 Series
40MHz Arbitrary Waveform Generators INSTRUCTION MANUAL

1
Table of Contents
Overview 3
Specifications 5
Safety 12
Installation 13
Connections 15
Front Panel Connections 15
Rear Panel Connections 16
General 18
Initial Operation 18
Principles of Operation 20
Standard Waveform Operation 22
Setting Generator Parameters 22
Warnings and Error Messages 25
SYNC Output 26
Sweep Operation 27
General 27
Setting Sweep Parameters 28
Triggered Burst and Gate 32
General 32
Triggered Burst 33
Gated Mode 35
Sync Out in Triggered Burst and Gated Mode 36
Tone Mode 37
Arbitrary Waveform Generation 39
Introduction 39
Creating New Waveforms 41
Modifying Arbitrary Waveforms 42
Arbitrary Waveform Sequence 47
Frequency and Amplitude Control with Arbitrary Waveforms 49
Sync Out Settings with Arbitrary Waveforms 49
Waveform Hold in Arbitrary Mode 50
Output Filter Setting 50
Pulse and Pulse-trains 51
Pulse Set-up 51
Pulse-train Setup 52
Waveform Hold in Pulse and Pulse-Train Modes 54

2
Modulation 56
Introduction 56
External Modulation 56
Internal Modulation 57
Sum 58
Inter-Channel Synchronisation 60
Synchronising Two Generators 63
System Operations from the Utility Menu 65
Calibration 68
Equipment Required 68
Calibration Procedure 68
Calibration Routine 69
Remote Calibration 70
Remote Operation 72
Power on Settings 79
Remote Commands 80
Channel Selection 81
Frequency and Period 81
Amplitude and DC Offset 82
Waveform Selection 82
Arbitrary Waveform Create and Delete 82
Arbitrary Waveform Editing 83
Waveform Sequence Control 85
Mode Commands 85
Input/Output control 86
Modulation Commands 86
Phase Locking Commands 86
Status Commands 87
Miscellaneous Commands 88
Remote Command Summary 89
Maintenance 93
Appendix 1. Warning and Error Messages 94
Appendix 2. SYNC OUT Automatic Settings 97
Appendix 3. Factory System Defaults 98
Appendix 4 : Waveform Manager Plus Arbitrary Waveform Creation and Management Software 99
Block Diagrams 100
Front Panel Diagrams 101

3
Overview
This manual describes the features and operation of 1, 2 and 4 channel arbitrary waveform
generators. The physical differences between the 2 and 4−channel generators are
straightforward:−the 2−channel instrument has no set−up keys or output connections for
channels 3 and 4. The single−channel instrument has essentially the same keys but they are
arranged quite differently to suit the ½−rack case. The diagram at the end of the manual shows
all 3 models.
The set−up and operation of an individual channel in any of the instruments is identical and
therefore no distinction is made between the different models when describing the functions
associated with any single channel. Those features associated with multi−channel operation
(inter−channel summing, phase−locking, etc.) self−evidently apply only to the multi−channel
instruments; the relevant chapters are mostly grouped together towards the end of the manual
(but before Remote Operation) although some mention of multi−channel operation is made when
appropriate in earlier sections. To avoid repetition specific reference is not always made to
2−and 4−channel instruments in the text; it is obvious when the description applies only to a
multi−channel instrument.
Introduction
This synthesised programmable arbitrary waveform generator has the following features:
•1, 2 or 4 independent arb channels
•Up to 40MHz sampling frequency
•Sinewaves and square waves up to 16MHz
•12 bit vertical resolution
•64k points horizontal resolution per channel
•256k point non−volatile waveform memory
•Waveform linking, looping and sequencing
•Interchannel triggering, summing, modulation and phase control
•GPIB and RS232 interfaces
The instrument uses a combination of direct digital synthesis and phase lock loop techniques to
provide high performance and extensive facilities in a compact instrument. It can generate a wide
variety of waveforms between 0·1mHz and 16MHz with high resolution and accuracy.
Arbitrary waveforms may be defined with 12 bit vertical resolution and from 4 to 65536 horizontal
points. In addition a number of standard waveforms are available including sine, square, triangle,
ramp and pulse.
Arbitrary waveforms may be replayed at a user specified waveform frequency or period, or the
sample rate may be defined in terms of period or frequency.
Extensive waveform editing features between defined start and end points are incorporated,
including waveform insert, point edit, line draw, amplitude adjust and invert. More comprehensive
features are available using the arbitrary waveform creation software supplied. This is a powerful
Windows−based design tool that enables the user to create waveforms from mathematical
expressions, from combinations of other waveforms, freehand, or using a combination of all three
techniques. Waveforms created in this way are downloaded via the RS232 or GPIB interface.
Up to 100 waveforms may be stored with the length and name specified by the user. Waveforms
may be strung together to form a sequence of up to 16 steps. Each waveform may have a user
defined repeat count from 1 to 32768.

4
All waveforms can be swept over their full frequency range at a rate variable between 30
milliseconds and 15 minutes. 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. A sweep
marker is provided.
Amplitude Modulation is available for all waveforms and is controlled from the previous channel
or from an external generator via the MODULATION input socket.
Signal Summing is available for all waveforms and is controlled from the previous channel or
from an external generator via the SUM input socket.
All waveforms are available as a Triggered Burst whereby each active edge of the trigger signal
will produce one burst of the carrier. The number of cycles in the burst can be set between 1 and
1048575. The Gated mode turns the output signal On when the gating signal is true and Off
when it is false. Both Triggered and Gated modes can be operated from the previous or next
channel, from the internal Trigger Generator (0.005Hz to 100kHz), from an external source (dc to
1MHz) or by a key press or remote command.
Any number of channels can be phase locked with user defined phase angle. This can be used
to generate multi−phase waveforms or locked waveforms of different frequencies.
The signals from the REF IN/OUT socket and the SYNC OUT socket can be used to phase lock
two instruments where more than 4 channels are required.
The generator parameters are clearly displayed on a backlit LCD with 4 rows of 20 characters.
Soft−keys and sub menus are used to guide the user through even the most complex functions.
All parameters can be entered directly from the numeric keypad. Alternatively most parameters
can be incremented or decremented using the rotary control. This system combines quick and
easy numeric data entry with quasi−analogue adjustment when required.
The generator has RS232 and GPIB interfaces 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 in conventional RS232 mode the serial interface can also be used in
addressable mode whereby up to 32 instruments can be linked to a single PC serial port.

5
Specifications
Specifications apply at 18−28ºC after 30 minutes warm−up, at maximum output into 50Ω
WAVEFORMS
Standard Waveforms
Sine, square, triangle, DC, positive ramp, negative ramp, sin(x)/x, pulse, pulse train, cosine,
haversine and havercosine.
Sine, Cosine, Haversine, Havercosine
Range:
0·1mHz to 16 MHz
Resolution:
0·1mHz or 7 digits
Accuracy:
10 ppm for 1 year
Temperature Stability:
Typically <1 ppm/ºC.
Output Level:
2.5mV to 10Vp−p into 50Ω
Harmonic Distortion:
<0.1% THD to 100kHz; <–65dBc to 20kHz
<–50dBc to 300kHz,
<−35dBc to 10MHz
<−30dBc to 16MHz
Non−harmonic Spurii:
<–65dBc to 1MHz, <–65dBc + 6dB/octave 1MHz to 16MHz
Square
Range:
1mHz to 16MHz
Resolution:
1mHz (4 digits)
Accuracy:
± 1 digit of setting
Output Level:
2.5mV to 10Vp−p into 50Ω
Rise and Fall Times:
<25ns
Triangle
Range:
0.1mHz to 100kHz
Resolution:
0.1mHz or 7 digits
Accuracy:
10 ppm for 1 year
Output Level:
2.5mV to 10Vp−p into 50Ω
Linearity Error:
<0.1% to 30 kHz
Ramps and Sin(x)/x
Range:
0.1mHz to 100kHz
Resolution:
0.1mHz (7 digits)
Accuracy:
10 ppm for 1 year
Output Level:
2.5mV to 10Vp−p into 50Ω
Linearity Error:
<0.1% to 30 kHz

6
Pulse and Pulse Train
Output Level:
2.5mV to 10Vp−p into 50Ω
Rise and Fall Times:
<25ns
Period:
Range:
100ns to 100s
Resolution:
4−digit
Accuracy:
±1 digit of setting
Delay:
Range:
Resolution:
−99·99s to + 99·99s
0·002% of period or 25ns, whichever is greater
Width:
Range:
Resolution:
25ns to 99·99s
0·002% of period or 25ns, whichever is greater
Note that the pulse width and absolute value of the delay may not exceed the pulse period at any
time.
Pulse trains of up to 10 pulses may be specified, each pulse having independently defined width,
delay and level. The baseline voltage is separately defined and the sequence repetition rate is
set by the pulse train period.
Arbitrary
Up to 100 user defined waveforms may be stored in the 256K point non−volatile RAM.
Waveforms can be defined by front panel editing controls or by downloading of waveform data
via RS232 or GPIB.
Waveform Memory Size: 64k points per channel. Maximum waveform size is 64k points,
minimum waveform size is 4 points
Vertical Resolution:
12 bits
Sample Clock Range:
100mHz to 40MHz
Resolution:
4 digits
Accuracy:
± 1 digit of setting
Sequence
Up to 16 waveforms may be linked. Each waveform can have a loop count of up to 32,768.
A sequence of waveforms can be looped up to 1,048,575 times or run continuously.
Output Filter
Selectable between 16MHz Elliptic, 10MHz Elliptic, 10MHz Bessel or none.

7
OPERATING MODES
Triggered Burst
Each active edge of the trigger signal will produce one burst of the waveform.
Carrier Waveforms:
All standard and arbitrary
Maximum Carrier Frequency: The smaller of 1MHz or the maximum for the selected waveform.
40Msamples/s for ARB and Sequence.
Number of Cycles:
1 to 1,048,575
Trigger Repetition Rate: 0.005Hz to 100kHz internal
dc to 1MHz external.
Trigger Signal Source: Internal from keyboard, previous channel, next channel or trigger
generator.
External from TRIG IN or remote interface.
Trigger Start/Stop Phase: ± 360°settable with 0.1°resolution, subject to waveform
frequency and type.
GatedWaveform will run while the Gate signal is true and stop while false.
Carrier Waveforms:
All standard and arbitrary.
Maximum Carrier Frequency: The smaller of 1MHz or the maximum for the selected
waveform. 40Msamples/s for ARB and Sequence.
Trigger Repetition Rate: 0.005Hz to 100kHz internal
dc to 1MHz external.
Gate Signal Source: Internal from keyboard, previous channel, next channel or trigger
generator.
External from TRIG IN or remote interface.
Gate Start/Stop Phase: ± 360°settable with 0.1°resolution, subject to waveform
frequency and type.
Sweep
Frequency sweep capability is provided for both standard and arbitrary waveforms. Arbitrary
waveforms are expanded or condensed to exactly 4096 points and DDS techniques are used to
perform the sweep.
Carrier Waveforms: All standard and arbitrary except pulse, pulse train and
sequence.
Sweep Mode:
Linear or logarithmic, triggered or continuous.
Sweep Direction:
Up, down, up/down or down/up.
Sweep Range: From 1mHz to 16 MHz in one range. Phase continuous.
Independent setting of the start and stop frequency.
Sweep Time:
30ms to 999s (3 digit resolution).
Marker:
Variable during sweep.
Sweep Trigger Source: The sweep may be free run or triggered from the following
sources: Manually from keyboard. Externally from TRIG IN input
or remote interface.
Sweep Hold:
Sweep can be held and restarted by the HOLD key.
Multi channel sweep: Any number of channels may be swept simultaneously but the
sweep parameters will be the same for all channels. Amplitude,
Offset and Waveform can be set independently for each channel.

8
Tone Switching
Capability provided for both standard and arbitrary waveforms. Arbitrary waveforms are
expanded or condensed to exactly 4096 points and DDS techniques are used to allow
instantaneous frequency switching.
Carrier Waveforms:
All waveforms except pulse, pulse train and sequence.
Frequency List:
Up to 16 frequencies from 1mHz to 10MHz.
Trigger Repetition Rate: 0.005Hz to 100kHz internal
dc to 1MHz external.
Usable repetition rate and waveform frequency depend on the
tone switching mode.
Source: Internal from keyboard, previous channel, next channel or trigger
generator.
External from TRIG IN or remote interface.
Tone Switching Modes:
Gated:
The tone is output while the trigger signal is true and stopped, at
the end of the current waveform cycle, while the trigger signal is
false. The next tone is output when the trigger signal is true
again.
Triggered:
The tone is output when the trigger signal goes true and the next tone is output, at the end of the current waveform cycle, when
the trigger signal goes true again.
FSK: The tone is output when the trigger signal goes true and the next
tone is output, immediately, when the trigger signal goes true
again.
Using 2 channels with their outputs summed together it is possible to generate DTMF test
signals.
Trigger Generator
Internal source 0.005 Hz to 100kHz square wave adjustable in 10us steps. 3 digit resolution.
Available for external use from any SYNC OUT socket.
OUTPUTS
Main Output - One for each channel
Output Impedance:
50Ω
Amplitude: 5mV to 20Vp−p open circuit (2.5mV to 10Vp−p into 50Ω).
Amplitude can be specified open circuit (hi Z) or into an assumed
load of 50Ωor 600Ωin Vpk−pk, Vrms or dBm.
Amplitude Accuracy:
2% ±1mV at 1kHz into 50Ω.
Amplitude Flatness:
±0.2dB to 200 kHz; ±1dB to 10 MHz; ±2.5dB to 16 MHz.
DC Offset Range:
±10V. DC offset plus signal peak limited to ±10V from 50Ω.
DC Offset Accuracy:
Typically 3% ±10mV, unattenuated.
Resolution:
3 digits for both Amplitude and DC Offset.

9
Sync Out - One for each channel
Multifunction output user definable or automatically selected to be any of the following:
Waveform Sync:
(all waveforms)
A square wave with 50% duty cycle at the main waveform frequency, or
a pulse coincident with the first few points of an arbitrary waveform.
Position Markers:
(Arbitrary only)
Any point(s) on the waveform may have associated marker bit(s) set
high or low.
Burst Done:
Produces a pulse coincident with the last cycle of a burst.
Sequence Sync:
Produces a pulse coincident with the end of a waveform sequence.
Trigger: Selects the current trigger signal. Useful for synchronizing burst or
gated signals.
Sweep Sync: Outputs a pulse at the start of sweep to synchronize an oscilloscope or
recorder.
Phase Lock Out: Used to phase lock two generators. Produces a positive edge at the 0°
phase point.
Output Signal Level:
TTL/CMOS logic levels from typically 50Ω.
Cursor/Marker Out
Adjustable output pulse for use as a marker in sweep mode or as a cursor in arbitrary waveform
editing mode. Can be used to modulate the Z−axis of an oscilloscope or be displayed on a
second ‘scope channel.
Output Signal Level: Adjustable from nominally 2V to 14V, normal or inverted; adjustable
width as a cursor.
Output Impedance:
600Ωtypical
INPUTS
Trig In
Frequency Range:
DC −1MHz.
Signal Range:
Threshold nominally TTL level; maximum input ±10V.
Minimum Pulse Width:
50ns, for Trigger and Gate modes; 50us for Sweep mode.
Polarity:
Selectable as high/rising edge or low/falling edge.
Input Impedance:
10kΩ
Modulation In
Frequency Range:
DC – 100kHz.
Signal Range: VCA: Approximately 1V pk−pk for 100% level change at maximum
output.
SCM: Approximately ± 1Vpk for maximum output.
Input Impedance:
Typically 1 kΩ.
Sum In
Frequency Range:
DC −8 MHz.
Signal Range:
Approximately 2 Vpk−pk input for 20Vpk−pk output.
Input Impedance:
Typically 1kΩ.
Hold Holds an arbitrary waveform at its current position. ATTL low level or switch closure causes the
waveform to stop at the current position and wait until a TTL high level or switch opening which
allows the waveform to continue. The front panel MAN HOLD key or remote command may also
be used to control the Hold function. While held the front panel MAN TRIG key or remote
command may be used to return the waveform to the start. The Hold input may be enabled
independently for each channel.
Input Impedance:
10kΩ

10
Ref Clock In/Out
Set to Input: Input for an external 10MHz reference clock. TTL/CMOS threshold
level.
Set to Output: Buffered version of the internal 10MHz clock. Output levels nominally
1V and 4V from 50Ω.
Set to Phase Lock: Used together with SYNC OUT on a master and TRIG IN on a slave
to synchronise (phase lock) two separate generators.
INTER-CHANNEL OPERATION
Inter-channel Modulation:
The waveform from any channel may be used to Amplitude Modulate (AM) or Suppressed Carrier
Modulate (SCM) the next channel. Alternatively any number of channels may be Modulated (AM
or SCM) with the signal at the MODULATION input socket.
Carrier frequency:
Entire range for selected waveform.
Carrier waveforms:
All standard and arbitrary waveforms.
Modulation Types:
AM:
SCM:
Double sideband with carrier.
Double sideband suppressed carrier.
Modulation source: Internal from the previous channel.
External from Modulation input socket.
The external modulation signal may be applied to any number of
channels simultaneously.
Frequency Range:
DC to >100 kHz.
Internal AM:
Depth:
Resolution:
0% to 105%
1%.
Carrier Suppression (SCM):
> −40dB.
External Modulation Signal
Range: VCA: Approximately 1V pk−pk for 100% level change at maximum
output.
SCM: Approximately ± 1Vpk for maximum output.
Inter-channel Analog Summing:
Waveform Summing sums the waveform from any channel into the next channel.
Alternatively any number of channels may be summed with the signal at the SUM input socket.
Carrier frequency:
Entire range for selected waveform.
Carrier waveforms:
All standard and arbitrary waveforms.
Sum source: Internal from the previous channel.
External from SUM IN socket.
Frequency Range:
DC to >8MHz.
External Signal Range:
Approximately 5Vpk−pk input for 20Vpk−pk output.
Inter-channel Phase locking:
Two or more channels may be phase locked together. Each locked channel may be assigned a
phase angle relative to the other locked channels. Arbitrary waveforms and waveform sequences
may be phase locked but certain constraints apply to waveform lengths and clock frequency
ratios. With one channel assigned as the Master and other channels as Slaves a frequency
change on the master will be repeated on each slave thus allowing multi−phase waveforms at the
same frequency to be easily generated.
DDS waveforms are those with 7 digits of frequency setting resolution, while Non−DDS
waveforms have 4 digits

11
Phase Resolution:
DDS waveforms:
Non−DDS waveforms:
0.1 degree
0.1 degree or 360 degrees/number of points whichever is the greater
Phase Error:
All waveforms:
<±10ns
The signals from the REF IN/OUT socket and the SYNC OUT socket can be used to phase lock
two instruments where more than 4 channels are required.
Inter-channel Triggering:
Any channel can be triggered by the previous or next channel.
The previous/next connections can be used to ’daisy chain’ a trigger signal from a ‘start’ channel,
through a number of channels in the ‘chain’ to an ‘end’ channel. Each channel receives the
trigger out signal from the previous (or next) channel, and drives its selected trigger out to the
next (or previous) channel. The ‘end’ channel trigger out can be set up to drive the ‘start’ channel,
closing the loop.
In this way, complex and versatile inter−channel trigger schemes may be set up. Each channel
can have its trigger out and its output waveform set up independently. Trigger out may be
selected from Waveform End, Position Markers, Sequence Sync or Burst Done.
Using the scheme above it is possible to create a sequence of up to 64 waveform segments,
each channel producing up to 16 segments and all channels being summed to produce the
complete waveform at the output of channel 4.
INTERFACES
Full remote control facilities are available through the RS232 or GPIB interfaces.
RS232:
Variable Baud rate, 9600 Baud maximum. 9−pin D−connector.
IEEE−488:
Conforms 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. Up to 100 arbitrary waveforms can also be
stored independent of the instrument settings.
Size: 3U (130mm) height; 350mm width (2 and 4 channels),
212mm (½−rack) single channel; 335mm long.
Weight:
7.2 kg. (16 lb), 2 and 4 channels; 4.1kg (9lb) 1 channel.
Power: 100V, 110V-120V, 220V-240V AC ±10%, 50/60Hz, adjustable internally;
100VA max. for 4 channels, 75VA max. for 2 channels, 40VA max. for
1 channel. 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:
19 inch rack mounting kit.
Safety & EMC: Complies with EN61010-1 & EN61326-1.
For details, request the EU Declaration of Conformity for this instrument
via http://www.aimtti.com/support (serial no. needed).

12
Safety
This 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° 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/Mn0220mm button cell type 2032. Exhausted cells must be disposed of carefully
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.
terminal connected to chassis ground.
mains supply OFF.
l
mains supply ON.
alternating current.

13
Installation
Mains Operating Voltage
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 following the appropriate diagrams below.
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.
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
2 and 4 Channel
for 230V operation link pins 15 & 16.
for 115V operation link pins 13 & 16 and pins 15 & 18.
for 100V operation link pins 13 & 16 and pins 14 & 17.
Single Channel

14
Fuse Ensure that the correct mains fuse is fitted for the set operating voltage. The correct mains fuse
types are:
Single channel
for 230V operation:
250 mA (T) 250V HRC
for 100V or 115V operation:
500 mA (T) 250V HRC
2 & 4 channel
for 230V operation:
1A(T) 250V HRC
for 100V or 115V operation:
2A(T) 250V HRC
To replace the fuse, disconnect the mains lead from the inlet socket and withdraw the fuse
drawer below the socket pins. Change the fuse and replace the drawer.
The use of makeshift fuses or the short−circuiting of the fuse holder is 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 the
instrument end. To determine the minimum current rating of the lead-set for the intended AC
supply, refer to the power rating information on the equipment or in the Specification.
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.
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 in a 19” rack is available from the Manufacturers or their overseas agents.

15
Connections
Front Panel Connections
MAIN OUT (1 per channel)
This is the 50Ω output from the channel’s 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 these outputs.
SYNC OUT (1 per channel)
This is a TTL/CMOS level output which may be set to any of the following signals from the
SYNC OUT screen.
waveform sync A sync marker phase coincident with the MAIN OUT waveform of that
channel. For standard waveforms, (sine, cosine, haversines, square,
triangle, sinx/x and ramp), the sync marker is a squarewave with a 1:1
duty cycle with the rising edge at the 0º phase point and the falling
edge at the 180º phase point. For arbitrary waveforms the sync
marker is a positive pulse coincident with the first few points
(addresses) of the waveform.
position marker When position (pos’n) marker is selected, the instrument generates a
pulse marker pattern for arbitrary waveforms. The pulse pattern is
programmable from the edit waveform menu on the MODIFY
screen. When the MAIN OUT waveform is a standard waveform
position marker automatically changes to phase zero which
is a narrow (1 clock) pulse output at the start of each standard
waveform cycle.
Burst done Provides a signal during Gate or Trigger modes which is low while the
waveform is active at the main output and high at all other times.
Sequence sync Provides a signal which is low during the last cycle of the last
waveform in a sequence and high at all other times.
Trigger Provides a positive going version of the actual trigger signal; internal,
external, manual and remote all produce a trigger sync.
Sweep sync
Goes high at the start of the sweep and low at the end of the sweep.
Phase lock Produces a positive edge coincident with the start of the current
waveform; this is used for phase locking instruments.
SYNC OUT logic levels are nominally 0V and 5V from typically 50 Ω. SYNC OUT will withstand a
short circuit.
Do not apply external voltage to this output.
TRIG IN
This is the external input for Trigger, Gate, Sweep and Sequence operations. 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 ±10V.

16
SUM IN
This is the input socket for external signal summing. The channel(s) with which this signal is to
be summed are selected on the SUM screen.
Do not apply external voltages exceeding ±10V.
MODULATION IN
This is the input socket for external modulation. Any number of channels may be AM or SCM
modulated with this signal; the target channels are selected on the MODULATION screen.
Do not apply external voltages exceeding ±10V.
Rear Panel Connections
REF CLOCK IN/OUT
The function of the CLOCK IN/OUT socket is set from the ref clock i/o menu on the
UTILITY screen, see System Operations section.
input This is the default setting. The socket becomes an input for an external
10MHz reference clock. The system automatically switches over from the
internal clock when the external reference is applied.
output
The internal 10MHz clock is made available at the socket.
phase lock When two or more generators are synchronised the slaves are set to
phase lock slave and the master is set to phase lock master.
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 threshold is TTL/CMOS compatible.
Do not apply external voltages exceeding +7.5V or –2.5V to this signal connection.
HOLD IN
Controls the waveform hold function. The input impedance is nominally 10kΩ.
Do not apply external voltages exceeding ±10V.
CURSOR/MARKER OUT
Output pulse for use as a marker in sweep mode or as a cursor in arbitrary waveform editing
mode. Can be used to modulate the Z−axis of an oscilloscope or be displayed on a second
‘scope channel. The output impedance is nominally 600Ωand the signal level is adjustable from
2V−14V nominal from the cursor/marker menu on the UTILITY screen, see System
Operations section.
Do not apply external voltages to this output.

17
RS232
9−pin D−connector compatible with addressable RS232 use. The pin connections are shown
below:
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
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 used in addressable RS232 mode.
Signal grounds are connected to instrument ground. The RS232 address is set from the
remote menu on the UTILITY screen, see System Operations section.
GPIB (IEEE−488)
The GPIB interface 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 remote menu on the UTILITY screen, see System
Operations section.

18
General
Initial Operation
This section is a general introduction to the organisation of the instrument and is intended to be
read before using the generator for the first time. Detailed operation is covered in later sections
starting with Standard Waveform Operation.
In this manual front panel keys and sockets are shown in capitals, e.g. CREATE, SYNC OUT; all
soft−key labels, entry fields and messages displayed on the LCD are shown in a different
type−font, e.g. STANDARD WAVEFORMS, sine.
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 waveform
RAM; if an error is encountered the message SYSTEM RAM ERROR, CHECK BATTERY will be
displayed, see the Warnings and Error Messages section.
Loading takes a few seconds, after which the status screen is displayed, showing the generator
parameters set to their default values, with the MAIN OUT outputs set off. Refer to the System
Operations section for how to change the power up settings to either those at power down or to
any one of the stored settings. Recall the status screen at any time with the STATUS key; a
second press returns the display to the previous screen.
On multi−channel instruments the status shown is that of the channel selected by the SETUP
keys; this is the channel currently enabled for editing and is always the last channel selected,
whether power has been switched off or not. Change the basic generator parameters for the
selected channel as described in the Standard Waveform Operation section and switch the
output on with the MAIN OUT key; the ON lamp will light to show that output is on.
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
Pressing the front panel keys displays screens which list parameters or choices relative to the
key pressed. Selections are then made using the display soft−keys and numeric values are
changed using the numeric keys or rotary control, see the Principles of Editing section.
The keys are grouped as follows:
•WAVE SELECT keys call screens from which all standard or already defined arbitrary
waveforms can be selected.
•WAVE EDIT keys call screens from which arbitrary waveforms can be created and modified.
•FREQuency, AMPLitude, OFFSET and MODE keys display screens which permit their
respective parameters to be edited either from the numeric keypad or using the rotary
control/cursor keys.
•Numeric keys permit direct entry of a value for the parameter currently selected. Values are
accepted in three formats: integer (20), floating point (20·0) and exponential (2 EXP 1). For
example, to set a new frequency of 50kHz press FREQ followed by 50000 ENTER or
5 EXP 4 ENTER. ENTER confirms the numeric entry and changes the generator setting to
the new value.
CE (Clear Entry) undoes a numeric entry digit by digit. ESCAPE returns a setting being edited
to its last value.

19
•MODULATION, SUM, TRIG IN and SYNC OUT call screens from which the parameters of
those input/outputs can be set, including whether the port is on or off. SWEEP similarly calls a
screen from which all the sweep parameters an be set.
•Each channel has a key which directly switches the MAIN OUT of that channel on and off.
•MAN TRIG is used for manual triggering (when TRIG IN is appropriately set) and for
synchronising two or more generators when suitably connected together. MAN HOLD is used
to manually pause arbitrary waveform output and sweep; the output is held at the level it was
at when MAN HOLD was pressed.
•UTILITY gives access to menus for a variety of functions such as remote control interface
set−up, power−up parameters, error message settings and store/recall set-ups to/from
non−volatile memory; the STORE and RECALL keys can also be used to directly access the
non−volatile stores.
•The INTER CHannel and COPY CHannel keys (multi−channel instruments only) directly call
screens from which channel−to−channel phase locking and set−up copying can be set.
•The SETUP keys (multi−channel instruments only) select the channel to be edited; the lamp
lights beside the channel currently enabled for editing.
•Eight soft−keys around the display are used to directly set or select parameters from the
currently displayed menu; their operation is described in more detail in the next section.
•The STATUS key always returns the display to the default start−up screen which gives an
overview of the generators status. Pressing STATUS again returns the display to the previous
screen.
Further explanations will be found in the detailed descriptions of the generator’s operation.
Principles of Editing
Each screen called up by pressing a front panel key shows parameter value(s) and/or a list of
choices. Parameter values can be edited by using the ROTARY CONTROL in combination with
the left and right arrowed CURSOR keys, or by direct numeric keyboard entry; choices are made
using the soft−key associated with the screen item to be selected. The examples which follow
assume factory default settings.
The channel to be edited must first be selected by pressing the appropriate SETUP key;
the lamp lights beside the SETUP key of the channel currently enabled for editing.
A diamond beside a screen item indicates that it is selectable; hollow diamonds identify
deselected items and filled diamonds denote selected items. For example, press MODE to get
the screen shown below:
MODE:
♦continuous
◊gated setup…◊
◊triggered setup…◊
The filled diamond indicates that the selected mode is continuous. Gated or
Triggered modes are selected by pressing the associated soft−key which will make the
diamond beside that item filled and the diamond beside continuous hollow. This screen also
illustrates how an ellipsis (three dots following the screen text) indicates that a further screen
follows when that item is selected. In the case of the MODE screen illustrated, pressing the
setup…soft−key on the bottom line brings up the TRIGGER SETUP menu; note that selecting
this item does not change the continuous/gated/triggered selection.