LeCroy WaveStation 2052 User manual

Operator’s
Manual
WaveStation
Function/Arbitrary
Waveform Generator

WaveStation
Function/Arbitrary Waveform Generator
March, 2012

LeCroy Corporation
700 Chestnut Ridge Road
Chestnut Ridge, NY, 10977-6499
Tel: [phone], Fax: [phone]
Warranty
NOTE: THE WARRANTY BELOW REPLACES ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED
WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS, OR ADEQUACY FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE. LECROY SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY
SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, WHETHER IN CONTRACT OR OTHERWISE. THE CUSTOMER IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE
TRANSPORTATION AND INSURANCE CHARGES FOR THE RETURN OF PRODUCTS TO THE SERVICE FACILITY. LECROY WILL RETURN ALL PRODUCTS
UNDER WARRANTY WITH TRANSPORT PREPAID.
The instrument is warranted for normal use and operation, within specifications, for a period of one year from shipment. LeCroy will either repair
or, at our option, replace any product returned to one of our authorized service centers within this period. However, in order to do this we must
first examine the product and find that it is defective due to workmanship or materials and not due to misuse, neglect, accident, or abnormal
conditions or operation.
LeCroy shall not be responsible for any defect, damage, or failure caused by any of the following: a) attempted repairs or installations by personnel
other than LeCroy representatives or b) improper connection to incompatible equipment, or c) for any damage or malfunction caused by the use of
non-LeCroy supplies. Furthermore, LeCroy shall not be obligated to service a product that has been modified or integrated where the modification
or integration increases the task duration or difficulty of servicing the instrument. Spare and replacement parts, and repairs, all have a 90-day
warranty.
The instrument firmware has been thoroughly tested and is presumed to be functional. Nevertheless, it is supplied without warranty of any kind
covering detailed performance. Products not made by LeCroy are covered solely by the warranty of the original equipment manufacturer.
Internet: www.lecroy.com
© 2012 by LeCroy Corporation. All rights reserved.
Unauthorized duplication of LeCroy documentation materials other than for internal sales and distribution
purposes is strictly prohibited. However, clients are encouraged to distribute and duplicate LeCroy
documentation for their own internal educational purposes.
LeCroy and other product or brand names are trademarks or requested trademarks of their respective
holders. Information in this publication supersedes all earlier versions. Specifications are subject to change
without notice.
Manufactured under an ISO 9000
Registered Quality Management
System.
Visit www.lecroy.com to
view the certificate.
This electronic product is subject to disposal and recycling
regulations that vary by country and region. Many countries
prohibit the disposal of waste electronic equipment in
standard waste receptacles.
For more information about proper disposal and recycling
of your LeCroy product, please visit
www.lecroy.com/recycle.
WSta-OM-E RevA
920551-00 RevA

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome ........................................................................ 6
Contact LeCroy for Support ........................................... 6
Thank You ...................................................................... 7
Package Contents............................................................ 8
Safety Requirements....................................................... 8
Safety Symbols............................................................... 8
Operating Environment ............................................... 10
Cooling ......................................................................... 11
AC Power Source.......................................................... 11
Power Consumption .................................................... 11
Calibration.................................................................... 11
Cleaning ....................................................................... 11
Abnormal Conditions................................................... 11
Hardware and I/O ......................................................... 12
Adjusting the Handle ................................................... 12
Front Panel................................................................... 13
Back Panel.................................................................... 14
Getting Started with WaveStation ................................. 15
The WaveStation Interface .......................................... 15
Waveform Types and Default Parameters .................. 21
Initial Function Settings ............................................... 22
Waveform Signal Conditioning Buttons ...................... 22
Save/Recall, Utility, and Help Buttons......................... 23
Main Waveform Buttons ............................................. 23
Waveform Signal Conditioning Function Buttons ....... 23
Save/Recall, Utility, and Help Function Buttons.......... 24
Digital Input Front Panel Controls ............................... 27

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Creating Waveforms ..................................................... 27
Creating Waveforms Overview ....................................27
Creating a Sine Wave ...................................................28
Frequency/Period.........................................................28
Amplitude/HLevel ........................................................29
Offset/LLevel ................................................................30
Phase/EqPhase.............................................................31
Creating a Square Wave...............................................31
Duty Cycle ....................................................................32
Creating a Ramp Wave.................................................33
Symmetry .....................................................................34
Creating a Pulse Wave .................................................34
PulWidth/Duty .............................................................35
Delay.............................................................................36
Creating a Noise Wave.................................................36
Variance/Mean ............................................................37
Creating an Arbitrary Waveform..................................37
Load Wform .................................................................38
Generating Modulated Waveforms ............................... 41
Generating Sweep Waveforms ...................................... 47
Generating Burst Waveforms ........................................ 51
Save/Recall................................................................... 56
Save/Recall Overview...................................................56
Main Save/Recall Operations.......................................57
Operation Menu Selections and Parameters...............58
Utility ........................................................................... 62
Utility Overview............................................................62
Main Utility Operations................................................62
Common Util Menu Controls and Considerations .......62

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Utility Operation Menu Selections and Parameters.... 63
Restoring the Default Settings..................................... 73
Using WaveStation Help................................................ 75
Controlling WaveStation with USB-GPIB and/or USBTMC76
The USB-GPIB Adapter................................................. 76
Connecting Your Adapter ............................................ 77
WaveStation PC Software.............................................. 78
WaveStation PC Software Overview............................ 78
Installing the WaveStation PC Drivers and Software... 79
Making the WaveStation - PC Software Connection ... 80
Reference ..................................................................... 89
Specifications ............................................................... 89
CERTIFICATIONS........................................................... 89
CE Declaration of Conformity ...................................... 89
China RoHS Compliance............................................... 91
China RoHS Compliance (English Version)................... 92
Contact LeCroy for Support ......................................... 93
Index ............................................................................ 96

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Welcome
Thank you for purchasing a LeCroy WaveStation.
The WaveStation is a function/arbitrary waveform generator that allows you to customize
settings on waveforms you create while seeing them graphically at the same time.
Controlling WaveStation with USB-GPIB and/or USBTMC (on page 76) is possible, and
you can even transfer waveforms to and from your WaveStation using the WaveStation
PC Software. See WaveStation PC Software Overview (on page 78).
This WaveStation Operator's Manual covers how to use the following models and their
system requirements:
WaveStation 2012 10 MHz
WaveStation 2022 25 MHz
WaveStation 2052 50 MHz
This material is organized in the following manner:
1. Package Contents and Safety Requirements are first provided along with the
Hardware and I/O Section familiarize you with the WaveStation hardware.
2. The Getting Started with WaveStation section provides explanations of the
interface and a general overview of the standard controls on the front panel and
how they correspond with the screen displays.
3. Sections then provide more detail covering the creation of Waveform Types,
Modulated Waveforms, Sweep Waveforms, and Burst Waveforms. Additional
sections explain how to use Save/Recall, Utility, and Help sections.
4. Another section explains how to Control WaveStation with USB-GPIB (using the
The USB-GPIB Adapter) and/or USBTMC.
5. As previously mentioned, we then show you how to use the WaveStation
Software to send and receive waveforms over a PC connection with your
WaveStation.
6. Finally a Reference section is provided for details on where to find regularly
updated Specifications and other details.
Contact LeCroy for Support
When your WaveStation is delivered, verify that all items on the packing list or invoice
copy have shipped correctly. Contact your nearest LeCroy customer service center or
national distributor if anything is missing or damaged. If you do not contact us
immediately, we cannot be responsible for replacement. If you have any problems with
your product, please Contact LeCroy for Support (on page 93).

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Thank You
We truly hope these materials provide increased comprehension when using LeCroy's
fine products.
Sincerely,
David C. Graef
LeCroy Corporation
Vice President and Chief Technology Officer

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Package Contents
The standard WaveStation package includes the following:
WaveStation Function/Arbitrary Waveform Generator
Power Cord
Standard USB 2.0 Type A to Type B Cable, 1 m
USB to GPIB Converter Cable
WaveStation Operator's Manual
Performance/Calibration Certificate
Installation CD containing the WaveStation PC Software
Product Registration Card
Safety Requirements
This section contains information and warnings that must be observed to
keep the instrument operating in a correct and safe condition. You are
required to follow generally accepted safety procedures in addition to
the safety precautions specified in this section.
Safety Symbols
Where the following symbols appear on the instrument's front or rear
panels, or in this manual, they alert you to important safety
considerations.
This symbol is used where caution is required. Refer to the accompanying
information or documents in order to protect against personal injury or
damage to the instrument.
This symbol warns of a potential risk of shock hazard.

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This symbol is used to denote the measurement ground connection.
This symbol is used to denote a frame or chassis connection.
This symbol is used to denote a safety ground connection.
This symbol is used to denote Power. It is located on the front panel and
denotes Power On/Off status of the instrument.
CAUTION
The CAUTION sign indicates a potential hazard. It calls attention to a
procedure, practice or condition which, if not followed, could possibly
cause damage to equipment. If a CAUTION is indicated, do not proceed
until its conditions are fully understood and met.
WARNING
The WARNING sign indicates a potential hazard. It calls attention to a
procedure, practice or condition which, if not followed, could possibly
cause bodily injury or death. If a WARNING is indicated, do not proceed
until its conditions are fully understood and met.

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CAT I
Installation (Overvoltage) Category rating per EN 61010-1 safety standard
and is applicable for the instrument front panel measuring terminals. CAT
I rated terminals must only be connected to source circuits in which
measures are taken to limit transient voltages to an appropriately low
level.
Operating Environment
The instrument is intended for indoor use and should be operated in a
clean, dry environment. Before using this product, ensure that its
operating environment is maintained within these parameters:
Temperature: 0 °C to 40 °C
Humidity: Maximum relative humidity 80% (non-condensing) for
temperatures up to 30 °C decreasing linearly to 50 % relative humidity at
40 °C.
Altitude: Up to 10,000 ft (3,048 m) at or below 30 °C.
Note: Direct sunlight, radiators, and other heat sources should be taken
into account when assessing the ambient temperature.
WARNING
The instrument must not be operated in explosive, dusty, or wet
atmospheres.
CAUTION
Do not exceed the maximum specified front panel terminal voltage
levels. Refer to Specifications for more details.

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Cooling
The instrument relies on forced air cooling with an internal fan and
ventilation openings. Care must be taken to avoid restricting the airflow
around the apertures (fan holes) at the side of the instrument.
CAUTION
Do not allow any foreign matter to enter the instrument through the
ventilation holes, etc.
AC Power Source
100-240 VAC (±10%) at 50/60 Hz (±5%) or 100-120 VAC at 400 Hz (±5%)
Automatic AC voltage selection
No manual voltage selection is required because the instrument
automatically adapts to line voltage.
Power Consumption
50 VA (50 W) Max
WARNING - Electrical Shock Hazard
Only use the power cord provided with your instrument.
Calibration
The recommended calibration interval is one year. Calibration should be
performed by qualified personnel only.
Cleaning
Clean only the exterior of the instrument, using a damp, soft cloth. Do
not use chemicals or abrasive elements. Under no circumstances allow
moisture to penetrate the instrument.
Abnormal Conditions
Operate the instrument only as intended by the manufacturer.

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If you suspect the instrument's protection has been impaired, disconnect
the power cord and secure the instrument against any unintended
operation.
The instrument's protection is likely to be impaired if, for example, the
instrument shows visible damage or has been subjected to severe
transport stresses.
Proper use of the instrument depends on careful reading of all
instructions and labels.
WARNING
Any use of the instrument in a manner not specified by the manufacturer
may impair the instrument's safety protection.
Hardware and I/O
Adjusting the Handle
The construction of the handle on your WaveStation can be adjusted to
bridge the front panel and fully-support the weight of the generator
during transport.
Note: Adjust the while gently pulling outward on the two arms where
they attach to the sides of your WaveStation.

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You can also move the handle into a tucked position under the generator
for different viewing positions.
Front Panel
Numbered callouts on this image correspond with the following
descriptions.
1. Power Button
2. USB Connector - USB 2.0 connector which is used for making USB-
GPIB or Memory Stick connections as explained in Controlling
WaveStation with USB-GPIB and/or USBTMC (on page 76) and
Main Save/Recall Operations (on page 57), respectively.
3. LCD Display
4. Display Menu Operation Buttons
5. Waveform Buttons - These buttons control the selection of
Waveform Types and Default Parameters (on page 21).
6. Number Buttons
7. Function Buttons - When pressed, these buttons setup
corresponding Initial Function Settings (on page 22).

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Specifically, the top three buttons are Waveform Signal
Conditioning buttons and apply Mod, Sweep, or Burst functions to
the waveform you've selected. Meanwhile, the lower three,
Save/Recall, Utility, and Help, are for various WaveStation tools
and configurations along with some Help information.
8. BNC Channel Outputs and Corresponding Control Buttons - The
buttons above the BNC connectors control the
activation/deactivation of corresponding channel outputs.
9. Direction Buttons
10. Adjustment Control Knob
Note: When using WaveStation (or any signal generator) it's important
to understand the relationship between the Main Waveform Type
buttons, the Waveform Signal Conditioning function buttons, and the
Save/Recall, Utility, and Help function buttons. See Combined Use of
Waveform, Function, and Configuration Buttons (on page 23).
Back Panel
Numbered callouts on this image correspond with the following
descriptions.
1. Input and Output BNC Connectors - Four BNC Connectors provide
10 MHz In, Modulation In, Synch Out, Ext Trig/Gate/Fsk/Burst
Out.

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2. USB Connector - USB 2.0 connector which is used for making
USBRAW or USBTMC connections as explained in WaveStation PC
Software Overview (on page 78) and Controlling WaveStation
with USB-GPIB and/or USBTMC (on page 76), respectively.
3. Ground Connector
4. AC Power Connector
Getting Started with WaveStation
The WaveStation Interface
Numbered callouts on this image of the WaveStation interface
correspond with the following descriptions.
Note: The default signal is a Sine wave as each channel tab and in the
upper-right corner of the display show.
1. Channel Tabs - The channel tabs display the currently chosen
Waveform or Function type and, when selected, show their
corresponding Display and Detail dialog.
2. Display Dialog - Shows a rendered waveform or modulated
waveform display of your generated signal and some additional
waveform details .
3. Detail Dialog - Shows even more data regarding specific
parameters for your selected Waveform or Function.
4. Waveform/Function Type Indicator - When using the Waveform
buttons, shows the waveform type for the corresponding
waveform channel selected.

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Waveform types include Sine, Square, Ramp, Pulse, Noise, and
Arb. When using the Function buttons, shows the selected
function from Modulate, Sweep, Burst, Save/Recall, Utility, and
Help.
5. Operation Menu - This menu changes based on the selected
Waveform or Function chosen. Refer to more detailed
corresponding coverage later in this manual for more information.
Navigating Interfaces, Adjusting Parameters, and
Making Selections
Specific waveform types may be used as carrier waveforms for specific
functions as explained in Initial Function Settings (on page 22).
Note: Default values for most modulated waveform parameters may be
set using certain options available from the Utility menu. Learn more in
Main Utility Operations (on page 62).
Subsequent sections go into more detail when using specific Waveform
and Function buttons and adjusting specific parameters - all of which
vary based on the specific waveform, function, and/or carrier waveform
selections made. This particular topic covers some common navigation,
parameter adjustments, and making selections when using the
WaveStation interfaces.
1. Typically, the first step when using interfaces is to make specific
Waveform or Function button selections on the Front Panel (on
page 13) in order to make specific parameter adjustments or other
selections.
Note: If you've selected a Function button, you now choose a
desired carrier waveform type using the Display Menu
Operation buttons. The waveform is shown on the Waveform
Display.

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2. At this point, the Display Menu Operation buttons are used to
select applicable parameters and make adjustments as desired.
The operation menu's currently selected parameter is shown in
white.
While navigating, you'll come across the following interfaces and
button type combinations.
First/Second Press Shared Buttons - A good portion of the
operation buttons control two separate parameters.
Operation buttons controlling two parameters have
additional, lighter shaded control labels on them; press the
button once to adjust the top control parameter; twice to
adjust the bottom one. Second operation button press
parameters are shown in reverse color on some interface
dialogs to provide a visual indication as to which parameter
is being adjusted.

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Parameter Label and Selection Display Button - However,
some parameters look like they're first/second press shared
buttons, and really are not. Instead, the parameter title is
shown in the top portion and the lower portion displays the
particular parameter selection as the following Shape
parameter shows.
Additional Menus - Operation menus containing more
parameters than the ones showing on the first menu have a
1/X ↓ final selection. The additional menu(s) therefore
have a 2/X ↑ first selection. Press the adjacent operation
button to navigate additional menu(s) and parameter(s) as
desired.
3. Making the actual parameter adjustments or other selection is
made a few different ways. Most are done by selecting a specific
parameter using a corresponding operation menu button,
changing the value or selection using Digital Input Front Panel