Scribd
Upload
13 views10 pages

Activity 11

The document provides an overview of signal generators, which are electronic devices that generate electrical signals with specific properties for various applications such as testing and troubleshooting. It outlines different types of signal generators, including function generators, RF signal generators, and arbitrary waveform generators, along with their definitions and uses. Additionally, it details key specifications for signal generators, such as frequency range, waveform types, amplitude control, and modulation capabilities, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right generator for specific testing needs.

Uploaded by

maheshduggani1379
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
13 views10 pages

Activity 11

The document provides an overview of signal generators, which are electronic devices that generate electrical signals with specific properties for various applications such as testing and troubleshooting. It outlines different types of signal generators, including function generators, RF signal generators, and arbitrary waveform generators, along with their definitions and uses. Additionally, it details key specifications for signal generators, such as frequency range, waveform types, amplitude control, and modulation capabilities, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right generator for specific testing needs.

Uploaded by

maheshduggani1379
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 10

SPECIFICATIONS OF SIGNAL

GENERATOR
ELECTRONIC’S & COMMUNICATION
M.L.BHARTESH POLYTECHNIC

BY. RAHUL KAKTIKAR


SIGNAL GENERATOR :

• A signal generator is one of a class of electronic devices that generates electrical signals with set
properties of amplitude, frequency, and wave shape. These generated signals are used as a stimulus
for electronic measurements, typically used in designing, testing, troubleshooting, and repairing
electronic or electroacoustic devices, though it often has artistic uses as well.
• There are many different types of signal generators with different purposes and applications and at
varying levels of expense. These types include function generators, RF and microwave signal
generators, pitch generators, arbitrary waveform generators, digital pattern generators, and
frequency generators. In general, no device is suitable for all possible applications.

• A signal generator may be as simple as an oscillator with calibrated frequency and amplitude. More
general-purpose signal generators allow control of all the characteristics of a signal. Modern
general-purpose signal generators will have a microprocessor control and may also permit control
from a personal computer. Signal generators may be free-standing self-contained instruments, or
may be incorporated into more complex automatic test systems.

•
TYPES OF SIGNAL GENERATORS

1. Function Generators

2. RF Signal Generators

3. Arbitrary Waveform Generators (AWG)

4. Pulse Generators

5. Audio Signal Generators

6. Sweep Generators

7. Vector Signal Generators

8. Digital Pattern Generators

9. Impulse Generators

10. Arbitrary Function Generators (AFG)


DEFINITION OF TYPES OF
SIGNAL GENERATORS

• Function Generators: These produce various waveform types like sine, square,
triangle, and sawtooth. They're versatile and commonly used in electronics and
testing.
• RF Signal Generators: These generate radio frequency (RF) signals used in
wireless communication, radar, and RF testing.
• Arbitrary Waveform Generators (AWG): AWGs produce customized waveforms,
allowing precise control over signal shape, frequency, and amplitude. They are
used in research and development.
• Pulse Generators: These generate pulses of varying widths and
repetition rates, essential for digital circuit testing and pulse
applications.
• Audio Signal Generators: Primarily used for audio testing and
calibration, they produce audio frequency signals.
• Sweep Generators: Sweep generators produce a signal that sweeps
through a range of frequencies, often used in RF testing and
calibration.
• Vector Signal Generators: These generate complex modulation
signals, crucial for testing modern communication systems like Wi-Fi
and cellular networks.
• Digital Pattern Generators: Used in digital circuit testing, they
produce digital patterns of 0s and 1s.
• Impulse Generators: These generate very short, high-voltage pulses
used for testing electromagnetic interference and measuring
equipment response.
• Arbitrary Function Generators (AFG): AFGs are like a combination of
function and arbitrary waveform generators, allowing more flexibility
in waveform creation.
The choice of signal generator depends on the specific
application and requirements of the user.
SPECIFICATIONS OF SIGNAL GENERATOR

• Frequency Range: Signal generators can typically generate signals across


a specific frequency range, such as 1 Hz to several gigahertz (GHz).
• Waveform Types: They can produce various types of waveforms,
including sine, square, triangle, sawtooth, pulse, and more.
• Amplitude Control: Signal generators allow you to control the output
signal's amplitude (voltage or current).
• Frequency Accuracy: The accuracy of the generated frequency is an
important specification, often specified in parts per million (ppm).
• Modulation: Some signal generators support modulation techniques like
AM (Amplitude Modulation), FM (Frequency Modulation), and PM (Phase
Modulation).
• Harmonics and Distortion: Signal generators strive for low harmonic
distortion and noise to ensure signal purity.Output Impedance: They typically
have a defined output impedance, often 50 ohms for RF applications.
• Sweep Function: Many signal generators can sweep through a range of
frequencies for testing purposes.
• Connectivity: Signal generators may have various output connectors like BNC,
SMA, or N-type connectors, depending on their application.
• Display and Interface: They often come with a user-friendly interface, display,
and control buttons or knobs.
• Arbitrary Waveform Generation: Some advanced signal
generators can generate arbitrary waveforms defined by the user.
• Phase Adjustment: Phase adjustment capability can be important
for certain applications.
• Frequency Modulation Deviation: For FM signals, the maximum
deviation from the carrier frequency may be specified.
• External Modulation Input: Some signal generators allow external
modulation sources to be connected.
• Output Power: The maximum power level a signal generator can
output is important, especially for RF applications.
• Resolution: This refers to the smallest increment in frequency or amplitude
that can be set.
• Triggering Options: Triggering capabilities can be crucial for synchronization
with other equipment.
• Rise/Fall Time: For square waveforms, the rise and fall times are specified.
• Safety Features: Overload protection and safety mechanisms to prevent
damage to the device or connected equipment.

These specifications can vary widely depending on the specific model and
intended application of the signal generator, whether it's for audio, RF, or other
types of signal generation. It's important to choose a signal generator that
meets your specific testing and measurement needs.

You might also like