Showing posts with label function generator. Show all posts
Showing posts with label function generator. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Function Generator: An Overview

Function generator is defined as an electronic device or equipment that generates waveforms primarily used in hybrid computers, automatic control systems, decoding devices, analog computers, coding gadgets, regulation system, remote controls, and measuring equipment.

function generator


Uses of function generator:

When one needs constant and cyclical signals, efficient and effective works can be accomplished by utilizing this device. The function generator is mostly employed in various applications such as research projects, development programs, instructive classes, seminars, repair businesses, sidelines, stimuli testing, frequency response checking, and ‘in circuit’ signal insertions.

This is used primarily by technicians and electrical engineers in analyzing, testing, and observing equipment. If electronic gadgets malfunction, do not accept signals, or even stopped working, this device will help in solving these problems. Moreover, this is also employed in measuring feedbacks produced by microphones, amplifiers, musical instruments and other electronic devices.

Two categories of function generator:

Analogue generator - This type is utilized to generate triangular waveforms. This wave is produced through repetitive charging and discharging of capacitor from a stable power source. Therefore, an ascending as well as a descending power slope is being formed. Varying frequencies can be acquired through changing the current and capacitor’s size.

Digital function generator – This one is equipped with exterior VCF function or Voltage Control Frequency. It modulates output waveforms and can perform automatic as well as repetitive removal of frequencies between two limits established by the operator. It is capable of signal inversions, two steps attenuation, changeable reductions and other function controls.

Advantages of analogue function generator:

Initial costs are cheaper compared to the digital type.
It is simple to use.

This type offers users instant frequency as well as amplitude controls.
There are no high frequency restrictions especially with non-sinusoidal forms of waves.

Disadvantages of analogue function generator:

It is equipped with more components compared to the digital type. Therefore, it is more prone to damages as time goes by.
Due to its sensitivity to thermal changes, it requires frequent maintenance.

Advantages of digital function generator:

Accuracy as well as stability of frequencies is obtainable in this type.
This can also produce larger amount of standard waveforms.
Versatile technique called DDS or Direct Digital Synthesis may be utilized.
Numerous techniques can be used.
It usually derives frequencies from crystal clocks through its techniques.
It utilizes phase accumulators.
This presents users high quality spectra, less sounds, and agile frequencies.

Disadvantages of digital function generator:

It has complex design, thus usage may seem more difficult.
Due to its complexity, the possibility of problems may occur when traditional tests are done.
Its maximum capacity for handling frequencies has limitations. It is restricted to few wave forms.

Signal generator versus function generator:

Both devices utilize oscilloscopes for troubleshooting purposes. These two make efficient work surfaces available for users and lessen the need to carry equipment in testing shops. These two may seem alike, but they have significant differences.

For checking electronic equipment, a signal generator may produce RF or audio frequencies. However, capabilities may depend on the design and purpose of the generator. On the other hand, the latter type of generator provides transistor to transistor pulses that are in square wave form. To accomplish testing rationale, this generator creates wave forms such as sine and saw tooth.

Step by step procedure in using a function generator:

1.Push the power button to open.
2.Ensure the generator’s configuration based on desired waves specifications.
3.For control checking, connect the lead as well as the ground lead to the oscilloscope.
4.Link the signal lead of the generator to the apparatus to be tested.
5.Connect generator’s ground lead to the other ground intended for the tested apparatus.
6.If a negative lead occurred, attach the device to the ground.
7.After the generator successfully received impulses, note observations.

Affordable function generator:

These devices are available in wide range of designs, models, capacities, and prices. Some have special features, while some are in software forms. Those that are in software forms cost less. However, these have partial capabilities and are primarily used for adjusting audio ranges. Another one is the black box generator that is designed for portable computers, but includes limitations. The benefit of this is its low power consumption. Affordable generators are great choices for those students as well as people with tight budget.
Thursday, March 11, 2010

RSR 3 MHz Sweep Function Generator Review Price and Picture

RSR 3MHz sweep function generator is an electronic device that has 6 waveforms functions which are ramp +/- pulse, triangle, square and sine. Among features of RSR 3MHz function generator including Linear/Log sweep with rate of 10mS~5S, has frequency range of 0.5Hz ~ 3MHz, -20 dB attenuator and amplitude 20V p-p/open with ohm load of 10V p-p/50. It has an affordable price of $139 and you can check it out from here.

Review of sweep function generator RSR 3MHz: Aaron M.Morrisett from Las Vegas said that this piece of electronic is wimple and works well. He mentioned that it works well and not noticed any flaws. There is loud noise generated by a fan on its' back however he not bother about it. Amplitude and frequency are adjusted with nobs as there is no digital display. Thus it is not easy to get the exact value. Before attaching it to circuitry he usually check it with help from an O-scope. The RSR MHz sweep function generator is has all the functions he needed for school setting (he is a student) and it has the best price. Below is how the function generator looks like.

What is a Function Generator

What is a function generator and this article will clarify you the basic definition of function generator. It is actually a test device or test software that is used to create electronic waveforms. in some cases, a type of triggering source is needed externally or internally to generate waveforms that can be in single-shot or repetitive. There are some types of function generator that create pink or white noise. Typically it provides 20 MHz in frequencies and utilizes a BNC connector, which usually requiring termination of 50 or 75 ohm. The specilized RF generators typically utilizes N-type output connectors and have the capability of gigahertz frequencies. Frequency range of a function generator determines the type if output connector from the device.

There is a type of function generator used to provides an output to some mathematical function of its input proportionally, which is known as sub-system. This type of device is utilized in analog computer system or feedback control systems. There are mor advanced types that uses DDS (Direct Digital Synthesis) in order to generate waveforms. Arbitrary waveform generators utilize Direct Digital Synthesis to create waveform which a table of amplitude values can describe.

There is analog function generator that commonly used to create output in a form of triangle wave. What happening is the triangle waveform is created when a capacitor is repeatedly charged and discharged by the analog function generator from a constant current source. Thereafter a descending anf ascending voltage ramp is generated linearly. A comparator is used to reverse the charge and discharge when the output voltgae rechaes lower and upper limit. Afterward the linear triangle wave is produced. Different frequencies are gained by varying the size and current of the capacitor.

Just like any other signal generators, a function generator might has an attenuator. Attenuator often has the capability to repetitively and automatically "sweep" the output waveform's frequency (by means of a voltage-controlled oscillator) between 2 operator-determined limits. It is various means of modulating the output waveform. The attenuator makes it easy to evaliate the required frequency response for any electronic circuit.

Noting helps to generate 50% duty cycle square wave whether the capacitor is discharged or charged. Thus resulting in the current switching comparator's output. Triangle wave can be converted into a reasonably sine wave accurately by non-linear diode shaping circuit that most of function generators have. What happen is the diode shaping circuit round off the hard corners of the trinagle wave, This process has similarity with clipping in audio systems.
Oscilloscope

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