Brochure
02 | Keysight | Comparison: 33220A/33250A to 33500B/33600A Trueform Series Waveform Generators – Migration Guide
Compatibility
When looking to replace reliable instruments like the 33220A/33250A, there are a
number of factors to consider; not the least of which is compatibility. A comparison of key
specifications is shown in Tables 1 and 2. Some of the areas where the Trueform Series
waveform generators are equivalent to the 33220A/33250A function generators are:
– Signal type and modulation: The Trueform Series is a superset of the
33220A/33250A capability. All differences are cited in the next section.
– Signal delity and resolution: The Trueform Series specications are as accurate as
or better than that of the 33220A/33250A with few exceptions. Edges are faster,
they have less jitter and are generally better. See Application Note 5991-0852EN for
more details on Keysight’s Trueform technology versus the older DDS-based signal
generation.
– SCPI compatibility: The programming code utilizes the same syntax and can be
used on the newer 33500B and 33600A Series models. However, users must add
programming to make use of the new functionality.
– Some commands are not documented in the Trueform programming manual but are
still available for backwards compatibility. For new systems, do not use the older
commands
– Commands that are in the SOUR:DATA subsystem are not documented but
supported:
– APPLY:TRIangle
– APPLY:USER
– SOUR:PULSE subsystem
– Mechanical size: The height and width dimensions of the Trueform Series function
generators are the same as the 33220A/33250A models.
– Accessories: Rack mount kits and probe accessories are compatible with all
products.
– Manufacturing: All Keysight waveform generators are produced to the same rigorous
quality standards and manufacturing process controls.
– Service and support: Keysight’s international team is available to help users cali-
brate their function generator or answer any questions about any instrument.
– Warranty: Both the 33220A/33250A and Trueform Series generators offer the same
standard 3-year standard warranty.
If you use these models: Now order these models:
33220A function/arbitrary waveform
generator, 20 MHz
33511B Trueform waveform
generator, 20 MHz,
1 channel, arb
Opt 001 external time base reference N/A – Built-in external time base reference
33250A function/arbitrary waveform
generator, 80 MHz
33611A Trueform waveform generator,
80 MHz, 1 channel
Note that higher bandwidth options are available for the Trueform Series waveform
generators: a 30-MHz option for the 33500B model and a 120-MHz for the 33600A
model. Also, an optional second channel can be ordered with these units.
Introduction
The Keysight Technologies, Inc. 20-MHz 33220A and 80-MHz 33250A are function/
arbitrary waveform generators that have established themselves as two of the
premiere such instruments on the market today. Their replacements, Keysight’s
new 33500B and 33600A Trueform Series waveform generators are designed to
offer users more capability, signal delity, and updated interfaces. This document
summarizes and compares the key advances and capabilities of the 33500B/33600A
Trueform Series waveform generators to the 33220A/33250A function generators.
Key differences between the instruments will also be highlighted.