Specifications

301/302 User Manual

Introduction

A detailed functional description is given following the general

description of the features, functions, and options available with the

Model 301/302.

Model 301 is a single-channel Arbitrary Waveform Generator. Model

302 is a dual-channel, Arbitrary Waveform Generator. It is a high

performance waveform generator that combines two separate and

powerful channels in one package.

Each channel has its own waveform generator, as well as, amplitude,

offset, and AM controls. The two channels share common sample

clock source therefore, inter-channel phase relationship can be

controlled tightly.

Both channels generate waveforms from one sample clock source

and start from one trigger source, ensuring that all waveforms are fully

synchronized in terms of frequency and start phase of the output

waveforms. Further control over start phase is provided in cases

where phase offset between the two channels is required.

Model 301/302 is completely digital. There are no analog functions

resident in its hardware circuits. Data has to be downloaded to the

instrument for it to start generating waveforms. The instrument can

generate a few standard functions such as sine wave, triangular wave

and square wave. Each time that a standard function is required, the

instrument has to calculate its coordinates and place them in the

waveform memory. Therefore, every time a standard function is

recalled, minimal time is required for the controller to compute the

function and load its data to the waveform memory.

The frequency accuracy of the output waveform is determined by the

clock reference. The internal reference oscillator provides 1 ppm

accuracy and stability over time and temperature. If higher accuracy

and/or stability are required, The user may connect his own sample

clock generator to a front panel input. Frequency is programmed with

7 digits, so using an external sample clock source is recommended if

you need better resolution, accuracy and stability.

Output amplitude for each channel may be programmed separately

within the range of 20 mV to 10 Vp-p into an open circuit, or 10 mV to

5 V into 50. Offset is applied directly at the output connector

therefore, it is not attenuated with the output signal. This feature

allows generation of low-level signals with very high offset ratio. For

example, it is possible to program 50 mV amplitude with 2 V offset.

Amplitude and offsets are programmed with 4 digits of resolution.

Besides its normal continuous mode, the Model 301/302 responds to

a variety of trigger sources. The output waveform may be gated,

Getting Started