Function generators
• A function generator is usually a piece of electronic test equipment or software
used to generate different types of electrical waveforms over a wide range of
frequencies. Some of the most common waveforms produced by the function
generator are the sine, square, triangular and saw tooth shapes. These
waveforms can be either repetitive or single-shot (which requires an internal or
external trigger source). Integrated circuits used to generate waveforms may
also be described as function generator ICs.
• Although function generators cover both audio and RF frequencies, they are
usually not suitable for applications that need low distortion or stable frequency
signals. When those traits are required, other signal generators would be more
appropriate.
• Some function generators can be phase-locked to an external signal source
(which may be a frequency reference) or another function generator.
• Function generators are used in the development, test and repair of electronic
equipment. For example, they may be used as a signal source to test amplifiers
or to introduce an error signal into a control loop.
• Simple function generators usually generate triangular waveform whose
frequency can be controlled smoothly as well as in steps. This triangular wave is
used as the basis for all of its other outputs. The triangular wave is generated by
repeatedly charging and discharging a capacitor from a constant current source.
This produces a linearly ascending or descending voltage ramp. As the output
voltage reaches upper and lower limits, the charging and discharging is reversed
using a comparator, producing the linear triangle wave. By varying the current
and the size of the capacitor, different frequencies may be obtained. Saw tooth
waves can be produced by charging the capacitor slowly, using a current, but
using a diode over the current
source to discharge quickly - the polarity of the diode changes the
polarity of the resulting sawtooth, i.e. slow rise and fast fall, or fast rise
and slow fall.
Typical specifications for a general-purpose function generator are:
• Produces sine, square, triangular, sawtooth (ramp), and pulse
output. (Arbitrary waveform generators can produce waves of
any shape)
• It can generate a wide range of frequencies. For example, the
Tektronix FG 502 (ca 1974) covers 0.1 Hz to 11 MHz.
• Frequency stability of 0.1 percent per hour for analog
generators or 500 ppm for a digital generator.
• Maximum sinewave distortion of about 1% (accuracy of diode
shaping network) for analog generators. Arbitrary waveform
generators may have distortion less than -55 dB below 50 kHz
and less than -40 dB above 50 kHz.
• Some function generators can be phase locked to an external
signal source, which may be a frequency reference or another
function generator.
• AM or FM modulation may be supported.
• Output amplitude up to 10 V peak-to-peak.
• Amplitude can be modified, usually by a calibrated
attenuator with decade steps and continuous adjustment
within each decade.
• Some generators provide a DC offset voltage, e.g. adjustable between -
5V to +5V.
• An output impedance of 50 Ω.
