Spectrum Instrumentation DN2.65x series generatorNETBOX portable AWGs

Spectrum Instrumentation’s latest line of arbitrary waveform generators (AWGs) is based on the LXI instrumentation standard and has been created for engineers and scientists that need to simultaneously generate up to 16 precise electronic signals.

Small and compact, the units are suitable for automated testing or remote-control type applications and come in a range of configurations and performance levels. They feature 16-bit digital-to-analog converter technology and low-noise flexible outputs, allowing them to generate almost any test signal in the DC to 60 MHz frequency range. Full remote control is achieved through a simple Ethernet connection to any PC or local area network (LAN).

The DN2.65x series of generatorNETBOX instruments are available with four, eight or 16 fully synchronous channels and offer output rates of 40 or 125 MS/s. Signals with a programmable output swing of up to ±6 V into high impedance or ±3 V into 50Ω can be generated. The units also include large onboard memories of up to 2 x 512 MS that can be utilised in a number of different operating modes to allow the generation of long and complex waveforms.

Each channel of the AWG is clocked using a phase-locked loop (PLL) control system that can be generated internally or from an external clock or reference. Four different filters are available to optimise the output signal quality and help ensure good dynamic performance. Noise spectral density is as low as -142 dBm/Hz, total harmonic distortion is down to -74 dB, signal-to-noise ratio is as high as 90 dB and spurious-free dynamic range is up to 97 dB.

Weighing as little as 6.3 kg, the products are portable and can work freestanding on a test bench, rack mounted with other equipment or even mobile (when powered by the optional 12 or 24 VDC sources). Front-panel multipurpose I/O connectors allow access to synchronous digital (marker) outputs, trigger output, run and arm status, the PLL reference clock or asynchronous I/O lines.

The instruments are fully self-contained and come with all the tools necessary to generate a variety of waveforms.