The Tektronix AFG31251 250 MHz, Single Channel, 2 GSa/s, Arbitrary/Function Generator with 9 inch Capacitive Touch Screen Display is a high-performance AFG with built-in arbitrary waveform generation, real-time waveform monitoring, and a large touchscreen. Providing advanced waveform generation and programming capabilities, waveform verification, and a modern touch-screen interface, the AFG31251 is sure to delight and simplify the job of every researcher and engineer.

Basic and Advanced Modes

Basic Mode

The AFG31000 series is the industry's first arbitrary function generator with full function Basic (AFG) and Advanced (Sequence) modes. In Basic mode, the AFG31251 generates traditional functions and arbitrary waveforms. The touchscreen and front-panel controls make it simple to set up.

Basic mode lets you change frequency without the need to worry about waveform length and sample rate. This feature is useful in analog designs that characterize filter/amplifier frequency responses or in digital designs where clock rates change frequently.

Advanced Mode Sequencing

With the AFG31251, Advanced mode provides the ability to generate multiple waveforms with complex timing. In this mode, you can compose a list (or a sequence) of 1 to 256 waveforms, with total waveform length up to 16 Mpts/ch (128 Mpts/ch optional) and define the ouput sequence of these waveforms. Repeat, go-to, wait, jump, and triggered events are all supported and the large memory provides space to store many waveforms or long waveforms. This feature is very useful in applications where many test cases need to be performed sequentially. Instead of loading the test cases one by one, you can put all of them in a sequence and load at one time, switching from one to another seamlessly to greatly improve the test efficiency.

Sequenced Sine Waveforms

Additionally, Advanced mode uses variable sample rate technology. Every sample in a waveform is output once and only once in each cycle, synchronized to the sample rate. Since there is no skipping or repetition, all details in the waveforms are kept. This feature is very useful for applications in which signal fidelity is extremely critical, such as IQ modulation and pulse train generation.

InstaView Technology Shows the Actual Waveform at the Device Under Test (DUT)

Most waveform generators assume they are driving a 50 Ohm impedance. However, most devices under test do not have a 50 Ohm impedance. This mismatch results in an inconsistency between the waveform as set on the AFG and the signal at the DUT.

InstaView

With the patented InstaView technology, the Tektronix AFG31251 can display the actual waveform at the DUT, instead of just the nominal waveform as set on the AFG. The waveform displayed on the AFG instantly responds to changes in frequency, amplitude, waveform shape, and impedance changes at the DUT. InstaView helps eliminate the uncertainty and measurement risk caused by impedance mismatches, without requiring additional cables, instruments, or effort.

Frequently Used Settings

A Large Touch Screen and Smart User Interface

The large 9-inch capacitive touch screen displays all related settings and parameters on a single screen. Similar to smart devices, you can tap or swipe to easily select, browse, locate and change settings and parameters. Frequently-used functions are immediately accessible. Familiar buttons and rotary knob controls are available for more traditional navigation.

Built-in ArbBuilder Tool Makes Creating and Editing Arbitrary Waveforms Easier Than Ever

In the past, you needed a PC with waveform editing software to create or edit your arbitrary waveforms. The waveform would then need to be downloaded to the AFG using either a USB stick or a data cable connection. The process was time-consuming, especially when waveforms required frequent changes.

Arbitrary Waveform Touchscreen

ArbBuilder is a built-in application on the AFG31251 that lets you create and edit your arbitrary waveforms directly on the generator. You can create arbitrary waveforms with the Equation Editor tool or start from a library of standard templates. Thanks to the large capacitive touch screen, you can drag, pinch and zoom to get the detail you need.

You can quickly replicate real-world waveforms captured with oscilloscopes or created by third-party software by loading CSV format data files directly into ArbBuilder from a USB memory stick.

On-Screen Wizard

Simplified Multi-Unit Synchronization

Most applications need one or two channels of output, but some applications require more channels. For example, in order to simulate 3-phase power signals, engineers often need to synchronize three 2-channel generators; one for the voltage and current on each phase. To do this used to be time-consuming, as it required many cable connections between the AFG units, and making changes in deep branches of the menu trees on all instruments.

The AFG31251 simplifies this process with an onscreen wizard that leads you through the process of making cable connections and configuring settings to synchronize multiple generators.

Upgradability Protects Your Investment

The Tektronix AFG31251 provides upgrade options for bandwidth, memory extension, and sequence mode support. These options can be installed at the factory or at any time after purchase. This upgradability helps to reduce the product ownership threshold. And when your test requirements change, you can purchase and install upgrade software licenses to add higher performance features. Upgrades eliminate the concern about return on investment during the instrument's lifetime.