AWGs Allow Easy Signal Generation in Automated and Remote Applications

HACKENSACK, N.J., July 28, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Spectrum Instrumentation's release of a new line of arbitrary waveform generators (AWGs) based on the LXI instrumentation standard opens new doors for engineers and scientists who need to generate electronic signals in automated test and remote applications. The new generatorNETBOX series features seven new models to give users a wide choice of performance levels.

Technical Highlights:

• LXI-based arbitrary waveform generators with 14 and 16 bit resolutions for accurate signal generation
• Output rates up to 1.25 GS/s with 400 MHz bandwidth
• Models with two, four and eight fully synchronized channels
• Single-shot, Loop, FIFO, gating and sequence replay modes
• SBench6-Pro software for waveform creation, control and documentation

The LXI-based AWGs combine the latest digital-to-analog converter (DAC) technology and can generate signals from DC up to 400 MHz in frequency. Full remote control is achieved through a simple Ethernet connection to any PC or local area network (LAN) for easy integration into any test system.

Up to eight fully synchronous channels

The generatorNETBOX series is available with two, four or eight fully synchronous channels. For high frequency applications, the fast, high-resolution DN2.66x AWGs use DACs with 16 bit vertical resolution and offer output rates up to either 1.25 GS/s or 625 MS/s. They also include large on-board memories (up to 2 x 4 GB) and a generous output voltage range of up to ±4 V (±5 V for 625 MS/s models) into high impedance and ±2 V (±2.5 V for 625 MS/s models) into 50O.

For lower frequency applications, Spectrum offers the cost-effective DN2.60x AWGs, which utilize 14 bit DAC technology that can output signals at rats up to 125 MS/s. These instruments are ideal for applications where signals with frequency content up to 60 MHz need to be produced.

Advanced waveform replay modes

To allow the generation of long and complex waveforms, the AWGs combine their large on-board memories (2 GSamples for DN2.66x series and 512 MSamples for DN2.60x series) with a number of operating modes such as single-shot, loop, FIFO, gating and sequence replay. In FIFO mode, the instruments can stream data continuously from PC memory to the AWG memory over the GBit Ethernet port. The AWGs can even output signals while new waveform data is being sent to the on-board memory.

Each channel is clocked using a precision phase locked loop (PLL) control system generated internally or from an external clock or reference. Front-panel multi-purpose I/O connectors enhance system flexibility by allowing access to asynchronous digital inputs, asynchronous digital outputs, the trigger output, the run and arm status, the PLL reference clock and a marker output.

Ideal for remote and mobile applications

Small and compact, the generatorNETBOX products can benchtop or rack mounted. For mobile applications they can also be powered by an optional 12 or 24 VDC source.

The instruments are fully self-contained and come with all the tools necessary to generate an almost unlimited variety of waveforms. Simply connect the unit to a host computer (i.e. laptop or workstation) or anywhere on the corporate network. Spectrum's SBench6-Pro software, which comes standard with every unit, provides a simple, easy-to-use, graphical user interface to control all the operating modes and hardware settings.

The software's built-in features for waveform creation, data analysis and documentation include the EasyGenerator function for producing standard wave shapes such as sine, rectangular, triangle, saw-tooth, SINC and DC. Waveforms can also be created from equations or imported from other devices, such as digitizers and oscilloscopes, or other software programs. SBench6 allows data import and export in the most popular formats, such as ASCII, binary and WAV.

Extensive software support

Included drivers allow users to write their own control programs with almost any popular programming language, such as C++, Visual Basic, VB.NET, C#, J#, Delphi and Python code. Third party software support is also provided for LabVIEW, LabWindows and MatLab.

Using Spectrum's embedded server option, DN2.xxx-Emb, a generatorNETBOX can operate remotely as an independent unit or as part of a larger system when connected to a LAN. A powerful CPU, a freely accessible SSD, more memory and a remote software development access method combine to create an open platform where you can run your own software, while at the same time remain connected via LAN for remote access.

The generatorNETBOX products are available now. All units are shipped factory tested and include Spectrum's SBench 6 Professional version software, support drivers for most popular programming languages and a two year manufacturer's warranty. Technical support, including software and firmware updates, is available free of charge. Please contact [email protected] for more information or visit our web site at www.spectrum-instrumentation.com.

About Spectrum Instrumentation

Specializing in high-speed digitizer and generator technology, Spectrum Instrumentation is a pioneer in the design and manufacture of PC based test and measurement instrumentation used for electronic signal capture, generation and analysis.  Along with its parent company Spectrum Systementwicklung Microelectronic GmbH, the company offers over 450 modular products in the most popular industry standards: PCIe, LXI and PXIe. With US headquarter in Hackensack, NJ, Spectrum sells its products worldwide via an extensive sales network offering outstanding support directly from the design engineers. More information about Spectrum can be found at www.spectrum-instrumentation.com.

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SOURCE Spectrum Instrumentation

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