Tektronix goes mixed signal with the AWG5000

-- Test & Measurement World, 3/5/2007 6:34:00 AM

As RF systems move the data converters closer to the antenna, engineers need to test these systems with high-frequency signals that resemble those found in the real world. Furthermore, many systems require testing with both analog and digital signals. Enter the AWG5000 from Tektronix, which gives you the choice of four analog outputs or two analog outputs with optional 28 digital outputs.

The analog outputs let you create distorted signals for testing systems under repeatable simulated real-world conditions. You can generate analog outputs to test I/Q modulators in RF transmitters such as those used in wireless LANs.

You have several options for generating analog signals. You can capture a signal with an oscilloscope and replay it. PC software lets you develop signals and then load them into the AWG, or you can run the software inside the instrument using a mouse and keyboard. Because the AWG5000 is Windows based, you can use third-party software such as Matlab or Excel to create signals.

Each model provides two digital-marker channels for each analog output. You can use the marker channels to trigger analog-to-digital converters such as those used in RF/IF transmitters. You can also use the markers to trigger instruments such as oscilloscopes.

The two-channel models also have an option for 28 digital I/O channels. With that option, you get 28 SMA connectors on the instrument’s rear panel. You can, for example, use the digital outputs to test digital-to-analog converts using a digital representation of a noisy signal.

The AWG5000 serial has several connectivity choices. You can connect to a PC using IEEE 488 or Ethernet. A pair of front and back USB ports let you store or download signals, or you can use the ports to connect a keyboard or mouse. All models come with a removable hard drive and a CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive.

Tektronix, www.tektronix.com.