Function generators
Function generators produce periodic signals of various shapes - sinusoidal, triangular, square, pulsed or arbitrary - designed to excite, validate or calibrate electronic circuits. They typically cover a range from 1 µHz to 50 MHz, with a frequency resolution of less than 1 µHz and an adjustable amplitude from a few millivolts to 20 V peak-to-peak. In R&D, they are used to test filters, amplifiers, converters and measurement systems. In production, they are used for functional tuning and checking dynamic tolerances. Recent models incorporate AM/FM/PM modulation, phase synchronisation and programmable burst generation. SCPI, USB and LAN interfaces ensure precise control on automated test benches. High-precision function generators include an internal quartz or GPS clock generator disciplined for stability below ±0.01 ppm. Used in the education, research, energy, aerospace and defence sectors, they guarantee the repeatability and consistency of signals injected into test chains.
The versatile tool for stimulating, modulating and qualifying any electronic circuit.
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33510B
KEYSIGHT
2-channel trueform function generator with bandwidth from 1µHz to 20MHz.
3326A
KEYSIGHT
Synthesised function generator with 2 independent channels and wide bandwidth.
33500B
KEYSIGHT
20 and 30 MHz signal generator with Trueform technology for high fidelity.
33521A
KEYSIGHT
1-channel 1 mHz to 30 MHz arbitrary signal generator with LAN and USB interface.
33250A
KEYSIGHT / AGILENT / HP
Function/arbitrary generator, 1 µHz to 80 MHz, GP-IB control, RS-232, LAN.
AFG-2105
GW INSTEK
5 MHz arbitrary function generator with modulation and external counter.
MFG-2120MA
GW INSTEK
20MHz arbitrary function generator with pulse generator and amplifier.
practical questions about Function generators
01
What is the purpose of a function generator?It can be used to produce various electrical signals (sine, square, triangle, pulse, ramp) at variable frequency and amplitude. These signals are used to excite circuits, test their dynamic behaviour or simulate disturbances.
02
What's the difference with an arbitrary or RF generator?The function generator provides simple standard waveforms. The arbitrary generator can be used to create more complex custom signals. The RF generator covers higher frequencies and integrates specific modulations (AM, FM, IQ).
03
What uses in R&D and maintenance?In R&D, it is used to characterise response times, filtering or non-linearities. In maintenance, it is used to inject a known signal into a measurement chain or amplifier to identify faults.
04
What technical features are important?Frequency range, spectral purity, voltage accuracy, modulation options, sampling resolution (if arbitrary), and compatibility with bench interfaces (USB, LAN, GPIB).
05
Is it wise to opt for a reconditioned model?Yes, especially if the outputs are stable, the waveforms correctly generated and the modulation options verified. Many function generators remain highly relevant on the test bench, even after many years.
