Arbitrary
waveform generators are used to test electrical and electronic equipment to
ensure that the product operates properly, or to pin point a particular
fault. These can be used either
repetitively or as a once only (single-shot).
The waveforms can be triggered to run by an external event, a signal
from another piece of equipment for example, manually using the front panel
controls or by using the GUI interface.
An arbitrary waveform generator differs to that of a function generator
in that specific points in the waveform can be programmed to create custom
waveforms.
The
Z+ series of programmable power supplies allows the storage of up to four
arbitrary waveforms in internal non-volatile memory cells to control the output
voltage or current. Profiles can contain
up to 12 steps and be triggered to operate using the communication interfaces
or via the front panel. Additional
waveforms can be stored on a computer.
These
arbitrary waveforms can be easily created by using the “Z+ Waveform Creator”
application provided on the CD-ROM.
There
are two programmable modes; LIST and WAVE.
LIST allows a step
function to be entered and run. The
example in Figure 1 sets the output from 0V to 2V after an external trigger. After
a 0.5s delay the output is increased to 4V and back down to 2V 0.5s later. After 1s the output is increased to 8V for 1s
before reducing to 5V. 1s later the output is set to 4V where it remains for
another 1s.
Figure 1: List example
WAVE also allows gradual output
voltage or current changes. In Figure 2
the output is again set to 2V for 1s after an external trigger. This time it is gradually increased to 4V
over a 0.5s time period. It remains at 4V for 0.5s before being programmed to
gradually increase to 9V over 0.5s where it remains for 0.5s, before decreasing
to 3V over 1.5s period, staying at 3V for 1s.
Figure 2: Waveform
The Graphical User Interface (GUI), which can
also be downloaded from the website, contains a Waveform Profile Generator
which can be used for more complex waveforms, including sine, triangle and saw
tooth. See Figure 3.
Figure 3: Waveform Profile Generator
The arbitrary
waveforms can be used for a variety of applications including vehicle battery
starting profiles to test automotive components and assemblies. See Figure 4.
Figure 4: Examples of arbitrary
waveforms
For
additional assistance, please contact your local TDK-Lambda sales office.
