The new function is ideal for a wide variety of automated test and measurement applications, such as experiment control, artificial intelligence and robotics, ATE, stimulus-response testing, system and machine control, component or sensor testing, etc.
All DPG functionality is implemented using the FPGAs integrated into the PCIe cards or LXI/Ethernet instruments, so the new option runs in parallel with the unit's other tasks. Control is achieved through a simple programming structure that allows adjustment of the pulse characteristics for each of the four outputs, whether generating single pulses, pulse trains, or continuous pulse streams. Key parameters, such as pulse width, period, phase, and the number of pulses in a pulse train, are all programmable.
Once activated, the DPG will output the pre-programmed pulses on the assigned multi-purpose I/O connector as soon as it receives a valid trigger. For maximum flexibility, the trigger can be generated by software or from one of several possible sources. These include all the usual internal and external trigger sources for the products, or even one of the other DPG channels. Because the pulse generator outputs are intrinsically synchronized with the product's acquisition or playback functions, they are ideal for producing enable or switching signals (e.g., to activate signals). Furthermore, the ability to cascade the four different generators allows for convenient transformation of pulse repetition timescales.
Extensive range of digitizers and AWG:
The new option is available for 92 different Spectrum products. This includes the full range of 59xx series digitizers, consisting of 24 different PCIe cards and 28 standalone LXI/Ethernet units. The new option also fits the entire 65xx series of AWG, with 14 different PCIe cards and 18 LXI/Ethernet instruments. Eight of the combined Digitizer+AWG products can even utilize the new Digital Pulse feature. The 59xx digitizers offer various sampling rates, from 5 MS/s to 125 MS/s, with 16-bit resolution and 1 to 48 channels. Similarly, the 65xx AWGs are available with output rates from 40 MS/s to 125 MS/s, 16-bit resolution, and 1 to 48 channels. This exceptionally broad product range allows users to select the product that best suits their application.
The timing characteristics of the pulses generated by the DPG depend on the hardware used and the selected sampling clock. Parameters can be programmed with a resolution of 1 sample, while the maximum pulse frequency, being half the maximum sampling clock, is 62.5 MHz. Designed to work with most common digital circuits, the pulse amplitude levels are 3.3 V low-voltage TTL (LVTTL); TTL compatible for high-impedance loads.
