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Function generators are typically used in simple electronics repair and design; where
they are used to stimulate a circuit under test. A device such as an oscilloscope is then
used to measure the circuit's output. Function generators vary in the number of outputs
they feature, frequency range, frequency accuracy and stability, and several other
parameters.
WORKING:
Analog function generators usually generate a triangle waveform as the basis for all of
its other outputs. The triangle is generated by repeatedly charging and discharging a
capacitor from a constant current source. This produces a linearly ascending or
descending voltage ramp. As the output voltage reaches upper and lower limits, the
charging and discharging is reversed using a comparator, producing the linear triangle
wave. By varying the current and the size of the capacitor, different frequencies may
be obtained. Sawtooth waves can be produced by charging the capacitor slowly, using
a current, but using a diode over the current source to discharge quickly - the polarity
of the diode changes the polarity of the resulting sawtooth, i.e. slow rise and fast fall,
or fast rise and slow fall.
A 50% duty cycle square wave is easily obtained by noting whether the
capacitor is being charged or discharged, which is reflected in the current
switching comparator's output. Other duty cycles (theoretically from 0% to
100%) can be obtained by using a comparator and the sawtooth or triangle
signal. Most function generators also contain a non-linear diode shaping
circuit that can convert the triangle wave into a reasonably accurate sine
wave. It does so by rounding off the hard corners of the triangle wave in a
process similar to clipping in audio systems.
(2) Setting adjustment knob: Adjusts the parameter selected by the other
buttons.
(6) Modulation signal input: Input terminal for external modulation signal.
Note there is a maximum signal input rating.
(11) Set to counter mode: Enables the counter input and displays the
frequency of the input signal on item 4.
(12) Change utility settings: Adjust frequency sweep start frequency, sweep
stop frequency, and display intensity.
(13) Set DC offset: Enable the adjustment of the DC voltage added to the
signal output (control 10).
(15) Duty cycle: Adjusts the duty cycle or symmetry of the displayed
waveform.
(16) Sweep: Turns the frequency sweep mode on and off and allows
selection of a linear sweep or logarithmic sweep.
(17) Frequency: After pressing this button, the adjustment knob (control 2)
will adjust the output signal's frequency.
CIRCUIT DIAGRAM: