Why is a fast-sampling rate important in a waveform generator?

A fast-sampling rate in a waveform generator is crucial for producing accurate, high-resolution signals, especially at higher frequencies or with complex waveforms. The following are some of the reasons why a fast-sampling rate is important when selecting a waveform generator: More precise signal shapes: A higher sampling rate means the generator can recreate smoother, more detailed waveforms—reducing distortion and preserving sharp edges in signals like square or pulse waves. Accurate high-frequency output: To generate high-frequency signals reliably, the sampling rate must be significantly higher than the output frequency (typically 4x–10x or more). This avoids aliasing and maintains signal fidelity. Better representation of arbitrary waveforms: When generating custom or non-standard waveforms, a fast-sampling rate captures subtle details — ensuring the output closely matches the original digital definition. Cleaner harmonics and less noise: Higher sampling resolution reduces unwanted artifacts like harmonic distortion, ensuring cleaner, more testable signals.

What are some common modulation types available in a waveform generator?

Here are some of the most common modulation features in a waveform generator: Amplitude modulation by a carrier sine wave is by far the most common in radio communications. It involves varying the amplitude of the carrier signal in proportion to the modulating signal. Frequency modulation has been the best-known analog modulation method for radio broadcasting for more than half a century. Its applications have grown into video broadcasting, critical medical monitoring systems, radar, and more. This technique varies the frequency of the carrier signal according to the modulating signal. Phase modulation changes the phase of the carrier signal based on the modulating signal. It is widely used in digital data transmissions through digital modulation techniques such as PSK (Phase-shift keying), BPSK (Binary phase-shift keying), QPSK (Quadrature phase-shift keying), and more. It is used in Wi-Fi, GSM, and satellite broadcasting transmissions. Pulse width modulation is a very useful technique in many applications, such as controlling the speed and torque of electric motors, using the signal's duty cycle to control the dimming of LED lights, regulating voltage, and improving the efficiency of switch-mode power supplies. This method modulates the width of pulses to encode information.

What are the advantages of a waveform generator with deep memory?

A waveform generator with deep memory can store and output longer, more detailed waveforms—giving you greater flexibility and precision in signal generation. Here are the key benefits: Generate complex or long-duration signals: Deep memory allows you to create and play back long, non-repeating waveforms such as audio patterns, communication bursts, or simulation of real-world sensor data — without truncation or looping artifacts. Higher resolution at high sampling rates: With more memory, you can maintain high sample resolution even for long signals. This means you don’t have to sacrifice waveform detail or fidelity to fit within memory constraints. More accurate arbitrary waveform playback: Deep memory enables accurate reproduction of highly detailed arbitrary waveforms, even at high speeds — helping you simulate complex behaviors more realistically.

Expert Waveform Generators

High-performance signal generation for mission-critical tests

Keysight WG3-class Expert waveform and function generators include the 33600 Series. They deliver the speed, precision, and memory required to test demanding applications such as automotive electronic control units — including braking systems and airbags — IoT device validation and aerospace and defense systems. Their high bandwidth and fast sampling rate enable the reproduction of complex waveforms required in radar, wireless communications, and high-resolution sensor simulations. Enhanced triggering capabilities ensure precise synchronization with critical events, timing analysis, and protocol validation. Choose one of our popular configurations or configure one specific to your application.

Wide bandwidth

Signals feature sharp transitions and rich harmonics for accurate reproduction of fast edges and high-frequency details across a wide bandwidth range.

Fast sampling rate

Enables precise reconstruction of high-frequency, complex waveforms required for accurate communications and radar testing that require high-speed sampling.

Enhanced triggering

Features like trigger delay, holdoff, burst mode, or gated output enable signal generation to be tightly synchronized with specific system events or conditions.

Deep memory

Generate long, complex arbitrary waveforms with up to 64 MSa of memory per channel —ideal for waveform sequencing and looping in automated test setups.