Tektronix Signal, Arbitrary Waveform, and Pattern Generators

Tektronix presents multiple generator classes grouped by application and performance. AFG3000-series units (for example AFG3252, AFG3251, AFG3102, AFG3102C) are function/arbitrary generators with DDS-based outputs and 14-bit resolution, aimed at benchtop waveform and modulation tasks up to hundreds of megahertz. AWG models span legacy and modern families: lower-clock AWG2000-series instruments such as AWG2021 provide 250 MS/s and 12-bit resolution for midband stimulus, while AWG400/420/430 models emphasize high vertical resolution (16-bit) at moderate sample rates (200 MS/s). The AWG500/600/7000 families scale to multi‑GS/s sampling, larger record lengths and direct high‑bandwidth outputs — examples include AWG520, AWG610, AWG710B, AWG7051, AWG7102 and the 12 GS/s AWG7122B/7122C series. Pattern and timing needs are addressed by DG-series and DTG-series systems (DG2020/DG2020A, DG2030, DG2040 and modular DTG5078/DTG5274).

Match the generator family to the technical need:

• High-speed serial, RF and wideband stimulus: consider AWG7000/7000B/7000C-class performance. The AWG7122B and AWG7122C provide sample rates listed to 12 GS/s (with interleaving options documented) and deep record lengths, while the AWG7102 reaches 10 GS/s and AWG7051 offers 5 GS/s. The AWG710B gives a 2.0 GHz analog bandwidth on direct output for RF work.

• Single-channel very high sample-rate signal simulation: AWG610 (2.6 GS/s) and AWG710B (4.2 GS/s) are examples focused on single-output, high-bandwidth stimulus.

• High dynamic range, lower bandwidth tasks: AWG420 and AWG430 provide 16-bit resolution at 200 MS/s for precision waveform shaping and multi‑channel analog stimulus.

• General-purpose function/arbitrary generation: AFG3000-series units such as AFG3252 and AFG3251 provide 14-bit resolution and up to 2 GS/s sample rates or 240 MHz sine capability for modulation and laboratory use.

• Digital/pattern and timing: modular DG and DTG platforms suit multi‑channel patterning and timing. DG2030 and DG2040 scale data‑rate capability (409.6 Mb/s and 1.1 Gb/s respectively) while DTG5274 supports up to 2.7 Gb/s with sub‑picosecond fine delay resolution.

When comparing models in the table, prioritize a short list of measurable parameters:

• Sample rate and analog bandwidth: dictate the highest-frequency content you can generate (examples: AWG7122B/C at 12 GS/s, AWG710B 2.0 GHz bandwidth).
• DAC vertical resolution and noise/distortion: 16-bit AWG420/AWG430 for high dynamic range vs lower-bit high-sample-rate AWGs (8–10 bit) for extreme speeds.
• Memory depth and sequence capability: deep record lengths and sequence steps enable long or complex stimuli (AWG710B and AWG7122-series list multi‑Mpoint record lengths).
• Channel count and synchronization: multi‑channel AWGs and modular DG/DTG systems provide channel scaling and fine deskew/delay control required for multi‑lane or MIMO tests (DTG5078/DTG5274 list slot/channel scaling).
• I/O, markers and digital outputs: integrated digital data outputs or marker channels (AWG520, AWG7102/AWG7122-series) and connector types affect how you integrate with DUTs and triggers.

Use these parameters against the test requirement (bandwidth, resolution, channel count, memory and timing) to narrow to a few candidate models.

Tektronix instruments in this set expose common remote and local interfaces: many AFG and AWG models include USB, LAN and GPIB options (AFG3000, AFG3102C, AWG7122B/C), while digital/pattern platforms list modular slot architectures and host interfaces (DTG5078, DTG5274, DG2020). For multi‑channel digital stimulus, DG-series instruments offer pod and channel options (DG2020 supports up to 36 channels with pod configurations), and TLA7PG2 exists as a 64-channel pattern module for compatible logic‑analyzer mainframes. When system integration or automated test is required, verify the specific remote-interface and sequencing features in the model row below.