Tektronix AWG2000 Series Arbitrary Waveform Generators
4 models with full specifications from Tektronix.
The Tektronix AWG2000 Series is a family of programmable arbitrary waveform generators designed for high-precision waveform simulation, digital design, and multi-channel electrical testing. Depending on the model, these instruments optimize either high vertical resolution or high-speed sample rates, giving engineers options for both high-frequency applications and multi-channel analog/digital testing. The family spans single-channel, dual-channel, and four-channel configurations, utilizing various memory depths and sequencing architectures to generate complex test profiles.
- Sampling Rate Range
- 10 S/s to 1.024 GS/s
- Vertical Resolution
- 8-bit or 12-bit
- Channel Configuration
- 1, 2, or 4 channels
- Output Impedance
- 50 Ω
Models in this series
| Model | Type | Interfaces | Output Impedance | DC Offset Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AWG2021 | Arbitrary | GPIB (IEEE-488.2), RS-232-C | 50 Ω | -2.5 V to +2.5 V (into 50 Ω) |
| AWG2041 | Arbitrary | GPIB (IEEE-488.2), RS-232C | 50 Ω | -1.0 V to +1.0 V (into 50 Ω) |
| AWG2040 | Arbitrary | GPIB (IEEE-488.2) | 50 Ω | — |
| AWG2005 | Arbitrary | GPIB (IEEE-488.2), RS-232-C | 50 Ω | -5.0 V to +5.0 V |
High-Speed Giga-Sample Performance
For high-speed testing, the series includes the AWG2040 and AWG2041 models, both operating at maximum sample rates up to 1.024 GS/s. These instruments utilize 8-bit vertical resolution to deliver fast-edge, high-frequency waveforms.
- AWG2040: Features a standard waveform memory of 1M words (expandable to 4M words via Option 01). It provides an analog bandwidth of 350 MHz on its direct output and 300 MHz on its normal output, with an overshoot/undershoot of less than 10% at 2 Vp-p.
- AWG2041: An alternative high-speed model that outputs signals up to 500 MHz. Its standard 1 MB record length can be extended to 4 MB with Option 01. It can also be configured with an 8-bit 1 GHz Digital Data Generator.
High-Resolution and Multi-Channel Generators
When signal accuracy and channel density are prioritized over pure clock speed, the AWG2021 and AWG2005 provide 12-bit vertical resolution.
- AWG2021: This instrument delivers a 250 MS/s sample rate and a 256 k memory depth. It has a clock frequency range of 10 Hz to 250 MHz and can generate waveforms up to 125 MHz. While it is a single-channel instrument by default, adding Option 02 expands it to a 2-channel output configuration.
- AWG2005: Designed for multi-channel requirements, this instrument provides 4 independent channels with a 20 MS/s maximum sampling rate (50 ns clock period) and a minimum rate of 10 S/s. Each channel has a dedicated waveform memory depth of 64 kS.
Waveform Synthesis, Sequencing, and Interfaces
Waveform creation across the AWG2000 series utilizes direct DSO waveform transfers or built-in mathematical formula entry, which are supported on the AWG2021 and AWG2005. To build complex test sequences, the AWG2021 and AWG2005 feature a real-time waveform sequencer.
For connectivity, the instruments support GPIB (IEEE-488.2) interfaces for automated test environments. The AWG2005, AWG2021, and AWG2041 also feature RS-232-C serial interfaces.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the maximum output voltage range available in the AWG2000 series?
- The AWG2005 offers the highest amplitude range in the series, supplying 50 mV to 10 V p-p into 50 Ω, with a DC offset range of -5.0 V to +5.0 V. By comparison, the AWG2021 provides up to 5 V p-p, and the high-speed AWG2041 offers up to 2 V p-p.
- How do memory depth options compare on the 1.024 GS/s models?
- Both the AWG2040 and the AWG2041 come standard with 1M words (or 1 MB) of memory. Both models can be upgraded to 4M words (or 4 MB) of record length by specifying Option 01.
- Does the AWG2021 support digital data generation?
- Yes, the AWG2021 supports optional digital data generation capabilities. For higher-speed digital requirements, the AWG2041 can be outfitted with an 8-bit 1 GHz Digital Data Generator hardware option.