Tektronix AWG7000 Series Arbitrary Waveform Generators

6 models with full specifications from Tektronix.

This editorial page covers the Tektronix AWG7000 Series of high-performance arbitrary waveform generators, focusing on the AWG7051, AWG7052, AWG7101, AWG7102, AWG7122B, and AWG7122C models. These instruments are designed for demanding applications in high-speed digital design, RF/wireless testing, and advanced research. They share a standard core platform, including a 10.4-inch color touchscreen display and flexible digital-to-analog converter (DAC) configurations. When selecting an instrument from this series, engineering teams must evaluate key trade-offs between single-channel and dual-channel configurations, maximum standard sample rates from 5 GS/s to 12 GS/s, and available interleaving options that reach up to 24 GS/s. Memory capacities and underlying operating systems also differ across the generations of this family.

Display
10.4-inch XGA TFT touchscreen
DAC Resolution
10-bit (no markers) or 8-bit (with markers)
Power Supply
100 to 240 V AC, 450 W maximum
Operating Temperature
10 to 40 °C
Max Sample Rate
Up to 24 GS/s (Interleaved)

Models in this series

ModelTypeDisplayNumber of ChannelsOperating Temperature
AWG7102Arbitrary10.4-inch XGA color TFT touch screen, 1024 x 768 resolution210 to 40
AWG7122CArbitrary10.4 in (264 mm) TFT color LCD touchscreen, 1024×768 XGA resolution2+10 to +40 °C
AWG7051Arbitrary10.4-inch color TFT-LCD touch screen, 1024 × 768 (XGA)110 °C to 40 °C
AWG7122BArbitrary10.4-inch color TFT-LCD, XGA (1024 x 768) resolution, with integrated touch screen210 to 40 °C
AWG7052Arbitrary10.4-inch color TFT LCD touch screen, 1024 × 768 XGA resolution210 to 40 °C
AWG7101Arbitrary10.4-inch TFT color touchscreen LCD, 1024 × 768 XGA110 °C to 40 °C

Shared Architecture and Platform Standard

All models in this series feature a 10.4-inch color TFT-LCD touchscreen with a resolution of 1024 x 768 (XGA). They operate within a temperature range of 10 to 40 °C and utilize a universal power supply rated for 100 to 240 V AC at 47 to 63 Hz, drawing a maximum of 450 W. Vertical resolution across all units is determined by marker configuration: 10-bit resolution is available when marker outputs are disabled, which drops to 8-bit resolution when utilizing two marker outputs per channel. Standard memory depth for most models is 32 Mpoints per channel, with an optional upgrade to 64 Mpoints (Option 01). The AWG7122B varies slightly with a standard record length of 32.4 MSamples per channel, upgradable to 64.8 MSamples.

Channel and Sample Rate Variations

The family is divided by channel count and sample rate capabilities:

  • 5 GS/s Models: The single-channel AWG7051 and dual-channel AWG7052 models provide sample rates up to 5 GS/s. For the AWG7052, the normal output provides 1.8 GHz of bandwidth, while its direct output option extends this to 3.5 GHz.
  • 10 GS/s Models: The single-channel AWG7101 and dual-channel AWG7102 support up to 10 GS/s standard. Both support interleaving up to 20 GS/s using Option 06, which increases the AWG7102 analog bandwidth from 3.5 GHz to 5.0 GHz.
  • 12 GS/s Models: The dual-channel AWG7122B and AWG7122C models provide standard sample rates up to 12 GS/s and interleaved rates up to 24 GS/s when Option 06 is applied.

Interface and Software Capabilities

Standard connectivity includes Gigabit LAN (10/100/1000 Base-T), GPIB, USB 2.0, VGA, and DVI-D interfaces, though physical layouts vary. The AWG7052, AWG7101, and AWG7122B also feature PS/2 and analog video ports, while the AWG7122B includes front-panel SMA connectors and six USB 2.0 ports. Software environments differ depending on the generation of the instrument; for example, the AWG7101 runs on Windows XP, while the AWG7122C operates on Windows 7.

Frequently asked questions

Can these generators run in interleaved mode?
Yes. On the AWG7101, AWG7102, AWG7122B, and AWG7122C models, Option 06 allows interleaved mode. This combines channel resources to double the maximum sample rate—up to 20 GS/s on the AWG7101/AWG7102 and up to 24 GS/s on the AWG7122B/AWG7122C.
What are the output differences on the AWG7052?
The AWG7052 features a normal output with 1.8 GHz of analog bandwidth (-3 dB) and a rise/fall time of 220 ps. Utilizing the direct output extends the analog bandwidth to 3.5 GHz (-3 dB) and shortens the typical rise/fall time to 130 ps.
What is the minimum waveform length supported by these models?
The AWG7101 and AWG7122B support a minimum waveform length of 240 points in standard mode. When operating in interleaved mode, the minimum waveform length for the AWG7122B increases to 480 points.