What is the difference between a signal generator and an oscilloscope?

A signal generator, also known as a signal source, is an instrument used to generate oscillation signals to provide users with a stable and reliable reference signal. The characteristic parameters of the signal are fully controllable. The so-called controllable signal characteristics mainly means that the parameters such as frequency, amplitude, waveform, duty cycle, and modulation form of the output signal can be artificially controlled and set. With the development of science and technology, signal forms are becoming more and more complex, and the frequency is getting higher and higher. Therefore, there are more and more types of signal generators, and the circuit structure of signal generators is also becoming more intelligent and software-based. ization and programmable development.

As the name suggests, a signal generator is a type of signal generator. According to the traditional working frequency band, there are many kinds of signal generators. Simply put, the difference between these two instruments is:

The function of the signal generator is to output a signal.

Oscilloscopes are used to detect signals.

A signal generator is a device that provides electrical signals of various frequencies, waveforms, and output levels. It can be used as a test signal source or excitation source when measuring electrical parameters such as amplitude characteristics, frequency characteristics, and transmission characteristics of various telecommunications systems or telecommunications equipment, as well as when measuring the characteristics and parameters of components.

An oscilloscope is a widely used electronic measuring instrument. It can convert invisible electrical signals into visible images, making it easier for people to study the changing processes of various electrical phenomena.

Signal generators are classified according to traditional working frequency bands, including ultra-low frequency signal generators, low-frequency signal generators, high-frequency signal generators and microwave signal generators.

Ultra-low frequency signal generator generally refers to a signal generator with an operating frequency below 0 or 1 Hz, and is generally used for special professional purposes.

Low-frequency signal generators generally refer to signal generators whose operating frequency is mainly between 1Hz and 1MHz, and are mostly used in the audio field. High-frequency signal generators, also known as radio frequency signal generators, generally refer to signal generators with operating frequencies from 100kHz to hundreds of MHz (currently high frequencies can reach several gigahertz), and are mostly used in the fields of communication and measurement.

Generally, microwave signal generators refer to signal generators with operating frequencies as high as several gigahertz to tens of gigahertz, and are mostly used in the radar field.

Puyuan signal amplifier

Four elements for signal generator selection

1. Meet the signal types and functions required by the application.

For amateur radio enthusiasts, if it is mainly used to adjust and measure the sensitivity of walkie-talkies, a high-frequency signal generator is needed. If it is mainly used for the maintenance of common electrical appliances and basic circuit experiments, a commonly used function generator is more suitable. For those who repair TVs, they need a TV signal generator. FM stereo signal source is suitable for radio repair. If you need to test digital signals, then a vector signal source is better for you.

2. Frequency range and output amplitude range that meet application requirements.

The signal generator's frequency coverage, modulation method, and signal output amplitude should meet the needs of the application. Generally, the sensitivity of FM walkie-talkies requires that the signal generator has FM signal modulation and the frequency covers the working frequency band of the walkie-talkie. The minimum signal output amplitude of the signal generator should not be greater than -120dBm, and it is best to reach -127dBm.

3. The price should be within your budget.

The price of the chosen signal generator should be within your budget. Mid- to high-end signal generators are high-value instruments. Advanced signal generator offers excellent performance and ease of use. However, if you don’t have enough budget, you’ll have to stay away. In addition to guaranteed performance indicators, high-end instruments can also "support the scene" for your laboratory within a certain period of time, increase the trust of knowledgeable customers in your test results, and also represent the strength of the testing institution.

4. Reliable after-sales guarantee

After-sales service and repair guarantees are also important when purchasing high-value instruments. Some products have different warranty quotations for different years, so don’t just go for the cheapest when purchasing.