AC1 Fundamentals Unit 1 – The AC Waveform Generator
Exercise 1 – AC Waveform Generator Familiarization
EXERCISE OBJECTIVE
When you have completed this exercise, you will be able to operate an ac waveform generator by
using equipment provided. You will verify your results by observing generator waveforms on the
oscilloscope.
DISCUSSION
- Several types of waveform generators exist: examples include function generator, and af
(audio frequency) generator. - The following is a partial list of similarities between the different types of waveform
generators.
all generate an ac waveform
all can vary the frequency of the generated waveform
all can vary the amplitude of the generated waveform
all exhibit a characteristic output impedance - The controls that adjust the frequency of the waveform are labeled MULTIPLIER or
RANGE, and FREQUENCY. - The RANGE or MULTIPLIER control determines the span of frequencies the generator
produces. The knob is marked: X1, X10, X100, X1K, X10K, X100K. - The FREQUENCY controls the specific output frequency within the range established by the
MULTIPLIER. The knob is graduated from 1 to 200. - The actual frequency of the waveform is determined by the product of the frequency control
setting and the multiplier control setting. - The generator controls produce approximate frequency settings. The oscilloscope is used to
produce an accurate frequency reading. - The FUNCTION or WAVEFORM knob controls the type of output waveform produced by
the generator. - The output waveform amplitude is established using the LEVEL, AMPLITUDE, or AMPL
control knob. - A schematic diagram that has a generator symbol drawn using dotted lines means that an
external generator connection is required.