2
1.
Introduction to the 4017B.
1.1 Description
The
B&K Precision Model 4017B
Sweep/Function Generator is the newest 40XX family member. The 4017B enhances the
performance achieved by its successful predecessor, BK Precision Model 4017A Sweep/Function Generator. These performances are
achieved by using direct digital waveform synthesis (DDS) techniques for generating high accuracy and precision frequencies. A high
performance Digital Signal Processor (DSP) controls every aspect of the DDS system, and is used for precise generation and processing
of waveforms. The 4017B has a vast number of applications in both analog and digital electronics, in the engineering, manufacturing,
servicing, educational and hobbyist fields. This versatile signal source is capable of generating waveform (such as sine, triangle and
square), pulse generation (through variable symmetry) and frequency sweep. Additionally, the instrument provides a built-in frequency
counter.
The core of the function generator is a DSP, which is used to generate precision sine, square or triangle waveforms over 0.01Hz to
10MHz range. This encompasses subaudible, audio, ultrasonic and RF applications. The symmetry of the waveforms can be changed
between 0% to 100% in 1% step, converting the instrument to a pulse generator capable of generating rectangular waves or pulses, ramp
or sawtooth waves and slued sine waves. An external voltage may be used to control operating frequency that can be changed using a
ratio between 1:1 and 1:100. Frequency sweep can be adjusted by changing the rate and the time sweep, and also the manner in which
frequency is changed, linear or logarithmic.
The B&K Precision Model 4017B has 3 jacks: 2 for output and 1 input. The
OUTPUT
jack is the main signal output. The
TTL/CMOS
jack is a
TTL/CMOS
compatible square wave output. The
VCG/SWEEP
jack is an input used for controlling the operating frequency
and input to frequency counter.
The 4017B is capable of supplying an output level of 20.0V
pp
with an offset voltage of ± 10.0V
pp
(unloaded) on the main signal output,
the
OUTPUT
jack. The output impedance is 50 ohms; therefore the 50 ohm loaded output level is 10.0V
pp
, with an offset voltage
capability of ±5.0 V
pp
. The output level can be adjusted with a resolution of 1mV and 10mV, depending on the level range being
worked on. The offset level can be adjusted with a resolution of 1mV.
The 4017B is capable of generating a
TTL/CMOS
compatible square wave on
TTL/CMOS
jack. The output level can be up to 14.0
V
pp
(unloaded).
On the
VCG/SWEEP
input jack, DC levels can be applied between 0V to 10.0V in order to change the output operating frequency with
a ratio between 1:1 and 1:100. This jack is also used as a frequency counter input, for frequencies between 5Hz and 100MHz.
The front panel of the Model 4017B includes LCD display, buttons, “intelligent” knobs and an LED in order to operate the unit quick
and easy. The “intelligent” knobs are one of the main features of this new model, which reduces the number of controls needed for
changing the value of a parameter. The LCD display is a large 2-line 16 columns back lighted display.
The unit also features an
EIA-RS232
connector on the rear of the unit. This permits the user to remote control the 4017B using ASCII
characters. No special hardware or protocols are needed; any dumb terminal or computer serial port can be used. The baud rate is fixed
to 9600 BPS.
1.2
Feature Summary
2. Front panel.
2.1 Brief description.
Located on the Front Panel is the LCD display, controls, power switch, connection jacks and LED (see the figure 2 for details).
The LCD display is a backlit, 2-row 16-columns LCD display.
There are two kinds of controls: buttons and knobs.
All buttons are implemented as 1-parameter single function control, except the range buttons that have a second function. Pressing the
range buttons (UP and DOWN buttons) twice at the same time will save the current working state as the default loaded state at power-
up. Pressing any other buttons at the same time will have no effect upon the current working state. There are 2 kinds of buttons: one
category has no LED’s, the other category has LED’s. Pressing one of the buttons from the first category will change the values on the
LCD display.
The knobs are implemented as 3-parameter single function control, with “intelligent” control. The parameters defining an knob are:
value, rotation’s direction, and rotation’s speed. The value identifies the parameter being changed. The rotation’s direction, clockwise or
counter clockwise, determines whether the value of the parameter is increment or decrement respectively, by an amount of 1. The speed
of rotation sets the position in the parameter’s digits of the digit being modified. The “intelligent knob” implementation allows a very
simple and intuitive way of changing parameter values and reducing the number of controls used.
