Chapter 3
USING The INSTRUMENT
Overview
This chapter contains information about how to operate the
LW120. Operation is divided into two general categories: basic
bench operation, and remote operation (IEEE-488.2 and RS232).
Basic bench operation, which is covered in this section, describes
how to use the arbitrary waveform generator using front panel
sequences. The LW120 is supplied with ArbExplorer, a PC based
software package with a graphical user interface to allow users to
program all of the functions directly. LabView drivers and a set of
SCPI commands are available for more experienced programmers.
The following paragraphs describe the various modes of operation
and give examples of how to program the Model LW120. The
manual is organized by instrument function and instructions are
given in each paragraph on how to use the function from both the
front panel and ArbExplorer.
Inter-Channel
Dependency
The LW120 has two output channels. Although this is a two-
channel instrument, many of the commands that set parameters
and functions are common for both channels. For example, sample
clock and trigger modes can not be set separately for each
channel. On the other hand, you may set each channel to have
different function shape, amplitude and offset. Table 3-1 lists the
function and parameters and their related Inter-channel
dependency.
Output
Termination
During use, output connectors must be properly terminated to
minimize signal reflection or power loss due to impedance
mismatch. Proper termination is also required for accurate
amplitude levels at the output connectors. Use 50
Ω
cables and
terminate the main and SYNC cables with terminating resistors.
Always place the 50
Ω
termination at the far end of the cables.