Should a pulse generator be purchased in 2025?

If you're just starting to learn about this device, you're probably wondering: What is a pulse generator? How is this device used? And which models are reliable and suitable to use? All of the above questions will be answered in detail in the article below.

What is a pulse generator?  

Waveform Generator, also known as wave signal generator, is a specialized device used to create standard wave signals such as sine, square, triangle... with the ability to customize amplitude and frequency. upon request.  

Not stopping at basic waveforms, modern models also support arbitrary waveform generation (AWG), allowing users to freely shape the amplitude and frequency of the wave in each cycle. This helps meet a wide range of complex testing requirements, especially in areas requiring high flexibility.  

Thanks to the integration of digital signal processing (DSP) technology, the pulse generator can generate stable signals with frequencies ranging from a few MHz to hundreds of MHz. For high-end models, the frequency can reach several GHz. The output usually uses a BNC port with impedance ranging from 50 to 75Ω.  

Parameters that need to be understood  

Emitted waveform:  

The pulse generator allows creating many different waveforms such as sine, square, triangle, sawtooth, pulse, DC signals, TTL/CMOS signals, and even self-generated waveforms..  

Frequency range:  

Depends on each product line:  

   - Common machines: frequency ranges from 0.05 MHz - 5 MHz  

   - High-end machines: frequency can reach from several hundred MHz to several GHz

Notable technical specifications:  

 - Input voltage from 0 - 10V, signal conversion ratio reaches 100:1, signal distortion less than 1%, corresponding to frequency range 0.2 Hz - 100 kHz  

   - The smallest rise and fall time of square wave reaches 25ns, while triangle wave has linearity from 1% - 5% (100 kHz - 2 MHz)  

   - The TTL signal at the output has a minimum rise and fall time of 25ns, while the CMOS signal reaches 40ns

Operating environment:

The machine can work stably in the temperature range 0 - 40°C, with humidity up to 85% RH. The device uses 115/230V power source, power consumption is only 20W, suitable for many different operating conditions.

Number of outputs:

If the job requires multiple signals at the same time, models with two or more outputs will help you optimize costs and capacity.

Included accessories:

Checking the complete set of accessories included when purchasing the device is an important step, helping to ensure that the device can operate optimally right from the moment of use.

Diverse Applications of Pulse Generators  

Application in telecommunications field  

Pulse generators play an indispensable role in the radio industry, including satellite television, radar, and radio systems. This device allows simulation of RF signal environments with frequencies up to 1.5 GHz, as well as modulation of wireless standard bandwidths up to 1 GHz. Some models are also designed specifically for creating FM waves, serving specialized needs in the communications industry.  

Contribution in education 

In the field of education, pulse generators are important tools to help students better understand electronic specifications. Through testing and analyzing actual signals, this device increases objectivity, helping learners access knowledge more intuitively and practically.  

Role in electronic repair and maintenance  

At electronic equipment repair and maintenance centers, pulse generators are used as an accurate measurement tool. This device helps technicians quickly determine the cause of damage, thereby providing effective repair solutions.  

Other applications of pulse generators  

Not only limited to the above fields, pulse generators are also widely used in many other special applications:  

Signal environment analysis: Supports signal research and evaluation under different conditions.  

-OFDM technology: Used in orthogonal multi-carrier technique, serving the development of high-speed communication systems.  

-Serial signal testing: Application in evaluating high-speed or dual multi-frequency (DTMF) signals.  

- Medicine and sensors: Generate signals for pacemakers and check car sensors.  

- Checking power lines: Supports checking and evaluating the quality of power lines.