Arbitrary/Function Generator

AFG2021 Datasheet

The AFG2021 Arbitrary Function Generator gives you the power to create the signals you need at an entry-level price. With 20 MHz bandwidth, 14-bit resolution, and 250 MS/s sample rate, you can generate all manner of signals -- from complex serial data streams to simple audio frequencies or clock signals to the output of an airbag sensor during a crash. With 12 standard waveforms, modulation capability, and a built-in noise generator, you can quickly create the signal you need to thoroughly exercise your designs.

Notice to EU customers

This product is not updated to comply with the RoHS 2 Directive 2011/65/EU and will not be shipped to the EU. Customers may be able to purchase products from inventory that were placed on the EU market prior to July 22, 2017 until supplies are depleted. Tektronix is committed to helping you with your solution needs. Please contact your local sales representative for further assistance or to determine if alternative product(s) are available. Tektronix will continue service to the end of worldwide support life.

This product does not comply with the RoHS 2 Directive 2011/65/ EU and will not be shipped to the EU. Please contact your local sales representative for further assistance or to determine if alternative product(s) are available.

Key performance specifications

20 MHz sine, 10 MHz pulse waveforms provide coverage for your most common applications
250 MS/s sampling rate and 14-bit vertical resolution enable the creation of high-fidelity signals

Key features

The innovative UI reduces setup and evaluation time with direct access to frequently used functions and parameters
The internal 4 × 128 kS memory and the USB memory expansion capability provide substantial capacity for defining complex waveforms
USB remote control port and USB flash drive port are included. GPIB and LAN interfaces are available as an option
Built-in Modulation, Noise Generator, Burst, and Sweep modes for greater versatility
Built-in waveforms provide quick access to commonly used signals
Large 3.5 inch color screen displays both graphical and numeric waveform information simultaneously
Menu and online help in 8 languages
2U height and half-rack width fits both benchtop and rack-mounted applications
Free ArbExpress software makes waveform editing and downloading extremely easy
Free SignalExpress software combines Tektronix bench instruments into a low-cost solution for automatic testing

Applications

Electronic test and design
Sensor simulation
Education and training
Functional test
System integration

Superior performance at an affordable price

Most electronic devices, circuits, and systems are designed to handle some form of a signal. These signals can be simple like an audio frequency or clock signal or more complex like a serial data stream or the output of an airbag sensor during a crash. With 20 MHz bandwidth, 14-bit resolution, and 250 MS/s sample rate, the AFG2021 Arbitrary Function Generator can create both simple and complex signals at an entry-level price. With 12 standard waveforms, modulation capability, and a built-in noise generator, you can quickly create the signal you need to thoroughly exercise your designs.

Intuitive user interface

The innovative ease-of-use features first seen on the AFG3000 Series arbitrary/function generators are the building blocks for the AFG2021, providing quick access to setup and operational features. Experienced AFG3000 users will find it especially easy to set up the new AFG2021. A 3.5 inch color TFT screen shows relevant parameters in both graphic and text formats, so you can have full confidence in your settings and focus on the task at hand. The front-panel shortcut buttons and rotary knob provide quick access to the most frequently used functions and settings.

Excellent frequency agility

Traditional function generators created their output signals using analog oscillators and signal conditioning. The Tektronix AFG2021 relies on Direct Digital Synthesis (DDS) techniques. DDS technology synthesizes waveforms by using a single clock frequency to generate any frequency within the instrument’s range. DDS architecture provides exceptional frequency agility, making it possible to program fast frequency and phase changes, which is useful for testing radio and satellite system components, amplifiers, and filters.

Frequency range from 1 μHz to 20 MHz, supports a wide range of amplifier and filter testing applications.

ArbExpress for real-world waveforms with minimal effort

With ArbExpress software, you can quickly create waveforms that can be copied to the AFG2021 to meet custom stimulus requirements. ArbExpress supports direct connection to Tektronix oscilloscopes and AFGs through USB, GPIB, or LAN. The software allows you to import real-world signals captured with an oscilloscope onto a PC, then edit and download them onto an AFG to duplicate the captured waveform. This is extremely useful for automotive, medical, and industrial applications where recreating sensor output is critical to analyzing the integrity of the design.

ArbExpress software helps you easily duplicate real-world signals.

Insert productivity with SignalExpress

Every AFG2021 ships with a free copy of the Tektronix Edition of National Instrument’s LabVIEW SignalExpress software for basic instrument control, data logging, and analysis. SignalExpress supports the range of Tektronix bench instruments enabling you to connect your entire test bench. You can then access each instrument from one intuitive software interface. This allows you to automate complex measurements requiring multiple instruments, log data for an extended period of time, time-correlate data from multiple instruments, and easily capture and analyze your results, all from your PC. Only Tektronix offers a connected test bench of intelligent instruments to simplify and speed debug of your complex design.

Connectivity

Using the front-panel USB host port, you can save your customized waveforms or instrument settings onto a USB memory stick. Reloading the data is easily done by plugging the device back into the USB host port. The USB device port and optional GPIB/LAN ports provide multiple alternatives for connecting the AFG2021 to your PC for waveform download and remote control.

Compact form factor

The 2U height and half-rack width form factor allow the AFG2021 to be stacked on other bench instruments, such as digital multimeters, power supplies, and frequency counters, saving valuable bench space. With the optional RMU2U rackmount kit, GPIB interface, and full SCPI support, the AFG2021 is a perfect solution for automated test systems.

Specifications ²

All specifications are guaranteed unless noted otherwise. All specifications apply to all models unless noted otherwise.

Model overview

	AFG2021
Channels	1
Waveforms	Sine, Square, Pulse, Ramp, Noise, DC, Sin(x)/x, Gaussian, Lorentz, Exponential Rise, Exponential Decay, and Haversine

General characteristics

Sine wave

1 μHz to 20 MHz

Sine wave in Burst Mode: 1 μHz to 10 MHz

Effective maximum frequency out: 20 MHz

Amplitude flatness (1 V_p-p)

<5 MHz: ±0.15 dB (±0.05 dB, typical)
5 MHz to 20 MHz: ±0.3 dB(±0.02 dB, typical)

Harmonic distortion (1 V_p-p)

10 Hz to 20 kHz: <-70 dBc (<-77 dBc, typical)
20 kHz to 1 MHz: <-60 dBc (<-72 dBc, typical)
1 MHz to 10 MHz: <-50 dBc (<-55 dBc, typical)
10 MHz to 20 MHz: <-40 dBc (<-55 dBc, typical)
THD: <0.2% (<0.15%, typical) 10 Hz to 20 kHz, 1 V_p-p

Spurious (1 V_p-p)

10 Hz to 1 MHz: <–60 dBc (<–71 dBc, typical)
1 MHz to 20 MHz: <–50 dBc (<–68 dBc, typical)

Phase noise, typical: 20 MHz: <–110 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset, 1 V_p-p

Residual clock noise: –63 dBm

Square wave

1 μHz to 10 MHz

Rise/fall time: ≤18 ns

Jitter (RMS): <500 ps (<60 ps, typical)

Ramp wave

1 μHz to 200 kHz

Linearity: ≤0.1% of peak output at 10% to 90% of amplitude range

Symmetry: 0.0% to 100.0%

Pulse wave

1 mHz to 10 MHz

Pulse width: 30.00 ns to 999.99 s
Resolution: 10 ps or 5 digits
Pulse duty: 0.001% to 99.999% (Limitations of pulse duty width apply)
Edge transition time: 18 ns to 0.625 × Pulse Period
Resolution: 10 ps or 4 digits
Lead delay
Range: Continuous Mode: 0 ps to Period Trigger/Gate Burst Mode: 0 ps to Period – [Pulse Width + 0.8 × (Leading Edge Time + Trailing Edge Time)]
Resolution: 10 ps or 8 digits
Overshoot: <5%, typical
Jitter (RMS): <500 ps (<90 ps, typical)

Other waveforms: 1 μHz to 200 kHz

Noise bandwidth (-3 dB)

20 MHz

Noise type: White Gaussian

DC (into 50 Ω): –5 V to +5 V

Arbitrary waveforms

1 mHz to 10 MHz

Arbitrary waveforms in Burst Mode: 1 mHz to 5 MHz
Effective analog bandwidth
(–3 dB): 34 MHz
Nonvolatile memory: 4 waveforms
Memory: sample rate: 2 to 128 k: 250 MS/s
Vertical resolution: 14 bits
Rise/fall time: ≤20 ns
Jitter (RMS): 4 ns

Amplitude

Range

50 Ω load: 10 mV_p-p to 10 V_p-p

Open circuit: 20 mV_p-p to 20 V_p-p

Accuracy

±(1% of setting + 1 mV), (1 kHz sine waveform, 0 V offset, >10 mV_p-p amplitude)

Resolution

0.1 mV_p-p, 0.1 mV_rms, 1 mV, 0.1 dBm, or 4 digits

Units

V_p-p, V_rms, dBm (sine wave only)

Output impedance: 50 Ω

Load impedance setting: Selectable: 50 Ω, 1 Ω to 10.0 kΩ, high Z (adjusts displayed amplitude according to selected load impedance)

Isolation: <42 V_peak maximum to earth

Short-circuit protection: Signal outputs are robust against permanent shorts against floating ground

External voltage protection: To protect signal outputs against external voltages use fuse adapter 013-0345-00

DC offset

Range

50 Ω load: ±(5 V_peak – amplitude V_p-p/2)

Open circuit: ±(10 V_peak – amplitude V_p-p/2)

Accuracy

±(1% of |setting| + 5 mV + 0.5% of amplitude (V_p-p))

Resolution

1 mV

Modulation characteristics

AM, FM

Carrier waveforms: All, including ARB, except pulse, noise, and DC
Source: Internal/external
Internal modulating waveform: Sine, square, ramp, noise, ARB (AM: maximum waveform length 4,096; FM: maximum waveform length 2,048)
Internal modulating frequency: 2 mHz to 50.00 kHz
AM modulation depth: 0.0% to +120.0%
Min FM peak deviation: DC
Max FM peak deviation: 10 MHz

Pulse width modulation

Carrier waveform: Pulse
Source: Internal/external
Internal modulating waveform: Sine, square, ramp, noise, ARB (Maximum waveform length 2,048)
Internal modulating frequency: 2 mHz to 50.00 kHz
Deviation: 0% to 50.0% of pulse period

Sweep

Waveforms

All, including ARB, except pulse, noise, and DC

Type

Linear, logarithmic

Sweep time

1 ms to 300 s

Hold/return time

0 ms to 300 s

Max total sweep time (Sweep + hold + return)

300 s

Resolution

1 ms or 4 digits

Total sweep time accuracy, typical

0.4%

Min start/stop frequency

All except ARB: 1 μHz

ARB: 1 mHz

Max start/stop frequency

Sine: 20 MHz

Square: 10 MHz

ARB: 10 MHz

Others: 200 kHz

Burst

Waveforms: All, including ARB, except noise and DC
Type: Triggered, gated (1 to 1,000,000 cycles or infinite)
Internal trigger rate: 1 μs to 500.0 s
Gate and trigger sources: Internal, external, manual trigger

Auxiliary input characteristics

Modulation input

Input range: All except FSK: ±1 V full scale
FSK: 3.3 V logic level
Impedance: 10 kΩ
Frequency range: DC to 25 kHz (122 kS/s sample rate)

External triggered/gated burst input

Level: TTL compatible
Pulse width: 100 ns minimum
Slope: Positive/negative selectable
Trigger delay: 0.0 ns to 85.000 s
Resolution: 100 ps or 5 digits
Jitter (RMS), typical: Burst: <500 ps (Trigger input to signal output)

10 MHz reference input

Impedance: 1 kΩ , AC coupled
Required input voltage swing: 100 mV_p-p to 5 v_p-p
Lock range: 10 MHz ±35 kHz

Auxiliary output characteristics

Trigger output

Level: Positive TTL level pulse into 1 kΩ
Impedance: 50 Ω
Jitter (RMS), typical: 500 ps
Max frequency: 4.9 MHz (4.9 MHz to 20 MHz: A fraction of the frequency is output)

Common characteristics

Remote programming

(GPIB, LAN 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX, USB 1.1, compatible with SCPI-1999.0 and IEEE 488-2 standards)

Characteristic	USB	LAN³	GPIB³
Function change	95 ms	103 ms	84 ms
Frequency change	2 ms	19 ms	2 ms
Amplitude change	60 ms	67 ms	52 ms
Select user ARB	88 ms	120 ms	100 ms
Data download time for 4k point ARB waveform data (8 KB), typical	20 ms	84 ms	42 ms

System characteristics

Frequency setting resolution: 1 μHz or 12 digits

Phase (except DC, Noise, Pulse)

Range

–360° to +360°

Resolution

Sine: 0.01°

Other Waveforms: 0.1°

Internal noise add

When activated, output signal amplitude is reduced to 50%

Level: 0.0% to 50% of amplitude (V_p-p) setting
Resolution: 1%

Main output: 50 Ω

Internal frequency response

Stability

All except ARB: ±1 ppm, 0 °C to 50 °C

ARB: ±1 ppm ±1 μHz, 0 °C to 50 °C

Aging

±1 ppm per year

Power source: 100 V to 240 V, 50 Hz to 60 Hz or 115 V, 400 Hz

Power consumption: 60 W

Warm up time, typical: 20 minutes

Power on self diagnostics, typical: <10 s

Accoustic noise, typical: <50 dBA

Display: 3.5 in. Color TFT LCD

User interface and help language: English, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, Russian (user selectable)

Physical characteristics

Dimensions

Height: 104.2 mm (4.10 in.)
Width: 241.8 mm (9.52 in.)
Depth: 419.1 mm (16.50 in.)

Weight

Net: 2.87 kg (6.3 lb.)
Shipping: 4.72 kg (10.4 lb.)

EMC, environmental, and safety characteristics

Temperature

Operating: 0 °C to +50 °C
Non-operating: -30 °C to +70 °C

Humidity

Operating

≤80%, +0 °C to +40 °C, noncondensing

≤60%, +40 °C to +50 °C, noncondensing

Non-operating

5% to 90%, <+40 °C, noncondensing

5% to 80%, ≥+40 °C to ≤+60 °C, noncondensing

5% to 40%, >+60 °C to ≤+70 °C, noncondensing

Altitude

Operating: Up to 3,000 m (9,842 ft.)
Non-operating: Up to 12,000 m (39,370 ft.)

EMC compliance: EU Council Directive 2004/108/EC

Safety

UL61010-1; 2004

CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 61010-1; 2004

EN61010-1; 2001

IEC61010-1; 2001

Ordering information

Models

AFG2021: Arbitrary/function generator
Includes:: User manual, power cord, USB cable, CD-ROM with programmer manual, service manual, Labview and IVI Drivers, CD-ROM with ArbExpress® software, NIST-traceable calibration certificate.
: Please specify power cord and local language for user manual when ordering.

Instrument options

Configuration options

Opt GL: GPIB and LAN interfaces

Language options

Opt. L0: English manual
Opt. L1: French manual
Opt. L2: Italian manual
Opt. L3: German manual
Opt. L4: Spanish manual
Opt. L5: Japanese manual
Opt. L6: Portuguese manual
Opt. L7: Simplified Chinese manual
Opt. L8: Traditional Chinese manual
Opt. L9: Korean manual
Opt. L10: Russian manual
Opt. L99: No manual

Language options include translated front-panel overlay for the selected language(s).

Power plug options

Opt. A0: North America power plug (115 V, 60 Hz)
Opt. A1: Universal Euro power plug (220 V, 50 Hz)
Opt. A2: United Kingdom power plug (240 V, 50 Hz)
Opt. A3: Australia power plug (240 V, 50 Hz)
Opt. A5: Switzerland power plug (220 V, 50 Hz)
Opt. A6: Japan power plug (100 V, 50/60 Hz)
Opt. A10: China power plug (50 Hz)
Opt. A11: India power plug (50 Hz)
Opt. A12: Brazil power plug (60 Hz)
Opt. A99: No power cord

Service options

Opt. C3: Calibration Service 3 Years
Opt. C5: Calibration Service 5 Years
Opt. D1: Calibration Data Report
Opt. D3: Calibration Data Report 3 Years (with Opt. C3)
Opt. D5: Calibration Data Report 5 Years (with Opt. C5)
Opt. R5: Repair Service 5 Years (including warranty)
Opt. R5DW: Repair Service Coverage 5 Years (includes product warranty period). 5-year period starts at time of instrument purchase

Accessories

Recommended accessories

RMU2U: Rackmount kit
013-0345-00: Fuse adapter, BNC-P to BNC-R
159-0454-00: Fuse set, 3 pcs, 0.125 A
012-0482-00: BNC cable shielded, 3 ft.
012-1256-00: BNC cable shielded, 9 ft.
012-0991-00: GPIB cable, double shielded
011-0049-02: 50 Ω BNC terminator

Warranty

Three-year warranty on parts and labor.

Arbitrary/Function Generator

AFG2021 Datasheet

More Information

Notice to EU customers

Key performance specifications

Key features

Applications

Superior performance at an affordable price

Intuitive user interface

Excellent frequency agility

ArbExpress for real-world waveforms with minimal effort

Insert productivity with SignalExpress

Connectivity

Compact form factor

Specifications 2

Model overview

General characteristics

Modulation characteristics

Auxiliary input characteristics

Auxiliary output characteristics

Common characteristics

System characteristics

Physical characteristics

EMC, environmental, and safety characteristics

Ordering information

Models

Instrument options

Configuration options

Language options

Power plug options

Service options

Accessories

Recommended accessories

Warranty

Specifications ²