- Published 15 Jan 2025
- Last Modified 15 Jan 2025
- 6 min
Guide to Signal Generators and Analysers
Signal generators and analysers are essential tools in modern electronics, used for creating, testing, and analysing various types of signals across a wide range of applications.
Reviewed by Peter Kendall, Technical Support Engineer (December 2024)
In today's technologically advanced world, signal generators and analysers are indispensable across various industries. Whether you're in telecommunications, electronics, or research and development, having a dependable and precise signal instrument is crucial.
Signal generators are devices that produce electronic signals of varying frequencies and waveforms. They are extensively used for testing and troubleshooting electronic equipment, calibrating instruments, and simulating real-world scenarios. So, what does a signal generator do? It helps in creating consistent signals for accurate testing and measurement.
Conversely, signal analysers are tools used to measure and scrutinise electronic signals. They aid in understanding signal characteristics and performance, identifying issues, and ensuring output quality. In this guide, we will delve into the different types of signal generators and analysers available in the market and offer insights on selecting the right instrument for your specific needs.
What is a Signal Generator?
What is a signal generator? A signal generator is an electronic device that generates various types of electrical waveforms, such as sine waves, square waves, and triangular waves. These devices are commonly found in laboratories, research facilities, and manufacturing industries for testing, measuring, and calibrating electronic equipment.
Signal generators are vital tools for engineers, technicians, and scientists working with electronic circuits and systems. They provide a controlled and precise output signal that can be used to stimulate or simulate real-world signals for testing and troubleshooting purposes. But what does a signal generator do specifically? It generates the necessary test signals for evaluating electronic devices and systems.
Signal generators come in various forms, from basic models with limited functionality to advanced models with a wide array of features. Common types of signal generators include function generators, arbitrary waveform generators, RF signal generators, and digital pattern generators.
What is a Signal Analyser?
A signal analyser is a powerful tool used in various industries to measure and analyse signals. It is commonly utilised in electronics, telecommunications, and research and development. Signal analysers are essential for troubleshooting, designing, and testing electronic systems.
Signal analysers can accurately measure and analyse various parameters of a signal, such as frequency, amplitude, phase, and distortion. They can also detect and analyse modulation schemes, noise levels, and signal quality. With the ability to capture and analyse signals in real-time, these devices provide valuable insights into the performance and characteristics of electronic systems.
Signal analysers come in different types and configurations to cater to different requirements. Common types include spectrum analysers, network analysers, and logic analysers. Spectrum analysers are used to analyse the frequency spectrum of a signal, while network analysers measure the electrical characteristics of a network or device. Logic analysers, on the other hand, capture and analyse digital signals.
Types of Signal Generators and Analysers
When it comes to signal generators and analysers, there are several types available to cater to different needs and applications. Understanding the different types can help you choose the right one for your specific requirements. Let’s explore some of the common types:
Frequency Counters
Frequency counters are essential tools for accurately measuring the frequency of electronic signals. By providing precise and reliable measurements, frequency counters help engineers and scientists analyse signal performance, troubleshoot equipment, and ensure the proper functioning of electronic systems. They are used in various fields such as telecommunications, aerospace, and research and development.
Spectrum Analysers
Spectrum analysers are used to analyse and measure the frequency spectrum of a signal. They provide valuable insights into the frequency components, amplitudes, and power levels of a signal, making them vital for troubleshooting and signal analysis. By offering a visual representation of the signal's spectrum, they help engineers identify potential issues, optimize system performance, and ensure signals meet regulatory standards.
Function Generators
Function generators are versatile devices that can generate various types of waveforms, including sine, square, triangle, and more. They are commonly used in testing and calibration, as well as in educational and research environments. Function generators provide customisable frequency, amplitude, and waveform options, allowing engineers and researchers to simulate real-world signals and test electronic systems under various conditions.
Pulse Generators
Pulse generators are specifically designed to generate precise and controlled pulses of electrical signals. They are widely used in applications such as testing digital circuits, radar systems, and pulse-width modulation. These devices allow for accurate timing and synchronization in systems, making them essential for signal processing, system diagnostics, and research that requires high-precision pulse generation.
RF Signal Generators
RF signal generators are specifically designed for generating radio frequency signals used in wireless communication systems. They play a critical role in testing and calibrating communication devices, ensuring that signals are transmitted and received accurately, and aiding in the design and optimization of wireless networks and devices.
Waveform Generators
Waveform generators produce customised waveforms with specific characteristics, such as amplitude, frequency, and phase. These generators are valuable tools for simulating real-world signals and testing electronic devices. Waveform generators provide precise control over waveform parameters, they enable engineers to replicate complex signal conditions, optimise device performance, and perform in-depth analysis during the development and troubleshooting phases of electronic systems.
Selecting a Signals Instrument for the Job
When selecting a signals instrument for your job, it’s important to choose the right one that meets your specific requirements. Here are some key factors consider:
- Frequency range: Different applications require different frequency ranges, so it’s essential to choose a signal generator or analyser that can cover the frequencies you need. Whether you need frequency counters or spectrum analysers, ensuring the right range is critical.
- Accuracy and resolution: The instrument's accuracy in measuring or generating signals is crucial for precise testing and analysis. Consider the resolution of the instrument for both frequency and amplitude.
- Signal type: Different instruments generate or analyse different types of signals, such as sine, square, triangle, or pulse. Choose an instrument that can generate or measure the required waveform types for your needs.
- Bandwidth: This refers to the range of frequencies the instrument can process. A wider bandwidth is needed for more complex or higher-speed applications.
- Connectivity: Consider the connectivity options and additional features offered by the signal instrument. The instrument’s compatibility with other testing equipment, software, or control systems for automation and data analysis is an important thing to take into account too.
RS stocks a wide range of signal generators and analysers, catering to various industries and applications. Explore the selection below.
