1、 Sampling (clock) rate

The sampling rate is usually expressed in millions of samples per second or gigabytes of samples per second, indicating that the instrument can operate

The clock rate or sampling rate of. The sampling rate affects the frequency of the main output signal. Generally speaking, you should choose an instrument with a sampling frequency that is twice the frequency component of the generated signal spectrum to ensure accurate reproduction of the signal. The sampling rate also determines the small time increments that can be used to create waveforms. In a typical case, this number is calculated using the following formula: T=1/F, where T is the timing resolution in seconds and F is the sampling rate.

2、 Memory depth (record length)

Memory depth or record length plays an important role in signal fidelity as it determines how many data points can be stored to define a waveform. The deeper the memory, the more detailed the stored waveform, and the higher the number of cycles required to store the waveform.

3、 Vertical (amplitude) resolution

The vertical resolution is related to the binary word length of the instrument DAC, expressed in bits. The more bits there are, the higher the resolution. The vertical resolution of DAC determines the amplitude accuracy and distortion of the reproduced waveform. Although higher is better, most arbitrary waveform instruments have an overall compromise because the higher the resolution, the lower the sampling rate.

4、 Features and functions

Some signal generators provide a range of features and output functions. When selecting a signal generator, you should also evaluate the standard waveform, modulation function, output amplitude, and waveform editing software to ensure that the instrument meets your needs.