AFG2021 Arbitrary/Function Generator Quick Start User Manual

xx
AFG2021
Arbitrary/Function Generator
ZZZ
Quick Start User Manual
*P071292600*
071-2926-00
xx AFG2021
Arbitrary/Function Generator
ZZZ
Quick Start User Manual
www.tektronix.com
071-2926-00
Copyright © Tektronix. All rights reserved. Licensed software products are owned by Tektronix or its subsidiaries
or suppliers, and are protected by national copyright laws and international treaty provisions.
Tektronix products are covered by U.S. and foreign patents, issued and pending. Information in this publication
supersedes that in all previously published material. Specifications and price change privileges reserved.
TEKTRONIX and TEK are registered trademarks of Tektronix, Inc.
Additional trademark statements can be added here.
Contacting Tektronix
Tektronix, Inc.
14150 SW Karl Braun Drive
P.O. Box 500
Beaverton, OR 97077
USA
For product information, sales, service, and technical support:

In North America, call 1-800-833-9200.
Worldwide, visit www.tektronix.com to find contacts in your area.
Warranty
Tektronix warrants that the product will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of three (3)
years from the date of original purchase from an authorized Tektronix distributor. If the product proves defective
during this warranty period, Tektronix, at its option, either will repair the defective product without charge for
parts and labor, or will provide a replacement in exchange for the defective product. Batteries are excluded from
this warranty. Parts, modules and replacement products used by Tektronix for warranty work may be new or
reconditioned to like new performance. All replaced parts, modules and products become the property of Tektronix.
In order to obtain service under this warranty, Customer must notify Tektronix of the defect before the expiration
of the warranty period and make suitable arrangements for the performance of service. Customer shall be
responsible for packaging and shipping the defective product to the service center designated by Tektronix,
shipping charges prepaid, and with a copy of customer proof of purchase. Tektronix shall pay for the return of the
product to Customer if the shipment is to a location within the country in which the Tektronix service center is
located. Customer shall be responsible for paying all shipping charges, duties, taxes, and any other charges for
products returned to any other locations.
This warranty shall not apply to any defect, failure or damage caused by improper use or improper or inadequate
maintenance and care. Tektronix shall not be obligated to furnish service under this warranty a) to repair damage
resulting from attempts by personnel other than Tektronix representatives to install, repair or service the product;
b) to repair damage resulting from improper use or connection to incompatible equipment; c) to repair any damage
or malfunction caused by the use of non-Tektronix supplies; or d) to service a product that has been modified or
integrated with other products when the effect of such modification or integration increases the time or difficulty
of servicing the product.
THIS WARRANTY IS GIVEN BY TEKTRONIX WITH RESPECT TO THE PRODUCT IN LIEU OF ANY
OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. TEKTRONIX AND ITS VENDORS DISCLAIM ANY
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
TEKTRONIX' RESPONSIBILITY TO REPAIR OR REPLACE DEFECTIVE PRODUCTS IS THE SOLE
AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY PROVIDED TO THE CUSTOMER FOR BREACH OF THIS WARRANTY.
TEKTRONIX AND ITS VENDORS WILL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL,
OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES IRRESPECTIVE OF WHETHER TEKTRONIX OR THE VENDOR HAS
ADVANCE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
[W16 – 15AUG04]
Table of Contents
General safety summary .......................................................................................... iv
Compliance Information .......................................................................................... vi
EMC Compliance............................................................................................. vi
Safety Compliance........................................................................................... viii
Environmental Considerations ............................................................................... x
Preface .............................................................................................................. xi
Where to find more information............................................................................. xi
Conventions used in this manual............................................................................ xi
Getting started....................................................................................................... 1
General features................................................................................................ 1
Before installation ............................................................................................. 1
Standard accessories........................................................................................... 2
Optional accessories ........................................................................................... 3
Operating requirements ....................................................................................... 4
Power the instrument on and off ............................................................................. 5
Change instrument settings at power-on .................................................................... 6
Erase instrument setups and waveforms from memory.................................................... 7
Perform instrument self test and self calibration ........................................................... 7
Select a local language ........................................................................................ 9
Protect your instrument from misuse ........................................................................ 9
Floating ground ............................................................................................... 11
Protect your DUT ............................................................................................. 12
Update your instrument firmware ........................................................................... 13
Connect to a network ......................................................................................... 16
Equivalent output circuits.................................................................................... 21
Instrument front panel, interface, and rear panel ............................................................... 22
Front panel overview ......................................................................................... 22
Parts of the screen interface ................................................................................. 23
Default setup .................................................................................................. 24
Select waveform .............................................................................................. 26
Select run mode ............................................................................................... 29
Adjust waveform parameters ................................................................................ 30
Channel output On/Off ....................................................................................... 33
Rear panel ..................................................................................................... 33
Operating basics ................................................................................................... 35
Quick tutorial: How to select a waveform and adjust parameters....................................... 35
Quick tutorial: How to generate a sine waveform ........................................................ 36
Quick tutorial: Instrument help system .................................................................... 38
AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual i

Table of Contents
Operating Basics................................................................................................... 39
Generate a pulse waveform .................................................................................. 39
Save/recall instrument setups................................................................................ 41
Generate an arbitrary waveform............................................................................. 42
Modify an arbitrary waveform .............................................................................. 43
Generate noise/DC............................................................................................ 47
Generate a burst waveform .................................................................................. 47
Sweep a waveform............................................................................................ 50
Modulate a waveform ........................................................................................ 53
Trigger out ..................................................................................................... 57
Set up load impedance ....................................................................................... 59
Add noise ...................................................................................................... 60
Reference clock ............................................................................................... 62
Synchronous operation ....................................................................................... 63
USB memory .................................................................................................. 64
Utility menu ................................................................................................... 65
Save/recall instrument setup ................................................................................. 67
Save a screen image .......................................................................................... 69
Security menu ................................................................................................. 70
ArbExpress .................................................................................................... 73
Application examples ............................................................................................. 81
Measurement of filter characteristics ....................................................................... 81
Motor speed control by pulse-width modulation .......................................................... 82
Carrier null (frequency modulation) ........................................................................ 83
Index
ii AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

List of Figures
Figure 1: Instrument dimensions ................................................................................. 4
Figure 2: Fuse and fuse adapter.................................................................................. 10
AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual iii

General safety summary

Review the following safety precautions to avoid injury and prevent damage to
this product or any products connected to it.
To avoid potential hazards, use this product only as specified.
Only qualified personnel should perform service procedures.
While using this product, you may need to access other parts of a larger system.
Read the safety sections of the other component manuals for warnings and
cautions related to operating the system.
To avoid fire or personal Use proper power cord. Use only the power cord specified for this product and
injury certified for the country of use.
Ground the product. This product is grounded through the grounding conductor
of the power cord. To avoid electric shock, the grounding conductor must be
connected to earth ground. Before making connections to the input or output
terminals of the product, ensure that the product is properly grounded.
Observe all terminal ratings. To avoid fire or shock hazard, observe all ratings
and markings on the product. Consult the product manual for further ratings
information before making connections to the product.
Do not apply a potential to any terminal, including the common terminal, that
exceeds the maximum rating of that terminal.
Power disconnect. The power cord disconnects the product from the power source.
Do not block the power cord; it must remain accessible to the user at all times.
Do not operate without covers. Do not operate this product with covers or panels
removed.
Do not operate with suspected failures. If you suspect that there is damage to this
product, have it inspected by qualified service personnel.
Avoid exposed circuitry. Do not touch exposed connections and components when
power is present.
Do not operate in wet/damp conditions.
Do not operate in an explosive atmosphere.
Keep product surfaces clean and dry.
Provide proper ventilation. Refer to the manual's installation instructions for details
on installing the product so it has proper ventilation.
iv AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

Terms in this manual These terms may appear in this manual:
WARNING. Warning statements identify conditions or practices that could result

in injury or loss of life.
CAUTION. Caution statements identify conditions or practices that could result in

damage to this product or other property.
Symbols and terms on the These terms may appear on the product:
product DANGER indicates an injury hazard immediately accessible as you read
the marking.
WARNING indicates an injury hazard not immediately accessible as you
read the marking.
CAUTION indicates a hazard to property including the product.
The following symbol(s) may appear on the product:
AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual v

Compliance Information
This section lists the EMC (electromagnetic compliance), safety, and
environmental standards with which the instrument complies.
EMC Compliance
EC Declaration of Meets intent of Directive 2004/108/EC for Electromagnetic Compatibility.
Conformity – EMC Compliance was demonstrated to the following specifications as listed in the
Official Journal of the European Communities:
EN 61326-1 2006. EMC requirements for electrical equipment for measurement,

control, and laboratory use. 1 2 3
CISPR 11:2003. Radiated and conducted emissions, Group 1, Class A
IEC 61000-4-2:2001. Electrostatic discharge immunity
IEC 61000-4-3:2002. RF electromagnetic field immunity
IEC 61000-4-4:2004. Electrical fast transient / burst immunity
IEC 61000-4-5:2001. Power line surge immunity
IEC 61000-4-6:2003. Conducted RF immunity
IEC 61000-4-11:2004. Voltage dips and interruptions immunity
EN 61000-3-2:2006. AC power line harmonic emissions
EN 61000-3-3:1995. Voltage changes, fluctuations, and flicker
European contact.
Tektronix UK, Ltd.
Western Peninsula
Western Road
Bracknell, RG12 1RF
United Kingdom
1 This product is intended for use in nonresidential areas only. Use in residential areas may cause electromagnetic
interference.
2 Emissions which exceed the levels required by this standard may occur when this equipment is connected to a
test object.
3 For compliance with the EMC standards listed here, high quality shielded interface cables should be used.
vi AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

Australia / New Zealand Complies with the EMC provision of the Radiocommunications Act per the
Declaration of following standard, in accordance with ACMA:
Conformity – EMC CISPR 11:2003. Radiated and Conducted Emissions, Group 1, Class A, in
accordance with EN 61326-1:2006.
Australia / New Zealand contact.. Baker & McKenzie

Level 27, AMP Centre
50 Bridge Street
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual vii

Safety Compliance
EC Declaration of Compliance was demonstrated to the following specification as listed in the
Conformity – Low Voltage Official Journal of the European Communities:
Low Voltage Directive 2006/95/EC.
EN 61010-1: 2001. Safety requirements for electrical equipment for
measurement control and laboratory use.
U.S. Nationally Recognized UL 61010-1:2004, 2nd Edition. Standard for electrical measuring and test
Testing Laboratory Listing equipment.
Canadian Certification CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 61010-1:2004. Safety requirements for electrical

equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use. Part 1.
Additional Compliances IEC 61010-1: 2001. Safety requirements for electrical equipment for
measurement, control, and laboratory use.
Equipment Type Test and measuring equipment.
Safety Class Class 1 – grounded product.
Pollution Degree A measure of the contaminants that could occur in the environment around
Description and within a product. Typically the internal environment inside a product is
considered to be the same as the external. Products should be used only in the
environment for which they are rated.
Pollution Degree 1. No pollution or only dry, nonconductive pollution occurs.
Products in this category are generally encapsulated, hermetically sealed, or
located in clean rooms.
Pollution Degree 2. Normally only dry, nonconductive pollution occurs.
Occasionally a temporary conductivity that is caused by condensation must
be expected. This location is a typical office/home environment. Temporary
condensation occurs only when the product is out of service.
Pollution Degree 3. Conductive pollution, or dry, nonconductive pollution
that becomes conductive due to condensation. These are sheltered locations
where neither temperature nor humidity is controlled. The area is protected
from direct sunshine, rain, or direct wind.
Pollution Degree 4. Pollution that generates persistent conductivity through
conductive dust, rain, or snow. Typical outdoor locations.
viii AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

Pollution Degree Pollution Degree 2 (as defined in IEC 61010-1). Note: Rated for indoor use only.
Installation (Overvoltage) Terminals on this product may have different installation (overvoltage) category
Category Descriptions designations. The installation categories are:
Measurement Category IV. For measurements performed at the source of
low-voltage installation.
Measurement Category III. For measurements performed in the building
installation.
Measurement Category II. For measurements performed on circuits directly
connected to the low-voltage installation.
Measurement Category I. For measurements performed on circuits not
directly connected to MAINS.
Overvoltage Category Overvoltage Category II (as defined in IEC 61010-1)
AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual ix

Environmental Considerations
This section provides information about the environmental impact of the product.
Product End-of-Life Observe the following guidelines when recycling an instrument or component:
Handling
Equipment recycling. Production of this equipment required the extraction and
use of natural resources. The equipment may contain substances that could be
harmful to the environment or human health if improperly handled at the product’s
end of life. To avoid release of such substances into the environment and to
reduce the use of natural resources, we encourage you to recycle this product in
an appropriate system that will ensure that most of the materials are reused or
recycled appropriately.
This symbol indicates that this product complies with the applicable European
Union requirements according to Directives 2002/96/EC and 2006/66/EC
on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) and batteries. For
information about recycling options, check the Support/Service section of the
Tektronix Web site (www.tektronix.com).
Restriction of Hazardous This product is classified as Monitoring and Control equipment, and is outside the
Substances scope of the 2002/95/EC RoHS Directive.
x AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

Preface
This manual describes the installation and operation of the Tektronix AFG2021
Arbitrary/Function Generator along with basic operations and concepts.
Where to find more information

The following table lists related documentation available for your instrument.
The documentation is available on the Product Documentation CD and on the
Tektronix Web site (www.tektronix.com/manuals).
Item Purpose Location

Quick Unpacking,
Start Installation,
User Tutorials,
Manual Operation, and
Overviews
Built-in UI Help and
Help Operation
Programmer Menu Structures,

Manual User Interface,
and Programming
Information
Service Self-service and
Manual Performance test
Technical Specifications
Reference and performance
verification
procedures
ArbExpress Waveform creation
Software Import waveforms
CD from oscilloscope
or PC
Conventions used in this manual

The following icons are used throughout this manual.
Front panel power Connect power Network USB
AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual xi

Preface
The soft keys along the right side of the display are called bezel buttons in this
manual. In other documents, they may also be called option buttons or side-menu
buttons.
xii AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

Getting started
General features
The AFG2021 Arbitrary/Function Generator offers the functionality of three
generators in one:
20 MHz Function Generator
10 MHz Pulse Generator
14 bits Arbitrary Waveform Generator
The following table describes some of the general features of your instrument.
Feature Description
Channel 1
Sine 20 MHz
Pulse 10 MHz
Memory 128K 14bit
Sampling Rate 250 MS/s
Amplitude 10 Vp-p
Display Color TFT LCD
Interface USB
GPIB (AFG2021with option GL only)
LAN (AFG2021with option GL only)
Synchronous operation Available
Ground isolation Available
Context-sensitive Help system Instrument help available in multiple languages
ArbExpress® Software Waveform creation and editing tool software
Before installation
Inspect the instrument carton for external damage. If the carton is damaged,
notify the carrier.
Remove the instrument from its package and check that it has not been damaged in
transit. Verify that the carton contains the instrument and its standard accessories.
AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual 1

Getting started
Standard accessories
Unpack the instrument and check that you received all items listed as Standard
Accessories. Check the Tektronix Web site (www.tektronix.com) for the most
current information.
Standard accessories
Tektronix part
Description number
AFG2021 Arbitrary/Function Generator Quick Start User Manual
English (Option L0) 071-2926-xx
French (Option L1) 1 071-2927-xx
Italian (Option L2) 1 071-2928-xx
German (Option L3) 1 071-2929-xx
Spanish (Option L4) 1 071-2930-xx
Japanese (Option L5) 1 071-2931-xx
Portuguese (Option L6) 1 071-2936-xx
Simple Chinese (Option L7) 1 071-2932-xx
Traditional Chinese (Option L8) 1 071-2933-xx
Korean (Option L9) 1 071-2934-xx
Russian (Option L10) 1 071-2935-xx
No printed manual (Option L99) ---
AFG2021 Documentation CD containing the following PDF 063-4441-xx
documents:
AFG2021 Arbitrary/Function Generators 077-0587-xx
Programmer Manual
Service Manual
Specifications and Performance Verification
Manual
ArbExpress Waveform Creation and Editing Tool for Tektronix 063-3763-xx
Arbitrary/ Function Generators Software CD with instructions
USB cable 174-4401-xx
Power cord
Specs Description
115 V, 60 Hz North America (Option A0) ---
220 V, 50 Hz Universal Euro (Option A1) ---
240 V, 50 Hz United Kingdom (Option A2) ---
240 V, 50 Hz Australia (Option A3) ---
220 V, 50 Hz Switzerland (Option A5) ---
2 AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

Getting started
Tektronix part
Description number
100 V, 110/120 V, Japan (Option A6) ---
60 Hz
220 V, 50 Hz China (Option A10) ---
240 V, 50 Hz India (Option A11) ---
110/220 V, 60 Hz Brazil (Option A12) ---
--- No power cord or AC adapter (Option A99) ---
1 These manuals contain a language overlay for the front panel controls.
Optional accessories
The following optional accessories are recommended for your instrument:
Optional accessories
Description Tektronix part number
50 Ω BNC cable, double-shielded, 91 cm (36 in) 012-0482-XX
50 Ω BNC cable, double-shielded, 250 cm (98 in) 012-1256-XX
50 Ω BNC terminator 011-0049-XX
GPIB interface cable, double-shielded, 200 cm (79 in) 012-0991-XX
Rackmount kit RMU2U
Fuse adapter 013-0345-XX
0.125 fuse set (contains three fuses) 159-0454-XX
NOTE. To ensure the EMC compliance listed in the Specifications, connect only
high quality shielded cables to this instrument. High quality shielded cables
typically are braid and foil types that have low impedance connection to shielded
connectors at both ends.

Getting started
Operating requirements
The following information and figure describe temperature, clearance, and power
supply operating requirements of the instrument.
Figure 1: Instrument dimensions
Environmental Clearance. When placing the instrument on a cart or bench, observing the
requirements following clearance requirements:
Sides: 50 mm (2 in)
Rear: 50 mm (2 in)
Temperature. Before operating the instrument, ensure the ambient temperature is

between 0 °C to +50 °C (+32 °F to +122 °F).
CAUTION. To ensure proper cooling, keep both sides of the instrument clear of
obstructions.
Power supply Source voltage and frequency. 100 V to 240 V, 50 Hz to 60 Hz or 115 V, 400 Hz.
requirements
Power Consumption. 60 W
WARNING. To reduce the risk of fire and shock, ensure that the mains supply
voltage fluctuations do not exceed 10% of the operating voltage range:

Getting started
Power the instrument on and off

The following procedures show you how to apply power to the instrument and
turn it on and off.
CAUTION. This product will not function with the rear feet in the down position.
Ensure they are raised before instrument setup.
Power on To turn apply power to the instrument and turn it on, do the following:
1. Insert the AC power

cord into the power
receptacle on the
rear panel and the
other end into a
properly grounded
power outlet.
2. Push the front-panel

power button to power
on the instrument.
NOTE. Wait until the
front panel display shows
that the instrument has
passed all power-on self
tests before using the
instrument.
Power off To turn the instrument off, do the following:

power button to power
off the instrument.

Getting started
Change instrument settings at power-on

The default settings are restored when you power on the instrument. You can
change the power-on settings to the last powered-off settings from the Utility
menu using the following procedure.

Utility button.
2. Push the System bezel
button.
3. Push the Power On bezel

button to select from the
following the power on
settings.
Default restores the
default settings when
the instrument is
powered on.
Last restores the same
settings as when the
instrument was last
powered off.

Getting started
Erase instrument setups and waveforms from memory

You can also erase all instrument setups and waveforms from the instrument
internal memory using the following procedure.
NOTE. You can restore the instrument to its default settings at any time without
erasing memory by using the default setup procedure. (See page 24.)
1. Push the front-panel Utility

button.
button.
3. Push the Secure bezel

button.
Perform instrument self test and self calibration

The instrument performs a limited set of hardware tests at power-on. You can
also perform the following manual diagnostics and/or self calibration using the
Utility menu:
NOTE. Disconnect all the cables from the instrument before performing a self
test or a self calibration.
Diagnostics (Self test): Perform the self test to verify that your instrument
is operating correctly.
Calibration (Self calibration): The self calibration mainly checks DC accuracy
using the internal calibration routines. Perform at least once a year to maintain

Getting started
DC accuracy. It is recommended that the self calibration should be performed

along with a periodic check.
NOTE. If you need to verify that the instrument meets the warranted specifications,
do the complete set of performance verification procedures provided in the
Specifications and Performance Verification manual.
CAUTION. Do not power off the instrument while executing self calibration. If the
power is turned off during self calibration, data stored in the internal memory
may be lost.

Utility button.
2. Push the -more- bezel
button.
3. Push the
Diagnostics/Calibration
bezel button.
4. Do one of the following:

NOTE. Before executing
self calibration, ensure that
the ambient temperature is
between +20 °C and +30 °C
(+68 °F to +86 °F), and allow
a 20 minute warm-up period.
Execute Diagnostics:
Push this bezel button to
execute the instrument
diagnostics.
Execute Calibrations:
Push this bezel button to
execute self calibration.
5. If the diagnostics or
calibration completes
without any errors, the
message “PASSED” is
displayed.

Getting started
Select a local language

You can select the language you want displayed on the instrument screen. When
you power on the instrument for the first time, English is selected by default.
After you select a desired language, all the bezel menus, pop-up messages, and
built-in help are displayed in the specified language. The main display area
is not translated.

button.
2. Push the Language bezel
button.
3. Select the desired

language.
You can select from
English, French, German,
Japanese, Korean,
Simplified Chinese,
Traditional Chinese, and
Russian.
NOTE. If you selected a language option with the purchase of the instrument, you
should have received a front panel overlay.
Protect your instrument from misuse

Check input and output When connecting a cable, be sure to distinguish the input connector from the
connectors output connectors to avoid making the wrong connection.
NOTE. The instrument input and output connectors are floating inputs/outputs.
(See page 11, Floating ground.)

Getting started
1. Locate the Channel

Output and the Trigger
Output connectors on the
front panel.
2. Locate the Trigger Input
on the front panel.
3. Locate the Ext Mod Input

and the Ext Ref Input
connectors on the rear
panel.
WARNING. To avoid personal injury due to electric shock, do not apply voltages
in excess of 42 Vpk to any BNC connector ground or to the chassis ground.
CAUTION. Do not short output pins or apply external voltages to Output

connectors. The instrument may be damaged.
CAUTION. Do not apply excessive inputs over +5 V to Trigger Input connector.

The instrument may be damaged.
Use fuse adapter The instrument will be damaged if a large DC or AC voltage is applied to the
output or input connectors. To protect the output circuits, a fuse adapter is
provided as an optional accessory. When the instrument is used by students or
other inexperienced users, always attach the fuse adapter to the output connectors
to avoid damage. (See page 3, Optional accessories.)
Figure 2: Fuse and fuse adapter

1. Fuse adapter
2. Fuse

Getting started
Floating ground
Since the common input and output channels of the arbitrary/function generator
are electrically isolated from the chassis ground (the instrument chassis and
ground line of the AC connector), you can make a floating connection between
the instrument and other equipment.
All the BNC connectors are connected to the common ground, and the remote
interface connector is connected to the chassis ground.
CAUTION. The maximum rated voltage between the chassis ground and common
ground is 42 Vp-p (DC + peak AC). When the potential voltage between the
chassis ground and common ground goes over 42 Vp-p, the internal protective
circuit will be activated to protect the circuits. However, higher voltage may cause
the internal circuits in the instrument to be damaged.
When a potential voltage exists between the chassis ground and common ground,
a short circuit from output to ground causes the instrument internal fuse to open
and the output is stopped. If the fuse opens, you need to contact your local
Tektronix Service Support.
When a potential voltage exists between the common ground and chassis ground,
short-circuiting between them may lead to excessive current flow and the internal
or external circuits may be damaged.
WARNING. To prevent electrical shock, use this product so that the sum of the
floating voltage and the output voltage of the instrument does not exceed 42 Vpk.
Do not touch the center of the BNC while the equipment is in use.

Getting started
Protect your DUT

Use care when you connect the instrument Channel Output to your DUT (device
under test). To avoid damage to your DUT, the following preventive measures are
provided. Follow these steps to set the limit values for high level and low level.
1. Push the Output Menu

bezel button.
2. Push the Limit bezel
button.
3. Push the High Limit bezel

button.
4. Notice that in this
example, High Limit
is set to 5.000 V, and Low
Limit is set to -5.000 V.
5. Use the numeric keys or

the general purpose knob
to set the High Limit to
50 mV and the Low Limit
to -50 mV.
Sine button to display
the waveform parameter.
Confirm that High and
Low voltage levels were
changed.
NOTE. You cannot enter any
values greater than 50 mV for
High level.
NOTE. When you set limit values using the Output Menu, a level indicator is
displayed at the left end of the graph area.

Getting started
Update your instrument firmware

You can use the front-panel USB connector to update your instrument firmware
using a USB memory device.
CAUTION. Updating your instrument firmware is a sensitive operation which may

damage your instrument if you do not follow all instructions carefully. To prevent
damage to the instrument, do not remove the USB memory device or power off the
instrument during the update process.
NOTE. The screen images of the following procedure are provided as an example.
The actual screen display may be different depending on your instrument
configuration.

Utility button to display
the Utility menu and view
the currently installed
firmware version located
at the bottom of the
display screen.
2. From a PC, visit
www.tektronix.com and
check if Tektronix offers a
newer firmware version.
Download and unzip the
compressed zip file with
the most current firmware
to a USB memory device.
3. Insert the USB memory

device into the front-panel
USB connector on your
instrument.

Getting started
4. Push the -more- bezel

button twice in the Utility
menu.
5. Select Firmware Update.
NOTE. If the USB memory
device is not inserted, the
Firmware Update bezel button
is disabled.
NOTE. If Access Protection

is on, the Firmware Update
bezel button is disabled.
6. Select the downloaded
firmware file by rotating
the general purpose
knob, and then push the
Execute bezel button.
NOTE. The firmware
file name is as follows:
tekafgtb-1.x.x.tfb
7. The instrument asks you

"Are you sure you want
to update firmware?".
Select OK.

Getting started
8. The instrument displays a

message telling you not to
remove the USB device or
power off the instrument
until the update process
is complete. The clock
symbol at the top right
of the screen indicates
the update process is in
progress.
CAUTION. A firmware
update usually takes
approximately two minutes. Do
not remove the USB memory
during the update process.
CAUTION. If you
accidentally removed the
USB memory during the
update process, do not power
off the instrument. Repeat the
installation process from step
3.
9. Wait until the instrument
displays a message
saying that the operation
is complete.
10. Push OK.
CAUTION. If the operation
complete message is not
displayed, do not power off
the instrument. Repeat the
installation process from step
2 using a different type of USB
memory device.

Getting started
11. Remove the USB

memory device from
the front-panel USB
connector.
12. Power the instrument off
and then back on for the
firmware to take effect.

the Utility menu.
Confirm that the firmware
has been updated.
NOTE. You can protect access to firmware update using the Security menu.
Connect to a network
The instrument communication interface allows you to communicate with or
remotely control your instrument. Depending on the instrument model, you can
use a USB, Ethernet, or GPIB interface.
NOTE. The AFG2021 with option GL provides USB, GPIB, and LAN ports. The
AFG2021 base model provides a USB port only.
USB interface The USB interface on the rear panel requires no front panel or bezel menu
operations to set up. Use a USB cable to connect your instrument to a PC.
NOTE. Ethernet setup is only available with the AFG2021 with option GL, which
Ethernet setup has a LAN port.
To connect your instrument to a network, you must first obtain information from
your network administrator. The procedure for entering the Ethernet network
parameters depends on your network configuration. If your network supports
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), follow these steps:

Getting started
1. Connect a LAN cable to

the LAN port on the rear
panel.

Utility button.
3. Push the I/O Interface

bezel button, and then the
Ethernet bezel button.
4. Select Off or On for the

DHCP when the Ethernet
Network Settings menu is
displayed.
NOTE. By selecting DHCP
On, the instrument can set its
network address automatically
through DHCP.

Getting started
If you cannot establish communication by setting DHCP On, you need to set up an IP Address
manually and a Subnet Mask if necessary. To do this, follow these steps:
5. Display the Ethernet
Network Settings menu
and select DHCP Off.
6. Push the IP Address
bezel button to enter an
IP address. You need
to contact your network
administrator to get the IP
address to use.
7. Push the Subnet Mask
bezel button to enter a
Subnet Mask. Ask your
network administrator
whether a subnet mask is
required.
8. Push the Default Gateway
bezel button to enter
a gateway address.
Ask your network
administrator for the
gateway address.

Getting started
NOTE. GPIB setup is only available with the AFG2021 with option GL, which
GPIB setup has a GPIB port.
To set the instrument GPIB interface, follow these steps:
1. Connect a GPIB cable to

the rear panel GPIB port.

Utility button.

Getting started
3. Push the I/O Interface

bezel button and then the
GPIB bezel button.
4. Push the Address bezel

button to assign a unique
address to the instrument.
The GPIB address
defines a unique address
for the instrument. Each
device connected to the
GPIB bus must have a
unique GPIB address.
The GPIB address must
be from 0 to 30.
5. Push the Configuration
bezel button to toggle
the instrument bus
communications on
and off.
Talk/Listen - Select
this mode to remotely
control the instrument
from an external host
computer.
Off Bus - Select this
mode to disconnect
the instrument from
the GPIB bus.
NOTE. Refer to the AFG2021 Arbitrary/Function Generator Programmer Manual

for information about remote control commands.

Getting started
Equivalent output circuits

The following illustrations show the equivalent output circuits:
Legend for the following

images:
Output signals do
not exceed ±10 V
when the >50 Ω load
impedance is used.
Amplitude and offset

are affected when
you change the
load impedance.
The maximum and
minimum levels do
not exceed ±10 V,
respectively.
A change to the load impedance (L) will affect the output window (maximum and
minimum levels) for a sine waveform as follows.
L = 50 Ω: -5 V to +5 V (10 Vp-p)
L = High Z: -10 V to +10 V (20 Vp-p)

Instrument front panel, interface, and rear panel
Front panel overview

The front panel is divided into easy-to-use functional areas. This section provides
you with a quick overview of the front panel controls and the screen interface.
Item Description
1 Bezel buttons
2 Return to previous menu
3 Run mode buttons
4 Help, Utility, and Save/Recall buttons
5 Numeric keypad, cancel action, delete/backspace, and Enter buttons
6 General purpose knob
7 Arrow buttons allow you to select a specific number on the display screen when
you are changing amplitude, phase, frequency, or other such values
8 Channel On/Off and Manual Trigger buttons
9 Trigger input connector
10 Trigger output connector
11 Channel output connector
12 USB connector
13 Function buttons
14 Power button

Lock or unlock the front If you need to lock the front panel controls, use the following remote command:
panel controls SYSTem:KLOCk[:STATe]
To unlock the front panel without using a remote command, push the front-panel
Cancel button twice.
Parts of the screen interface
Item Description
1 Bezel menu: When you push a front panel button, the instrument displays
the corresponding menu on the right side of the screen. The menu shows the
options that are available when you push the unlabeled bezel buttons directly
to the right of the screen. (Some documentation may also refer to the bezel
buttons as option buttons, side-menu buttons, or soft keys.)
2 Graph / waveform display area: This part of the main display area shows
the signal as a graph or waveform.
3 Level meter: The top portion of the indicator shows the high limit value; the
bottom portion of the indicator shows the low limit value; and the indicator itself
shows the currently selected level.
4 Parameter display area: This part of the main display area shows active
parameters.
5 Message display area: A message that monitors hardware status such as
clock or trigger is displayed in this area.
6 Output status: If the output is set to disable, Output Off message is displayed
in this area. When you push the front panel channel output button to enable the
output, the message will disappear.

Default setup
When you want to restore the instrument settings to the default values, use the
front-panel Save/Recall button as follows:
1. Push the front-panel Save/Recall

button.
2. Push the Setup bezel button to

select Recall.
3. Push the Default bezel button.
4. Select one of the following:

OK to recall the default settings;
the instrument will display a 1 MHz
frequency, 1 Vp-p amplitude sine
waveform as the default setup.
Cancel to cancel the recall and
return to the previous menu.

Default settings Default settings

Menu/System Default setting
Output configuration
Function Sine
Frequency 1.000 000 000 00 MHz
Amplitude 1.000 Vp-p
Offset 0 mV
Symmetry (ramp) 50.00%
Duty (Pulse) 50.00%
Output Units Vp-p
Output impedance 50 Ω
Output invert Off
Output noise add Off
Sweep
Sweep start frequency 100.000 kHz
Sweep stop frequency 100.000 MHz
Sweep time 10 ms
Sweep hold time 0 ms
Sweep return time 1 ms
Sweep type Linear
Sweep mode Repeat
Sweep source Internal
Trigger slope Positive
Trigger interval 1.000 ms
Modulation
Modulation waveform 10.00 kHz, Sine (except FSK)
50.00 Hz, Square (FSK)
AM depth 50.00%
FM deviation 1.000 000 MHz
PM deviation 90.0°
FSK hop frequency 1.000 000 MHz
FSK rate 50.00 Hz
PWM deviation 5.00%
Burst
Burst mode N-Cycles
Burst count 5
Trigger source Internal
Trigger delay 0.0 ns
Trigger interval 1.000 ms

Menu/System Default setting

System related settings
Trigger out Trigger
Clock reference Internal
The Default bezel button in the Save/Recall menu does not reset the following
settings:
Language option
Power-on settings
System related settings (display brightness, screen saver, click tone, and
beeper)
Saved setup and waveform files
Calibration data
GPIB and Ethernet setups
Access protection
Select waveform
The instrument can provide 12 standard waveforms (Sine, Square, Ramp,
Pulse, Sin(x)/x, Noise, DC, Gaussian, Lorentz, Exponential Rise, Exponential
Decay, and Haversine). The instrument can also provide user-defined arbitrary
waveforms. You can create, edit, and save your custom waveforms.
You can also create modulated waveforms using the Run Mode Modulation
menus. The following table shows the combination of modulation type and the
shape of the output waveform.
Sine, Square, Ramp, Arb, Sin(x)/x,

Gaussian, Lorentz, Exponential Rise, Noise,
Exponential Decay, Haversine Pulse DC
AM √
FM √
PM √
FSK √
PWM √

Sine, Square, Ramp, Arb, Sin(x)/x,

Gaussian, Lorentz, Exponential Rise, Noise,
Exponential Decay, Haversine Pulse DC
Sweep √
Burst √ √
NOTE. When the instrument outputs an Arb waveform, Vp-p of instrument setup
indicates the Vp-p value of normalized waveform data.
When the instrument outputs Sin(x)/x, Gaussian, Lorentz, Exponential Rise,
Exponential Decay, or Haversine, Vp-p is defined as twice the value of 0 to peak
value.
To select an output waveform, follow these steps:

Sine button to select sine
waveform.
Continuous button to
select a continuous sine
waveform.
3. Select one of the four
standard waveforms
by pushing on of the
front-panel function
buttons.
4. Push the Arb button
to select an arbitrary
waveform.
5. Push the More Waveform
bezel button to select from
other standard waveforms
such as Sin(x)/x, Noise,
DC, or Gaussian.

Other available waveforms The following are examples of the other waveform types available in the More
Waveform menu under the More button menu.

Select run mode

Push one of the four Run Mode buttons to select the instrument signal output
method.
1. The default Run Mode is

Continuous.
2. To select a modulated
waveform, push the
Modulation button.

3. To select a sweep
waveform, push the
Sweep button.
See (See page 50.) for
details on sweeping
waveforms.
4. To select a burst
waveform, push the
Burst button.
Adjust waveform parameters

When you turn on your instrument, the default output signal is a 1 MHz sine
waveform with an amplitude of 1 Vp-p. In the following example, you can change
the frequency and amplitude of the original output signal.

Save/Recall button.
2. Push the Setup bezel

button to select Recall.
3. Push the Default bezel
button and then push
the OK bezel button to
display the default output
signal.

4. To change frequency,
push the front-panel
Frequency/Period/Phase
Menu bezel button.
5. Press the Frequency
bezel button.
6. Use the numeric keypad

or the general purpose
knob to set the frequency
value.
7. To change period, push

the Period bezel button
to select the Period
parameter.
knob to set the period
value.
9. To change the amplitude,
first push the
front-panel button to
return to the top menu,
and then press the
Amplitude/Level Menu
bezel button.
10. Press the Amplitude
bezel button.

knob to set the amplitude
value.

12. To change the amplitude

units, push the -more-
bezel button to display
the second page of the
menu.
13. Push the Units bezel
button to display units
selection bezel menu and
make your selection. By
default, Vpp is selected.
14. Push the High or Low

Level bezel button to
select that parameter.
knob to set the value.
You can change the
values of Phase and
Offset in the same way.
Unit conversions The following conversion table shows the relationship between Vp-p, Vrms,
and dBm.
Vp-p Vrms dBm

10.00 Vp-p 3.54 Vrms +23.98 dBm
2.828 Vp-p 1.00 Vrms +13.01 dBm
2.000 Vp-p 707 mVrms +10.00 dBm
1.414 Vp-p 500 mVrms +6.99 dBm
632 mVp-p 224 mVrms 0.00 dBm
283 mVp-p 100 mVrms -6.99 dBm
200 mVp-p 70.7 mVrms -10.00 dBm
10.0 mVp-p 3.54 mVrms -36.02 dBm

Channel output On/Off

1. To enable signal output,
Channel On/Off. The
button is lit with an LED
when it is in the On state.
You can configure the
signal with the outputs
off. This will allow you
to minimize the chance
of sending a problematic
signal to a DUT.
Rear panel
The following illustration shows the rear panel connectors for the instrument.
Item Description
1 Power input: This is where you attached an appropriate power cord to supply
power to the instrument.
2 Chassis ground screw: This screw is used to ground the instrument. Use a
unified coarse screw (#6-32, 6.35 mm length or less).
3 LAN port: This port can be used to connect the instrument to a network.
Connect a 10BASE-T or 100BASE-T cable here.
NOTE. This port is only available for the AFG2021 with option GL.
4 USB (type B) connector: This can be used to connect a USB type B controller.
5 GPIB: This is port can be used to control the instrument through GPIB
commands.
NOTE. This port is only available for the AFG2021 with option GL.

Item Description
6 EXT REF INPUT connector: This is a BNC connector for the external reference
input.
7 EXT MODULATION INPUT connector: This is a BNC connector for the external
modulation input. It can be used to input a modulated signals.
8 Security slot: This slot allows you to use a standard laptop computer security
cable to secure your instrument to your location.
9 Fan (ventilation) vent: This is the ventilation opening for the fan.

Operating basics
Quick tutorial: How to select a waveform and adjust parameters

If you are a beginning user, you can follow the steps described here to get
acquainted with how to select a waveform and adjust waveform parameters.
1. Press the power button to on the instrument.
2. Connect the Channel Output of the instrument to the oscilloscope input with a
BNC cable.
3. Select a waveform.
4. Enable the signal output.
5. Observe a waveform displayed on the oscilloscope screen.
6. Use the front-panel shortcut buttons on the instrument to select a waveform
parameter.
7. Select Frequency as a parameter to be changed.
8. Change the frequency value using the numeric keys.
9. Change the waveform parameters using the general purpose knob and the
arrow keys.

Operating basics
Quick tutorial: How to generate a sine waveform

If you are a beginning user, you can follow the steps described here to learn how
to generate a continuous sine waveform.
1. Connect the power

cord, and then
power button to turn
on the instrument.
2. Connect a BNC
cable from the
Channel Output of
the arbitrary/function
generator to an
oscilloscope input
connector.
Sine button.
Continuous button to
select a continuous
sine waveform.

Channel On/Off
button to enable the
output. The button
should be lit.

Operating basics
6. Use the oscilloscope

auto-scaling function
to display the sine
waveform on the
screen.
If the instrument
outputs a default
sine waveform, you
can manually set
the oscilloscope as
follows:
500 ns/div
200 mV/div
7. To change the
frequency, push
the front-panel
Sine button and
then push the
Frequency/Period/Phase
Menu bezel button.
8. Push the Frequency
bezel button. You
can now change
the frequency value
using the numeric
keypad or the
general knob.
For example, if you
enter a value "2"
using the keypad,
the bezel menus
will automatically
change to Units.
After entering the
frequency value,
push the Units
bezel button or the
front-panel Enter
button to complete
the entry.
You can change the
Amplitude, Phase,
and Offset values in
the same way.
NOTE. When you specify a waveform parameter using the bezel menu selection,
an active parameter is displayed in green in the graph area.

Operating basics
Quick tutorial: Instrument help system

The instrument help system allows you to access information about specific menu
items and instrument functions when you need help. You can access and navigate
this help system using front panel buttons and knobs, and following on-screen
instructions as they appear. The individual help topics may contain links to other
topics, as well. These can be accessed by following the on-screen instructions.
How to access the You can follow the steps described here to access the instrument help system.
instrument help system
1. Push the front-panel Help button
to display the help screen.
2. Turn the general purpose knob to
move the highlight from one link
to another.
3. Push the Show Topic bezel button
to display the topic corresponding
to the highlighted link.
4. Push the Index bezel button to
display an Index page.
5. Push the Exit bezel button or any
front-panel button to remove the
Help text from the screen and
return to the graphic or parameter
display.
Ways to access and Push the Help button to display information (topic) about the last menu
navigate the instrument displayed on the screen.
help system Turn the general purpose knob to move from page to page within a displayed
topic.
Push the Index bezel button to view the Help index page.
Push the Page Up or Page Down bezel buttons to search for the index page
that contains the topic you want to view.
Turn the general purpose knob to highlight a help topic in the index.
Push the Show Topic bezel button to display the topic from the index page.
Push the Utility button and then the Language bezel button to choose the
language in which you want the Help topics, bezel menus, and on-screen
messages to appear.

Operating Basics
Operating Basics
Generate a pulse waveform

1. Push the front-panel Pulse
button to display the Pulse
screen.
2. Push the Pulse Parameter Menu
bezel button.
NOTE. All of the following
parameters can be adjusted using the
numeric keypad or the general knob.
3. Push the Duty bezel button and

adjust the parameter as needed,
and then push the Width bezel
button and adjust the parameter
as needed.
4. Push the Leading Edge bezel
button and adjust the parameter
as needed, then push the
Trailing Edge bezel button and
adjust the parameter as needed.
5. You can set the lead delay by pushing the
front-panel button, and then pushing the Frequency/Period/Delay Menu and adjusting
the parameter as needed.
Pulse waveform formulas The following formulas are applied to leading edge time, trailing edge time, pulse
period, and pulse width of pulse waveforms.
lEdge (Leading Edge Time)
tEdge (Trailing Edge Time)

Operating Basics
Maximum leading edge time. This value is the minimum of the three in each
instance.
If runMode = Continuous:
Temp1 = 0.8 * 2.0 * width – tEdge;
Temp2 = ( period – width ) * 0.8 * 2.0 – tEdge;
Temp3 = 0.625 * period.
Else:
Temp1 = 0.8 * 2.0 * width – tEdge;
Temp2 = ( period – leadDelay – width ) * 0.8 * 2.0 – tEdge;
Maximum trailing edge time. This value is the minimum of the three in each
instance.
If runMode = Continuous:
Temp1 = 0.8 * 2.0 * width – lEdge;
Temp2 = ( period – width ) * 0.8 * 2.0 – lEdge;
Else:
Temp1 = 0.8 * 2.0 * width – lEdge;
Temp2 = ( period – leadDelay – width ) * 0.8 * 2.0 – lEdge;

Operating Basics
Save/recall instrument setups

You can save up to instrument setups in the instrument internal memory. To save
more setups, use a USB memory device.
1. To recall or save an arbitrary

waveform, push the front-panel
Save/Recall button.
2. Use the general purpose knob to
highlight a setup that is marked
<empty>, unless you want to
overwrite an existing setup.
NOTE. To protect a setup file from
accidental overwrite, push the -more-
bezel button and then push the
Lock/Unlock bezel button. A lock icon
will appear next to locked files.
3. Push the Save bezel button
to save the setup to internal
memory.
4. If you want to save a setup to
USB memory, you must first
insert a USB memory device into
the port, select Memory USB
from the bezel menu, and then
push Save.
A file with the extension TFS is
saved. You can name the files.
5. You can also recall waveforms

by selecting Setup Recall from
the bezel menu, and then select
the setup you want to recall
using the general knob.
6. Push the Recall bezel button.
NOTE. If you want to delete a setup
from memory, push the -more- bezel
button and then push the Erase bezel
button and confirm your selection by
pushing OK.

Operating Basics
Generate an arbitrary waveform

The instrument can output an arbitrary waveform that is stored in the internal
memory or a USB memory.
NOTE. File names are displayed only in English characters. If you use
non-English characters to name a file, these characters are replaced by symbols
such as #, $, %.
1. Push the front-panel Arb button.
2. Push the Arb Waveform Menu

bezel button.
3. The Arb Waveform Menu is

displayed. You can now browse
a list of waveform files in
the internal memory or USB
memory.
Select Internal. You can specify
a file from User 1 through User
4, or Edit Memory.
Use the front panel general
purpose knob to scroll the files,
then select a file and push OK.
4. When USB is selected, the
instrument lists a directory of
the folders and files on the USB
memory.
You can select a folder or file
using the knob to scroll up and
down the list. To open a folder,
push the Change Directory bezel
button. To open a file, push OK.
To return to the upper directory,
first select the <Up Directory>
icon, and then push the Change
Directory bezel button.

Operating Basics
Modify an arbitrary waveform

To modify an arbitrary waveform, use the Edit bezel button in the Arbitrary
Waveform Menu. The Edit bezel button supports several waveform edit functions,
and provides import or storage of edited waveform data.
1. Push the Arb button.
2. Push the Arb Waveform

Menu bezel button, and
then push the Edit bezel
button.
3. Select Number of Points

to set the number of
waveform points to be
edited.
4. Select New to write a
standard waveform to
Edit memory. The written
waveform has the number
of points specified by
Number of Points. One
of five waveform types
(Sine, Square, Pulse,
Ramp, and Noise) can be
selected.
5. Select Operation to
display the Operations
submenu.
6. Select Read from...
to write a standard
waveform to Edit memory.
The written waveform
has the number of points
specified in the Number
of Points menu. One
of five waveform types
(Sine, Square, Ramp,
Pulse, and Noise) can be
selected.
NOTE. Push the -more-
bezel button to see the Read
from... menu item.

Operating Basics
7. Push Operation to display

the Operations submenu.
Push Line to display
the Line edit submenu.
Push Data to display
the Data Point edit
submenu.
Push Cut to display
the Cut Data Points
submenu.
8. Select Paste at Beginning
to append a waveform at
the beginning of the edit
waveform.
Select Paste at End to
append a waveform at the
end of the edit waveform.
9. Select Write to... to
display a submenu to
write waveform data to.

Operating Basics
Arbitrary waveform edit The following example shows how to use the Line edit function. Paste a ramp
example 1 waveform before sine waveform:
1. Select Number of
Points and use the
numeric keypad or
the general knob
to set the number
of waveform points
to 1000.
2. Select New
and then select
Sine. Save this
waveform to
User1.
3. Next, create a
500 point ramp
waveform.
4. Select Operation
and select Line.
Do the following
line edit:
X1: 1, Y1: 8191
X2: 250, Y2:
16382
Push Execute.
Once again,
select Line from
Operation and
perform the
following line edit:
X1: 251, Y1:
16382
X2: 500, Y2:
8191
5. Push Execute.
Save this
waveform to
User2.
6. Next, paste a
waveform. Push
Read from... and
select User1.
7. Push Paste at
Beginning. Select
User2 waveform
and then select
Paste.
8. The waveform
shown here is
created.

Operating Basics
Arbitrary waveform edit The following example shows how to edit a waveform by data point. In this
example 2 example, you can add a noise spike to the sine waveform.
1. Push Read from... and

select User1.
2. Push the Read bezel
button and change the
screen to a table display.
3. Push Operation and

select Data.
4. Perform the following data
point edit:
X: 250, Y: 8191
X: 251, Y: 8191
X: 750, Y: 8191
X: 751, Y: 8191
5. After each data edit, push
Execute to implement the
edit operation. Save this
waveform to User3.
6. This is an example of an
oscilloscope screen for
the User3 waveform.
NOTE. If you edit an arbitrary waveform data while the instrument generates a
waveform from Edit Memory, the edited data will be automatically reflected to the
generated waveform.

Operating Basics
Generate noise/DC
1. Push the front-panel More
waveform button.
2. Push the More Waveform

Menu bezel button.
3. Select Noise.
4. You can set waveform
parameters for Noise.
This is a sample
of Gaussian Noise
displayed on an
oscilloscope screen.
5. Push DC to display DC
parameters.
NOTE. You cannot modulate, sweep, or burst noise or a DC waveform.
Generate a burst waveform

The instrument can output a burst using standard waveforms such as sine, square,
ramp, and pulse, or arbitrary waveforms. The instrument allows you to use the
following two types of burst modes:
Triggered burst mode. A specified number (burst count) of waveform cycles

are output when the instrument receives a trigger input from the internal trigger
source, an external trigger source, a remote command, or the Manual Trigger
button.
Gated burst mode. The instrument outputs a continuous waveform when an

effective gate signal is applied externally, when the Manual Trigger button is
depressed, when a remote command is applied, or during 50% of the selected
internal trigger interval.

Operating Basics
To generate a triggered The instrument provides the following three trigger sources for Burst mode:
burst waveform Internal or external trigger signal
Manual trigger
Remote command
The following example describes how to generate a double pulse using the burst
mode.
1. Select Pulse as an
output waveform
and then push the
front-panel Burst
button.
2. Confirm that 1-Cycle,
N-Cycles, or Inf-Cycles
is selected, which
means triggered burst
mode is enabled.
To generate double
pulse, set the burst
count (N-Cycles) to
2 by pushing the
N-Cycles bezel button
and then pushing the 2
button.
3. This is an example of
double pulse.
4. This waveform is a
trigger output signal.
To generate a gated burst In the gated burst mode, the output is enabled or disabled based on the internal
waveform gate signal or an external signal applied to the front-panel Trigger Input connector.
While the gate signal is true or the front-panel Manual Trigger button is pushed
in, the instrument outputs a continuous waveform.
NOTE. Once Gate is selected, burst count parameters are ignored.

Operating Basics
1. Push the front-panel Burst

button to display the burst
menu.
2. Select Gate.
3. This is a sample
The top waveform is a
trigger output signal.
4. This is a gated waveform
sample.

Operating Basics
Sweep a waveform
The Sweep outputs a waveform with the output signal frequency varying linearly
or logarithmically.
Stop frequency
Sweep time
Return time
Center frequency
Frequency span
Hold time

Operating Basics
To set sweep parameters, do the following:

1. Select a waveform
and then push the
front-panel Sweep
button.
NOTE. Pulse, DC, and
Noise waveforms cannot
be selected.
2. You can specify the

start frequency, stop
frequency, sweep time
and return time from
the sweep menu.
Return Time
represents the amount
of time from Stop
Frequency to Start
Frequency.
Push the -more-
button to display the
second sweep menu.
NOTE. If you want to
return to the Sweep menu
after selecting other menus,
push the front-panel Sweep
button again.
3. In this page, you can
set the parameters
for center frequency,
frequency span, hold
time and select the
sweep type.
Hold time represents
the amount of time
that the frequency
must remain stable
after reaching the stop
frequency.
Push the -more-
second sweep menu.

Operating Basics
4. In this page, you

can select the sweep
mode (Repeat or
Trigger) and trigger
source.
5. This is a sample
The top is a sample of
a sweep waveform.
6. This is a trigger output
signal.
Sweep frequency facts If a start frequency is lower than a stop frequency, the instrument sweeps from
the low frequency to the high frequency.
If a start frequency is higher than a stop frequency, the instrument sweeps
from the high frequency to the low frequency.
Once the sweep is selected, the frequency is swept from the sweep start to
the sweep stop frequencies.

Operating Basics
Modulate a waveform
To output an AM waveform 1. Select a waveform and
then push the front-panel
Modulation button.
In this example, use
sine waveform as an
output waveform (carrier
waveform).
NOTE. You cannot select
Pulse, Noise, or DC as a
carrier waveform.
2. Push the top bezel button

to display the modulation
selection menu.
Select AM as the
modulation type.

Operating Basics
3. Select modulation source.

4. Set modulation frequency.
5. Select modulation shape.
6. Set modulation depth.
7. This is an example
amplitude modulation
waveform displayed on
an oscilloscope screen.
Modulation waveform facts You can output frequency modulation or phase modulation waveforms in
and formulas the same way.
You can select an internal or external signal as an AM source. If you select
an external source and set the modulation depth to 120%, the output will be
at the maximum amplitude when a ±1 Vp-p signal is applied to the rear panel
EXT MODULATION INPUT connector.
You can select a modulation shape from the internal memory or USB memory.
You cannot select Pulse, Noise, or DC as a carrier waveform.
The following equations show the output amplitude of AM, FM, and PM
modulation (in this example, sine waveform is used for carrier waveform
and modulation waveform):
AM: Output(Vp-p)=
FM: Output(Vp-p)=
PM: Output(Vp-p)=
Carrier amplitude A[Vp-p]

Carrier frequency fc [Hz]
Modulation frequency fm [Hz]
Time t [sec]

Operating Basics
AM Modulation depth M [%]

FM Deviation D [Hz]
PM Deviation P [degree]
The following table shows relationship between modulation depth and

maximum amplitude for AM modulation waveform (internal modulation
source is selected):
Depth Maximum amplitude

120% A (Vp-p)
100% A (Vp-p) * 0.909
50% A (Vp-p) * 0.682
0% A (Vp-p) * 0.455
To output an FSK waveform Frequency Shift Keying modulation is a modulation technique that shifts the
output signal frequency between two frequencies: the carrier frequency and Hop
frequency. The AFG2021 generates a phase continuous FSK signal.
1. Follow the steps described in

the To output an AM waveform
procedure to display the
modulation type selection
submenu.(See page 53.)
In this example, select FSK as
the modulation type.
2. The FSK parameter setting
screen is displayed.
Select Internal or External as
FSK source.
3. If you select Internal, you can set
the FSK Rate.
If you select External, the FSK
Rate is ignored.
4. Set Hop Frequency.
Carrier waveform frequency
shifts to the Hop frequency with
the specified FSK rate, and then
returns to the original frequency.

Operating Basics
To output a PWM waveform Follow these steps to output a PWM waveform.

Pulse button.
2. Push the Pulse
Parameter Menu bezel
pulse parameter setting
screen.

Modulation button
to display the PWM
parameter setting screen.
Select the PWM source.
4. Set the PWM frequency.
5. Select the Modulation
Shape.
6. Set the Deviation (pulse
width deviation).
NOTE. Refer to the Motor speed control by pulse-width modulation for an

application example of pulse-width modulation. (See page 82.)

Operating Basics
Trigger out
The Trigger Output signal settings for the instrument are available from the mode
selection menus. You can choose from the following trigger output selections:
1. Connect the
front-panel Trigger
Output connector and
the external trigger
input connector of
the oscilloscope.
The Trigger Output
connector provides
the trigger signal for
oscilloscopes.
2. Continuous mode:
The trigger output is
a square waveform
and the rising edge
at the start of each
waveform period.
When an output
frequency is higher
than 4.9 MHz, some
restrictions are
applied. See the
Quick Tips below.
3. Sweep mode: When
the Repeat or Trigger
sweep mode and
internal trigger source
are selected, the
trigger output is a
square waveform and
the rising edge at the
start of each sweep.

Operating Basics
4. Modulation mode:
When internal
modulation source is
selected, the trigger
output is a square
waveform of the
same frequency as
the modulating signal.
When an external
modulation source is
output is disabled.
5. Burst Mode: When
internal trigger source
is selected, the trigger
output is a square
waveform and the
rising edge at the
start of each burst
period.
When an external
trigger source is
output is high during
the time the trigger
input is high.
When a setting frequency of an output waveform is higher than 4.9 MHz, a

divided frequency that is lower than 4.9 MHz is output from the Trigger Out. See
the table below:
Set frequency of output waveform (MHz) Trigger output frequency (MHz)

〜4.900 000 000 00 Fs
4.900 000 000 01 to 14.700 000 000 0 Fs/3
14.700 000 000 1 to 20.000 000 000 0 Fs/5
NOTE. When the instrument outputs a modulation waveform, the Trigger Output
signal cannot be output if you select External as the modulation source.

Operating Basics
Set up load impedance

The output impedance of the instrument is 50 Ω. If you connect a load other than
50 Ω, the displayed Amplitude, Offset, and High/Low values will be different
from the output voltage. To make the displayed values the same as the output
voltage, you need to set the load impedance. The load impedance is applied to
the amplitude, offset, and high/low level settings. To set the load impedance,
use the Output Menu.
1. From the top menu, push

the Output Menu bezel
button.
2. Push Load Impedance
to display the Load
Impedance submenu.
3. To adjust the load

impedance, select Load.
4. You can set the load
impedance to any value
from 1 Ω to 10 kΩ.
5. When the load
impedance is set to
other than 50 Ω, the set
value is displayed in the
output status.
NOTE. When dBm is specified for output amplitude units, the amplitude units
setting is automatically changed to Vpp if you select high impedance.

Operating Basics
Add noise
To add the internal noise signal to a waveform, use the Output Menu.
1. Push the front-panel Sine

button
2. Push the Output Menu

bezel button.
3. Push the Noise bezel
button.
4. The Noise Add submenu

is displayed. Push Noise
Add to select On. To
adjust the noise level,
push Noise Level. Use
the general purpose knob
or the numeric keypad to
enter the value.
NOTE. When you set Noise
Add to On, the amplitude of
output signal is reduced to
50%.

Operating Basics
5. This is a waveform before

adding noise.
6. This is a waveform after
adding noise.
To avoid overflow by
noise addition, the
amplitude of the output
signal is automatically
halved.

Channel On/Off button so
that the output is on and
the LED is lit. The Output
Status is changed from
output status message
will change to Noise.
NOTE. An internal noise generator (digital) is used to add noise.

Operating Basics
Reference clock
The instrument can use an internal or external clock reference signal. When
the external clock reference input is activated, the rear panel Ext Ref Input
connector is used as the input for an external reference signal. The instrument is
synchronized by this signal.
The following procedure shows you how to set up the instrument to use an
external signal. Use of the internal signal does not require a connection to the
rear-panel input.
1. Connect a reference
signal from a signal
source to the Ext Ref
Input connector on
the rear panel of the
AFG2021.

Utility button.
button.
4. Push the Clock Ref bezel

button to toggle between
Internal and External.

Operating Basics
Synchronous operation
To synchronize multiple instruments, use the Utility menu. The following image
shows the correct setup. Some documentation may also refer to the synchronous
operation as master-slave operation.
1. Use a BNC cable to connect the front-panel Trigger Output of one instrument
(master) to the Trigger Input of another instrument (slave). The master unit
sends a trigger signal to the slave unit.
2. Connect the rear panel Ext Ref Input (master) to a 10 MHz signal from
another source.
3. Connect the rear panel Ext Ref Input (slave) to the 10 MHz signal source.
This signal source controls the clock of the master and slave units.
4. Push the front-panel Utility button, and then push the System
bezel button of the master unit to display the System menu.

Operating Basics
USB memory
A USB memory connector, located on the front panel of the instrument, allows
you to perform the following tasks:
Save or recall user-defined waveforms to/from a USB memory device (See
page 41, Save/recall instrument setups.)
Save or recall setups to/from files on a USB memory device (See page 67,
Save/recall instrument setup.)
Update your instrument firmware (See page 13, Update your instrument
firmware.)
Save a screen image (See page 69, Save a screen image.)
CAUTION. When you a USB memory device to the instrument, a caution message
appears on the screen. Do not remove the USB memory device until the message
disappears.
If you remove the USB memory device while this caution message is displayed, it
may cause damage to the instrument.
USB connector This instrument supports a USB memory with a FAT12, FAT16, or FAT32 file
requirements system.
Emissions may exceed the specification limit if a USB cable is placed in the
front-panel USB memory connector. Use only appropriate USB memory devices.

Operating Basics
Utility menu
Push the front-panel Utility button to display the Utility menu. The Utility menu
provides access to utilities used by the instrument such as I/O interface, system
related menus, diagnostics/calibration, and local language preferences.

button to display the Utility
menu which has the following
options.
2. I/O interface (See page 16,
Connect to a network.)
3. Language (See page 9, Select
a local language.)
4. System related menus, see
step 6 and step 7.
5. Push the Status bezel button
to display the instrument
status.
button to display the System
submenu. For Trigger Out
information (See page 57.).
7. For Clock Reference
information (See page 62.).
8. You can select the instrument
power-on settings.
9. Executing the Secure function
will erase all data except Mac
Address, calibration data, and
the instrument serial number.
10. Push the -more- button to

display the second page. Push
Brightness to adjust the screen
contrast.
11. Push Screen Saver to toggle
the screen saver Off and On.
12. Push Click Tone to toggle the
click tone Off and On.
13. Push Beeper to toggle the
beep sound Off and On.

Operating Basics
14. Push the top menu front-panel

button to return to the previous
menu. Push the -more- button
to display the second page.
15. For Backup/Restore, see step
16.
16. Push the Backup/Restore

bezel button to display the
Backup/Restore submenu.
In this menu, you can back up
a waveform data from internal
memory to USB memory,
or restore a waveform data
from USB memory to internal
memory.
17. Return to the Utility main menu.

Push the -more- bezel button
to display the third page. On
this page, you can execute the
instrument firmware update.
(See page 13.)
18. Security Menu (See page 70.).

Operating Basics
Save/recall instrument setup

You can save setups of the instrument as files in the internal memory or in an
external USB memory device. Setup files saved to a USB memory device are
saved with the extension TFS. You can recall the stored setups from a file in the
internal memory or in a USB memory device.

Save/Recall button to
display the Save Menu.
2. To specify a memory
location, select Internal
or USB.
3. Use the general purpose
knob to scroll files. Push
Save to save a setting to
Internal memory.
NOTE. A Save As menu
option appears when you are
saving to USB memory.
4. You can save a setup as

a new file if you specify
USB. Push Save As.

Operating Basics
5. You can enter a file name

in this screen. Use the
general purpose knob to
select a character. Push
the Enter Character bezel
button or the front-panel
Enter key to enter the
character.
6. To recall a setup, push

the Setup bezel button to
select Recall.
7. Push the Recall bezel
button.
NOTE. Output state is Off by default after reading a setup file.
Lock setup files You can lock a setup file to avoid accidental overwrite. When a memory location
is locked, a lock key icon will appear on the screen. To lock or unlock a setup file,
push the Lock/Unlock bezel button located on the second page of the Save/Recall
menu.
Erase a file To erase a file, push the Erase bezel button located on the second page of the
Save/Recall menu.

Operating Basics
Save a screen image

You can save a screen image of the instrument to a USB memory. Do the
following steps:
1. Insert a USB memory

to the front-panel USB
connector.
2. Set the display to show

the screen you want to
save as image. Then
simultaneously push
the two arrow keys
underneath the general
purpose knob on the front
panel.
3. A message appears on
the screen, indicating
that the screen image
was saved.
NOTE. Image files are saved
in a folder named "TEK" in the
USB memory device.
4. Push OK.
NOTE. Image files are saved as .BMP format. The instrument gives all files
created by the instrument the default name TEK00nnn.BMP, where the nnn are
placeholders for an automatic number sequence from 000 to 999.

Operating Basics
Security menu
Use the Security menu to limit access to the Firmware Update and Service menus
(refer to the Service manual for information about the service menu). From the
Security Menu, you can set access protection and change passwords.
Access protection In the Access Protection menu, you can set a password that must be entered for a
firmware update to be implemented. Access protection is set to Off by default. To
turn it on, do the following:

the Utility menu, and then
push the -more- bezel
button twice.
2. Select Security Menu.
3. Select Access Protection

to display the password
input page.
4. Enter your password.

Use the general purpose
knob to select the
characters and push
the Enter Character
bezel button after each
selection.
As you enter the
characters of your
password, they are
displayed as a series of
asterisks (*******) on the
password input page.
If no specific password
has been previously
defined, use the default
password DEFAULT.
5. Select OK to turn the
access protection on.
NOTE. When Access Protection is on, the Change Password bezel button is
disabled.

Operating Basics
Change the password Before the password is changed for the first time, the default password is
DEFAULT. To change the password, do the following steps:
1. Select Security Menu

from the Utility menu.
2. If the Access Protection is
set to On, turn it off using
the Access Protection
menu. Otherwise, skip to
step .
3. Select Change Password
to display the password
input page.
4. Enter your current
password.
Use the general purpose
knob to select the
characters and push
the Enter Character
bezel button after each
selection. Then select
OK to display the New
Password input page.

Operating Basics
5. Enter a new password.

Use the front-panel
general purpose knob
to select a character
, and then push the
Enter Character bezel
button. You can also use
the front-panel numeric
keypad and the Enter
button.
As you enter the
characters of your new
password, they are
displayed on the screen.
Check carefully to ensure
you are entering the
desired characters.
6. Select OK to activate the
new password.
NOTE. A password must
have at least four characters,
and not more than12
characters.
NOTE. To activate or deactivate the access protection, you must enter the
password you set. If you forget the password, you must return the instrument to
Tektronix to reset the password.

Operating Basics
ArbExpress
ArbExpress is a Windows-based software for creating and editing waveforms for
Tektronix AWG and AFG instruments. With ArbExpress, you can quickly and
conveniently create the desired waveforms and send them to the instrument.
The following table and list describe the system requirements and general features.
System requirements
OS Supported Windows XP Professional or Windows
2000 or Windows 98/Me or Windows NT or
Windows 7 (32-bit only)
Minimum PC Requirements Pentium III 800 MHz and higher 256 MB
RAM 300 MB free hard disk Microsoft
Internet Explorer 5.01 and higher .NET
Framework 1.1 Redistributable 800 x 600
Display resolution
TekVISA Version 3.3.4.6 and above
Create waveforms from standard waveform templates

Modify and transfer waveforms to perform DUT level tests
Directly import waveforms from Tektronix oscilloscopes
Send waveforms to AWG/AFG instruments directly from ArbExpress or
MATLAB
Math operations on waveforms
NOTE. You can use ArbExpress to transfer waveform data to the instrument.
When you transfer waveform data (. tfw file), any part of the waveform outside
of allowed limits in the AFG2021 will be automatically converted to be within
the allowed range.
The following pages contain the screen interface and basic operating procedures
for using ArbExpress. For more information on ArbExpress, refer to the
ArbExpress online help.

Operating Basics
Screen interface
Item Description
1 Menu bar: The menu bar provides access to the application functions. When
you select a menu item, the application displays the associated dialog box or the
menu selection causes an immediate action.
2 Toolbar: The toolbar buttons provide instant access to most features without
having to navigate through several menus.
3 Shortcut View: The Shortcut view occupies the left part of the display. Use the
Shortcut view to quickly access various functions provided by the application.
Refer to the ArbExpress online help for more information.
4 Status bar: The status bar, located below the waveform and marker display,
shows information about the application and the waveform.
5 Waveform display area: When you create or open a waveform, it will be
displayed in this area.
6 Marker area: Marker patterns appear in this area. You can toggle the display of
markers by selecting Display > Marker from the menu bar.

Operating Basics
Basic operations The following steps explain basic waveform creation and other useful functions
that are available with ArbExpress.
1. To create a new
waveform, use
the File menu.
2. Blank sheet
opens a blank
sheet in the
window with
1024 points
waveform
length. You
can change
the number of
points using
Properties...
from the
Waveform
menu.
3. Use the
Standard
Waveform
dialog box to
create any of
the standard
waveforms that
are available.
Use Settings to
select a desired
waveform and
instrument
type.
4. Use Vertical
to set the
waveform
vertical
parameters.
5. Use Horizontal
to set the
waveform
horizontal
parameters.
6. Click Preview
to view the
waveform.

Operating Basics
7. You can
also use the
Equation Editor
to create a
waveform. The
application
provides a
set of sample
equations that
you can directly
use or modify.
8. Use Command
List to select
the commands,
functions, units,
and operations.
9. Use Preview
to view the
waveform after
the equation is
compiled.

Operating Basics
10. You can also

use a waveform
math tool.
From the Math
menu, select
Waveform
Math... to
display the
Waveform
Math dialog
box.
11. Select a math
source from
Waveform
Library. Select
Noise in this
example.
12. Calculation
results are
displayed in
the Resultant
Waveform
pane. This is
an example of
adding noise
to a square
waveform.
13. You can
remotely
control
Tektronix
AWG/AFG
instruments
using
ArbExpress.
From the
Communication
menu, select
AWG/AFG
File Transfer
& Control... to
display the
dialog box.
14. Connected
instruments are
listed on the
Arb List.
15. The Instrument
Control pane
appears only
when an
instrument is
connected,
otherwise it is
hidden.

Operating Basics
Using CSV format ArbExpress allows you to convert a CSV (Comma Separated Value) format file,
waveform data which is created by Microsoft Excel, to waveform data that is compatible with
the instrument.
1. Create a CSV
file to use with
ArbExpress.
2. Enter point or time
to this column.
3. Enter data to this
column.
When you open a
CSV file, a dialog
box may appear to
confirm the CSV
file format.
4. This is an example
of ArbExpress
waveform display
area after recalling
CSV data.

Operating Basics
5. Save the
waveform as the
.tfw format.
Copy the
waveform data to
a USB memory
and load the
waveform in the
arbitrary/function
generator.
6. The AFG2021
outputs recalled
waveform data.
This is an example
of the oscilloscope
screen.
1 Fs represents setting frequency of output waveform.

Operating Basics

Application examples
This section contains a series of application examples. These simplified examples
highlight the features of the instrument and give you ideas for using it to solve
your own test problems.
Measurement of filter characteristics

Use the instrument sweep function to observe the frequency characteristics of
the 50 Ω filter.
1. Connect the
Channel Output
of the instrument to
the CH1 input of an
oscilloscope with a
BNC cable.
2. Connect a 50 Ω
filter between the
Channel Output and
CH1 input of the
oscilloscope.
3. Connect the Trigger
Output of the
instrument and
the external trigger
input connector of
an oscilloscope.
Set the oscilloscope
input impedance to
50 Ω..
4. Select Sweep from
Run Mode of the
instrument and set
the start frequency,
stop frequency,
and sweep time so
that the waveform
is shown in the
graticule.
You can measure
the frequency
characteristics
of the filter by
sweep time and
the oscilloscope
time base.

Motor speed control by pulse-width modulation

Pulse-width modulation is used for controlling the speed of a DC motor or the
luminance of an LED (Light Emitting Diode). Use the instrument PWM function
to control the DC motor speed.
1. Connect the
instrument output
and a DUT using
a BNC-to-alligator
clip adapter.
2. Push the
front-panel Pulse
button and the
Modulation button,
and then select
PWM as a
modulation type.
Set the frequency
to approximately
100 kHz.
3. Connect the output

to an oscilloscope.
Confirm that
a pulse-width
modulation
waveform is
displayed on
the oscilloscope
screen.
Select Pulse Duty
and change the
duty rate. Observe
that the motor
speed changes if
you change the
duty rate.

Carrier null (frequency modulation)

Use the instrument and spectrum analyzer to observe a carrier waveform of
frequency modulation.
1. Select Sine as an output

waveform and then select
FM as the modulation
type.
2. Set the waveform
parameters as follows:
Carrier frequency:
1 MHz
Modulation frequency:
2 kHz
3. Change Deviation.
Set the deviation to
4.8096 kHz. It makes
the carrier waveform null.
Confirm that the carrier
null can be observed on
the spectrum analyzer.


Index
A Changing the password, Security Exponential rise

Access Protection menu, 71 standard waveform, 28
Utility button security Channel output On/Off, 33 EXT MODULATION INPUT
menu, 70 Chassis ground screw connector
Access protection 67 rear panel, 33 rear panel, 34
Connecting to a network, 16 Click tone EXT REF INPUT connector
Access Protection 67 Utility menu, 65 rear panel, 34
Firmware update, 14 Clock reference External reference input
Add Noise, 60 external, 62 rear panel, 62
Amplitude, To change the internal, 62
units, 32 Connect to a network F
Application examples Ethernet, 16
Fan vent
Frequency modulation, 83 Connecting to a network 18
rear panel, 34
Measurement of filter Language selection, 9
Firmware updates, 13
characteristics, 81 CSV file, ArbExpress, 78
Firmware updates 15
Pulse-width modulation, 82 Save a screen image, 69
Arb button (front panel) D Floating ground, 11
Recalling arbitrary DC Formulas
waveforms, 41 standard waveform, 28 modulation waveforms, 54
ArbExpress Default button, 7 Frequency span
screen interface, 74 Default settings, 25 sweep waveform, 50
ArbExpress 69, 79 Default setup, 24 Front panel, 22
ArbExpress 69, 73 Default, Power on settings, 6 Front panel controls
Saving arbitrary how to lock or unlock, 23
waveform, 41 Fuse adapter, Protect output
ArbExpress ix, xi, 73 E circuits, 10
ArbExpress ix, 69 Edit menu, 43
Basic operations, 75 Edit menu 38
Recalling waveform data, 43 G
Editing arbitrary waveforms Gated burst waveform
B example 1, 45 generate, 48
Beeper example 2, 46 Gaussian
Utility menu, 65 Environmental requirements, 4 standard waveform, 28
Bezel menu Equation Editor, ArbExpress, 76 General features, 1
screen interface, 23 Equivalent output circuits, 21 Generate a burst waveform, 47
Burst waveform Erase Generate a pulse waveform, 39
generate, 47 saved setup files, 41 Generate a pulse waveform 35
Erase setup files To generate a sine
C Save/Recall menu, 68 waveform, 35
Carrier null, Application Ethernet 18 Generate a sine waveform, 35
examples, 83 GPIB, 19 Generate an arbitrary
Center frequency Exponential decay waveform, 42
sweep waveform, 50 standard waveform, 28 Generate DC, 47
Generate Noise, 47

Index
GPIB connector Master-slave operation, 63 Programmer Manual ix, xi, 20

rear panel, 33 Measurement of filter Protect output circuits, Fuse
Graph display area characteristics adapter, 10
screen interface, 23 Application examples, 81 Protect your DUT, 12
Message display area Pulse waveform formulas, 39
H screen interface, 23 Pulse-width modulation
Modify an arbitrary waveform, 43 Application examples, 82
Haversine
Modulate a waveform, 53 Pulse-width modulation 77
standard waveform, 28
Modulation waveform formulas Sweep, 81
Help
AM, 54
how to access instrument, 38
FM, 54 R
instrument, 38
PM, 54
navigation, 38 Rear panel, 33
Hold time Recalling waveform data 38
sweep waveform, 50 N Saving waveform data, 44
Noise Recommended accessories, 3
I standard waveform, 28 Reference signal, Internal or
Noise 56 External, 62
Instrument power-on and
screen interface, 23 Remote control, ArbExpress, 77
power-off, 5
Number of Points, Edit menu, 43 Return time
Instrument settings when
sweep waveform, 50
powered-on, 6, 7
O Run Mode, 29
L Operating requirements, 4
Option buttons, 23 S
LAN connector
Output menu Safety Summary, iv
rear panel, 33
To add Noise, 60 Save a screen image, 69
Language selection 11
Output On/Off Save a waveform
Self test and self calibration, 7
channel, 33 Save/Recall arbitrary
Last, Power on settings, 6, 7
Output status waveform, 41
Level meter
Noise, 60 Save/Recall arbitrary waveform
screen interface, 23
Output window, 21 36
Lissajous patterns 75
Save/Recall instrument
Pulse-width modulation, 82
P setup, 67
Load impedance 22, 21, 59
Save/Recall instrument setup, 67
Lock front panel controls, 23 Parameter display area
Save/Recall instrument setup 65
Lock setup files screen interface, 23
To generate an arbitrary
Save/Recall menu, 68 Password
waveform, 42
Lock/unlock Security menu, 71
Screen image
saved setup files, 41 Power button, 5
save, 69
Lock/Unlock button Power consumption, 4
Screen interface, 23
Save/Recall menu, 68 Power input
Screen interface 70
Lorentz rear panel, 33
System requirements, 73
standard waveform, 28 Power off, 5
Screen saver
Power on, 5
Utility menu, 65
M Power supply requirements, 4
Secure function
Procedure
Main display area Utility menu, 65
To adjust waveform
screen interface, 23 Security menu, 70
parameters, 30

Index
Security menu 67 To connect to a network 18 U

Firmware update, 16 To generate a pulse Unlock front panel controls, 23
Security slot waveform, 39 USB connector requirements, 64
rear panel, 34 To generate a sine waveform 2 USB interface
Selecting a local language, 9 To generate an arbitrary rear panel, 16
Self calibration, 7 waveform, 42 USB memory, 64
Self test and self calibration To generate an arbitrary waveform USB memory 62
synchronous operation, 63 37 Firmware updates, 13
Self test, Utility menu, 7 To modify an arbitrary USB type B connector
Set up load impedance, 59 waveform, 43 rear panel, 33
Setups To invert waveform 55 Utility menu, 65
Save and recall, 41 To protect your DUT, 12 Utility menu 63
Side-menu buttons, 23 To modify an arbitrary waveform Access protection, 70
Sin(x)/x 38
standard waveform, 28 To output a PWM
Soft keys, 23 waveform, 56 V
Standard accessories, 2 To output a PWM waveform 49 Ventilation vent
Standard Waveform dialog box, To output an AM rear panel, 34
ArbExpress, 75 waveform, 53 Voltage units, Conversion table of
Standard waveforms, 26 To output an AM waveform 46 Vp-p, Vrms, and dBm, 32
Stop frequency To output an FSK
sweep waveform, 50 waveform, 55 W
Sweep, 50 To output an FSK waveform 48 Waveform display area
Sweep time To restore the default screen interface, 23
sweep waveform, 50 setup, 24 Waveform Math dialog box,
Sweep waveform To protect your DUT 14 ArbExpress, 77
Application examples, 81 To set up load impedance, 59 Waveform parameter, how to
Synchronous operation, 63 To select a local language, 9 change, 30
Synchronous operation 60 To select a waveform, 26 Waveforms
Updating instrument To select a waveform 28 Save and recall, 41
firmware, 13 To select Run Mode, 29
To select Run Mode 30
T To sweep a waveform, 50
Trigger out, 57
TFS file, Saving instrument
Trigger output connector, 57
setup, 67
Triggered burst waveform
To adjust waveform parameters 31
generate, 48
To connect to a network, 16

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xx

Quick Start User Manual

Quick Start User Manual

For product information, sales, service, and technical support:

AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual i

ii AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual iii

General safety summary

iv AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

Terms in this manual These terms may appear in this manual:

WARNING. Warning statements identify conditions or practices that could result

CAUTION. Caution statements identify conditions or practices that could result in

AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual v

EN 61326-1 2006. EMC requirements for electrical equipment for measurement,

EN 61000-3-2:2006. AC power line harmonic emissions

EN 61000-3-3:1995. Voltage changes, fluctuations, and flicker

vi AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

Australia / New Zealand contact.. Baker & McKenzie

AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual vii

Canadian Certification CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 61010-1:2004. Safety requirements for electrical

Equipment Type Test and measuring equipment.

Safety Class Class 1 – grounded product.

viii AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

Overvoltage Category Overvoltage Category II (as defined in IEC 61010-1)

AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual ix

x AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

Where to find more information

Item Purpose Location

Programmer Menu Structures,

Conventions used in this manual

Front panel power Connect power Network USB

AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual xi

xii AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual 1

2 AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual 3

Figure 1: Instrument dimensions

Temperature. Before operating the instrument, ensure the ambient temperature is

4 AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

Power the instrument on and off

1. Insert the AC power

2. Push the front-panel

Power off To turn the instrument off, do the following:

1. Push the front-panel

AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual 5

Change instrument settings at power-on

1. Push the front-panel

3. Push the Power On bezel

6 AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

Erase instrument setups and waveforms from memory

1. Push the front-panel Utility

3. Push the Secure bezel

Perform instrument self test and self calibration

AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual 7

DC accuracy. It is recommended that the self calibration should be performed

1. Push the front-panel

4. Do one of the following:

8 AFG2021 Quick Start User Manual

Select a local language