Teledyne LeCroy Generators / Counters

Teledyne LeCroy Generators / Counters

LeCroy Function Generators

LeCroy function and arbitrary waveform generators are among the most important and versatile pieces of electronic test equipment. In electronic design and troubleshooting, the circuit under scrutiny often requires a controllable signal to simulate its normal operation. Professionals rely on LeCroy function generators when stable and repeatable stimulus signals are needed. The signal levels needed range from microvolts to tens of volts or more.

Modern direct digital synthesis (DDS) function generators are able to provide a wide variety of signals. LeCroy offers the WaveStation model line of DDS function generators, which come with up to 40 preloaded advanced arbitrary waveforms. The company also offers its ArbStudio line of generators with both arbitrary and DDS modes.

LeCroy Arbitrary Function Generators (AFG) vs. Arbitrary Waveform Generators (AWG)

LeCroy Arbitrary Function Generators:

The arbitrary/function generator (AFG) serves a wide range of stimulus needs; in fact, it is the prevailing signal generator architecture in the industry today. The LeCroy WaveStation model is an example of an AFG. Typically, this instrument offers fewer waveform variations than its AWG equivalent, but with excellent stability and fast response to frequency changes. If the DUT requires the classic sine and square waveforms (to name a few) and the ability to switch almost instantly between two frequencies, the arbitrary/function generator (AFG) is the right tool. An additional virtue is the AFG’s low cost, which makes it very attractive for applications that do not require an AWG’s versatility.


The LeCroy WaveStation AFG shares many features with an AWG, although the AFG is by design a more specialized instrument. The AFG offers unique strengths: it produces stable waveforms in standard shapes, particularly the all-important sine and square waves – that are both accurate and agile. Agility is the ability to change quickly and cleanly from one frequency to another.

In the past, AFGs created their output signals using analog oscillators and signal conditioning. LeCroy WaveStation AFGs rely on Direct Digital Synthesis (DDS) techniques to determine the rate at which samples are clocked out of their memory.

LeCroy WaveStation AFG waveforms:

• Sine
• Square
• Pulse
• Ramp
• Noise
• 40+ advanced arbitrary waveforms

While AWGs can certainly provide these same waveforms, today’s AFGs are designed to provide improved phase, frequency, and amplitude control of the output signal. Moreover, many AFGs offer a way to modulate the signal from internal or external sources, which is essential for some types of standards compliance testing.

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LeCroy Arbitrary Waveform Generators:

The LeCroy ArbStudio model is an example of a highly capable arbitrary waveform generator. An arbitrary waveform generator (AWG) can produce any waveform you can imagine. You can use a variety of methods – from mathematical formulae to “drawing” the waveform – to create the needed output. It is a tool whose block diagram is deceptively simple. To put the AWG concept in familiar terms, it is much like a CD player that reads out stored data (in the AWG, its own waveform memory; in the CD player, the disc itself) in real time. Both put out an analog signal, or waveform.

Important Features of LeCroy ArbStudio AWGs:

• Memory Depth (record length): Determines the maximum number of samples that can be stored - LeCroy Arbstudio offers 2 Mpts/Ch
• Sample Rate: Usually specified in terms of megasamples or gigasamples per second, denotes the maximum clock or sample rate at which the instrument can operate - LeCroy Arbstudio 1GS/s maximum sample rate
• Bandwidth: An instrument’s bandwidth is an analog term that exists independently of its sample rate. The analog bandwidth of a signal generator’s output circuitry must be sufficient to handle the maximum frequency that its sample rate will support - LeCroy Arbstudio 125MHz maximum bandwidth
• Vertical (Amplitude) Resolution: Vertical resolution pertains to the size in bits of the instrument’s DAC, with more bits equating to higher resolution. The vertical resolution of the DAC defines the amplitude accuracy and distortion of the re-produced waveform. - LeCroy Arbstudio 16-bit resolution
• Output Channels: LeCroy Arbstudio can have up to 4 main channels
• Digital Outputs: Certain LeCroy Arbstudio models feature digital pattern generators with either 18 or 36 digital channels depending on model
• Tools to create and edit waveforms as well as import data created outside the tools - LeCroy ArbStudio models come with ArbStudio PC hardware included with purchase