Agilent
33600A Series Trueform
Waveform Generators
DATA SHEET
33600A Series waveform generators with exclusive Trueform
signal generation technology offer more capability, fidelity
and flexibility than previous generation Direct Digital Synthesis
(DDS) generators. Use them to accelerate your development
process from start to finish.
1 GSa/s sampling rate and up to 120 MHz bandwidth
Arbs with sequencing and up to 64 MSa memory
1 ps jitter, 200x better than DDS generators
5x lower harmonic distortion than DDS
Compatible with Agilent BenchVue software
With
TECHNOLOGY
2
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Trueform Technology
Generate Trueform arbitrary waveforms
with less jitter, more fidelity and greater resolution
Over the past two decades, DDS has been the waveform generation
technology of choice in function generators and economical arbitrary
waveform generators. DDS enables waveform generators with great
frequency resolution, convenient custom waveforms, and a low price.
As with any technology, DDS has its limitations. Engineers with exacting
requirements have had to either work around the compromised per-
formance or spend up to 5 times more for a high-end, point-per-clock
waveform generator.
Agilent’s Trueform technology offers an alternative that blends
the best of DDS and point-per-clock architectures, giving you the ben-
efits of both without the limitations of either. Trueform technology uses
an exclusive digital sampling technique that delivers unmatched
performance at the same low price you are accustomed to with DDS.
The table below highlights the revolutionary capabilities of
Trueform technology.
DDS:
Traditional
100 MHz
waveform
generator
Trueform:
Agilent 80
and 120 MHz
waveform
generator
Improvement
Edge jitter <200 ps <1 ps 200x better
Custom
waveform
replication
Skips
waveform
points
100% point
coverage
Exact
waveform
replication
Total
harmonic
distortion
0.2% 0.03% 5x better
Anti-alias
filtering
Must provide
externally
Always
anti-aliased
No anti-aliasing
artifacts
Sequenced
arb
Not possible Standard Easily create
complex wave-
form sequences
For more information about Agilent Trueform technology please visit:
www.agilent.com/find/trueform
Revolutionary advances over previous
generation DDS
Trueform technology DDS technology
Lower
Distortion
Trueform
DDS
<1 ps <200 ps
0.03%
THD
Better
Signal
Integrity
Reduced
Jitter
3
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Key attributes
Jitter Risetime Total harmonic distortion Standard memory
200
100
150
50
0
Agilent
Trueform
<1 ps
<200 ps
Typical
DDS
5
1
2
3
4
0
5 ns
2.9 ns
Agilent
Trueform
Typical
DDS
0.25
0.20
0.15
0.10
0.05
0
0.03%
0.20%
Agilent
Trueform
Typical
DDS
4000
1000
2000
3000
0
Agilent
33600A Series
4 M
128 k
Older
generators
►
►
►
Easily generate the full range
of signals you need for the most
demanding measurements
Test your devices with confidence
that the waveform generator is
outputting the signals you expect
Select just the capabilities you
need now, then upgrade easily
when your needs change
Unique features of the 33600A Series waveform generators
100 MHz PULSE High-bandwidth pulse, 100 MHz, DDS pulse limited to 50 MHz
Set leading and trailing edge times independently
PRBS PATTERNS Provides standard PRBS patterns, PN3 through PN32
Select PN type, set bit rate, set edge times
2-CHANNEL COUPLING Dual-channel coupling, frequency and amplitude, and tracking
Set start phase for each channel, phase shift between channels
COMBINING SIGNALS Sum two signals together, frequency and amplitude independent
2-tone (4-tone on 2-ch), square-sine, noise on pulse, and others
TRUEFORM ARBS Create up to 4 million samples standard, 64 million optional
Connect arb segments together, with up to 512 segments
LOW VOLTAGE SETTINGS Lower voltage range at 1 mVpp, DDS is only 10 mVpp
Set high and low voltage limits to prevent overload on DUT
BAND-LIMITED NOISE Adjust bandwidth to concentrate the energy of the noise
Noise source goes to full 120 MHz bandwidth
4
The 33600A Series waveform generators offer the common signals and
features you expect, such as modulation, sweep and burst. However,
it also offers features that give you the capabilities and flexibility you
need to get your job done quickly, no matter how complex. An intui-
tive front-panel user interface, for example, can be quickly and easily
relearned when your attention has been focused elsewhere. Built-in
LAN, USB and optional GPIB interfaces allow you to easily control your
instruments or transfer waveforms to your instrument. And that’s just
the beginn
ing.
The 33600A Series waveform generators offer a variety of capabilities
you can’t find anywhere else—capabilities designed to help you
accelerate your testing and get your project wrapped up faster:
Waveform summing and combining capability
Easily add noise to your signal for margin and distortion testing
using only a single channel. You can create dual-tone
multifrequency signals without a dual-channel generator,
which means you can preserve your budget for other test
needs. On a two-channel model, you can sum and combine
up to four signals.
Variable-bandwidth noise
You can adjust the bandwidth of the built-in noise generator to
control the frequency content of your signal. Apply just the frequency
stimulus you need so you concentrate the energy of your waveform
in frequency bands-of-interest.
Trueform Technology
Unmatched capabilities for generating a full range
of signals for the most demanding requirements
The images at right show
an approximate 10 dB increase
in amplitude at 50 kHz when
the bandwidth is reduced 10x.
Note how the signal energy
is increased in the frequen-
cies-of-interest when the
bandwidth is reduced, instead
of being spread over a very
wide bandwidth with lower
amplitude at all frequencies.
Dual-tone signal created
by summing waveforms
using the modulation
type “Sum.”
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
5
While DDS technology may skip points at higher
frequencies, Trueform never skips points, and is always
anti-aliased
Define any waveform shape and any waveform length using the
Trueform arbitrary waveform capability. Your waveforms are always
anti-aliased for exceptional accuracy, and you can play them at any
rate you select. Play your signals as defined, at your exact sample
rate, without the chance of missing short-duration anomalies that are
critical for testing device reliability.
Waveform sequencing
Waveform sequencing lets you create multiple configured waveforms
with several common segments and lets you build long,
complex waveforms using minimal
instrument memory.
Scope display
of waveform.
Create the waveform in the 33503A
Waveform Builder Pro and download it
to the waveform generator.
▼
Waveform generator display
with downloaded waveform.
▼
◄
Trueform
Trueform
DDS
DDS misses details
DDS skips points at
higher bandwidths
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
6
Pseudo-random binary sequence (PRBS)
pattern generation
Test your digital serial buses by streaming standard PRBS patterns—
PN3 through PN32—without the need for a separate pulse
generator. With fewer instruments, setting up your tests has never
been easier. You won’t find these built-in PRBS patterns in
competitive waveform generators.
Flexibility in creating and playing waveforms
There are five ways to create arbitrary waveforms for use
with the 33600A generator.
1. Use the included Waveform Builder Basic software to edit
and download a waveform file to the generator.
2. Use 33503A Waveform Builder Pro software to create
more complex waveforms and sequencing.
3. Capture a waveform from an oscilloscope and download
it to the generator.
4. Create a waveform in MATLAB, Excel, etc. and download
it to the generator.
5. Use the generator’s front panel to edit a waveform once
it is in the generator.
You have lots of flexibility to choose the way you want to work.
BUILT-IN
USB
drive
Direct link
or USB
CSV or ARB
file
CSV
file
Embedded
waveform editor
Waveforms
from
Oscilloscopes
Waveforms
from
MATLAB & Excel Waveform
Builder
Pro
Waveform
Builder
Basic
drive,
COMPATIBLE
FILES
Easily generate
PRBS waveforms on
the 33600A Series
waveform generators.
You can select multiple sequence lengths
(such as PN15) and bit rates up to
200 Mbit/sec to create PRBS signals.
Smart phone and tablet access
to full documentation
Need a quick answer? Get instant access to instrument
documentation in seven different languages in
smart-phone-friendly WebHelp format. You can access
all user documentation in the palm of your hand—
no PC or hardcopy manuals required. Another feature
you won’t find in competitive function/arb generators.
Scan this QR code
to access instrument
documentation.
Capabilities continued
Trueform Technology
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
7
Built-in Web browser
Easily set up and control your 33600A Series generator remotely
over a LAN connection using the built-in LXI Web browser. You can
monitor your tests and adjust settings from another office or
room, or even from home.
Standard deep memory
If you want to test your design with long, complex waveforms
with a variety of anomalies, you need to make sure your waveform
generator has sufficient memory. The 33600A Series’ standard
memory is 4 MSamples deep.
Typical DDS generators
offer only a fraction of that
amount but with the
33600A Series there is even
a 64 MSample memory
option available.
Use the optional high-stability timebase
for even better accuracy
Get improved timebase stability and frequency accuracy using the
optional high-stability timebase. The optional timebase offers
0.1 ppm stability, which is 20x more stable than the standard
timebase over one year.
4000
1000
2000
3000
0
Agilent
33600A Series
4 M
128 k
Older
generators
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
8
33600A Series waveform generators offer the
following advantages:
Lowest jitter
With 1 ps jitter, 200x better than DDS generators, 33600A Series
waveform generators offer unparalleled edge stability. You can even use
them as a system clock for timing and triggering your other instruments.
With better jitter performance, you can place edges more accurately,
helping you reduce timing errors in your circuit design.
Lowest harmonic distortion
With total harmonic distortion of just 0.03%, the 33600A Series offers
5x better fidelity than other generators. Clean, spurious-free signals
don’t introduce noise or artifacts. See your design’s characteristics, not
the waveform generator’s, in your measurements.
Faster edge times
The 33600A Series’ 2.9-ns rise and fall times are more than twice as
fast as you’ll find in typical waveform generators. You can place edges
with more confidence and more accurately set trigger points. Because
of the faster transition, higher harmonic content is created, which
helps you expand your understanding of your circuit.
Trueform Technology
Signal integrity: test your devices with confidence
that your signal generator is outputting
the signals you expect
Agilent 33600A Series waveform generators offer the
lowest total harmonic distortion (THD) in its class.
Typical DDS generator has a higher noise floor and greater harmonics.
<1 ps <200 ps
Trueform technology significantly improves jitter performance.
Trueform technology Traditional DDS technology
If your generator is introducing spurious signals or harmonics, you’ll have
a hard time producing reliable designs. To be successful, you need to test
with clean, precise, low-noise signals. Agilent 33600A Series waveform
generators offer the highest signal fidelity so you can generate the exact
waveforms you need for your most challenging measurements. You can be
confident you are seeing your design’s characteristics, and not that of your
waveform generator, in your measurements.
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
9
Reproduce lower-voltage output signals
Today’s ultra-low-power products such as pacemakers, hearing aids
and remote sensors use very low voltages. The 33600A Series lets
you create signals as low as 1 mVpp. That’s a 10x lower voltage range
than typical waveform generators.
Full bandwidth modulation sources
Eliminate the need for an external modulation source. The 33600A
Series has a modulation frequency up to the frequency of the
waveform being modulated. Existing DDS-based generators have
a much lower internal modulation frequency. Now you can create
your complex signals all within a single generator.
High-bandwidth pulses
Create pulses up to 100 MHz with the 33600A Series. Most DDS-based
generators offer reduced bandwidth when generating pulses. With a
broader operating range, you have the frequency you need for a wider
range of applications.
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
10
Trueform Technology
Select the capabilities you need now,
then upgrade easily when
your needs change
Investment protection
With most waveform generators, you get only what you pay for
when you buy your instrument. But with 33600A Series waveform
generators, there are four different models to choose from so you can
purchase the capability you need now and upgrade later when your
project needs change. Your investment in test equipment is protected.
If you need to generate 120 MHz waveforms, or if you need deeper
memory for generating more complex signals, you can easily add the
capability after the fact with software upgrades. And there’s no price
penalty for adding the capability later.
Application-specific options
If you are doing simple experiments in digital communications,
use the optional IQ player to play IQ files on your 2-channel
waveform generator.
Select from four models to get the capability that
fits your budget now—then take advantage of easy
software upgrades to expand your instrument’s
capabilities when you are ready.
Optional IQ player allows you to play IQ files
on your 2-channel waveform generator.
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Model No. Description
33611A 80 MHz, 1-channel
33612A 80 MHz, 2-channel
33621A 120 MHz, 1-channel
33622A 120 MHz, 2-channel
11
4 models to choose from
Choose the model with the capability you
need now, knowing you can upgrade later.
All models come with a rich set of built-in,
standard features, including LAN, USB and
optional GPIB interfaces, 4 MSample of
memory, an external timebase input, and
basic waveform generation software. You
get everything you need to generate clean,
precise, low-noise signals for testing your
designs.
Large, color, graphical display offers
simultaneous parameter setup, signal viewing
and editing for easy operation.
Supports remote operation using
a Web browser to connect to a
built-in web page.
LAN (LXI Class C), USB and optional GPIB
connectivity for quick and easy connectivity
to a PC or network.
Front-panel
USB port for
file management.
Trueform arbitrary waveforms
with sequencing for more accurate
representation of user-defined signals.
Dual-channel mode with
independent or coupled channels.
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
12
33600A Series
Trueform Waveform Generator
Test Challenges
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Generating the signals you need for your
measurements can be a tedious and time-
consuming task, one that’s often complicated
by uncertainty whether your signal generator
is outputting the signals you expect. Agilent’s
33600A Series of waveform generators with
exclusive Trueform technology offer you the
capabilities, fidelity and flexibility you need
to easily and confidently generate signals for
even your most complex tests. Superior signal
integrity guarantees you the highest resolu-
tion and lowest distortion for playing arbitrary
waveforms with a complete representation of
signals and creating complex waveform se-
quences. The ability to choose from a range of
different upgradeable models means you have
the functionality you need to easily address
your test challenges today and in the future.
Shown at right are some of the key test
challenges for which the 33600A Series
Trueform waveform generators are especially
well suited.
For more details and to download measure-
ment briefs on these topics above visit:
www.agilent.com/find/trueformTC
Test challenge How Trueform can help
Generating a waveform with many points
EXAMPLES
form waveform generator accuracy
your waveforms
Simulating signals with the highest integrity
EXAMPLES
from cycle to cycle
form waveform generators are the best
in the industry
force fit a number of samples
(e.g., distorted signals and stretched points)
Effortlessly couple or synchronize two
signals on a waveform generator
EXAMPLES
on two signals Using a waveform generator to generate
a PRBS signal
EXAMPLES
Creating a differential signal with
a waveform generator
EXAMPLES
channels
Be more efficient designing and using your
arbitrary waveforms
EXAMPLES
redesigning the whole signal
together in a different order
starts another signal
frequencies
different frequencies
settings with arb metadata
13
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Agilent BenchLink Waveform
Builder Pro Software
Easily create custom waveforms with advanced waveform
creation and editing software
Get advanced signal creation/editing capability without tedious
programming with optional 33503A BenchLink Waveform Builder Pro
software. The Microsoft Windows-based program provides easy-to-use
creation tools, such as an equation editor, waveform math and drawing
tools, that make it easy to create custom signals. It features a standard
function library, waveform sequencer and filters as well as window-
ing functions that allow you to easily modify and further refine your
waveform. A library of built-in signals helps you quickly create more
complex waveforms.
The result is quicker, easier creation of custom waveforms, coupled
with deeper analysis insight into your signals. For additional
information and to download a 30-day trial version of the software,
visit: www.agilent.com/find/33503trial
Agilent BenchVue Software
Data capture simplified
Agilent 34840B BenchVue software for the PC accelerates your
testing by providing intuitive, multiple instrument measurement
visibility and data capture with no programming. You can derive
answers faster than ever by easily viewing, capturing and exporting
measurement data and screen shots. The integrated library feature
includes access to manuals, FAQs, videos, and more—enabling you
to expand your measurement knowledge and reduce test setup time.
Mobile apps let you monitor and respond to long-running tests from
anywhere. With BenchVue, it’s as simple as: click, capture, done.
Visualize multiple-instrument measurements simultaneously
Easily capture data and screen shots and export in a few clicks
Recall past state of your bench to replicate results
Monitor and control your bench from mobile devices
Capture and analyze your data where you need to. Download the
software today at: www.agilent.com/find/BenchVue
Other Productivity Tools
Create and edit complex waveforms using 33503A Waveform Builder Pro software.
14
Step 1. Choose your bandwidth and channel count
Step 2. Tailor your waveform generator for more demanding applications
Step 3. Upgrade your waveform generator in the future
33600A Series waveform generators with Trueform technology
Bandwidth 80 MHz 80 MHz 120 MHz 120 MHz
Number of channels 1 2 1 2
Waveform generator 33611A 33612A 33621A 33622A
Application Order option
Additional memory for long waveforms MEM
Baseband IQ Player with adjustments IQP (only available on 33612A, 33622A)
Security features with NISPOM SEC
OCXO-high stability timebase OCX
Upgrade desired Order upgrade option
Increase bandwidth to 120 MHz 336BW1U on 1-channel models
336BW2U on 2-channel models
Increase arb memory to 64 MSa per channel 336MEM1U on 1-channel models
336MEM2U on 2-channel models
Add NISPOM and file security 336SECU
Add IQ baseband signal player to 2-channel arb 336IQPU
Add high-stability timebase 33600U-OCX (Must return to Agilent)
Add GPIB 3446GPBU (Customer installable)
NOTE: Cannot upgrade a 1-channel generator to a 2- channel generator
Configuration Guide
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
15
Models & options
Model number 33611A 33612A 33621A 33622A
Maximum frequency 80 MHz 80 MHz 120 MHz 120 MHz
Number of channels 1 2 1 2
Option MEM Increases arbitrary waveform memory from 4 MSa/channel to 64 MSa/channel
Option IQP IQ player (33612A/22A only)
Option SEC Enables NISPOM and file security
Option OCX Oven-controlled frequency reference for improved stability, jitter, and phase noise
Waveforms
Standard Sine, Square, Ramp, Pulse, Triangle, Gaussian Noise, PRBS (Pseudorandom Binary Sequence), DC
Built-in arbitrary Cardiac, Exponential Fall, Exponential Rise, Gaussian Pulse, Haversine, Lorentz, D-Lorentz,
Negative Ramp, Sinc
User-defined arbitrary Up to 4 MSa (64 MSa with Option MEM) with multi-segment sequencing
Operating modes & modulation types
Operating modes Continuous, Modulate, Frequency Sweep, Counted Burst, Gated Burst
Modulation types AM, FM, PM, FSK, BPSK, PWM, Sum (carrier + modulation)
SINE
Frequency ranges
VOUT ≤ 10 Vpp
1 Hz to 60 MHz, 1-Hz resolution
VOUT ≤ 8 Vpp
1 Hz to 80 MHz, 1-Hz resolution
VOUT ≤ 4 Vpp
1 Hz to 120 MHz, 1-Hz resolution 1
Amplitude flatness (rel. to 1 kHz) VOUT = 1 Vpp (typ)
2,3
VOUT > 1 Vpp (spec)
2,3
fOUT < 10 MHz
± 0.10 dB ± 0.10 dB
fOUT = 10 MHz to 60 MHz
± 0.20 dB ± 0.25 dB
fOUT = 60 MHz to 80 MHz
± 0.30 dB ± 0.40 dB
fOUT = 80 MHz to 120 MHz
1
± 0.40 dB ± 0.50 dB
Harmonic distortion (typ)
2
VOUT = 1 Vpp VOUT = 4 Vpp VOUT = 8 Vpp VOUT=10 Vpp
fOUT < 1 MHz
−70 dBc −69 dBc −68 dBc −67 dBc
fOUT < 1 MHz to 10 MHz
−61 dBc −58 dBc −54 dBc −51 dBc
fOUT > 10 MHz
−43 dBc −36 dBc −40 dBc −39 dBc
THD (typ)
2
VOUT = 1 Vpp VOUT > 1 Vpp
fOUT = 20 Hz to 20 kHz
0.03% 0.04%
Non-harmonic spurious (VOUT ≥ 300 mVpp) (typ)
2, 4
fOUT < 10 MHz
−80 dBc
fOUT = 10 MHz to 60 MHz
−75 dBc
fOUT > 60 MHz
−70 dBc
Phase noise (SSB) (meas) 5
fOUT = 80 MHz fOUT = 80 MHz, Opt OCX fOUT = 120 MHz
1
fOUT= 120 MHz, Opt OCX 1
100-Hz offset
−105 dBc/Hz −114 dBc/Hz −101 dBc/Hz −110 dBc/Hz
1-kHz offset
−116 dBc/Hz −122 dBc/Hz −112 dBc/Hz −118 dBc/Hz
10-kHz offset
−122 dBc/Hz −125 dBc/Hz −118 dBc/Hz −121 dBc/Hz
100-kHz offset
−129 dBc/Hz −131 dBc/Hz −125 dBc/Hz −127 dBc/Hz
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Specifications
Unless otherwise stated, all specifications apply with a 50-Ω resistive load and automatic amplitude range selection enabled.
Instrument characteristics
Waveform characteristics (all 33600A models)
Footnotes referenced on page 22
16
Waveform characteristics, continued
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Square & pulse
Frequency ranges
VOUT ≤ 10 Vpp
1 Hz to 50 MHz, 1-Hz resolution
VOUT ≤ 4 Vpp
1 Hz to 100 MHz, 1-Hz resolution 1
Rise & fall time (nom) Square Pulse
VOUT ≤ 4 Vpp
2.9 ns 2.9 ns to 1 ms, independently variable, 100-ps resolution
VOUT > 4 Vpp
4.0 ns 3.3 ns to 1 ms, independently variable, 100-ps resolutio
Overshoot (typ) Square Pulse, min. edge Pulse, 4-ns edge Pulse, ≥ 6-ns edge
VOUT ≤ 4 Vpp
< 4% < 4% < 2% < 2%
VOUT > 4 Vpp
< 4% < 7% < 4% < 2%
Duty cycle
6
0.01% to 99.99%, 0.01% resolution
Pulse width
VOUT ≤ 4 Vpp
5 ns minimum (high or low), 1-ps resolution
VOUT > 4 Vpp
8 ns minimum (high or low), 1-ps resolution
Jitter (rms) (meas)
7
Standard Opt OCX
10-Hz to 40-MHz band
1 ps 0.5 ps
Ramp & triangle
Frequency range
1 Hz to 800 kHz, 1-Hz resolution
Ramp symmetry
0% to 100%, 0.1% resolution, (0% is negative ramp, 100% is positive ramp, 50% is triangle)
Nonlinearity (typ)
< 0.05% from 5% to 95% of the signal amplitude
Gaussian noise
Variable bandwidth (nom)
VOUT ≤ 10 Vpp
1 mHz to 60 MHz
VOUT ≤ 8 Vpp
1 mHz to 80 MHz
VOUT ≤ 4 Vpp
1 mHz to 120 MHz
1
Crest factor (nom)
4.6
Repetition period
> 100 years
Pseudorandom binary sequence (PRBS)
Bit rate
VOUT ≤ 10 Vpp
1 mbps to 100 Mbps, 1-mbps resolution
VOUT ≤ 4 Vpp
1 mbps to 200 Mbps, 1-mbps resolution 1
Sequence length 2m-1, m = 3 to 32
Rise & fall time (nom)
VOUT ≤ 4 Vpp
2.9 ns to 1 ms, independently variable, 100-ps resolution
VOUT > 4 Vpp
3.3 ns to 1 ms, independently variable, 100-ps resolution
Arbitrary waveforms
Waveform length 32 Sa to 4 MSa per channel (64 MSa with Option MEM) in increments of 1 Sa
Sample rate (FS)
33611A/12A 1 Sa/s to 660 MSa/s, 1-Sa/s resolution 8
33621A/12A 1 Sa/s to 1 GSa/s , 1-Sa/s resolution 8
Voltage resolution 14 bits
Waveform filters “Normal” (highest bandwidth, ~5% preshoot and overshoot),
“Step” (lower bandwidth, ~0% preshoot or overshoot), or
“Off” (transitions from point to point occur as quickly as possible)
Frequency and time characteristics Filter = “Normal” Filter = “Step” Filter = “Off”
Bandwidth (-3 dB)(nom)
0.27 x FS (100 MHz max) 0.13 x FS (100 MHz max) 100 MHz
Rise & fall time (nom)
0.35 / bandwidth (3.5 ns min) 0.35 / bandwidth (3.5 ns min)
3.5 ns
Jitter (rms) (meas) 8< 2 ps < 1 ps < 10 ps
Footnotes referenced on page 22
17
Waveform characteristics, continued
Waveform output characteristics
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Arbitrary waveform sequencing
Operation
Individual arbitrary waveforms (segments) can be combined into user-defined lists (sequences)
to form longer, more complex waveforms. Each sequence step specifies whether to repeat the
associated segment a certain number of times, to repeat it indefinitely, to repeat it until a Trigger
event occurs, or to stop and wait for a Trigger event. Additionally, the behavior of the Sync output
(Marker) can be specified in each step. To improve throughput, multiple sequences and segments
can be pre-loaded into volatile memory.
Segment length
32 Sa to 4 MSa per channel (64 MSa with Option MEM) in increments of 1 Sa
Sequence length
1 to 512 steps
Segment repeat count
1 to 106 or “Infinite”
General
Connector Front-panel BNC, shell and pin isolated from chassis (±42 V maximum)
Function On, Off, or Inverted
Output impedance (nom) 50 Ω
Isolation Connector shells for channel output(s), Sync, and Mod In are connected together but isolated from
the instrument’s chassis. Maximum allowable voltage on isolated connector shell or pin is ±42 V
relative to chassis.
Overload protection Output turns off automatically when an overload is applied. Instrument will tolerate a short circuit
to ground indefinitely.
Amplitude
Range 91 mVpp to 10 Vpp into 50 Ω, 4-digit resolution
2 mVpp to 20 Vpp into open circuit, 4-digit resolution
Units Vpp, Vrms, or dBm
Accuracy (at 1 kHz) (spec) 3± (1% of setting in Vpp) ± (1 mVpp)
Voltage limit function User-definable maximum and minimum voltage limits
DC offset
Range ± (5 VDC - Peak AC) into 50 Ω, 4-digit resolution
± (10 VDC - Peak AC) into open circuit, 4-digit resolution
Accuracy (spec) 3± (1% of Offset setting) ± (0.25% of amplitude in Vpp) ± (2 mV)
Frequency accuracy (spec)
Standard frequency reference
1 year, 18 to 28 ºC ± (1 ppm of setting + 15 pHz)
1 year, 0 to 55 ºC ± (2 ppm of setting + 15 pHz)
High-stability frequency reference (Option OCX)
1 year, 0 to 55 ºC ± (0.1 ppm of setting + 15 pHz)
Footnotes referenced on page 22
Modulation, burst, and sweep capability
Carrier AM FM PM FSK BPSK PWM Sum Burst Sweep
Sine & square ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Pulse ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Ramp & triangle ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Gaussian noise ● ● ● 10
PRBS ● ● ● ● ●
Single arbitrary ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Sequenced arbitrary ● ●
18
Specifications
Carrier Sine Square Ramp Triangle Noise PRBS Arbitrary External
Sine ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Square & pulse ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Ramp & triangle ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Gaussian noise ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
PRBS ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Arbitrary ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Modulating signals
Modulation, burst, and sweep characteristics
Amplitude modulation (AM)
Source
Internal or external (all models), or other channel (33612A/22A only)
Type
Full-Carrier or Double-Sideband Suppressed-Carrier (DSSC)
Depth
11
0% to 120%, 0.01% resolution
Frequency modulation (FM) 12
Source Internal or external (all models), or other channel (33612A/22A only)
Deviation 1 Hz to 40 MHz (33611A/12A) or 60 MHz (33621A/22A), 1-Hz resolution
Phase modulation (PM)
Source Internal or external (all models), or other channel (33612A/22A only)
Deviation 0º to 360º, 0.1º resolution
Frequency-shift key modulation (FSK) 12
Source Internal timer or rear-panel connector
Mark & space Any frequency within the carrier signal’s range
Rate ≤ 1 MHz
Binary phase-shift key modulation (BPSK)
Source Internal timer or rear-panel connector
Phase shift 0º to 360º, 0.1º resolution
Rate ≤ 1 MHz
Pulse-width modulation (PWM)
Source
Internal or external (all models), or other channel (33612A/22A only)
Deviation
6
0% to 100% of pulse width, 0.01% resolution
Additive modulation (Sum)
Source Internal or external (all models), or other channel (33612A/22A only)
Ratio
11 0% to 100% of carrier amplitude, 0.01% resolution
Burst characteristics 10
Type Counted or gated
Counted burst operation
Each trigger event causes the instrument to produce from 1 to 108 or an “infinite” number of waveform cycles.
Gated burst operation Instrument produces waveforms while the trigger is in the “on” state. For Gaussian Noise, waveform
generation stops immediately when the trigger is in the “off” state. All other waveforms stop at the
completion of a cycle; more than one cycle might elapse before generation stops.
Start/stop phase -360º to +360º, 0.1º resolution
Trigger source Internal timer or rear-panel connector
Marker Indicated by the trailing edge of the Sync pulse; adjustable to any cycle of the burst.
Footnotes referenced on page 22
19
Specifications
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Modulation, burst, and sweep characteristics, continued
Sweep characteristics 12
Type Linear, Logarithmic, or List (up to 128 user-defined frequencies)
Operation Linear and Logarithmic sweeps are characterized by a Sweep time (during which the frequency changes
smoothly from Start to Stop), a Hold time (during which the frequency stays at the Stop frequency), and a
Return time (during which the frequency changes smoothly from Stop to Start). Returns are always linear.
Direction Up (start < stop) or Down (start > stop)
Sweep time
Linear 1 ms to 3600 s, 1-ms resolution; 3601 s to 250,000 s, 1-s resolution
Logarithmic 1 ms to 500 s, 1-ms resolution
Hold time 0 to 3600 s, 1-ms resolution
Return time 0 to 3600 s, 1-ms resolution
Trigger source
14 Immediate (continuous), external (rear-panel connector), manual (front-panel button), bus, or Internal timer
Marker Indicated by the trailing edge of the Sync pulse; adjustable to any frequency between Start and Stop for
Linear and Logarithmic types or any frequency in the list for List type.
Internal timer for FSK, BPSK, burst, and sweep
Range 1 s to 4000 s, 4-ns resolution
Standard
Operating modes
Independent, Coupled parameter(s), Combined (Ch 1 + Ch 2), Equal (Ch 1 = Ch 2),
or Differential (Ch 1 = −Ch 2)
Parameter coupling
None, Frequency (ratio or difference) and/or Amplitude and DC offset
Relative Phase
0° to 360°, 0.1° resolution
Channel-to-channel skew (typ)
< 100 ps (both channels configured identically)
Crosstalk (typ) < –85 dB
IQ Player (Option IQP)
Operation This option enables a two-channel model with arbitrary waveform capability to function as a baseband
IQ (quadrature modulation) source. Programmable impairments include amplitude imbalance, DC offset
difference, and channel-to-channel time skew.
Channel-to-channel
amplitude imbalance
11
−30% to +30%, 0.001% resolution
Channel-to-channel
DC offset difference
± (5 VDC - Peak AC), 0.1-mV resolution into 50 Ω
± (10 VDC - Peak AC), 0.2-resolution into open circuit
Channel-to-channel
time skew
−1 to +1 ns, 10-ps resolution
Display views Voltage-vs-Time or Constellation (Ch 1-vs-Ch 2)
Connector Front-panel BNC, shell and pin isolated from chassis (± 42 V maximum)
Functions Sync, Sweep Marker, Burst Marker, Arbitrary Waveform Marker, or Off
Assignment Channel 1 or Channel 2
Polarity Normal or Inverted
Output level (nom) 0 to +1.5 V into 50 Ω; 0 to +3.0 V into high impedance
Output impedance (nom) 50 Ω
Minimum pulse width (nom) 5 ns
Two-channel characteristics (33612A/22A only)
Sync/marker output
Footnotes referenced on page 22
20
Connector Rear-panel BNC, shell and pin isolated from chassis (±42 V maximum)
Assignment Channel 1, Channel 2, or both
Voltage level (nom) ±1 V or ±5 V full scale, selectable
Input Impedance (nom) 5 kΩ
Bandwidth (−3 dB) (typ) 0 Hz to 100 kH
General characteristics
Connector
Rear-panel BNC, chassis-referenced (functions as Input or Output)
Assignment: Input Channel 1, Channel 2, or both
Output Channel 1 or Channel 2
Polarity
Positive or Negative slope
Maximum Rate 1 MHz
Input characteristics
Threshold voltage (nom) (Output Level setting)/2
Impedance (nom) 10 kΩ, DC-coupled
Minimum pulse width 100 ns
Variable Trigger Delay 0 to 1000 s, 1-ns resolution
Latency (typ) 15 < 140 ns
Jitter (typ) < 320 ps, rms
Output characteristics
Output voltage (nom)
Low level 0 V
High level 0.9 V to 3.8 V into high impedance, 0.1-V resolution
Impedance (nom) 50 Ω
Duty cycle (nom) 50%
Fan-out Up to four Agilent 33600A Series waveform generators
Input characteristics
Connector Rear-panel BNC, shell and pin isolated from chassis and all other connectors (±42 V max.)
Frequency range: Standard
10 MHz ± 20 Hz
Option OCX
10 MHz ± 1 Hz
Voltage 200 mVpp to 5 Vpp
Impedance 1 kΩ ll 20 pF, AC-coupled
Lock time (typ) < 2 s
Output characteristics
Connector Rear-panel BNC, chassis-referenced
Frequency (nom)
10 MHz
Level (nom) 0 dBm (632 mVpp) into 50 Ω
Impedance (nom) 50 Ω
Specifications
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Modulation input
External trigger/gate input/output
External frequency reference input/output
Footnotes referenced on page 22
21
Specifications
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Footnotes referenced on page 22
Configuration changes (meas) LAN (socket) LAN (VXI-11) USB 2.0 GPIB
Change function (meas) 29.2 ms 29.7 ms 29.4 ms 29.2 ms
Change frequency (meas) 2.7 ms 3.3 ms 2.8 ms 2.7 ms
Change amplitude (meas) 8.3 ms 9.0 ms 8.3 ms 8.3 ms
Select Arb. waveform
(16 k samples)(meas)
12.7 ms 13.9 ms 13.1 ms 12.6 ms
Arbitrary waveform download to volatile
4 K samples (binary transfer)
(meas)
6.4 ms 13.2 ms 6.6 ms 52.3 ms
1 M samples (binary transfer)
(meas)
1.26 s 2.40 s 1.25 s 12.3 s
Arbitrary waveform
Volatile 4 MSa/channel (64 MSa/channel with Option MEM). 512 sequence steps per channel
Non-volatile 970 MB in file system (~485 MSa of arbitrary waveform records)
Instrument state
Store/recall User-defined instrument states with user-defined names in file system
Power-On state Default settings or state at power-off, selectable
USB file system
Front-panel port USB 2.0 high-speed mass storage class (MSC) device
Capability Read or write instrument configuration settings, instrument states, arbitrary-waveform, and sequence files.
Speed (nom) 10 MB/s
Computer interfaces
LXI-C (rev. 1.3) 10/100Base-T (Sockets & VXI-11 protocols)
USB 2.0 (USB-TMC488 protocol)
GPIB/IEEE-488.1, IEEE-488.2
Web user interface Remote operation and monitoring
Programming language SCPI-1999, IEEE-488.2
Agilent 33210A, 33220A, 33250A, and 33500A/B Series compatible
Graphical display 4.3-inch color TFT, WQVGA (480x272) with LED backlight
Real-time clock/calendar battery CR-2032 coin-type, replaceable, >5-year life (typ)
Mechanical
Size (nom) 261.1 mm W x 103.8 mm H x 303.2 mm D (with bumpers installed)
212.8 mm W x 88.3 mm H x 272.3 mm D (with bumpers removed)
2U x ½ rack width
Weight (nom) 3.5 Kg (7.7 lbs.)
Programming times
Memory
General characteristics
22
Specifications
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Environmental
Storage temperature –40 to 70 ºC
Warm-up time 1 hour
Operating environment EN61010, pollution degree 2, indoor locations
Operating temperature 0 to 55 ºC
Operating humidity 5% to 80% RH, non-condensing
Operating altitude < 3000 meters
Regulatory
Refer to the Declaration of Conformity, which can be viewed and downloaded from
http://regulations.corporate.agilent.com/DoC/search.htm
Sound pressure level (1-m free-field) (nom) 35 dB(A) at TAMBIENT ≤ 28 ºC
Line power
Line voltage 100 to 240 V, 50/60 Hz
100 to 120 V, 400 Hz
Power consumption 75 W, 150 VA
Warranty
Standard 3 years
General characteristics, continued
FOOTNOTES
1. Applies to 120-MHz models (33621A/22A) only.
2. DC Offset set to zero.
3. Add 1/10 of the specification per ºC for operation at temperatures below 18 ºC or above 28 ºC.
4. At low amplitude, non-harmonic spurious level is -100 dBm (typ).
5. Measured with an Agilent E5052B signal source analyzer. Phase noise improves by 20 dB/decade as output frequency is decreased.
6. Subject to pulse width limits.
7. Measured with an Agilent E5052B signal source analyzer.
8. Maximum sample rate with Filter “Off” is 160 MSa/s for 80-MHz models and 250 MSa/s for 120-MHz models.
9. Maximum amplitude is less at high frequency for certain waveforms.
10. Counted burst is not available for Gaussian Noise.
11. Subject to amplitude limits.
12. All frequency changes are phase-continuous.
13. External trigger only for sweep time > 8000 s.
14. Measured with a Square or Pulse waveform, edge time set to minimum, and trigger delay set to zero. Trigger latency is generally greater
for other instrument settings. For some waveforms, trigger latency is a function of output frequency.
23
REVOLUTIONARY SIGNAL FIDELITY WITH UNMATCHED CAPABILITIES
Definitions
Specification (spec)
The warranted performance of a calibrated instrument that has been stored for
a minimum of 2 hours within the operating temperature range of 0 to 55 ºC and
after a 1-hour warm up period. All specifications account for the effects of mea-
surement and calibration-source uncertainties, and were created in compliance
with ISO-17025 methods. Data published in this document are specifications
(spec) only where specifically indicated.
Typical (typ)
The characteristic performance that 80% or more of manufactured instruments will
meet. This data is not warranted, does not include measurement or calibration-
source uncertainty, and is valid only at room temperature (approximately 23 ºC).
Nominal (nom)
The mean or average characteristic performance, or the value of an attribute
that is determined by design such as a connector type, physical dimension, or
operating speed. This data is not warranted and is measured at room tempera-
ture (approximately 23 ºC).
Measured (meas)
An attribute measured during product development for the purpose of commu-
nicating expected performance. This data is not warranted and is measured at
room temperature (approximately 23 ºC).
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Published in USA, May 9, 2014
5991-3272EN
