Astronics / EADS / Racal 3151A 100MS/s Waveform Generator

The Astronics/EADS/Racal 3151A is a single-slot, C-size VXIbus waveform generator delivering both standard and arbitrary waveform generation at up to 100 MS/s with 12-bit vertical resolution. This compact module operates as a versatile signal source for demanding test environments, supporting function generation, arbitrary waveform synthesis, and advanced triggering modes across VXIbus architectures.

## Technical Specifications

**Core Performance**
• Sampling rate: up to 100 MS/s
• Vertical resolution: 12 bits
• Output frequency range: 100 Hz to 50 MHz
• Arbitrary waveform buffer memory: up to 512 kB
• Waveform segmentation: up to 4096 different waveforms of variable size
• Segment repetition: up to 1 million iterations per segment
• Output impedance: 50 Ω

**Triggering & Gating**
• VXIbus trigger lines supported
• External trigger input with TTL voltage levels
• Trigger delay: up to 2 M wave points
• External burst mode: trigger-initiated
• Internal burst mode: timer-based repetition
• Gate signal input enables/disables generator output
• First gated output cycle synchronous with active gate slope; final cycle completes
• Trigger input impedance: 1 kΩ

**Interface & Form Factor**
• Single-slot, C-size VXI module
• VXIbus 3.0 compliant, message-based
• Front-panel BNC connectors: waveform output, marker output, trigger/gate input, external sample clock input
• External sample clock input: TTL voltage level
• Status indicators: red (fail), amber (M)

## Key Features

• Integrated arbitrary waveform and function generator in one module
• Segment-based waveform sequencing with programmable repetition
• Flexible burst triggering: both external edge-triggered and internal timer-driven modes
• Gate-controlled output with synchronous start/stop capability
• VXIplug&play driver support for Windows 98, NT, and 2000
• WaveCAD graphical waveform creation software included
• ArbConnection™ software compatibility

## Typical Applications

Complex signal generation for component and subsystem characterization, automated test systems requiring arbitrary waveforms, multi-burst stimulus sequences, and synchronized test stimulus in modular VXI instrumentation racks.

## Compatibility & Integration

VXIplug&play drivers enable integration into Windows-based test environments. The module’s single-slot form factor and VXIbus 3.0 compliance support standard VXI mainframe architectures. External triggering via TTL simplifies synchronization with other test equipment and data acquisition systems.