Astronics / EADS / Racal 3152 Precision PLL Waveform Generator

The Astronics/EADS/Racal 3152 Precision PLL Waveform Generator is a single-slot C-size VXIbus module combining synthesized function generation with arbitrary waveform capability. Built around phase-locked loop technology, this instrument delivers frequency-stable output from 100 µHz to 50 MHz with 7-digit resolution and integrates direct digital synthesis for low phase noise performance. The module generates nine standard waveforms—sine, square, triangle, ramp, pulse, DC, exponential, Gaussian pulse, and sinc—plus user-defined arbitrary waveforms. Three variants address different performance tiers: the 3152 and 3152A support 100 MS/s sampling and 10 MHz sweep range, while the 3152B extends sampling to 250 MS/s and sweep capability to 100 MHz (sine/square) or 16 MHz (triangle).

## Technical Specifications

• **Sample Rate:** 100 MS/s (3152/3152A); 250 MS/s (3152B)
• **Analog Bandwidth:** 50 MHz
• **Vertical Resolution:** 12-bit
• **Output Amplitude:** 20 mV to 32 Vpk-pk open circuit; 10 mV to 16 Vpk-pk into 50 Ω
• **Amplitude Resolution:** 4 digits
• **DC Offset:** 0 to ±7.995 V, 1 mV resolution
• **Frequency Range:** 100 µHz to 50 MHz
• **Frequency Resolution:** 7-digit
• **Phase Offset Control:** 0.01° resolution

## Key Features

• Powerful sequencing links up to 4096 waveform segments with 1 million repeat capability in burst mode
• Sweep modes support linear or logarithmic frequency ramps across sine, square, or triangle waveforms
• External PLL locks automatically to analog signals from 500 Hz to 10 MHz (standard waveforms) or 500 Hz to 100 MHz (arbitrary waveforms); input range 100 mV to 30 Vrms
• Programmable trigger threshold with 10 mV resolution
• Phase modulation input for real-time analog phase control
• Built-in 4-digit frequency counter measures external signals to 10 MHz and 30 Vrms

## Typical Applications

• Telecommunications testing and signal characterization
• Frequency sweep validation in RF and analog circuits
• Arbitrary waveform stimulus for specialized test protocols

## Compatibility & Integration

VXIbus interface supports direct integration into VXI modular test systems.