Tektronix / CDS 73A-270 Arbitrary Pulse / Pattern Generator

The Tektronix / CDS 73A-270 is a VXIbus Arbitrary Pulse / Pattern Generator Module that generates complex analog and digital signals on two independently programmable output channels. This single-slot printed circuit board assembly operates within a VXIbus card cage and delivers arbitrary strings of active and inactive TTL or bipolar analog pulses and patterns with programmatic control over timing and repetition.

– Technical Specifications

• Channels: 2 independent output channels
• Output Types: TTL (active high/low), VXIbus TTLTRG, bipolar analog
• Bipolar Output Voltage: ±17.4 V
• TTL Output Current: 3.2 mA source, 24 mA sink
• Memory per Channel: 1600-word high-speed memory
• Output Durations: Up to 1600 six-decimal digit values per channel
• Sequential Outputs: 1 to 1600 per channel
• Repeat Modes: 1 to 63 iterations or continuous
• Resolution Ranges: 100 ns, 1 µs, 10 µs, 100 µs
• External Clock Input: 1 kHz to 10 MHz
• Interface: VXIbus backplane (common to both channels)

– Key Features

• Real-time memory update capability — modify timing values during active transmission without interruption
• Selectable resolution ranges from 100 ns to 100 µs provide flexible timing granularity
• Six decimal digit precision enables fine-grained pulse duration control
• TTL and bipolar analog output formats support diverse signal requirements
• External clock synchronization accepts 1 kHz to 10 MHz sources for timing alignment
• Dual-channel independence eliminates cross-talk and enables simultaneous pattern generation

– Typical Applications

Arbitrary pulse and pattern generation in automated test environments, functional validation of digital and analog circuits, and timing-critical signal synthesis in VXI-based measurement systems.

– Compatibility & Integration

Designed for VXIbus card cages compliant with the VXIbus Specification. Integrates with VXI systems such as the CDS 73A-021 mainframe.