Wavetek 190 Function Generator, 2 MHz to 20 MHz

The Wavetek 190 is a 20 MHz function generator that delivers precise, multi-waveform signal generation across a 0.002 Hz to 20 MHz frequency range. Purpose-built for test, measurement, and calibration work, it combines flexible operational modes with extensive waveform control to meet demanding lab requirements. Engineers can select from sine, triangle, square, and DC outputs with independently adjustable amplitude, frequency, and duty cycle parameters. Three operational modes—continuous, triggered, and gated—enable adaptation to diverse measurement scenarios without reconfiguration.

– Technical Specifications

Frequency & Waveform Generation
• Frequency range: 0.002 Hz to 20 MHz across 9 overlapping decade ranges
• Waveforms: Sine, Triangle, Square, DC
• Dial accuracy: ±3% of full scale (X.1 Hz to X 1 MHz ranges); ±5% on X 10M range
• Sine distortion: <0.5% (X1K and X10K ranges); <1.0% (X.1 to X100 and X100K ranges); all harmonics 30 dB below fundamental (X1M); 25 dB below (X10M)
• Square wave rise/fall time: <15 ns (10% to 90%)
• Symmetry adjustment: 1:19 to 19:1 (enables sawtooth and variable duty cycle pulses)

Amplitude Control
• Output range: 30 Vp-p (15 Vp-p into 50Ω) down to 1.5 mVp-p
• Maximum peak current: 150 mA
• Attenuation: 10 dB step (up to 70 dB) plus 10 dB vernier for 80 dB total range
• Amplitude stability (after 2-hour warm-up): ±0.05% short term (10 minutes); ±0.25% long term (24 hours)
• Amplitude variation with frequency: ±0.2 dB (X1 through X100K ranges); ±0.5 dB (X1M); ±1.5 dB (X10M)

Frequency Control & VCG
• Vernier fine adjustment: approximately 1% of full scale
• Voltage Controlled Generator input: 0 to ±5V external signal enables up to 1000:1 frequency sweep
• VCG slew rate: 2% of range per µs
• VCG linearity: ±0.5% (X 100K range and below); ±5% (X 1M and X 10M ranges)

DC Offset
• Adjustable range: ±15 Vdc (±7.5 Vdc into 50Ω)
• Front panel control with independent on/off switch
• Proportionally attenuated by output attenuator

– Key Features

• Three operational modes adapt to triggered measurements, gated bursts, and continuous generation
• Continuously variable waveform symmetry enables pulse shaping and sawtooth synthesis
• VCG input supports frequency modulation and sweep applications via external control voltage
• Comprehensive attenuation range and fine vernier control ensure precision amplitude settings
• Minimal distortion across audio and RF frequency bands

– Typical Applications

• Device characterization and frequency response testing
• Oscilloscope and analyzer calibration
• Filter and amplifier design validation
• Modulation and signal integrity measurements
• Burst and gated signal generation for time-domain analysis