Wavetek 296

The Wavetek 296 is a multichannel arbitrary and synthesized function generator delivering high-fidelity waveform generation with precise segment-level control. It supports up to 4 independent channels (3 channels with Option 001) and enables complex signal creation through advanced waveform sequencing, modulation, and frequency sweep capabilities. Designed for engineers and laboratories requiring sophisticated signal synthesis, the 296 combines intuitive front-panel graphical editing with programmatic control via SCPI, GPIB, and RS-232.

– Technical Specifications

• Channels: 4 independent (3 with Option 001)
• Sampling Rate: 50 MS/s maximum
• Vertical Resolution: 12-bit
• Waveform Sequencing: 4,096 segments with individual frequency control per segment
• Output Amplitude: 15 Vp-p standard (50 Ω load); 100 Vpp with Option 007
• Digital Output: 16-bit differential ECL at 50 MHz (Model 296)
• Standard Functions: 10 built-in waveforms (sine, square, triangle, pseudo-random noise, ramps, haversine, sin x/x, DC)
• Sine Frequency Range: 1 mHz to 20 MHz
• Square Frequency Range: 1 mHz to 25 MHz
• Frequency Sweep: 1 mHz to 20 MHz; sweeps limited to <20 MHz
• Modulation: AM and Suppressed Carrier
• Triggering: Continuous, Triggered, and Gated modes; trigger counts up to 1,048,575 (waveforms) and 65,536 (sequences); Triggered/Gated limited to 10 MHz waveform frequency
• Clock Output: 100 MHz maximum
• Trigger Input: TTL level
• Sync Output: TTL, synchronous with main output

– Key Features

• Arbitrary waveform creation via graphical UI, mathematical expressions, ASCII files, or direct DSO import (Option 005)
• Editing tools: vertical resize, vertical move, waveform linking, looping, and sequencing
• Interchannel triggering, summing, and phase control with internal summing bus
• Non-volatile RAM storage (60 kB) or 3.5-inch floppy disk
• Position marker TTL outputs

– Typical Applications

• Complex signal synthesis and waveform sequencing
• System-level testing requiring multi-channel stimulus generation
• Signal modulation and frequency sweep testing
• Arbitrary waveform validation in R&D environments

– Compatibility & Integration

SCPI-compatible command set. GPIB and RS-232 interfaces for remote operation and integration into automated test systems.