Block Diagram and Working of Function Generator
Let us understand the block diagram of Function Generator, this will later be used for understanding the working of Function Generator.
Block Diagram of Function Generator
As we observe the circuit ,we see that it consists of a Frequency Control Network which controls the frequency of circuit depending on the current levels in circuit. We can increase or decrease frequency by increasing or decreasing current levels. The current sources are controlled by Frequency control network and the current sources then drive the integrator as shown in the block diagram. Here there are two current sources, namely current source ‘A’ and current source ‘B’ .
Integrator receives a constant supply if current from source A and performs integration on it with time. We can calculate the linear increase in output of integrator over time. So the output of integrator will be
Vout=(-1/C) ∫ i.dt
From this we can see that any variation in current, high or low will directly affect the output voltage which helps in voltage regulation.
Next in the section we observe a voltage comparator and multi-vibrator device which performs the task of triggering a change in the phase of the output voltage corresponding to the last peak level. Any change in phase makes the current supply from Source A to stop and Source B begins to supply power to the integrator. As the current source changes, the direction of current also changes resulting in reverse current. Now the reverse current lowers the output of integrator with time (in proportion) . When current reaches maximum value, the comparator switches the current source beginning to take supply from Source A.
The output of an integrator therefore is a triangular waveform whose frequency is based on current supply from current sources. The output of comparator is a square waveform. The resistance diode in the circuit helps to vary the triangular wave slope with minimal distortion. At the end, the amplifiers help in providing two waveforms which are then observed using oscilloscope.
Function Generator
In the field of electronics engineering, scientists and researchers often require signals that can be fed as an input to various devices which can later test their devices on these signals. Devices like modulators, filters, and analog-to-digital convertors require some input signals and other signals for testing. You will wonder what researchers do to get these signals. The answer to this is Function Generator. These are the devices that can generate different types of signals each representing different functions. These can be trigonometric signals, square functions, or any other necessary function. In this article we will see what is a function generator, we will also see the block diagram of a function generator and understand its working through it.
Table of Content
- Function Generator
- Block Diagram and Working
- Specifications
- Modulation Techniques
- Types
- Application