Being an engineer or a lab technician you probably know how significant the role the waveform generator plays in the development of testing and repairing the electronic devices.
Waveform generators are electronic test equipment used to produce electrical signals and analyze the performance of your hardware device by varying the frequencies of different waveforms.
Usually, the best waveform generators will have high-resolution standards, greater efficiency, quality, and performance. Also, beware of environmental factors that affect the performance of the product like temperature, altitude, and humidity before you pay for it.
Read the “Buying Guide” to know how we have chosen the waveform generators…
We spent a couple of days researching the waveform generators, listened to the customer’s requirements and brought you the 12 Best Waveform Generators that are trendy now.
Check out these recommendations that best suit your project requirements.
Best Waveform Generators List
| Waveform Generators | Frequency Range | Voltage | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siglent Digital Oscilloscope | 100 MHz to 200 MHz. | 500 uV to 10 V | Check On Amazon |
| Koolertron DDS Signal Generator | 60 MHz | 1mV | Check On Amazon |
| Hantek Oscilloscope + Waveform Generator | 150 MHz | 2mV to 10V | Check On Amazon |
| FNIRSI Oscilloscope + Signal Generator | 100 MHz | 50 mV to 500 V | Check On Amazon |
| Seesii Professional DDS Generator | 60 MHz | 20 V | Check On Amazon |
| UNI-T Waveform Signal Generator | 30 MHz | - | Check On Amazon |
| Rigol Arbitrary Function Generator | 25 MHz | - | Check On Amazon |
Best Waveform Generators Reviews
1. Siglent Digital Oscilloscope
Siglent’s SDS1202X-E redefines electronic analysis with its advanced specifications and innovative features. It offers a real-time sampling rate of up to 1 GSa/s and a 200 MHz bandwidth, ensuring precise signal capture even for high-speed waveforms. Built with SPO technology, this oscilloscope reduces system noise while maintaining signal fidelity, making it a reliable tool for detailed analysis. Its 14 Mpts record length supports deep memory storage, enabling smooth handling of complex waveforms and extended signal sequences. Additionally, the SDS1202X-E comes with a comprehensive array of decoding options, including IIC, SPI, UART, CAN, and LIN, making it ideal for diverse testing needs.
Built with a focus on durability and seamless user experience, this generator stands out with its robust design and thoughtful features. The 7-inch TFT-LCD display delivers sharp resolution, allowing users to easily monitor intricate waveforms and decode information in real time. Its advanced triggering modes, including Edge, Pulse, and Video, cater to a wide range of research and development needs. Moreover, the addition of history waveform recording and sequential triggering enhances its capabilities, offering extended waveform analysis for versatile applications in any laboratory setting.
Balancing simplicity with sophistication, this generator is a breeze to use, even for novices. The intuitive interface ensures quick navigation with clearly marked functions and an easy-to-learn design. Its reliability shines through in demanding tasks, offering smooth and efficient data handling. Though rare, slight hardware issues might appear in older models but generally don’t impact performance. Overall, this generator stands out as a trustworthy and versatile tool for electronic testing.
Specifications:
- Real-Time Sampling Rate: 1 GSa/s
- Bandwidth: 200 MHz
- Record Length: 14 Mpts
- Minimum Vertical Input: 500 μV/div
- Waveform Capture Rate: 400,000 wfm/s
- Display: 7-inch TFT-LCD, 800×480
- Triggering Modes: Edge, Pulse, Video
- Serial Bus Decoding: IIC, SPI, UART
- FFT Math Function: 1M points
- Connectivity: USB, LAN (optional)
Pros:
- High sampling and bandwidth
- Large, clear LCD display
- Extensive triggering options
- Deep memory depth
- Low system noise
Cons:
- Potential older unit issues
- Slower FFT function
- Limited to two channels
- Basic probes quality
2. Koolertron DDS Signal Generator
Koolertron’s DDS signal generator combines precision and flexibility, meeting the demands of complex testing scenarios. Capable of generating stable, low-distortion waveforms, including Sine, Square, and Triangle, it offers up to 60 MHz for Sine waves and a 200MSa/s sampling rate. Its dual-channel DDS technology with independent settings for each channel ensures adaptability. With features like pulse width analysis, frequency measurement, and counting, it’s an indispensable tool for professionals.
Setting and adjusting waveforms and frequencies has never been easier, thanks to this signal generator’s user-friendly control panel. It features linear and logarithmic frequency sweep functions, ensuring precision in diverse applications. The device also allows users to store up to 99 groups of instrument state parameters, making repetitive tasks more efficient. Compact and portable, it’s a practical choice for on-site jobs or small workspaces.
The generator’s lightweight design, while advantageous for portability, could be a drawback in environments requiring robust durability. A protective casing is included, yet careful handling is necessary to maintain its integrity. Even so, its rich array of features and accessible price point make it an ideal solution for engineering, teaching, and scientific research. Its ability to deliver consistent and reliable waveform generation ensures its place in diverse applications.
Specifications:
- Dual-channel DDS output
- Frequency Output: up to 60 MHz
- Sampling Rate: 200MSa/s
- Stores 99 user-defined waveforms
- Linear and logarithmic sweep functions
- Frequency Resolution: 0.01 μHz
- Amplitude Resolution: 1 mV
- Supports multiple waveform types
- Compact and portable design
- Frequency Measurement: 1 Hz to 100 MHz
Pros:
- High frequency precision
- Independent channel settings
- Extensive waveform support
- User-friendly interface
- Compact and portable
Cons:
- Build feels lightweight
- Not ideal for rough environments
- Firmware can be glitchy
3. Hantek Oscilloscope + Waveform Generator
The Hantek DSO2D15 combines high-resolution oscilloscope capabilities with the convenience of a 25MHz waveform generator. Its 8M memory depth, 150MHz bandwidth, and 1GSa/s sampling rate ensure unmatched precision in waveform analysis. The device’s 14 trigger modes and protocol decoding features, such as RS232/UART and I2C, make it suitable for a wide range of applications. Built for adaptability, the DSO2D15 is an indispensable tool for today’s electronics professionals.
Combining functionality with user-centric design, this generator stands out for its intuitive controls and ease of use. The clear and responsive display interface ensures settings are visible at a glance, while the layout facilitates quick adjustments. It is well-suited for diverse applications, from educational experiments to complex industrial tasks. Its durable build and compact form factor make it a reliable choice for both stationary setups and mobile operations.
While its features are commendable, the generator isn’t immune to a few performance hiccups. Reports of glitches and freezing under heavy workloads are relatively uncommon but worth mentioning. Additionally, the wealth of options and functions, though a strength, may initially confuse users new to oscilloscopes. Despite these minor setbacks, the generator delivers impressive reliability and versatility at a competitive price, making it a solid choice for those seeking comprehensive functionality.
Specifications:
- Memory Depth: 8M
- Bandwidth: 150MHz
- Sampling Rate: 1 GSa/s
- Built-In Waveform Generator: 25MHz
- Trigger Modes: 14 types
- Serial protocol decoding
- Display: 7-inch color TFT
- Vertical Range: 2mV/div to 10V/div
- USB connectivity for data export
- Compact and portable design
Pros:
- High bandwidth and memory
- Integrated waveform generator
- Multiple trigger and decode options
- User-friendly interface
- Compact and portable
Cons:
- Occasional software glitches
- Limited high-frequency performance
- Not ideal for very high precision tasks
4. FNIRSI Oscilloscope + Signal Generator
FNIRSI combines high-end signal testing and generation into one powerful device, ideal for contemporary electronics work. Featuring dual channels with a real-time sampling rate of 1 GSA/S and 100 MHz bandwidth, it excels in diverse signal testing applications. The integrated signal generator offers 14 standard waveforms and the flexibility to store 1000 custom chopping signals, enhancing its utility in advanced tasks.
The oscilloscope combines intuitive features with a 7-inch, 800×480 resolution high-definition LCD screen, allowing users to easily visualize measurements in vibrant detail. Its one-button AUTO feature makes adjusting settings effortless, so users can quickly optimize their signal displays. Furthermore, the Lissajous graphic display function proves helpful when comparing the amplitude, frequency, and phase of two signals, which is essential for precise signal analysis.
While packed with features, the generator’s user interface can be challenging for beginners. The manual is noted for being somewhat confusing, and the depth of features may require a steeper learning curve than some other models. Despite these issues, the oscilloscope’s combination of functionality, portability, and price point makes it a valuable asset for hobbyists, educational environments, or any setting where space and budget are considerations.
Specifications:
- Sampling Rate: 1 GSA/s
- Bandwidth: 100MHz
- Channels: 2
- Signal Generator: 14+ types
- Screen: 7-inch HD LCD
- Custom Signal Storage: 1000+
- Trigger Modes: Multiple
- Lissajous display function
- USB connectivity
- Portable design
Pros:
- High sampling rate
- Versatile signal generator
- Clear, large HD display
- Easy one-button auto setup
- Compact and portable
Cons:
- Limited high-end functions
- Some operational bugs
5. Seesii Professional DDS Generator
Seesii offers a professional DDS generator that excels in both precision and stability, making it a top choice for professional and educational settings alike. Featuring dual-channel DDS (Direct Digital Synthesis) technology, it ensures stable, precise, and low distortion signals across a variety of waveforms. With a frequency output of up to 60MHz for sine waves and a sampling rate of 200MSa/s, this unit provides high resolution and fine granularity. It also allows users to customize settings with 60 user-defined waveform slots, offering detailed control over parameters like frequency, amplitude, and phase with 0.1% precision.
With a range of advanced features, this generator offers both linear and logarithmic frequency sweep capabilities. It is equipped with a comprehensive frequency meter, measuring frequencies from 1Hz to 100MHz. The lightweight, compact design enhances portability, making it suitable for use in various environments without compromising performance. Thanks to the intuitive interface, users of all skill levels can easily navigate its extensive functions. Additionally, the generator can store up to 99 instrument settings, allowing users to quickly switch between configurations for different tests or experiments.
Despite its compact design, the device may give an impression of fragility, which could be problematic in environments that require higher durability. Some users might find the advanced features daunting at first, and the documentation provided can be improved to better assist in leveraging these capabilities fully. Despite these minor drawbacks, the generator remains a versatile and powerful tool for generating precise waveforms in various technical applications.
Specifications:
- Dual-channel DDS signal output
- Frequency output up to 60 MHz
- Sampling Rate: 200MSa/s
- User-Defined Waveforms: 60 slots
- Frequency Sweep: Linear and logarithmic
- Frequency Resolution: 0.01 μHz
- Amplitude Resolution: 1 mV
- Precision Adjustment: 0.1% duty cycle
- Compact and lightweight design
- Frequency Meter Range: 1 Hz to 100 MHz
Pros:
- High frequency precision
- Extensive waveform customization
- User-friendly interface
- Portable and compact
- Stores numerous presets
Cons:
- Not suited for rough handling
- Some advanced features complex
6. UNI-T Waveform Signal Generator
UNI-T waveform signal generator exemplifies versatility and precision in a compact design, making it a perfect choice for educational, hobbyist, and professional settings. Utilizing Direct Digital Synthesis (DDS) technology, it generates a broad spectrum of waveforms with exceptional accuracy and minimal distortion. The device supports modulation types like AM, FM, PM, FSK, Line, and Log, making it adaptable to various applications. With a full-band resolution of 1μHz and an integrated frequency counter capable of 30MHz, it ensures precise signal generation and testing. Additionally, its 200MSa/s sampling rate and 14-bit vertical resolution guarantee detailed, accurate waveform outputs.
The generator’s user-friendly interface is equipped with a 4.3” TFT color screen that displays settings and waveforms in vibrant detail, making it easy to adjust and monitor operations. It features 24 groups of non-volatile arbitrary waveform storage, allowing users to save and recall custom settings efficiently. The inclusion of both standard and advanced modulation capabilities enables the device to be used in a variety of signal generation tasks, from simple educational experiments to complex research and development projects.
However, while the generator is highly functional, some users may find the software and manual a bit challenging to navigate due to inadequate documentation. The build quality is robust, but the compact design might limit the range of some advanced functionalities typical in larger, more expensive units. Despite these minor setbacks, the generator remains a powerful tool, providing reliable performance and a wide range of features that make it a valuable addition to any lab or workshop.
Specifications:
- DDS technology for precise waveforms
- Modulation Types: AM, FM, PM, FSK
- Full-Band Resolution: 1μHz
- Frequency Counter Range: up to 30MHz
- Sampling Rate: 200MSa/s
- 14 bits vertical resolution
- TFT Color Screen: 4.3 inches
- Arbitrary Waveform Storage: 24 groups
- Frequency scanning and output
- USB and BNC connectivity
Pros:
- Precise full-band resolution
- Versatile modulation options
- User-friendly color display
- Compact and efficient design
- Extensive waveform storage
Cons:
- Documentation lacks detail
- Some software usability issues
- Not suited for rough environments
- Advanced features can be complex
7. Rigol Arbitrary Function Generator
Rigol has designed its arbitrary function generator to offer both high performance and versatility, making it ideal for various testing applications. With a maximum frequency output of 25 MHz and an output wattage of 10 watts, this generator efficiently handles diverse signal generation tasks. It features arbitrary waveform generation, allowing users to create custom waveforms for their testing needs. Equipped with true RMS measurement, it ensures accurate voltage and current readings. Its compact, portable design makes it easy to move between different testing environments, while the low noise operation guarantees clean, precise measurements without interference.
Offering a blend of ease and efficiency, this generator is tailored for users from hobbyists to industry professionals. It features a user-friendly interface that simplifies both setup and operation. The dual-channel output capability allows for synchronization across two distinct channels, increasing its scope of use. Furthermore, the generator provides flexibility by adjusting key waveform parameters such as amplitude, timing, phase, and duty cycle, making it indispensable for circuit design and testing.
Offering robust capabilities, the generator is not without its minor inconveniences. It does not store the last-used settings after shutting off, which may cause some inconvenience for users handling repetitive tasks. Additionally, although it is portable, its lightweight construction may not be up to the challenge of frequent transport unless safeguarded. Still, these small drawbacks don’t significantly detract from the generator’s overall utility, making it a dependable tool for any electronics lab.
Specifications:
- Frequency output up to 25 MHz
- Output Wattage: 10 watts
- True RMS measurement
- Low noise operation
- Compact and portable design
- Arbitrary waveform generation
- Dual-channel output
- Modulation capability
- Lightweight construction
- User-friendly interface
Pros:
- High frequency precision
- Supports complex modulations
- True RMS for accurate measurements
- Portable and easy to use
- Clean, low-noise signals
Cons:
- Does not save settings
- Limited high-frequency output
- Manual profile saving required
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Perfect Signal Waveform Generator
A function generator is a very important tool for generating standard signals and modulations, sweep and burst. These features increase your flexibility of getting your complex jobs done faster.
High-quality true form function generates come with highest signal fidelity that gives you exact waveforms you need for your various measurement requirements. This increases your chances of having an accurate measurement.
The quality of a function generator depends on a certain list of parameters and specifications. Sometimes, there are also a bunch of hidden specifications that might influence your end results. Hence it is vital that you to know what you are looking for before buying a waveform generator.
These specifications vary because of the types of generators that are available today. We will be mentioning all the different types of these test instruments which range from analogue to digital. We would also consider the price, type and other specifications.
Important Specifications To Look For Before Buying a Function Generator
Listed below are the main specifications you need to look for before finalizing on a waveform generator.
1.Waveforms
The first and foremost thing that you need to look for is the type of waveforms your wave generator is capable of producing. General function generators produce square waves, sine waves, pulses, triangular, ramp or sawtooth waveforms.
Apart from that, you should also look for the flexibility you have in manipulating the waveform. Here are 3 general types.
- Sine Wave Distortion
Usually, an analogue function generator can create a sine wave from a triangular waveform using 2 back to back diodes that will shape the waveform. While this gives a good sine waveform, it also has high levels of distortions than other test instruments and sine wave generators.
The sine wave distortion plays an important role and while less than 2% levels of distortion are accepted, anything more should not be encouraged or bought. There are a lot of generators that offer less than this too. The technique used to generate the sine wave decides the levels and percentage of distortion.
- Triangular Wave Linearity
This indicates some departure of the triangular waveform from a straight line. Usually, the linearity should be better than 99% of the 10 and 90% of the waveform’s amplitude.
- Rise and Fall Times of the Square Wave
While driving certain logic chips, the rise and fall times of the square wave edge’s might cause some issues. Chips that are synchronous with a clock may require certain edge speed compared to others.
Usually, a function generator might have a rise time of 100 nanoseconds between 10% and 90% of the waveform. The fall time should also be of the same order. Differences for the same are possible depending on a generator to a generator; the duration may differ.
- The Symmetry of the output
Function generators come with an option where you can change the symmetry of the output can be changed by about 20% to 80% (with a ±10% variation)
2. Resolution
Resolution refers to the conversion of the analogue voltage generated to the equivalent digital value that is to be displayed on the screen. A signal generator’s resolution could be a limiting factor for getting an accurate generated waveform. The waveform will give you more detailed if the DAC resolution is increased.
While a 3bit DAC divides the vertical range into 8 discrete levels, it cannot generate voltage differences smaller than 1.25 V with a vertical range of 0-10 volts.
A 16 bit DAC with 216 discrete levels and an output range of 0-10 V can generate voltage differences which can be as small as 153 microvolts.
You can find the smallest discrete step of a waveform output of a signal generator by dividing the peak to peak voltage range of the DAC to the ‘N’th power of 2 (N is the resolution of the device)
Choose signal generators that offer both offsets and variable peak-to-peak output voltage ranges.
3. Frequency Limits
Usually, a function generator comes with a frequency range with an upper limit of 20 MHz. Any Radio Frequency generators for higher frequency are not function generators as they produce modulated or pure sine wave signals only.
The lower frequency limit for generators are usually below 1Hz and often about 0.1 or 0.2 Hz. It is ideal to go below normal requirements.
Depending on the test instrument’s requirement, these waveform generators cover a frequency range of 1-10 (the range is subjected to change)
4. Bandwidth
The bandwidth of the Signal generator refers to the output signal attenuation frequency which is 3 dB relative to the DC amplitude or any other low-frequency signal.
The source signal ’s bandwidth is limited by analogue output circuit filters or the output amplifier design. Thus bandwidth becomes one of the major deciding factors on a signal generator’s maxed output frequency
5. Sampling Rate
The sampling rate is the rate at which the transfer of digital data progresses from the memory to the DAC. It is measured in the units “Samples per second”.
For this, a digital waveform should be updated two times faster for the highest frequency of the desired signal needs to be generated accurately.
Higher sampling rates capture more details of the waveform being generated. Thus look for generators with at least double or higher sampling rate compared to the max frequency of the generator.
6. Output Levels
Output levels are continuously variable and will adjust according to the Transistor-Transistor Logic (TTL). But the max limit varies from waveform generator to waveform generator.
Ideal and usual maximum levels for any waveform generator should be about 10 or maybe 12 volts (peak to peak)
7. Output Impedance
The max load a function generator can drive is also an important factor to consider. Output Impedance refers to the resistance of AC flow going out and thus saves on the waveform.
Impedance is measured in ohms Ω and the typical output impedance levels of a waveform generator should be about 50Ω.
8. DC Offset
A waveform generator with a DC offset feature would let you change and vary the base voltage levels of the signal over a specified range. The usual offset variable is between +5V to -5V.
9. Frequency Stability
While analogue waveform generators are less stable; digital waveform generators are much stable as they use a crystal for the generator clock. Usually, the figures for change are around 0.1% per hour for analogue and for digital, it is about 500 parts per million.
10. Phase Lock Capability
Phase locking is basically when your generator can lock the phase of the signal to an external clock signal. Phase locking capabilities were not available in the older models but most of the digital waveform generators come with such features. Phase locking enables the waveform generator to give out a more precise and accurately synchronized output.
11. Modulation
While some function generators can modulate the output signal, not all can perform amplitude or frequency modulation. Most of the traditional devices just provide a waveform simulation and nothing more.
Thus it is important to have your waveform generator to be able to perform a wide range of modulatory operations.
12. Environmental Conditions
Highly unlikely of a factor but for a few experiments temperature is a factor that you need to consider. Also, there is the point of storage and operating temperature ( along with any humidity based specs if required).
This is usually a factor for analogue instruments as temperature might cause some errors. Digital waveform generators, on the other hand, are easy to use and probably more flexible towards changes in temperature and do not easily get affected by that.
FAQs:
Usually, a waveform generator can produce various types of waveforms, including sine, square, triangle, pulse, and more complex waveforms. While some advanced models create arbitrary waveforms based on user-defined parameters that allow for more flexibility in testing.
The frequency range of waveform generators varies widely based on the specific model and its intended application. Typically, the frequency range of basic units will cover frequencies from 0.001 Hz to 10 MHz (or more), whereas, advanced models can have a frequency range of 10 MHz to several gigahertz (20, 50, or higher GHz).
Calibration is the process of adjusting the waveform generator’s output for accurate results. The procedure involves using known standards and instruments to compare and adjust the generator’s output.
Yes, numerous waveform generators can simulate noise signals, including white noise. So, they are vitally used to test noise tolerance in communication systems and other electronic devices.
You can use a waveform generator to test the frequency response of filters, amplifiers, and speakers by simply generating signals across a wide frequency range. This allows you to measure how the circuit in which you are performing the test responds to different frequencies and thereby ensures it performs as expected.
Conclusion
Choosing the best waveform generator depends on your testing needs, such as precision, versatility, or ease of use. The Siglent Digital Oscilloscope excels in signal accuracy and range. The Koolertron DDS Signal Generator is an affordable yet reliable choice for various waveform needs. The Hantek Oscilloscope + Waveform Generator offers high functionality and great value. Each model provides unique benefits, making them ideal for both professionals and enthusiasts.
One Response
In your conclusion you identify Siglent Technologies SDS1202X-E as the top pick for a wave form generator. That model is actually a two channel oscilloscope. Still curious what your actual pick was.