Sweep - A repetitive variation of the output
frequency of a function generator between
two end values usually known as the start and
stop frequencies. Frequency control is com-
monly accomplished by a linear ramp or saw-
tooth waveform, although logarithmic or
other functions may be used.
Sweep Rate - Reciprocal of sweep time;
number of sweeps in a given period of time.
Sweep Time - The period of time required to
complete one full cycle of sweep. Variable on
most generators.
Sweep Width - The frequency band that a
sweep generator covers.
Symmetry - A measurement of the equity of
time period of both halves of a square wave
cycle.
Tone Burst - See GATED BURST.
Triangle Wave - A waveform that varies
periodically between a minimum and maxi-
mum value, in similar fashion to a sine wave.
However, its positive- and negative-going
excursions have constant slope; that is, they
are straight lines. For a triangle wave, these
excursions are of equal length; if not, the
waveform becomes a ramp.
Triggered Mode - An operating mode in
which a function generator provides one
cycle of output each time it is externally trig-
gered. The output can thus be synchronized to
an external source.
T T L ( Tr a n s i s t o r- Tr a n s i s t o r L o g i c ) - A n
integrated circuit family which normally
operates from a +5 V supply and has low and
high logic thresholds of +0.8 V and +2.4 V,
respectively.
Variable Duty Cycle - Same VARIABLE
SYMMETRY.
Variable Symmetry (Variable Duty Cycle)
-A feature offered on many generators which
allows adjustment of output symmetry from
very high to very low duty cycle. This con-
verts square waves into pulses and triangle
waves into ramp waveforms. The feature can
usually be switched off to provide equal sym-
metry (50% duty cycle).
V:f (orV/f) - DC output voltage proportional
to frequency.
Voltage Controlled Frequency - Same as
VCG.
Voltage Controlled Generator (VCG) - A
generator that changes output frequency with
a change in the applied voltage.
VCG Input - An input offered on most func-
tion generators which allows the internal
VCG to be controlled by an externally
applied signal.
Waveform - The output of a function gener-
ator; term usually applies to a graphical rep-
resentation of that output on an oscilloscope
screen.
3
COMMON FUNCTION GENERATOR TERMS
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