70 Chapter 3
Theory of Operation
Waveform Playback
Waveform Playback
Waveforms
Single waveforms are played back in one of two modes:
• Continuous
The waveform repeats indefinitely.
• Burst
Once a trigger is received, the waveform repeats a specified number of times.
Waveform Sequencer Function
Sequencing provides a method of waveform memory compression using a play
table, sequencer memory, and waveform memory. The sequencer controls how
waveforms are accessed and performs the following functions:
• determines the order of play for waveforms stored in memory
• enables the construction of long waveforms from shorter or repeated segments
• responds to external triggers
• offers several modes of segment advance
• outputs markers
Sequence Play Table
The play table contains entries that point to sequences in the sequencer memory.
Within the play table you can have up to 16384 sequence pointers.
Sequencer Memory
The sequencer memory contains instructions on how to play through the waveform
memory. It can hold up to 32768 segments (waveforms with a specified loop count).
Waveform Memory
The waveform memory contains Channel 1 and Channel 2, and output marker data.
NOTE The N8241A Control Utility GUI only supports basic sequencing. Advanced
sequencing features can only be accessed through the programmatic interfaces.