Programming Example: Create a stair-step waveform using Python and PyVISA using LAN (SDG1000X, SDG2000X, SDG6000X)

Posted on: June 18th, 2021 by Doug Lovell

The SIGLENT SDG series of arbitrary waveform generators can use waveforms created programmatically.

The waveform data can be sent as individual samples formatted as binary little-endian, 2s complement values.

In this programming example, we create a 10 point arbitrary waveform that starts at the least-significant bit and steps up to the most-significant bit to help with understanding the required sample format as well as provide a base for your own waveform creation.

Here is a picture of the desired waveform:

The SDG waveform data requires each sample to first be formatted as binary, little-endian, 2’s complement. For easier human viewing, the example enters the data in hex format and then “unhexes” the data before it is added to the command string which is then sent to the instrument.

Here is a table showing the value of each sample and the value in hex for 14-bit (SDG1000X series) and 16-bit (SDG2000X/SDG6000X) instruments:

Here is an oscilloscope capture of a single burst of this waveform:

Products Mentioned In This Article:

  • SDS1000X Series please see HERE
  • SDG2000X Series please see HERE
  • SDG6000X Series please see HERE

 

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