Astronics / EADS / Racal 3151 100MS/s Waveform Generator

The Astronics/EADS/Racal 3151 is a C-sized VXIbus waveform generator that combines function generation, pulse generation, programmable sequencing, and arbitrary waveform synthesis into a single module. Operating at 100 MS/s with 12-bit vertical resolution, it delivers complex signal generation across a 512k-point arbitrary waveform buffer and supports up to 4096 segmentable waveforms. The instrument generates standard waveforms - sine, square, triangle, sinc, ramp, pulse, DC, exponential, and Gaussian pulse - with flexible triggering, advanced sequencing, and modulation capabilities including AM, FM, PM, PWM, 3D, and amplitude/frequency hopping. Though manufacturer support has ended, third-party suppliers continue to stock and support the 3151, with optional legacy emulation available for Test Program Set compatibility.

Technical Specifications

Sampling Rate: 100 MS/s

Vertical Resolution: 12-bit

Arbitrary Waveform Buffer: 512k points maximum

Waveform Memory: Segmentable; up to 4096 waveforms of variable size

Frequency Range: 100 Hz to 50 MHz (sine and square waves to 50 MHz)

Amplitude Output (open circuit): 20 mV to 32 V(pk-pk)

Amplitude Output (50 Ω load): 10 mV to 16 V(pk-pk)

Amplitude Resolution: 4 digits

Trigger Delay: Up to 2 M wave points

Sweep Range: Linear/log sweep up to 100 MHz

Key Features

Standard and arbitrary waveform generation

Programmable sequencer with looping and conditional jumps

External gate and trigger source inputs

Modulation modes: AM, FM, PM, PWM, 3D, amplitude/frequency hopping

VXIbus integration with flexible trigger line combining and sync capability

WaveCAD™ software for waveform design

VXIplug&play drivers for LabWindows/CVI and LabVIEW (Windows 98, NT, 2000)

Compatibility & Integration

Single-slot C-sized VXI module

Fully backwards compatible with Model 3151A

Optional emulation for legacy 3151, 3151A, and 3151A+ models

Front panel connectors compatible with legacy 3151 family