Astronics / EADS / Racal 3152 Precision PLL Waveform Generator

The Astronics/EADS/Racal 3152 Precision PLL Waveform Generator is a single-slot C-size VXIbus module combining synthesized function generation with arbitrary waveform capability. Built around phase-locked loop technology, this instrument delivers frequency-stable output from 100 µHz to 50 MHz with 7-digit resolution and integrates direct digital synthesis for low phase noise performance. The module generates nine standard waveforms - sine, square, triangle, ramp, pulse, DC, exponential, Gaussian pulse, and sinc - plus user-defined arbitrary waveforms. Three variants address different performance tiers: the 3152 and 3152A support 100 MS/s sampling and 10 MHz sweep range, while the 3152B extends sampling to 250 MS/s and sweep capability to 100 MHz (sine/square) or 16 MHz (triangle).

Technical Specifications

Sample Rate: 100 MS/s (3152/3152A); 250 MS/s (3152B)

Analog Bandwidth: 50 MHz

Vertical Resolution: 12-bit

Output Amplitude: 20 mV to 32 Vpk-pk open circuit; 10 mV to 16 Vpk-pk into 50 Ω

Amplitude Resolution: 4 digits

DC Offset: 0 to ±7.995 V, 1 mV resolution

Frequency Range: 100 µHz to 50 MHz

Frequency Resolution: 7-digit

Phase Offset Control: 0.01° resolution

Key Features

Powerful sequencing links up to 4096 waveform segments with 1 million repeat capability in burst mode

Sweep modes support linear or logarithmic frequency ramps across sine, square, or triangle waveforms

External PLL locks automatically to analog signals from 500 Hz to 10 MHz (standard waveforms) or 500 Hz to 100 MHz (arbitrary waveforms); input range 100 mV to 30 Vrms

Programmable trigger threshold with 10 mV resolution

Phase modulation input for real-time analog phase control

Built-in 4-digit frequency counter measures external signals to 10 MHz and 30 Vrms

Typical Applications

Telecommunications testing and signal characterization

Frequency sweep validation in RF and analog circuits

Arbitrary waveform stimulus for specialized test protocols

Compatibility & Integration VXIbus interface supports direct integration into VXI modular test systems.