Ametek / VTI Instruments / VXI Technology VM3640A 50 MSa/s Arbitrary Waveform Generator

The Ametek VTI Instruments VM3640A is a VXIbus arbitrary waveform generator delivering precise signal synthesis at sampling rates up to 50 MSa/s with 12-bit resolution. Built on direct digital synthesis, it generates standard waveforms including sine, square, ramp, triangle, noise, pulse, sinc, exponential rise/fall, and cardiac signals. Sine and square waves reach 20 MHz, while other built-in waveforms operate to 1 MHz.

Custom arbitrary waveforms load from up to 120 k points of onboard memory, with optional 512 k point expansion. Sine wave harmonic distortion remains below 0.5%, and both amplitude and frequency accuracy meet 5-digit and ±0.01% specifications respectively. The VM3640A integrates into the VMIP™ family as a C-size module, supporting up to three independent channels per card and synchronous operation across multiple units.

Technical Specifications

• Sampling Rate: 50 MSa/s maximum


• Resolution: 12-bit


• Arbitrary Waveform Memory: 120 k points standard; optional 512 k points


• Standard Waveforms: Sine, Square, Ramp, Triangle, Noise, Pulse, Sinc, Exponential Rise/Fall, Cardiac


• Sine and Square Wave Frequency: Up to 20 MHz


• Other Built-in Waveforms: Up to 1 MHz


• Sine Wave Harmonic Distortion: ≤0.5%


• Amplitude Accuracy: 5 digits (sine, square, and all other waveforms)


• Frequency Accuracy: ±0.01% typical


• Output Filters: Programmable

Key Features

• Three independent channels per C-size VXI module


• Modulation support: Amplitude, FSK, PSK


• Trigger inputs via VXIbus TTL lines and front panel


• Marker output for waveform synchronization


• Horizontal sweep output in sweep mode


• External reference clock input and lock capability


• VXIplug&play driver support with SCPI and IEEE-488.2 compatibility


• Pseudo-register access for accelerated data transfer

Typical Applications

• Multi-channel arbitrary waveform generation with internal frequency locking


• Precision RF and analog signal synthesis


• Custom waveform generation for test automation


• Integrated test systems combining arbitrary waveforms with digitizers, counters, and multimeters

Compatibility & Integration Fully compatible with VXIbus architecture and VMIP™ product family. Combines with other VXI C-size instruments. Multiple units support synchronized operation for multi-channel applications.