Tektronix AFG3000 Series - MATLAB Driver and Example

Create a frequency sweep and source the signal to a Tek AFG3000 series - all from within MATLAB®.

MATLAB® is a software environment and programming language with over 1,000,000 users and supports Tektronix® arbitrary/function generators only through its Instrument Control Toolbox™.
MATLAB is used with Tektronix signal generators to generate arbitrary and standard waveforms, configure and control the instruments, build automated test applications, and analyze and visualize data from other instruments.

The ‘frequencysweep’ script connects to the Tektronix AFG and sets up a frequency sweep (enable the channel, sets start and stop frequencies, spacing, and sweep time). This ‘frequencysweep’ script was generated by Test & Measurement Tool, a graphical tool provided by Instrument Control Toolbox to allow users to configure and control instruments in MATLAB.

To execute this example, extract the files from the zip file and type ‘frequencysweep’ in the MATLAB command window. (Note: Change the VISA address in the frequencysweep.m file to the corresponding VISA address of the AFG.)

This driver was created with the MATLAB Instrument Driver Editor (midedit), a graphical tool provided by the Instrument Control Toolbox that allows users to create and customize their own instrument drivers. The syntax and commands were taken from the ‘AFG3000 Series Arbitrary/Function Generators 071-0639-00 Reference Manual.’ Most, but not all, functionalities were tested. You are welcome to extend the application and driver to your specific needs.

Note: This example was created and tested with a Tektronix AFG3252 Arbitrary Function Generator but should work for other Tektronix AFG 3000-series generators.

To download a Getting Started Guide for using MATLAB with your Tektronix instruments in 15 minutes, visit: http://www.mathworks.com/tektronix/start

Information on using MATLAB and Instrument Control Toolbox for configuring and controlling instruments is available at: http://www.mathworks.com/products/instrument

For additional information on using MATLAB with Tektronix instruments, including MATLAB examples, demos, drivers, and videos, visit: http://www.mathworks.com/tektronix