Pulse Generators
Pulse Generators
Pulse generators are electronic test instruments that produce repetitive or single-shot rectangular pulses with precisely controlled timing parameters — including pulse width, rise time, fall time, repetition frequency, and amplitude. They are essential tools for characterizing digital circuits, validating timing specifications, and stress-testing components under controlled switching conditions that replicate real operating environments.
Modern pulse generators range from compact benchtop units for basic digital circuit testing to high-speed instruments capable of generating pulses with sub-nanosecond rise times for high-frequency signal integrity work. Many instruments also function as universal generators, combining pulse, function, and arbitrary waveform output in a single unit, reducing bench space and test setup complexity.
Typical Applications
- Digital circuit timing verification: testing setup and hold times in logic circuits and FPGAs
- Signal integrity testing: stress-testing data lines with controlled edge rates and jitter injection
- Component characterization: evaluating switching behavior of transistors, diodes, and logic gates
- Sensor and transducer testing: simulating trigger pulses for ultrasound, optical, and MEMS systems
- Power electronics: gate drive signal simulation for converters, inverters, and motor drives
Popular Brands
Pico Technology offers compact, high-performance pulse generators well suited for benchtop and portable applications. Aim-TTi produces versatile universal generators that combine pulse, function, and arbitrary waveform generation. Hioki provides specialized pulse generator units used in automotive and power electronics test applications.
