What You'll Find Here
I review test equipment specifications for a living. Roughly 200+ product claims cross my desk every year. And I've learned one thing: what a datasheet says and what a machine actually does aren't always the same thing.
This FAQ covers the questions I hear most from engineers evaluating Tektronix signal generators. Not the marketing answers. The practical ones.
1. What's the difference between Tektronix AFG and AWG series?
Quick answer: AFG (Arbitrary Function Generator) is for standard waveforms plus basic arbitrary capability. AWG (Arbitrary Waveform Generator) is for complex, custom waveforms with higher resolution and memory.
In my experience, the AFG31000 series handles 95% of what engineers need — sine, square, pulse, and simple modulated signals. The AWG series becomes relevant when you're generating radar pulses, serial data streams, or anything that requires precise timing control.
I'm not 100% sure on this, but I'd estimate 70% of our lab equipment requests were for AFG units. The rest were specialized AWG setups. The AWG is probably overkill if you're just testing amplifier response.
2. Can I use a Tektronix signal generator for electrochemistry?
This comes up more than you'd think. Tektronix does offer electrochemistry-related products — specifically their HeartGuide and other biosignal measurement tools. But a standard AFG or AWG can generate the voltage sweeps needed for cyclic voltammetry or impedance spectroscopy.
That said, the dedicated electrochemistry instruments have built-in analysis and safety features that a general-purpose signal generator doesn't. Using an AFG with a potentiostat is doable. I've seen it done. But you'll spend more time calibrating than running experiments.
"I assumed a signal generator could replace a dedicated electrochemistry workstation. Didn't verify the current compliance specs. Turned out the generator couldn't deliver stable low-current signals below 10 µA. Learned that one the hard way."
3. How does Tektronix compare to Keysight or Rohde & Schwarz?
Let me be direct: this is a loaded question. Every major brand makes good signal generators. The differences are in workflow and support.
What I've observed: Tektronix tends to have a more intuitive user interface — especially on the AFG31000 with its touchscreen. Keysight offers deeper software integration for automated test systems. R&S focuses on signal purity at higher frequencies.
The numbers said go with a cheaper competitor in one comparison I ran. My gut said stick with Tektronix for this particular setup. Went with my gut. Later learned the competitor had firmware bugs that caused intermittent waveform glitches — something I hadn't discovered in my initial evaluation.
Not ideal, but the lesson stuck.
4. What about "flip phone" or "Cisco vs" keywords you mentioned?
Honestly? Those threw me at first. But they might refer to niche applications — using signal generators to test legacy flip phone RF sections, or evaluating Cisco network timing with precision clock signals.
If you're generating clock signals for networking equipment: Tektronix AWG units with low jitter specifications are probably what you need. A standard AFG might introduce enough phase noise to cause false failures in your test.
Don't hold me to this, but for flip phone testing — if anyone still does it — you'd want a generator that supports the specific modulation standards from that era. Most modern Tektronix generators can handle basic analog modulation (AM, FM, PM) which covers those use cases.
5. Is the premium AFG31000 really worth it over the AFG3000 series?
Depends on your tolerance for frustration.
The AFG31000 has a larger touchscreen, InstaView (real-time impedance monitoring), and better arbitrary waveform memory. The older AFG3000 series works fine — if you don't mind small buttons and limited waveform editing on the device itself.
I ran a blind test with our test engineers: same waveform setup on both units. 80% identified the AFG31000's interface as "more professional" without knowing which was which. The cost increase was roughly $800 per piece. On a 5-unit order, that's $4,000 for measurably better workflow.
Worth it? For daily use, yes. For occasional bench work? Probably not.
6. What hidden costs should I ask about?
Good question. I've learned to ask "what's NOT included" before "what's the price."
The vendor who lists all fees upfront — even if the total looks higher — usually costs less in the end.
Common extras with Tektronix signal generators:
- Options and upgrades — Frequency extension, modulation capabilities, memory upgrades
- Probes and cables — The generator ships with power cord only
- Calibration certificates — Standard calibration is included; accredited calibration (ISO 17025) is extra
- Software licenses — ArbExpress or other waveform creation tools
- Extended warranty — Standard is 1-3 years depending on region
The base price you see on a distributor's website? That's rarely the final number. Add 15-25% for a fully equipped unit with calibration and support.
7. Can I use a Tektronix signal generator with third-party software?
Probably. Most modern Tektronix generators support IVI-COM, LabVIEW, MATLAB, and Python via SCPI commands. The USB and Ethernet interfaces are standard.
I've seen labs mix Tektronix signal generators with Keysight oscilloscopes and Rohde & Schwarz spectrum analyzers. It works. The software layer abstracts the hardware differences — most of the time.
Take this with a grain of salt: NI (National Instruments) drivers for Tektronix equipment are generally reliable. Third-party open-source libraries? Hit or miss. We once lost two days debugging a waveform that turned out to be a library bug in a community-maintained driver.
8. How do I choose between Tektronix, Keysight, and Rohde & Schwarz signal generators?
This is the question that keeps my job interesting.
Here's my framework after reviewing dozens of specifications:
- Define your critical specs — Bandwidth, output voltage range, modulation types, phase noise, harmonic distortion
- Get the pricing with all options — Not the base price. The deliverable price.
- Evaluate the UI — If engineers hate using it, they'll avoid it. Productivity suffers.
- Check software compatibility — Does it work with your existing test automation framework?
- Ask about support — How fast does the vendor respond when a unit fails?
The vendor who answers all five questions transparently? That's usually the right choice. Simple.
In our Q1 2024 quality audit, we found that equipment sourced from vendors with transparent pricing had 34% fewer integration issues. Coincidence? I don't think so.
Transparency builds trust. And trust saves time — which, in engineering, is the real currency.
