The Tektronix CFG253 is a 3 MHz function generator delivering sine, square, triangle, and TTL waveforms for electronic testing, calibration, and educational applications. It spans 0.03 Hz to 3 MHz across seven decade ranges with variable frequency multipliers (0.3×–3.0×) and ±5% dial accuracy. Output amplitude reaches 20 Vpp into open circuit or 10 Vpp into 50 Ω loads, with selectable attenuation via 20 dB pad. Sine wave distortion remains below 1% from 10 Hz to 100 kHz. Variable symmetry control (20%–80%) adjusts duty cycle for square waves and rise/fall times for sine and sawtooth waves. Internal or external frequency sweep is driven through a VCF input accepting 0 to +10 VDC for two-decade (100:1) frequency sweep. DC offset capability and synchronous TTL output on dedicated BNC connectors round out the signal generation toolkit. Designed for product design, manufacturing test, field repair, and bench work from approximately 1991 onward.
Technical Specifications
• Frequency Range: 0.03 Hz to 3 MHz across 7 decade ranges
• Frequency Multiplier: 0.3× to 3.0× variable
• Frequency Accuracy: ±5% of full scale (frequency/1 and frequency/10 ranges)
• Output Waveforms: Sine, square, triangle, TTL (synchronous)
• Maximum Amplitude: 20 Vpp (open circuit); 10 Vpp (50 Ω load)
• Selectable Amplitude Ranges: 0–2 Vpp or 0–20 Vpp (open circuit)
• Attenuator: 20 dB pad
• Sine Wave Distortion: <1% (10 Hz to 100 kHz)
• Sawtooth Linearity: Specified 20 Hz to 200 kHz
• Symmetry Control: 20% to 80% (affects duty cycle and rise/fall times)
• DC Offset: Variable
• Sweep: Internal or external frequency sweep via VCF input
• VCF Input Range: 0 to +10 VDC (100:1 frequency sweep)
• Maximum VCF Voltage: ±10 Vpk (absolute maximum)
• Connectors: BNC (main output, SYNC/TTL, VCF input)
– Key Features
• Seven-decade frequency selection with fine adjustment within each range
• Variable symmetry for waveform shaping independent of frequency
• Dual amplitude modes: low-level and standard output
• Voltage-controlled frequency sweep for automated or external modulation
• TTL output for digital circuit synchronization and timing applications
• Integrated DC offset for biasing test signals
– Typical Applications
• Electronic circuit design and prototype validation
• Manufacturing and field repair test procedures
• Educational demonstrations in electronics and communications curricula
• Signal conditioning and frequency response characterization
– Compatibility & Integration
BNC connectors support standard test equipment interconnection. VCF input enables integration with external sweep controllers and modulation sources within ±10 Vpk envelope.
