Function generators are pieces of electronic test equipment that are capable of generating repetitive waveforms such as triangular waves, sinusoidal waves and square waves. You can test an electronic device by passing the waveforms through the device and analyzing their progress.

Various types of function generators available in the market are arbitrary waveform generators, programmable function generators, synthesized generators and dual channel arbitrary generators.

Some important parameters you must consider before purchasing function generators are:

1. Frequency of output signal for function generators
2. Output waveform: sine, square, triangle or other
3. Amplitude of the waveform
4. Required level of attenuation for function generators

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy a function generator from reputable manufacturers

Once you understand your testing requirements, look around for different function generators available in the market.

I recommend: Victor Electronics, a reputable manufacturer of industrial electronics equipment and devices, offers function generator kits that have different output waveforms like sinusoidal, rectangle or triangle. You can buy an analog or a digital function generator at Tektronix, a supplier of function generators for applications such as serial data communication simulation, wireless network stress testing and disk drive testing. Avtech Electrosystems offers function generators that you can also use as variable gain amplifiers. Tabor Electronics sells single, dual or four channel function generators. Stanford Research Systems provides various electronic test and measurement equipment including portable function generators.

Buy a function generator from a distributor or a retailer

You can compare function generators from different manufacturers at retailers and distributors' websites.

I recommend: Continental Resources, a distributor of electronic test and measurement devices, provides function generators of various types including an arbitrary waveform generator, a programmable function generator and a synthesized generator. Calright Instruments is another distributor that supplies function generators from reputable manufacturers such as Fluke, Agilent and Rigol Technologies. You can also buy function generators at Jameco, an electronic component distributor that helps you in choosing the right product by applying different filtering criteria such as manufacturer, price range or order quantity. You can buy a sweep function generator or an arbitrary waveform generator at Bell Electronics NW, a testing and measuring company.

Buy used function generators

You can buy a used function generator from reputable manufacturers or distributors to achieve a cost-effective solution for your testing requirements.

I recommend: Agilent Technologies, a reputable manufacturer of test and measurement devices, offers both new and used function generators. Used-Line.com is a distributor of used equipment that offers electronic testing devices including function generators. You can also buy used fluke function generators from Test Equipment Depot, a distributor of new and used electronic testing equipment and devices. Furthermore, you can purchase a used function generator at Kitmondo, an online marketplace to buy used equipment.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Read the function generator manual carefully to understand the operating capabilities and connectivity features of your function generator.
• •  Like other testing and measuring devices, function generators also need periodic calibration to ensure their sensitivity and accuracy.