1. Introduction
This user manual provides comprehensive instructions for the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the OWON XDG Series Arbitrary Waveform Generator. The XDG series, including models XDG3082, XDG3102, XDG3162, XDG3202, and XDG3252, are advanced 2-channel arbitrary waveform generators designed for precise signal generation in various applications.
Key features include advanced DDS technology, high sampling rates up to 1.25GS/s, 14-bit vertical resolution, and an 8-inch 800x600 pixel touch screen LCD for intuitive control. These generators support a wide range of basic and arbitrary waveforms, along with comprehensive modulation options and a high-accuracy frequency counter.

Figure 1.1: OWON XDG Series Arbitrary Waveform Generator
This image displays the OWON XDG Series Arbitrary Waveform Generator from a slightly angled front view, showcasing its large touch screen display and control panel. The screen shows waveform outputs for two channels, and the physical buttons and rotary encoder are visible on the right side.
2. Safety Information
Before operating the device, please read the following safety precautions carefully to avoid personal injury and prevent damage to the instrument or any products connected to it. This instrument is designed for use by qualified personnel only.
- Power Source: Use only the power cord specified for this instrument. Ensure the power source voltage matches the instrument's requirements.
- Grounding: The instrument must be properly grounded. Do not defeat the grounding conductor or operate the instrument with an ungrounded power outlet.
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation. Do not block ventilation openings. Operating the instrument in an environment with insufficient airflow can cause overheating.
- Environment: Do not operate the instrument in wet or damp conditions. Avoid operating in explosive atmospheres or in the presence of flammable gases or fumes.
- Cleaning: Disconnect power before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
- Servicing: Do not attempt to service the instrument yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
- Input Limits: Do not apply input signals that exceed the specified maximum input ratings for the instrument.
WARNING: To avoid electric shock, do not open the product casing. Refer to qualified personnel for servicing.
3. Product Overview
3.1 Front Panel Layout
The front panel of the OWON XDG Series Arbitrary Waveform Generator features an 8-inch touch screen LCD and a comprehensive set of controls for easy operation.

Figure 3.1: Front Panel Components
This image provides a detailed labeled diagram of the OWON XDG Series Arbitrary Waveform Generator's front panel. Key components identified include the 8-inch touch LCD, menu chosen button, function control button, input area (keypad), power switch, USB host port, waveform option area, and signal output area.
- 8" Touch LCD: The primary interface for displaying waveforms, settings, and menus. Supports touch input for quick adjustments.
- Menu Chosen Button: Navigates through menu options.
- Function Control Button: Dedicated buttons for common functions like Mod, Sweep, Burst, and Utility.
- Input Area: Numeric keypad and navigation buttons for precise parameter entry.
- Power Switch: Turns the device on or off.
- USB Host Port: For connecting USB storage devices to save/load waveforms or settings.
- Waveform Option Area: Buttons and indicators related to waveform selection and channel settings.
- Signal Output Area: BNC connectors for CH1 and CH2 outputs, along with trigger and sync ports.
3.2 Rear Panel Layout
The rear panel provides connectivity for power, external synchronization, and data transfer.

Figure 3.2: Rear Panel Components
This image shows a labeled diagram of the rear panel of the OWON XDG Series Arbitrary Waveform Generator. It highlights the 10MHz In/Out/Counter port, Mod/FSK/Trig port, USB Device port, LAN port, and the power socket with fuse compartment.
- 10MHz In / Out / Counter: BNC connector for external 10MHz reference input/output or frequency counter input.
- Mod / FSK / Trig: BNC connector for external modulation input, FSK input, or trigger input.
- USB Device Port: For connecting the instrument to a computer for remote control and data transfer.
- LAN Port: Ethernet port for network connectivity and remote control.
- Power Socket and Fuse Compartment: AC power input and fuse access.
4. Setup
4.1 Unpacking and Inspection
- Carefully remove the instrument from its packaging.
- Inspect the instrument for any signs of shipping damage. If damage is found, contact your supplier immediately.
- Verify that all items listed in the "What's in the Box" section are present. The package should include:
- OWON XDG Series Arbitrary Waveform Generator (Model: RB-OW-XDG3102 or equivalent for your specific model)
- Power Cord
- USB Cable
- Quick Guide / User Manual CD (if applicable)
4.2 Power Connection
- Ensure the power switch on the front panel is in the OFF position.
- Connect the provided power cord to the power socket on the rear panel of the instrument.
- Plug the other end of the power cord into a grounded AC power outlet. Ensure the outlet voltage matches the instrument's specified voltage range (100V-240V AC).
4.3 Initial Power On
- Press the power switch on the front panel to turn on the instrument.
- The instrument will perform a self-test and display the boot-up screen.
- Once the boot process is complete, the main waveform generation interface will appear on the touch screen.
5. Operating Instructions
This section covers the basic operation of the OWON XDG Series Arbitrary Waveform Generator.
5.1 Basic Waveform Generation
The XDG series supports 6 basic waveforms: Sine, Square, Pulse, Ramp, Noise, and Harmonic. To generate a basic waveform:
- On the touch screen, select the desired channel (CH1 or CH2).
- Tap the "Waveform" or "Type" button to open the waveform selection menu.
- Choose one of the basic waveforms (e.g., Sine).
- Adjust parameters such as Frequency, Amplitude, Offset, and Phase using the touch screen input or the numeric keypad and rotary encoder.
- Ensure the channel output is enabled (e.g., "CH1 On/Off" button).

Figure 5.1: Waveform Generation and Modulation Examples
This image illustrates various operational aspects of the OWON XDG Series. It shows the equivalent output for 2-channels, a rich sweep function interface, multi-modulation options (AM, FM, PM, PWM, FSK, 3FSK, 4FSK, PSK, OSK, ASK, BPSK), and a selection of over 150 built-in arbitrary waveforms.
5.2 Arbitrary Waveform Generation
The XDG series supports up to 1M arbitrary waveform length and includes 152 built-in arbitrary waveforms. You can also define user-defined arbitrary waveforms.
- Select the desired channel.
- Tap the "Waveform" or "Type" button and select "Arb" (Arbitrary).
- Choose from the list of built-in arbitrary waveforms or load a user-defined waveform from USB.
- Adjust parameters as needed.
5.3 Modulation Options
The instrument offers comprehensive modulation capabilities including AM, FM, PM, PWM, FSK, 3FSK, 4FSK, PSK, OSK, ASK, BPSK, Sweep, and Burst.
- Press the "Mod" button on the front panel.
- Select the desired modulation type from the menu.
- Configure the modulation parameters such as modulating waveform, depth, frequency, and carrier waveform as required.
5.4 Sweep Function
The sweep function allows the output frequency to vary continuously from a start frequency to a stop frequency over a specified time.
- Press the "Sweep" button on the front panel.
- Set the start frequency, stop frequency, and sweep time.
- Choose the sweep type (Linear, Log).
- Select the trigger source (Internal, External, Manual).
5.5 Frequency Counter
The built-in high-accuracy frequency counter ranges from 100mHz to 200MHz.
- Connect the signal to be measured to the "10MHz In / Out / Counter" BNC port on the rear panel.
- Access the counter function through the utility menu on the touch screen.
- The display will show the measured frequency.
5.6 Connectivity (USB & LAN)
The XDG series supports SCPI commands and LabVIEW for remote control and automation.
- USB Device Port: Connect the instrument to a PC using a USB cable for remote control and firmware updates.
- LAN Port: Connect the instrument to a network for remote control via Ethernet. Configure network settings (IP address, subnet mask) through the utility menu.
- USB Host Port: Use this port on the front panel to connect a USB flash drive for saving instrument settings, waveforms, or loading arbitrary waveforms.
6. Maintenance
6.1 Cleaning the Instrument
- Always disconnect the power cord before cleaning.
- Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior surfaces of the instrument.
- For stubborn dirt, use a cloth lightly dampened with water or a mild, non-abrasive cleaner.
- Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or solvents as they may damage the instrument's finish or display.
- Avoid spraying liquids directly onto the instrument.
6.2 Storage
- When not in use for extended periods, store the instrument in a clean, dry environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Keep the instrument covered to protect it from dust.
6.3 Battery Information
The device includes a Lithium Ion battery. This battery is typically for internal clock or memory backup and is not user-replaceable. If you suspect an issue with the internal battery, please contact qualified service personnel.
7. Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter. If the problem persists, please contact OWON customer support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Instrument does not power on. | Power cord not connected properly; Power outlet faulty; Blown fuse. | Check power cord connection. Try a different power outlet. Check and replace fuse if necessary (refer to qualified personnel). |
| No waveform output. | Channel output disabled; Amplitude set to 0V; Output cable faulty; Incorrect settings. | Ensure the channel output is enabled on the screen. Verify amplitude setting. Check output cables and connections. Review waveform parameters. |
| Touch screen unresponsive. | Temporary software glitch; Screen calibration issue. | Restart the instrument. If issue persists, contact support for potential calibration or service. |
| Remote control (USB/LAN) not working. | Incorrect cable connection; Driver not installed (USB); Incorrect network settings (LAN); Firewall blocking connection. | Verify cable connections. Install necessary drivers on PC. Check instrument's network settings and PC's network configuration/firewall. |
8. Specifications
The following table details the technical specifications for the OWON XDG Series Arbitrary Waveform Generators. Note that specifications may vary slightly between models (XDG3082, XDG3102, XDG3162, XDG3202, XDG3252).

Figure 8.1: Detailed Technical Specifications
This image presents a comprehensive table outlining the technical specifications for various models within the OWON XDG Series, including XDG252, XDG202, XDG162, XDG102, and XDG82. It covers parameters such as frequency output, sample rate, vertical resolution, standard waveforms, arbitrary waveforms, accuracy, load impedance, harmonic distortion, phase noise, rise/fall time, jitter, modulation types, and communication interfaces.
For detailed specifications of your specific model, please refer to the table above or the product's official data sheet.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Number | RB-OW-XDG3102 (example, varies by model) |
| Frequency Output | Up to 250MHz (model dependent) |
| Sampling Rate | 1.25GS/s |
| Vertical Resolution | 14 bits |
| Arbitrary Waveform Length | Up to 1M points |
| Frequency Resolution | 1 µHz |
| Display | 8'' 800 x 600 pixels touch screen LCD |
| Communication Interface | USB Host, USB Device, LAN |
| Product Dimensions | 9.84 x 4.33 x 6.3 inches |
| Product Weight | 3.31 Pounds |
9. Warranty and Support
OWON products are manufactured to high quality standards. For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official OWON website. Warranty terms and conditions may vary by region and product.
For technical support, service, or inquiries regarding your OWON XDG Series Arbitrary Waveform Generator, please contact OWON customer service or your local distributor. When contacting support, please have your product model number (e.g., RB-OW-XDG3102) and serial number ready.
You can find more information and support resources by visiting the OWON Store on Amazon or the official OWON website.





