JOY-IT PSG 9080 Programmable Signal Generator

1. General Information

Thank you for choosing the JOY-IT PSG 9080 programmable signal generator. This manual will guide you through its startup and usage. Should you encounter any issues, please do not hesitate to contact us.

The PSG9080 can output basic waveforms (sine, square, triangle, pulse, and custom) individually or simultaneously from its two channels. By default, it starts with a sine waveform at 10kHz frequency and 5Vpp amplitude. Users can configure different basic waveforms.

Key functions include amplitude, frequency, and phase modulation, amplitude shift keying (ASK), frequency shift keying (FSK), phase-shift keying (PSK), pulse width modulation (PWM), and burst function. It can also measure frequency, period, and pulse length, and count periods. A sampling mode and voltage control mode are also available.

The device features an intuitive button layout and a 3.5" color LCD. Settings can be saved for quick recall. The menu interface supports German, English, and French languages.

2. Safety Instructions

Please observe the following safety instructions to prevent damage to the unit, connected devices, and to ensure user safety:

• The unit operates with a dangerous voltage. Never open the casing while connected to the power supply to avoid the risk of electric shock.
• Use only a suitable mains cable to prevent short-circuiting or electric shock.
• Prevent electrostatic discharges.
• Do not supply power if any connections, wires, or components are exposed.
• Do not operate if the unit shows signs of suspected failure or damage.
• Do not operate the unit without covers or with screens removed.
• Overvoltages, such as from lightning strikes, can damage the unit and cause electric shocks.
• Never use the unit in humid, very dusty environments, or near open flames or chemicals.
• Operate the unit within an ambient temperature range of 10°C to 50°C.
• Ensure sufficient ventilation during operation to avoid overheating. Do not block ventilation slots or insert objects.
• Inspect the unit upon unpacking and before first use. Contact your supplier or JOY-IT if any damage is found.

3. Overview Front and Rear Side

Front Panel

The front panel provides access to the primary controls and display.

Rear Panel

The rear panel houses power and external connection interfaces.

The AC power input supports 85-264V AC, 47-63Hz, with a maximum line draw of 30W and a fuse rating of 250V AC, T3.15A.

4. Function Keys

The function keys on the front panel (no. 8) provide quick access to various modes and settings:

• SYS: System settings key. Switches between the main menu and system settings. Pressing it opens the settings menu, where 'Page' navigates through options like Clear Memory, Sound, Brightness, Language, Built-in Wave Number, Custom Wave Number, Waveform Loading Method, Synchronization, Factory Default, and System Colour. Pressing SYS also displays unit information (model, serial number). Pressing SHIFT + SYS accesses the system help function.
• MOD: Modulation key. Switches between the main menu and the modulation menu. Pressing it opens the modulation menu. The 'TYPE' menu key allows selection of modulation functions: Amplitude Modulation (AM), Frequency Modulation (FM), Phase Modulation (PM), Amplitude Shift Keying (ASK), Frequency Shift Keying (FSK), Phase-Shift Keying (PSK), Pulse Width Modulation (PWM), and Burst. Pressing SHIFT + MOD quickly accesses the burst function.
• MEAS: Measuring mode button. Switches between the main menu and the measurement mode menu. In the measuring mode menu, pressing 'CNTR.' or 'MEAS.' switches between counting and measuring functions. Pressing SHIFT + MEAS directly accesses the count function.
• LOAD: Load button. Recalls parameters from memory locations. Use the numeric keypad to select a position, then press LOAD. Pressing SHIFT + LOAD saves the current parameters.
• SWEEP: Sweep key. Switches between the main menu and the sweep mode menu. Pressing SWEEP enters the sweep menu. The 'FUNC' key selects between frequency sweep, amplitude sweep, and duty cycle sweep.
• VCO: Voltage Control Oscillator key. Switches between the main menu and the voltage control menu. Pressing VCO enters the voltage control menu. The 'FUNC' key selects between frequency control, amplitude control, and duty cycle control functions.
• FUNC: Function key. Switches between the main menu and the programming mode. Press FUNC to enter programming mode. The 'MODE' menu key switches between Normal Mode and Debug Mode.
• Home Button [?]: Returns to the standard screen. Press and hold to quickly save data to the M00 position.

5. Screen Overview

The LC Display (no. 10) provides visual feedback on the generator's status and settings.

Display Elements Explained:

• Menu buttons (1): Display the operation menu for the currently selected function.
• Finger cursor (2): Indicates the active channel (CH1 or CH2). Parameter changes apply to the channel indicated by the cursor. Pressing CH1 or CH2 buttons moves the cursor and selects the respective channel for parameter adjustment.
• Current channel status (3): Shows if a channel is ON or OFF. Use CH1/CH2 buttons to toggle individual channels, or the 'OUT' button to toggle both simultaneously.
• Phase (4): Displays the phase shift of channel 2 relative to channel 1. Phase shift can only be set for channel 2. Use direction keys and the rotary knob, or the numeric keypad, to adjust. Frequency synchronization in system settings may be required before setting phase difference.
• Waveform display (5): Shows the currently set waveform for the selected channel. Use the 'Wave' menu button and the rotary knob or numeric keypad to change waveforms.
• Frequency (6), Amplitude (7), Offset (8), Duty cycle (9): Display current parameter values.
• Information box (10): Shows entered values and stored/loaded data positions.

6. Basic First Steps

Powering On and Initial Setup:

To start the unit, connect a suitable power source (85 V - 264 V AC or 4.8 V - 5 V 3A DC) to the rear panel and press the on-off button ⚡.

Setting the System Language:

After the start screen appears, you can set the system language. Press the corresponding menu key to select your desired language (English, German, or French). This setting will be retained for future startups.

Selecting the Output Channel:

Use the CH1 or CH2 channel control buttons to select the desired output channel. The finger cursor on the display indicates the currently active channel.

Selecting Waveforms:

Press the 'Wave' menu button. The waveform selection options appear on the right side of the screen. Choose your desired waveform using the menu keys or by turning the rotary knob. The waveform can also be adjusted using the numeric keypad.

Setting the Frequency:

Press the 'Freq.' menu key to highlight 'Frequency'. Enter the desired frequency value using the numeric keypad and select the unit (MHz, kHz, Hz, mHz, μHz) using the menu keys. Alternatively, use the direction keys to navigate to the digit to edit, then use the rotary knob to change the value. The frequency range is 0-80MHz. Pressing 'Freq.' again allows selection of the frequency unit.

Setting the Amplitude:

Press the 'Ampl.' menu key to highlight 'Amplitude'. Use the numeric keypad or rotary knob to set the desired amplitude value. The amplitude range is dependent on the set frequency; higher frequencies result in a smaller output amplitude range.

Adjusting the Offset:

Press the 'Offset' menu button to highlight 'Offset'. Use the direction buttons, rotary knob, or numeric keypad to adjust the offset value. The offset affects the amplitude range; a larger offset reduces the available amplitude range. When a DC level is selected for the waveform, the offset represents that DC voltage value (amplitude cannot be 0).

Setting the Duty Cycle:

The duty cycle setting may be disabled for certain waveforms. Press the 'Duty' menu button to highlight 'Duty Cycle'. Use the direction buttons, rotary knob, or numeric keypad to set the parameters. The default duty cycle is 50%. This setting is applicable to pulse waveforms and is adjustable from 0.01% to 99.99%.

Adjusting the Phase:

Select channel CH2. On the CH2 interface, press the 'Phase' menu button. Use the arrow keys, rotary knob, or numeric keypad to set the phase difference. The default is 0.00°. Ensure frequency synchronization is active in system settings before adjusting phase difference.

Observing Output Waveforms:

Connect CH1 and CH2 of the PSG9080 to an oscilloscope using standard BNC test leads. Observe the waveforms. Using a standard BNC test lead with a connector is recommended for square wave testing to ensure low overshoots and stable waveforms.

Loading and Saving Parameters:

Press and hold the Home button [?] to quickly save parameters to memory position M00. Alternatively, enter a stored position using the numeric buttons and press SHIFT + LOAD to save to any of the 100 memory positions (00-99). To load parameters, enter the desired memory position using the numeric keys and press the LOAD key.

7. Modulation Mode

The PSG9080 can generate modulated waveforms on single or dual channels. Modulation is the process of embedding information from a signal source onto a carrier wave for transmission. The carrier wave can be sine, square, pulse, or arbitrary (excluding DC signal waves). The modulated wave can originate from an internal or external modulation source.

Supported modulation types include AM, FM, PM, ASK, PSK, FSK, PWM, and Burst.

Selecting the Modulation Mode:

Press the MOD button, then select 'Type' to choose the desired modulation mode using the menu buttons or rotary knob.

Selecting Carrier Waveforms:

Press 'Sharp' and use the rotary knob to select the carrier waveform. Parameters like frequency, amplitude, and offset affect the modulated output. Refer to the 'Specifications' section for detailed adjustable ranges.

Selecting the Source:

The PSG9080 accepts modulation waveforms from internal or external sources. Press 'Source' to select 'Internal' or 'External'.

• Internal Source: After selecting 'Internal', press the 'Sharp' menu button to choose the carrier waveform (sine, square, triangle, ascending/descending exponential, or any wave). The default is sine wave.
• External Source: When 'External' is selected, the signal generator accepts input via the MOD connector on the front panel. The external signal frequency range is 0-20kHz, and amplitude is -5V to +5V.

Setting the Carrier Frequency:

With an 'Internal' modulation source, press the 'Carr.F' menu key to set the carrier frequency. Use the numeric keypad, direction keys, or rotary knob. The frequency range is 0.001 Hz to 1 MHz; the default is 500 Hz.

Setting the Modulation Wave Frequency:

For 'Internal' modulation sources, press the 'Mod.F' menu key to set the frequency of the modulated wave. Use the numeric keypad, direction keys, or rotary knob. The modulation frequency range is 0.001 Hz to 1 MHz; the default is 500 Hz.

Modulation Types:

• AM (Amplitude Modulation): The carrier wave's amplitude changes according to the transmission signal, while frequency remains constant. Modulation Depth is set via the 'Depth' button, ranging from 0% to 200%.
• FM (Frequency Modulation): The carrier frequency changes based on the modulation signal. The magnitude of frequency change is determined by the modulation signal's magnitude, and the period by its frequency. Set frequency deviation using the 'FM.Dev' key.
• PM (Phase Modulation): The carrier phase shifts proportionally to the modulation signal's instantaneous value. Adjust phase deviation using the 'PM.Dev' key. Range is 0° to 359.9°, default is 180°.
• ASK (Amplitude Shift Keying): A digital baseband signal controls the carrier wave's amplitude variation. Set polarity ('Polar' button) to 'positive' or 'negative'. Set ASK amplitude via the 'Ampl.' button, ranging from 0% to 200% (default 80%).
• FSK (Frequency Shift Keying): Controls carrier frequency changes. Set polarity ('Polar' button) to 'Positive Polarity' or 'Negative Polarity'. Set hop frequency using the 'Hop.F' button.
• PSK (Phase-Shift Keying): The output signal's phase shifts based on the source signal's logic level. Set polarity ('Polar' button) and phase via the 'Phase' button (0° to 359.9°).
• PWM (Pulse Width Modulation): Adjusts pulse width and period for square waves, offering higher accuracy than duty cycle settings. Use 'W.Inv' to select Normal/Inverted output. Set pulse width ('Width' button, 0.001μs to 4s) and pulse period ('Period' button, 0.001μs to 40s).
• Burst-Function: Sends individual signal pulses. Can output 1 to 10,000,000 burst signals. Trigger modes include internal, external (rising edge), and manual. Ensure burst signal period is shorter than the trigger signal period. Set 'Idle' mode (zero, positive max, negative max). Set trigger source via 'T.Src' (Button, Int., Ext.AC, Ext.DC).

Setting the Number of Pulses:

Use the 'Num.' menu button to set the number of pulses (1 to 100,000,000; default is 1).

8. Measuring Mode

Press the MEAS button to enter the measuring mode menu. Use 'CNTR.' or 'MEAS.' to switch between counting and measuring functions. SHIFT + MEAS directly accesses the counting function.

Measuring Function

Measures frequency, period, positive/negative pulse width, and duty cycle of input signals via the EXT input. Measuring frequency range: 1Hz-100MHz. Measuring signal amplitude range: 2Vpp-20Vpp.

• Setting the Coupling: Use [⬆️]/[⬇️] to select 'Coupling' and the rotary knob to switch between AC and DC coupling.
• Setting the Gate Time: Use [⬆️]/[⬇️] to select 'Gate Time' position. Enter desired gate time (0.001 s to 10 s; default 1 s) using the numeric keypad, direction keys, or rotary knob.
• Set the Measurement Mode: Use [⬆️]/[⬇️] to select 'Measurement Mode' and the rotary knob to switch between low frequency (<2kHz) and high frequency (>2kHz) modes.

Measurement parameters include Frequency, Period, Positive Pulse Width, Negative Pulse Width, and Duty Cycle.

Counting Function

Calculates the number of input signal periods in real-time.

• Set the Coupling: Use [⬆️]/[⬇️] to select 'Coupling' and the rotary knob to switch between AC and DC.

After setting coupling, press 'ON' to start counting, 'OFF' to stop, 'RST' to restore defaults, and 'Save' to save parameters.

9. Sweep Mode

The sweep function allows setting a start and end range that is swept over a specified time. This can be used for frequency, amplitude, and duty cycle sweeps.

Press the SWEEP key to enter the sweep menu. Press the 'FUNC' key to select frequency sweep, amplitude sweep, or duty cycle sweep. Press 'SAVE' to quickly save parameters to M00.

• Sweep Time: Use [⬆️]/[⬇️] to select 'Sweep Time'. Enter desired sweep time (0.01 s to 640 s) using the numeric keypad, direction keys, or rotary knob.
• Sweep Direction: Use [⬆️]/[⬇️] to select 'Sweep Direction'. Choose from Rising, Falling, or Rising & Falling.
• Sweep Mode: Use [⬆️]/[⬇️] to select 'Sweep Mode'. Choose between linear and logarithmic modes.
• Sweep Channel: Change the channel by pressing the CH1 or CH2 menu button.

Sweep Frequency

Press 'FUNC' to select Sweep Frequency (S.Freq). Set the start and end frequencies (upper and lower limits) using direction keys, rotary knob, or numeric keypad. Press 'ON' to start the frequency sweep.

Sweep Amplitude

Press 'FUNC' to select Sweep Amplitude (S.Ampl). Set the start and end amplitudes. Press 'ON' to start the amplitude run.

Sweep Duty Cycle

Press 'FUNC' to select Sweep Duty Cycle (S.Duty). Set the start and end duty cycles. Press 'ON' to start the duty cycle sweep.

10. Voltage Control Menu (VCO)

VCO stands for Voltage-Controlled Oscillator, an oscillator whose frequency changes with applied voltage. Press VCO and the 'FUNC' key to select frequency, amplitude, or duty cycle control functions. Press 'SAVE' to store parameters in M00.

• VCO Channel: Switch between CH1 and CH2 using the CH1/CH2 menu buttons or rotary knob.
• VCO Mode: Use [⬆️]/[⬇️] to select VCO mode (Linear or Logarithmic).
• VCO Frequency (V.Freq): Set start and end frequencies for the sweep. Calibrate minimum and maximum external input signal voltages using the numeric keypad. Press 'ON' to activate frequency control.
• VCO Amplitude (V.Ampl): Set start and end amplitudes for the sweep. Calibrate minimum and maximum external input signal voltages. Press 'ON' to activate amplitude control.
• VCO Duty Cycle (V.Duty): Set start and end duty cycles. Calibrate minimum and maximum external input signal voltages. Press 'ON' to activate duty cycle control.

11. Programming Mode

Programming mode allows automatic sequencing of different signals. Press FUNC to enter the programming mode menu, and the 'MODE' key to switch between Normal and Debug modes. Press 'SAVE' to save data.

• Normal Mode vs. Debug Mode: Debug mode (marked with *) shows the programming display during signal output for recognition. Normal mode (marked with ) shows the home screen.
• P00: Represents memory positions (P00-P19).
• No.: Indicates an instruction (00-99 sets of instructions).
• Load: M00 indicates the parameter storage location.
• Time: 00S indicates current instruction runtime. Format is HH:MM:SS:ms / HH:MM:SS.
• GoTo: Specifies the instruction number to jump to.
• Loop: Sets how many times an instruction is repeated (e.g., 05 means 5 times).

12. System Settings

Press the SYS menu button to enter system settings. Use [⬆️]/[⬇️] to select items like Clear Memory, Sound, Brightness, Language, Built-in Wave Count, Arbitrary Wave Count, Waveform Load, Methods, and System Information.

• Clear Memory: Erase parameters from a selected memory position using the rotary knob or keypad.
• Sound Setting: Toggle sound ON/OFF using menu keys or rotary knob.
• Brightness Setting: Adjust screen brightness using numeric keys and rotary knob.
• Setting the Language: Select German, English, or French via rotary knob or menu keys.
• Build-in Waveforms: Set the number of built-in waves (00-21) using numeric keys and knob.
• Arbitrary Waveforms: Set the number of arbitrary waves (01-99) using numeric keys and knob.
• Waveform Loading Methods: Select 'Auto' (up to 8192 sample points, recommended) or 'Fast' (2048 sample points).
• System Information: Press 'About' to display product model, hardware/software versions, FPGA version, official website, and QR code.

System Settings - Page 2:

• Change Page: Press 'PgDn' to access the second page of system settings.
• Waveform Synchronization: Toggle ON/OFF to synchronize CH2 parameters with CH1.
• Frequency Synchronization: Toggle ON/OFF.
• Amplitude Synchronization: Toggle ON/OFF.
• Duty Cycle Synchronization: Toggle ON/OFF.
• External Synchronization: Toggle ON/OFF.
• Frequency Fine-tuning: Adjust frequency for synchronization (range 0-99).
• Recover to Default Settings: Press 'RUN' to restore factory settings.
• System Colour: Select from four system colours using numeric keys and rotary knob. Press 'Save' to confirm.
• Automatic Power-on: Toggle ON/OFF. When ON, the unit output is active at startup.
• CH1/CH2 Amplitude Fine-tuning: Adjust CH1/CH2 amplitude fine-tuning value (default 50) for accurate amplitude calibration if measured amplitude differs slightly.

13. Troubleshooting

This chapter lists common PSG9080 errors and their solutions. If problems persist, please contact us.

• Screen is dark (no display) after pressing power button:
  • Check power supply connection.
  • Verify the power button is pressed.
  • Restart the instrument after checks.
• Screen is too dark to see content clearly:
  • Check if brightness and contrast settings are too low.
  • Press SYS, navigate to brightness using [⬆️]/[⬇️], and adjust with the rotary knob.
• Settings are correct but no waveform is generated:
  • Ensure BNC cable is firmly connected to the output connector (CH1 or CH2).
  • Check BNC cable for internal damage.
  • Verify BNC cable is firmly connected to the tester.
  • Confirm signal output of CH1 or CH2 is switched ON.
  • After checks, restart the unit.
  • If issues persist, contact us.

14. Additional Information

Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act (ElektroG) Obligations:

Symbol on electrical and electronic equipment: [♻️] This crossed-out dustbin symbol indicates that electrical and electronic appliances must not be disposed of as household waste. They must be returned to a collection point. Waste batteries and accumulators not enclosed by waste equipment must be separated before handover.

Return Options:

• As an end-user, you can return your old device (fulfilling the same function as the new one) free of charge for disposal when purchasing a new device.
• Small appliances (under 25 cm external dimensions) can be disposed of in normal household quantities, independent of a new appliance purchase.

Possibility of return at company location:

SIMAC Electronics GmbH, Pascalstr. 8, D-47506 Neukirchen-Vluyn, Germany (during opening hours).

Possibility of return in your area:

Contact SIMAC Electronics GmbH via email at Service@joy-it.net or by telephone for a prepaid parcel stamp to return devices free of charge.

Information on packaging:

Contact us if you need suitable packaging material.

15. Support

For any issues or problems after purchase, support is available via email, telephone, and our ticket system.

• Email: service@joy-it.net
• Ticket system: http://support.joy-it.net
• Telephone: +49 (0)2845 98469-66 (10:00 - 17:00 CET)
• Website: www.joy-it.net

Published: 26.02.2021

SIMAC Electronics GmbH, Pascalstr. 8, 47506 Neukirchen-Vluyn