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Application Notes
Test and measurement instruments have come a long way since the introduction of the HP 200A audio oscillator in 1938. One major change has been the implementation of digital technology to replace analog circuitry in instruments. Today’s instruments typically utilize high-performance analog-todigital converters (ADCs) or digital-to-analog converters (DACs). These allow you to analyze and generate waveforms with much better fidelity at higher frequencies and with much better dynamic range compared to instruments of just a few years ago.
The wide variety and complexity of signals that today’s engineers must work with, pose a significant challenge for choosing the right test equipment. ADCs and DACs are at the heart of most test equipment, and they have a prominent effect on instrument performance. Without a good quality ADC or DAC in the test equipment, the user will not be able to achieve good test results.
There is often a considerable amount of confusion around converter specifications versus the specifications of the instruments where the converters are used. It does not help that the same terminology is used across the characteristics of different instruments, but can have subtle differences in meaning. In this application note, we will look at some common converter characteristics and how they relate to instrument performance. Understanding these elemental concepts will enable you to choose the best instrument for the job and leverage its potential to the fullest.
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