Spectrum Offers hybridNETBOX - Generator and Digitiser

Spectrum offers hybridNETBOX, an instrumentation platform that combines a multi-channel arbitrary waveform generator and a digitiser in a single portable unit. In total, 14 different hybridNETBOX-models are available now, with 2+2, 4+4 or 8+8 matched channels and a choice of speeds from 40 MS/s up to to 1.25 GS/s.

The ability to create and acquire electronic signals at the same time enables the hybridNETBOX to play a key role in automated closed-loop or stimulus-response type testing. For example, they can reproduce and capture “echo” signals such as those found in Radar, Sonar, Lidar or Ultrasound. With their multi-channel capability, they can test these systems even when arrays of transmitters and receivers are used. The hybridNETBOX is also suited for ATE applications where components and sub-assemblies need to be tested in a fast automated manner. They can quickly ascertain the functionality and tolerance of DUTs and UUTs (devices or units under test) by exercising them with numerous, easily adjusted, complex signals. This powerful testing process can be deployed in a host of applications like Bus testing, MIMO communications, circuit verification, mechatronics and robotics.

Each hybridNETBOX has it's own AWG and digitiser section. The AWG channels can generate almost any wave shape thanks to their use of the latest, high resolution, 16-bit digital to analog converters (DAC). Models are available with output rates of 40, 80, 125, 625 MS/s or 1.25 GS/s and signal bandwidths up to 400 MHz (600 MHz as an option).

For signal acquisition, the digitiser channels feature similarly outstanding performances. Users can select from models that provide 16-bit resolution and sampling rates of 40, 80, 125, 180 or 250 MS/s or 14-bit resolution and sampling rates of 400 or 500 MS/s. Each channel is fully programmable with six adjustable input ranges, from ±200 mV to ±10 V full scale, signal offset and selectable input impedance of 50 Ohm or 1 MOhm.  Both the AWG and digitiser channels showcase a flexible clocking system that allows the selection of almost any output or sampling rate setting, enabling users to generate or acquire signals at exactly the speed they require.

Oliver Rovini, Technical Director at Spectrum Instrumentation, says, "We've created the hybridNETBOX series for engineers and scientists that require precise, simultaneous waveform generation and signal acquisition in manual, automated or remotely controlled applications. Being portable LXI instruments, they’re easy to integrate into almost any system. Just connect them to a PC or network, via the Gbit Ethernet port and start generating, acquiring and analysing signals."

Each hybridNETBOX includes Spectrum’s own control software -- SBench 6 -- for signal generation, acquisition, display, signal processing, storage and reporting. SBench 6 allows waveforms to be created using standard functions and mathematical equations. Data can be acquired with the digitizer part and then be transferred to the AWG for replay. Data sharing with other programs or devices, such as oscilloscopes, is possible using built-in, import/export functions for transferring data in Binary, ASCII or Wave formats. Fully programmable, the hybridNETBOX comes with drivers for Windows and Linux operating systems, as well as programming examples for C++, LabVIEW, MATLAB, Visual Basic .NET, Python and other popular languages.