Creating and Downloading Waveform Files Understanding Waveform Data

The maximum value for a single bytes to represent larger values.

unsigned byte is 255 (11111111 or 28−1), but you can use multiple The following shows two bytes and the resulting integer value:

01101110 10110011= 28339 (decimal value)

The maximum value for two unsigned bytes is 65535. Since binary strings lengthen as the value increases, it is common to show binary values using hexadecimal (hex) values (base 16), which are shorter. The value 65535 in hex is FFFF. Hexadecimal consists of the values 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, A, B, C, D, E, and F. In decimal, hex values range from 0 to 15 (F). It takes 4 bits to represent a single hex value.

1

=

0001

2

=

0010

3

=

0011

4

=

0100

5 = 0101

6

=

0110

7

=

0111

8

=

1000

9

=

1001

A = 1010

B = 1011

C = 1100

D = 1101

E = 1110

F = 1111

For I and Q data, the signal generator uses two bytes to represent an integer value.

LSB and MSB (Bit Order)

Within groups (strings) of bits, we designate the order of the bits by identifying which bit has the highest value and which has the lowest value by its location in the bit string. The following is an example of this order.

Most Significant Bit (MSB)

 

 

This bit has the highest value (greatest weight) and is located at the far left of the bit

 

 

 

 

 

 

string.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Least Significant Bit (LSB)

 

 

This bit has the lowest value (bit position zero) and is located at the far right of the

 

 

 

 

 

 

bit

string.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bit Position

15

14

13 12

11 10

9

8

7

6

5

4

3

2

1

0

Data

1

0

1

1

0

1

1

1

1

1

1

0

1

0

0

1

MSB

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LSB

Because we are using 2 bytes of data, the LSB appears in the second byte.

Little Endian and Big Endian (Byte Order)

When you use multiple bytes (as required for the waveform data), you must identify their order. This is similar to identifying the order of bits by LSB and MSB. To identify byte order, use the terms little

endian and big endian. These terms are used by designers of computer processors.

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Agilent N518xA, E8663B, E44x8C, and E82x7D Signal Generators Programming Guide

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Agilent Technologies N5181A/82A, N5183A MXG, E8663B manual LSB and MSB Bit Order, Little Endian and Big Endian Byte Order

N5183A, N5183A MXG, E8663B, N5181A/82A specifications

Agilent Technologies is renowned for its innovative solutions in electronic test and measurement equipment. Among its offerings are several signal generators including the N5181A, N5182A, E8663B, and N5183A MXG. These models are distinguished not only by their performance but also by their versatility across various applications in communications, aerospace, and electronics.

The Agilent N5181A and N5182A, part of the MXG family, are highly versatile signal generators known for their exceptional frequency performance and flexibility. The N5181A operates from 100 kHz to 6 GHz, while the N5182A extends that range up to 12 GHz. They provide high fidelity signals with low phase noise, making them ideal for the development and testing of RF components and systems. These generators support a wide variety of modulation formats, including AM, FM, PM, and pulse modulation, catering to diverse application needs.

The E8663B, meanwhile, is designed for the range of 250 kHz to 3 GHz and is also recognized for its high-performance features. Its built-in capabilities for modulation make it effective for testing wireless devices, ensuring that signals can be simulated accurately in both laboratory and field environments. It is especially beneficial for users requiring a straightforward and efficient solution with high reliability.

The N5183A MXG signal generator enhances the lineup with frequency coverage up to 6 GHz and advanced capabilities. It integrates various modulation capabilities while ensuring high signal integrity. Its architecture is tailored for both production test environments and research applications, providing users with the flexibility to adapt to changing testing requirements.

Common characteristics across these models include a user-friendly interface that simplifies configuration and operation. They are often equipped with LAN and USB interfaces for easy remote control and integration into automated test systems. The robustness of these generators allows them to perform reliably in challenging environments, making them essential tools in laboratories, manufacturing floors, and field testing scenarios.

In summary, Agilent's signal generators, including the N5181A, N5182A, E8663B, and N5183A MXG, represent a blend of advanced technology, flexibility, and precision. These instruments are vital in facilitating the evolution of cutting-edge communication technologies, ensuring that designers and engineers can confidently meet the demands of modern electronics.