Signal Generators and MATLAB

Control Signal Generators and Create Custom Waveforms

You can control a signal generator's modulation capabilities directly from MATLAB using Instrument Control Toolbox. You can also create a custom waveform in MATLAB, and then use the toolbox to upload the waveform to the signal generator. MATLAB and the toolbox also provide tools to create graphical interfaces for visualizing custom waveforms, comparing real-world data to models created in MATLAB or Simulink, and automating tests.

By using the SCPI commands described in the operating or programming manual for your signal generator, you can control and generate data using any signal generator over any of these supported interfaces:

• GPIB
• Serial
• TCP/IP
• UDP
• VISA

Control Signal Generators with Instrument Driver Software

Many signal generator manufacturers supply industry-standard instrument drivers that you can use directly from MATLAB. Instrument Control Toolbox provides connectivity through instrument drivers such as:

• MATLAB Instrument Drivers
• IVI
• VXIplug&play

Resources

• Agilent (MXG/ESG/PSG) Download Assistant for MATLAB
• Generating Arbitrary and Standard Waveforms on Agilent MXG, ESG, PSG Signal Sources using MATLAB (Code example)
• Pulsed Linear FM Chirp Generation Using Agilent Signal Generator 3:48
• CW Pulse Generation and IQ Modulation Using Agilent Vector Signal Generator 4:42