ARBITRARY WAVEFORM EDITOR

Instruction Manual

NF Corporation

DA00016812-001

ARBITRARY WAVEFORM EDITOR

Instruction Manual

Registered Trademarks
IBM and AT are registered trademarks of International Business Machines, Inc.
Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Adobe and Acrobat are trademarks of Adobe Systems, Inc.
Other company or product names are generally trademarks or registered trademarks of thecompany to which each relates.

Preface
Thank you for purchasing the WF1973/WF1974 Multifunction Generator.
To ensure safe use of this product, please first read Safety Precautions on the following pages.
 Before Reading This ManualThis manual is a PDF file stored in the CD-ROM. Acrobat Reader (Adobe Systems, Inc.) Ver. 5 or
higher is required to view the file contents.
This manual is intended for users with knowledge for basic operation of the operating system (OS)(Microsoft Windows 2000/XP) to be used. For basic operation of the Windows OS or definitions ofterms such as “click” and “drag”, see the user’s guide of the Windows OS.
Figures or messages shown in this manual are for the Windows XP environment, and may differ inother environments.
 Caution Symbols Used in This Manual
The following caution symbols are used in this manual. Be sure to observe these caution symbols
and their contents.
CAUTION
This mark indicates cautions on handling of this program.
• This manual has the following chapter organization.
If you are reading this manual for the first time, start from 1. OVERVIEW.
1. OVERVIEW
Presents brief descriptions of the “Arbitrary Waveform Editor” functions.
2. INSTALLATION
Describes environmental requirements for operation of the “Arbitrary Waveform Editor”
as well as its installation and startup procedures.
3. FOR FIRST-TIME USERS
Describes “Arbitrary Waveform Editor” operations, using simple examples of respective
major features. Read this chapter while you are operating the editor.
4. Waveform Generation Through PWF
Describes functions and how to use waveform display screens.
5. OTHER SCREEN OPERATIONS
Describes functions and how to operate other display screens.
6. ERROR MESSAGES
Describes error specifications.
7. MAINTENANCE
Describes management of the CD-ROM and actions to take when the device is damaged.

i

ARB Edit⎯ Safety Precautions ⎯To ensure safe use, be sure to observe the following warnings and cautions.
NF Corporation shall not be held liable for damages that arise from failure to observe these warnings
and cautions.
z Be sure to observe the contents of this instruction manual.
This instruction manual contains information for the safe operation and use of this product.
Be sure to read this information first before using this product.
All the warnings in the instruction manual must be heeded to prevent hazards that may cause major
accidents.
z In case of suspected anomaly
If the product controlled by this editor emits smoke, an abnormal smell, or abnormal noise,
immediately power it off and stop using it.
If such an anomaly occurs, do not use this product until it has been repaired, and immediately report
the problem to the location of purchase (either NF Corporation or your distributor).

ii

ARB Edit

Disclaimer
The Arbitrary Waveform Editor (hereinafter, “this software”) was shipped after having undergone
full testing and inspection by the NF Corporation.
Should this product fail due to a manufacturing flaw or due to a mishap during shipping, contact NF
Corporation or an NF Corporation sales representative.
NF Corporation takes no responsibility for any damage caused by use of this software. In addition, we
assume no obligation to modify the software or provide support if this software contains flaws. Please
use this software under your responsibility.

COPYRIGHTNF Corporation retains the copyright of this software, which is protected under the copyright law ofJapan and related international conventions.
You may either make one copy of this software for backup or storage purposes only, or install it onto a
hard disk while keeping the original of this software for backup or storage purposes only.
Reproduction of this instruction manual without permission, either in part or in whole, is prohibited.

ABOUT CONTACT
If a problem occurs or if you have questions, contact NF Corporation or the NF Corporation sales
representative where you purchased this product.
When contacting NF Corporation or an NF Corporation sales representative, provide the model name(or product name), version number, and information as detailed as possible about the nature of the
problem, conditions of use, etc.

iii

ARB Edit

Contents
Preface ....................................................................................................................................

i

Safety Precautions .................................................................................................................

ii

Disclaimer ............................................................................................................................... iii

1.

2.

OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................................... 1-1
1.1

General .................................................................................................................. 1-2

1.2

Function Tree........................................................................................................ 1-2

1.3

Conventions.......................................................................................................... 1-5

INSTALLATION................................................................................................................ 2-1
2.1

2.2

3.

Hardware Requirements....................................................................................... 2-2
2.1.1 Personal computer .................................................................................. 2-2
2.1.2 USB interface ........................................................................................... 2-2
Installation Procedure .......................................................................................... 2-3
2.2.1 Installing the USB driver software.......................................................... 2-3
2.2.2 Installing Arbitrary Waveform Editor ...................................................... 2-4
2.2.3 Uninstalling Arbitrary Waveform Editor ................................................. 2-4

FOR FIRST-TIME USERS ................................................................................................ 3-1
3.1

General .................................................................................................................. 3-2

3.2

Start and Termination........................................................................................... 3-3

3.3

Standard Waveform .............................................................................................. 3-3

3.4

Copying and Pasting a Waveform ....................................................................... 3-4

3.5

Numerical Expression Waveform ........................................................................ 3-5

3.6

Waveform Generation Through Interpolation ..................................................... 3-6

3.7

Compression and Extension of Waveform - 1 .................................................... 3-7

3.8

Compression and Extension of Waveform - 2 .................................................... 3-8

3.9

Operation Between Waveforms ........................................................................... 3-9

3.10 Waveform Generation Through PWF................................................................. 3-10
4.

OPERATIONS ON ARBITRARY WAVEFORM DISPLAY SCREEN .................................. 4-1
4.1

Organization and Functions of Waveform Display Screen................................ 4-2

4.2

Tool Menu.............................................................................................................. 4-3

4.3

Setting Menu ......................................................................................................... 4-4

4.4

Undo and Redo ..................................................................................................... 4-4

4.5

Zooming and Scrolling the Display ..................................................................... 4-5
4.5.1 Vertical zoom ........................................................................................... 4-5
4.5.2 Horizontal zoom ....................................................................................... 4-5
4.5.3 Scrolling ................................................................................................... 4-5
4.5.4 Marker and range selection..................................................................... 4-5
4.5.5 Marker operations.................................................................................... 4-6
4.5.6 Range selection ....................................................................................... 4-7
File Operations and Printing ............................................................................... 4-8
4.6.1 File types .................................................................................................. 4-8

4.6

iv

ARB Edit

Contents

4.7

5.

OTHER SCREEN OPERATIONS ..................................................................................... 5-1
5.1

5.2

5.3

5.4

5.5

5.6

6.

Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical Expression Waveform ....... 5-2
5.1.1 Range setting and page........................................................................... 5-3
5.1.2 Waveform selection ................................................................................. 5-3
5.1.3 Parameter setting .................................................................................... 5-4
5.1.4 Inter-Waveform Numerical Expression................................................... 5-5
5.1.5 File operation ......................................................................................... 5-10
5.1.6 Print ........................................................................................................ 5-10
Contraction/Extension of Waveform ................................................................. 5-11
5.2.1 Contraction/Extension of horizontal axis ............................................ 5-11
5.2.2 Contraction/extension of vertical axis ................................................. 5-12
Waveform Generation Through Interpolation ................................................... 5-13
5.3.1 Control point setting ............................................................................. 5-14
5.3.2 Interpolation ........................................................................................... 5-14
5.3.3 File operation ......................................................................................... 5-15
Operation Between Waveforms ......................................................................... 5-16
5.4.1 Operation types ..................................................................................... 5-16
5.4.2 Object of operation ................................................................................ 5-16
5.4.3 Operation execution .............................................................................. 5-17
PWF (Parameter-Variable Waveform) ................................................................ 5-18
5.5.1 Waveform selection ............................................................................... 5-19
5.5.2 Parameter setting .................................................................................. 5-19
5.5.3 PWF parameters..................................................................................... 5-19
5.5.4 File operation ......................................................................................... 5-20
5.5.5 Print ........................................................................................................ 5-21
Transferring the Waveform and Settings .......................................................... 5-22
5.6.1 Model setting ......................................................................................... 5-22
5.6.2 Axis unit setting..................................................................................... 5-23
5.6.3 Waveform memory setting .................................................................... 5-25
5.6.4 Oscillator Setup ..................................................................................... 5-27
5.6.5 Cautions during transfer and reading .................................................. 5-29
5.6.6 File operations ....................................................................................... 5-29
5.6.7 Print ........................................................................................................ 5-30
5.6.8 Initial values ........................................................................................... 5-30

ERROR MESSAGES........................................................................................................ 6-1
6.1

7.

4.6.2 New ........................................................................................................... 4-8
4.6.3 Specialized format file ............................................................................. 4-9
4.6.4 Text file ..................................................................................................... 4-9
4.6.5 Import ..................................................................................................... 4-11
4.6.6 Print ........................................................................................................ 4-12
Copy and Paste .................................................................................................. 4-12
4.7.1 Edit operation ........................................................................................ 4-12
4.7.2 Clipboard ................................................................................................ 4-12

Arbitrary Wave Edit Software Error..................................................................... 6-2

MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................................... 7-1
7.1

Handling CD-ROM................................................................................................. 7-2

7.2

Replacement of Damaged CD-ROM..................................................................... 7-2

7.3

Version Check....................................................................................................... 7-2v

ARB EditFigures and Tables
Page
Figure 3-1.

Examples of Waveforms Described in This Chapter.................................... 3-2

Figure 4-1.

Waveform Display Screen .............................................................................. 4-2

Figure 4-2.

Waveform Editing Operation ....................................................................... 4-13

Figure 5-1.

Waveform Generation Screen........................................................................ 5-2

Figure 5-2.

Waveform Generation Screen - Waveform Function .................................... 5-5

Figure 5-3.

Contraction/Extension Screen .................................................................... 5-11

Figure 5-4.

Interpolation Editing Screen........................................................................ 5-13

Figure 5-5.

Inter-Waveform Operation Screen ............................................................... 5-16

Figure 5-6.

PWF Screen .................................................................................................. 5-18

Figure 5-7.

System Setup Screen − System Setup........................................................ 5-22

Figure 5-8.

System Setup Screen − Unit Setup ............................................................. 5-23

Figure 5-9.

System Setup Screen − Waveform memory Setup ..................................... 5-25

Figure 5-10.

System Setup Screen − Oscillator Setup .................................................... 5-27

Figure 7-1.

Version Dialog Box......................................................................................... 7-2

Table 5-1.

Parameters for Standard Waveforms ............................................................ 5-4

Table 5-2.

Built-in Constants........................................................................................... 5-6

Table 5-3.

Operators ........................................................................................................ 5-7

Table 5-4.

Built-in Functions ........................................................................................... 5-8

Table 5-5.

Steady Sine Group ....................................................................................... 5-19

Table 5-6.

Transient Sine Group ................................................................................... 5-19

Table 5-7.

Pulse Group .................................................................................................. 5-20

Table 5-8.

Transient Response Group .......................................................................... 5-20

Table 5-9.

Surge Group ................................................................................................. 5-20

Table 5-10.

Others Group ................................................................................................ 5-20

Table 5-11.

Examples of Custom Units for the Horizontal Axis.................................... 5-24

Table 5-12.

Signal Generator Setting ............................................................................. 5-27

Table 5-13.

Initialized Values .......................................................................................... 5-30

Table 6-1.

Error Messages .............................................................................................. 6-2

vii

ARB Edit1. OVERVIEW

1.1
1.2
1.3

General ········································································ 1-2
Function Tree ······························································· 1-2
Conventions ································································· 1-5

1-1

ARB Edit1.1 General

1.1

GeneralThe Arbitrary Waveform Editor is software that supports WF1973/WF1974 Multifunction
Generator arbitrary wave function.
The Arbitrary Waveform Editor operates on Windows on a personal computer (PC), transferring
waveform and other data via USB.
The main functions of the Arbitrary Waveform Editor are listed below.
[Waveform generation function]
Generates standard waveforms in the specified range.
Generates arbitrary waveforms in the specified range using waveform function expressions.
Generates arbitrary waveforms by specifying control points, using linear interpolation and splineinterpolation.
Generates arbitrary waveforms by using PWF (parameter-variable waveform).
[Transfer & read-out function]
Transfers waveform data and the main parameter settings of the signal generator via USB.
Reads out the arbitrary waveform data of the signal generator via USB.
[Display function]
Specifies a range with two markers and reads the values of waveforms.
[File operation function]
Saves to a file and reads out waveform data, signal generator settings, waveform function
expressions, interpolation control points, etc.

1.2

Function Tree

The function tree of the Arbitrary Waveform Editor is shown on the following pages.

1-2

ARB Edit1.2 Function Tree
Waveform

File menu

New

Edit menu

Open
Save As
Save (Original Format)
Save (Text Format)
Import
Print
Exit
Undo
Redo
Cut
Copy
Paste
DeleteWaveform
File Menu
Generation

display screen

Tool menu(Tool buttons)

Compress/
Decompress

Open
Save
Print
Edit Menu
Clear
Clear All Page
SpecifiedStart point
Range
End point
Waveform
Standard
Amplitude
Selection
Waveform
OffsetSine
Size
Triangular
PeriodSquare
Phase
Noise
Slope
DC
Duty
Transition
Waveform
Constant
Go to Page
Function
Y=function
Enable/Disable Page
Calculate
Page OKAll Pages OK
CancelX Axis Start Point
X Axis End Point
Decompress to Entire X Axis
Y Axis Max/MinMax
Min
Y Axis Amplitude/
Amplitude
OffsetOffsetDecompress to Max. Amplitude with Fixed Offset
Decompress to Max. Amplitude
OK
Cancel(Continued on next page)

1-3

ARB Edit1.2 Function Tree(Continued from previous page)
Interpolation
Editing

Operations
BetweenWaveforms

PWF

Setting Menu

System Settings
Grid Display
On/Off

File menu

Open
Save
Insert Control Point
Delete Insert Point
Delete All Control Points
Execute Linear Interpolation
Execute Spline Interpolation
Execute Continuous Spline Interpolation
Exit
Select Operation Function
Select Generated Waveform as Operation Target
Select Clipboard Waveform as Operation Target
Execute Operation
OK
CancelFile Menu
Open
Save
Select Waveform
Print
Set Parameters
Specify Variable Parameters
SliderOK
CancelSystem Settings Open
File Menu
Save
Print
Type Settings
Set Type
Select Interface
Serial Number
Unit Settings X Axis Unit Setting
Unit
Unit Name
Minimum Value Setting
Maximum Value Setting
Y Axis Unit Setting
Unit
Unit Name
Minimum Value Setting
Maximum Value Setting
Waveform
Waveform Memory Name
MemoryWaveform Memory Number
Settings
Transfer Method
Waveform Memory Size
Waveform Data Transfer
Waveform Data Read(Continued on next page)

1-4

ARB Edit1.3 Conventions(Continued from previous page)
Oscillator
Independent
Settings
InterlockMarker X Position Difference Setting
Marker A X Position Setting
Marker A Y Position Display
Marker B X Position Setting
Marker B Y Position Display
Marker Mode

1.3

Channel Selection
Output On/Off
Frequency
PeriodOutput Range
Amplitude
DC Offset
Amplitude Range
Oscillator Setting
OK
CancelConventions

The following conventions are used in this manual.
• Menu names displayed on the screen, user input strings, and other elements: block letters
enclosed by square brackets ([, ]).
Examples: [Function], [s=2*pi;]• Button names displayed on the screen, user’s key operations, and other elements: block
letters enclosed by a box ( ).
Examples: Cancel , OK , Alt• Press one key while holding down another key: Two keys are connected by a plus (+)
symbol. Example: Ctrl + O• Press one key, release it and press another key: Two keys are divided by a comma (,).
Example: Alt , F

1-5

ARB Edit2. INSTALLATION

2.1 Hardware Requirements ··············································· 2-2
2.1.1 Personal computer ················································ 2-2
2.1.2 USB interface ························································ 2-2
2.2 Installation Procedure··················································· 2-3
2.2.1 Installing the USB driver software ························· 2-3
2.2.2 Installing Arbitrary Waveform Editor ······················ 2-4
2.2.3 Uninstalling Arbitrary Waveform Editor ·················· 2-4

2-1

ARB Edit2.1 Hardware Requirements

2.1

Hardware Requirements

Before installing the Arbitrary Waveform Editor, check that the system satisfies all therequirements below.

2.1.1

Personal computerz CPU:

300 MHz or faster (1 GHz or faster recommended)z Memory:

256 MB or more (512 MB or more recommended)z Free hard disk space:

10 MB or morez Display:

1024 × 768 pixels or higher and 256 colors or more.

z OS:

Windows 2000 SP4/XP SP2 (Microsoft)z Disk drive:

CD-ROM drive
The company and product names are trademarks or registeredtrademarks of their respective owners.

CAUTION
The CD-ROM drive is required only when the software is installed.

2.1.2

USB interface

z USB 1.1 Full Speed

2-2

ARB Edit2.2 Installation Procedure

2.2

Installation Procedure

When installing or uninstalling the software in a Windows 2000 or XP environment, log on as auser who has an administrator privilege.

2.2.1

Installing the USB driver software

The USB driver software can be downloaded from the National Instruments Corporation website.
The procedures for installing the USB driver software are described below.
1. Search for the VISA Run-time Engine page on the National Instruments Corporation website or
select “VISA driver downloads” at the following URL.
http://www.ni.com/support/visa/
2. Download VISA Run-time Engine from the VISA Run-time Engine page.
User registration must be performed at this time. Download VISA Run-time Engine Ver. 3.3 orlater.
3. The downloaded file is a self-extracting file. Extract it and install the software.
4. The USB driver software is installed when installation is successfully complete.
For details, visit the National Instruments Corporation website.
After installing the USB driver software, connect the device to the PC as follows:a) Make sure that the device and the PC are not connected.
b) Power-on the device and connect the device and the PC using a USB cable.
c) The installation process starts automatically. Follow the guidance.

CAUTIONIf GPIB is selected as the remote interface of the WF1973/WF1974, select USB and then follow
the procedure described above.
For details, refer to the “WF1973/WF1974 Instruction Manual (External Control)”.

2-3

ARB Edit2.2 Installation Procedure

2.2.2

Installing Arbitrary Waveform Editor(a) Insert the “WF1973/WF1974 MULTIFUNCTION GENERATOR” CD-ROM into the
CD-ROM drive of the PC.
(b) Execute [English\Application\ARB_EDIT\Setup.EXE] on the CD-ROM or[D: \English\Application\ARB_EDIT\Setup.EXE] from [Run] on the start menu.
[D:] indicates the CD-ROM drive. If another drive letter is assigned to the CD-ROM driver,assign it appropriately, according to your system.
(c) Click the Next button, following the screen guidance to start installation.
(d) When installation has been completed, the Arbitrary Waveform Editor can be executed.
Click [ARB_EDIT] from Start - [Programs] - [NFTOOL] - [ARB_EDIT] to execute thesoftware.

2.2.3

Uninstalling Arbitrary Waveform Editor

To remove the Signal/Power Source “ARB Edit Software”, first double-click [Add or Remove
Programs] (in the case of Windows 2000; in the case of Windows XP, [Add or Remove
Programs]) from the control panel. Next, click the [Arbitrary Waveform Editor] and theChange/Remove button.
Note that the folder in which the Arbitrary Waveform Editor was installed may not be removed
in some cases. All the files created in the folder remain as they are. If the folder is unnecessary,delete it after uninstallation.

2-4

ARB Edit3. FOR FIRST-TIME USERS

3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
3.9
3.10

General ········································································ 3-2
Start and Termination ··················································· 3-3
Standard Waveform ······················································ 3-3
Copying and Pasting a Waveform································· 3-4
Numerical Expression Waveform ·································· 3-5
Waveform Generation Through Interpolation ················ 3-6
Compression and Extension of Waveform - 1 ··············· 3-7
Compression and Extension of Waveform - 2 ··············· 3-8
Operation Between Waveforms ···································· 3-9
Waveform Generation Through PWF ·························· 3-10

3-1

ARB Edit3.1 General

3.1

GeneralThis chapter describes several examples so that you can understand basic operations and functions
for the “ARB Arbitrary Waveform Editor” (ARB Edit).
It will be easier to understand the description if you read it while actually operating the software.
The following conventions are used in this chapter.

3.3 Standard Waveform

3.4 Copying and Pasting a
Waveform

3.5 Numerical Expression
Waveform

3.6 Waveform Generation
Through Interpolation

3.7 Compression andExtension of Waveform - 1

3.8 Compression andExtension of Waveform - 2

3.9 Operation Between
Waveforms

3.10 Waveform Generation
Through PWF

Figure 3-1 Examples of Waveforms Described in This Chapter

3-2

ARB Edit3.2 Start and Termination

3.2

Start and Termination

Select Start -[Program]-[NFTool] and click [ARB_EDIT] to start.
To exit the editor, click(close box) at the top right or execute [File] - [Exit]. The [Exit Program.

Are you sure?] confirmation message appears in either case. Click the Yes button.
In the following examples, operations are explained from the default status when the Arbitrary
Waveform Editor is started.
Before performing the operations in each example, exit the Arbitrary Waveform Editor once andthen restart it.

3.3

Standard Waveform

This section explains how to create a triangle wave with 30% symmetry, as a sample standard
waveform.
Step 1: Clickat the top left of the screen. The same result can be obtained when [Tools]- [Wave Create] is selected.
The screen titled [NF ARB Edit - Wave Create] appears.
button to the right of [Function] and click [Triangle] from the list.

Step 2: Click theStep 3: Change the numerical value from [50] to [30] in the number input section to the rightof [Symmetry] and press the Enter key. This specifies a triangle wave with 30%
symmetry.
Step 4: Clicking All Page OK closes the waveform generation screen and returns to thescreen where the waveform is displayed.

Explanation 1: In this example, the waveform is generated across the memory size.
In the “ARB Edit”, the waveform can be divided into multiple pages. For example,
the fist quarter of a waveform can be allocated to the first page and the latter half of
the waveform can be allocated to the second page, and so on.
See “5.1.1 Range setting and page”.
To execute the specified waveform across multiple active pages in batch, click
the All Pages OK button.
To execute the displayed page only, click the Page OK button.
In this example, clicking either of the buttons leads to the same result because thefirst page alone is specified.
Explanation 2: In addition to the triangle wave, the sine wave, square wave (duty ratio variable), andwaveform definitions (waveform functions) with the noise, DC, or numericalexpression can be selected.
See “3.5 Numerical Expression Waveform”.

Waveform function example:

3-3

ARB Edit3.4 Copying and Pasting a Waveform

3.4

Copying and Pasting a Waveform

This section explains how to create a full-wave rectification waveform, as a sample of copying andpasting waveforms.
Step 1: Click the

button to the top left of the screen. The same result can be obtained

when [Tools] - [Waveform Create] is selected.
Step 2: The sine wave is selected in the initial status, so click the All Page OK button
without changing it and return to the waveform display screen.
Step 3: Move marker B to the center of waveform.
In the initialized state, [1.000000] is displayed to the bottom right of the screen.
Set [0.5], which is the half of the memory size, in the number area to the right of[MrkB(X)] and press the Enter key.
Step 4: Press the C key while holding down the Ctrl key. The same result can be obtained
when [Edit] - [Copy] is selected. The area between markers A and B, that is, the firsthalf data of waveform is copied to the clipboard.
Step 5: Click(option button) to the left of [Interlock], making it(selected status) to

set the interlock mode to the marker.
Set [0.5] in the number area to the right of [MrkA(X)] and press the Enter key.
Step 6: Press the V key while holding down the Ctrl key. The same result can be obtained
when [Edit] - [Paste] is selected.
The waveform data on the clipboard is pasted to the latter half of waveform.

Explanation 1: If the axis setting is not in the initial state, the operation differs.
In this case, exit ARB Edit and then restart it and perform the operation.
Explanation 2: The operation of pressing the C key while holding down the Ctrl key is hereinafter
expressed as Ctrl + C .
Ctrl + C (Copy) leaves the waveform in the copied area as is.
Ctrl + X (Cut) is the same in that the data in the selected area is saved onto the
clipboard. The waveform in the selected area is deleted, however.
Ctrl + D (Delete) deletes the waveform in the selected area but the data on the
clipboard does not change.
Explanation 3: Use markers A and B to select the range.
For example, when the range specified with the markers is from 0 to 1.000, the actual
selection range will be 0 ≤ X < 1.000.
Explanation 4: For the clipboard, see“4.7.2 Clipboard” and your Windows OS manual.

3-4

ARB Edit3.5 Numerical Expression Waveform

3.5

Numerical Expression Waveform

This section explains how to create a waveform by superposing 3rd and 5th harmonics over thefundamental wave, as a sample of generating a waveform with a numerical expression.
Step 1: Select [Setup] - [Setup].
The screen titled [NF ARB Edit - System Setup] appears.
Step 2: Click the [Unit] page tab.
Step 3: Click the

button to the right of [X-Axis Unit] and click [User Unit] from thedisplayed list.
Leave the minimum value to the maximum value two lines below as their initialvalues, [0.000000 - 1.000000].
Step 4: Click the

button to the right of [Y-Axis Unit] and click [User Unit] from thedisplayed list.
Leave the minimum value to the maximum value in the last line as their initialvalues, [-1.000 - 1.000].
Step 5: Click the OK button to return to the waveform display screen.
Step 6: Click the

button at the left top of the screen.

Step 7: Click the

button to the right of [Function] and click [Waveform Function]from the displayed list.
Step 8: Input [s=2*pi;] in the input area to the right of [Constant].
Input [sin(x*s)+sin(x*s*3)/3+sin(x*s*5)/5] in the input area to the right of [Y=].
Step 9: Click the Compute button. The calculated waveform is displayed on the waveformgeneration screen.
Step 10: Click the All Page OK button to return to the waveform display screen.

Explanation 1: In this example, the horizontal line (X) is treated as 0 to 1 by using the custom unit.
Likewise, the vertical line (Y) is treated as ±1 as a whole.
The expression of one cycle of the sine wave is made easier by defining s=2π as aconstant so that [x*s] is expressed in a formula.
Explanation 2: If you set the X range for the custom unit to 0 to 6.283185 (2π) at step 3, theexpression becomes simpler: [sin(x)+sin(x*3)/3+sin(x*5)/5].

3-5

ARB Edit3.6 Waveform Generation Through Interpolation

3.6

Waveform Generation Through Interpolation

This section explains how to create a smooth pulse waveform, as a sample of generating a waveform
through interpolation.
Step 1: Select [Setup] - [Setup] to display the dialog box titled [NF ARB Edit - System
Setup]. Next, click the [Unit] page tab.
Step 2: Click the

button to the right of [X-Axis Unit] and click [User Unit] from thedisplayed list. Leave the minimum value to the maximum value two lines below as
their initial values, [0.000000 - 1.000000]. Click the

button to the right of[Y-Axis Unit] and click [User Unit] from the displayed list. Leave the minimum
value to the maximum value two lines below as their initial values, [-1.000000 1.000000].
Click the OK button to return to the waveform display screen.
Step 3: Set [0.2] in the number area to the right of [MrkA(X)] and press the Enter key.
Set [0.8] in the number area to the right of [MrkB(X)] and press the Enter key.
Step 4: Click the

button at the top left of the screen. The same result can be obtained when[Tools] - [Interpolate] is selected.
The screen titled [NF ARB Edit - Interpolate] appears.
Step 5: Click the cell for the Y value next to X which shows [0.5] on the list of the control
points, input 1, and press the Enter key.
Step 6: Click the Cont Spline button.
The interpolated waveform is displayed on the waveform display screen.
If the waveform is hidden behind the interpolation editing screen and difficult to see,move the screen.
Step 7: Click the Exit button to return to the waveform display screen.

Explanation 1: If the setting in step 1 and step 2 is already the default setting, no operation isrequired.
Explanation 2: The point set at step 5 is called “control point” in interpolation editing.
Explanation 3: In the case of linear interpolation, the waveform is created by interpolating spaces
between control points with straight line.
In the case of a spline, spaces between control points are smoothly interpolated with
spline curve.
Explanation 4: In the case of a continuous spline, the selected range is interpolated so that it issmoothly connected to the previous and subsequent ranges as well.
When all ranges are selected, the waveform is interpolated so that the head and tailof the waveform can be smoothly connected if the waveform is repeated.

3-6

ARB Edit3.7 Compression and Extension of Waveform - 1

3.7

Compression and Extension of Waveform - 1

This section explains how to create a burst waveform by contracting the sine wave to the first quarterof the waveform display screen, as a sample of horizontally contracting/extending a waveform.
Step 1: Click the

button at the top left of the screen.

A sine wave is selected in the initial status.
Change the numerical value to the right of [Period] from [1] to [4] to make a sine
wave with four cycles.
Click the All Page OK button to return to the waveform display screen.
Step 2: Click the

button at the top left of the screen. The same result can be obtained when[Tools] - [Compress/Decompress] is selected.
The screen titled [NF ARB Edit - Compress/Decompress] appears.
Step 3: In the initial status, [1.000000] is displayed to the right bottom of the waveform
display screen.
Leave the number area to the right of [Start X=] as [0.0].
Set the quarter of memory size, [0.25] in the number area to the right of [End X=]
and press the Enter key.
The four sine waves displayed across the waveform are contracted to the first quarteron the waveform display screen.
If the waveform is hidden behind the contraction/extraction screen and difficult tosee, move the screen.
Step 4: Click the OK button to return to the waveform display screen.

Explanation 1: [Start X=] is left as [0] in this example, so the original waveform is contracted to thefirst quarter of waveform on the waveform display screen.
For example, when [Start X=] is set to [0.25] and [End X=] is set to [0.5], theoriginal waveform is contracted to the second quarter on the waveform display
screen.
Explanation 2: It is also possible to specify the whole waveform.
Select a part of waveform on the waveform display screen with markers A and B in
advance.
If the Fit Length button is then clicked on the contraction/extraction screen, theselected range is extended to the whole waveform.

3-7

ARB Edit3.8 Compression and Extension of Waveform - 2

3.8

Compression and Extension of Waveform - 2

This section explains how to create a trapezoidal wave by extending and clipping a triangle wave, asa sample of vertically contracting/extending a waveform.
Step 1: Click the

button at the top left of the screen.

A sine wave is selected in the initial status.
Click thebutton to the right of [Function], click [Triangle] from the displayed

list.
Click the All Page OK button to return to the waveform display screen.
Step 2: Click the

button at the top left of the screen. The same result can be obtained when[Tools] - [Compress/Decompress] is selected.
The screen titled [NF ARB Edit - Compress/Decompress] appears.
Step 3: Change the setting in the number area to the right of [Max.(X)] from [1.0] to [3.0]and press the Enter key.
Change the setting in the number area to the right of [Min.(N)] from [−1.0] to [−3.0]
and press the Enter key.
The triangle wave is vertically extended, clipped and changed to a trapezoidal wave
on the waveform display screen.
If the waveform is hidden behind the contracting/extension screen and difficult to see,move the screen.
Step 4: Click the OK button to return to the waveform display screen.
Explanation 1: It is also possible to vertically contract or move the waveform by specifying
the maximum and minimum numerical values at step 4.
If the positive and negative full scales are exceeded as a result of extension or
move, the waveform is clipped to the positive and negative full scales.
Explanation 2: It is possible to contract/extract part of a waveform by selecting the part on
the waveform display screen with Markers A and B in advance.
Explanation 3: If the waveform has not reached the positive and negative full scales, thewaveform can be extended to the maximum amplitude by clicking the
Fit Amplitude or Fit Peak-Peak button.
Explanation 4: The vertically reversed waveform can be obtained by setting [−3.0] as the
maximum value and [3.0] as the maximum value at step 3.
Explanation 5: Though the contraction/extraction ratio is specified with [Max/Min] in thisexample, [Amp/Offs] can also be used to specify this ratio.
Click(option button) to the left of [Amp/Offs] making it(selected

status). The result same as in this example can be obtained by setting[Amplitude] to [6.0] and [DC Offset] to [0].
Explanation 6: Though the triangle wave is clipped to create a trapezoidal wave in thisexample, it is possible to generate the trapezoidal wave more easily by
setting [Transition] on a square wave.

3-8

ARB Edit3.9 Operation Between Waveforms

3.9

Operation Between Waveforms

This section explains how to create a waveform by superposing noise over a sine wave, as asample of operation between waveforms.
Step 1: Click the

button at the left top of the screen.

A sine wave is selected in the initial status.
Change the numerical value to the right of [Amplitude] from [2.0] to [1.5] toreduce the amplitude a little bit.
Click the All Page OK button to return to the waveform display screen.
Step 2: Click the

button at the top left of the screen. The same result can be obtained

when [Tools] - [Operate] is selected.
The screen titled [NF ARB Edit - Operate] appears.
Step 3: Click the Created Waveform button in the middle of the inter-waveform operation
screen.
The screen titled [NF ARB Edit – Waveform Create] appears as when the
button is clicked.
Step 4: Click the

button to the right of [Function] and click [Noise] from the displayed

list.
Change the numerical value to the right of [Amplitude] from [2.0] to [0.4].
Click the Page OK button to return to the inter-waveform operation screen.
Step 5: When the = button is clicked, the waveform created as a result of addition of the sine
wave and noise is displayed in the waveform display area to the right of the screen.
Step 6: Click the OK button to return to the waveform display screen.
The waveform superposing noise over the sine wave is now created.
Explanation 1: Besides the addition shown in this example, subtraction, multiplication, and division
are possible.
Explanation 2: The operation can be executed targeting a part of the waveform by selecting the parton the waveform display screen with markers A and B in advance.
Explanation 3: In this example, the waveform created on the waveform generation screen is used for
operation.
The data on the “clipboard” can be used by clicking the Clip Board button in step 3.
Clipboard:

See “3.4 Copying and Pasting a Waveform”.

Explanation 4: It is convenient to set the vertical axis to ±1 of the custom as in the example in “3.5Numerical Expression Waveform” when executing multiplication.
Under this setting, the result of multiplying full scale values will also be a full scalevalue.

3-9

ARB Edit3.10 Waveform Generation Through PWF

3.10 Waveform Generation Through PWF
An example using “On-Ph Ctrl Sine” is shown below as an example of waveform generation throughPWF.
button at the top left of the screen. The same result can be obtained
Step 1: Click thewhen [Tools]-[PWF] is selected.
The screen titled [NF ARB Edit - Parameter-Variable Waveform Create]
appears.
Step 2: Click the

button to the right of [Function], and then click [On-Ph Ctrl Sine] inthe list.
Step 3: Click the

button to the right of [Parameter-Variable Waveform], and thenclick [SlopeT] in the list.
Step 4: Either change the numerical value from [10] to [20] in the number input section to
the right of [SlopeT] or move the slide bar to the right of [Parameter-Variable
Waveform] to change the waveform.
Step 5: Click OK to close the PWF screen and return to the waveform display screen.

Explanation 1: The PWF screen, the waveform is generated across the entire memory size.
Explanation 2: Twenty-five different waveforms can be used with PWF. The number of parameters
to be set depends on the waveform. See “5.5 PWF (Parameter-Variable Waveforms)”.
“5.5 PWF (Parameter-Variable Waveform)”

3-10

ARB Edit4. OPERATIONS ON ARBITRARYWAVEFORM DISPLAY SCREEN

4.1

Organization and Functions of Waveform Display Screen······················································································ 4-2
4.2 Tool Menu ···································································· 4-3
4.3 Setting Menu ································································ 4-4
4.4 Undo and Redo ···························································· 4-4
4.5 Zooming and Scrolling the Display ······························· 4-5
4.5.1 Vertical zoom ························································ 4-5
4.5.2 Horizontal zoom ···················································· 4-5
4.5.3 Scrolling ································································ 4-5
4.5.4 Marker and range selection ··································· 4-5
4.5.5 Marker operations ················································· 4-6
4.5.6 Range selection ···················································· 4-7
4.6 File Operations and Printing ········································· 4-8
4.6.1 File types ······························································ 4-8
4.6.2 New ······································································ 4-8
4.6.3 Specialized format file ··········································· 4-9
4.6.4 Text file ································································· 4-9
4.6.5 Import ··································································4-11
4.6.6 Print ···································································· 4-12
4.7 Copy and Paste·························································· 4-12
4.7.1 Edit operation······················································ 4-12
4.7.2 Clipboard ···························································· 4-12

4-1

ARB Edit4.1 Organization and Functions of Waveform Display Screen

The display that appears when the “ARB Arbitrary Waveform Editor” is started is called the
waveform display screen.

How to start:

See “3.2 Start and Termination”.

This chapter describes the functions and operations on the waveform display screen.

4.1

Organization and Functions of Waveform Display
Screen“Figure 4-1 Waveform Display Screen” shows the names of each component on the waveform
display screen.

Title barMenu bar
ToolbarWaveform
display area

Figure 4-1 Waveform Display Screen
The title bar displays the file name from/to which waveform data was read/written. If no file has
been read or written, [<Untitled>] is displayed.
For standard functions, operation methods, and other information on title bar buttons, see theWindows manual.
The menu bar has a pull-down menu.
Clicking a menu name displays the menu options. Clicking an option executes that function.
Otherwise, pressing the Alt key and pressing the key for the underlined alphabetic character to theright of the menu name displays the options for the menu (for example, Alt , F displays the options
for the [File] menu). Clicking the key for the underlined alphabetic character to the right of theoption executes that function.
If [Ctrl + *] (*: an alphabetic character) is displayed to the right of the menu option, thecorresponding function can be directly executed when the menu option is not displayed. (Forexample, [Ctrl + V] is displayed to the right of [Paste] on the [Edit] menu. In this case, pressing
4-2

ARB Edit4.2 Tool Menu
Ctrl + V is the same operation as selecting [Edit] - [Paste].)
The toolbar contains the frequently used function buttons and the marker setting/display section.
: Waveform create screenSee“5.1 Generation of Standard Waveform andNumerical Expression Waveform”.

: Compress/Decompress screenSee“5.2 Contraction/Extension of Waveform”.

: Interpolate screenSee“5.3 Waveform Generation ThroughInterpolation”.

[: Operate screenSee“5.4 Operation Between Waveforms”.

: PWF screenSee“5.5 PWF (Parameter-Variable Waveform)”.

Indep], [tRack]:

Selects the marker operation mode.

[dX(-)]:

Sets/displays the difference in the horizontal position of marker.

[MrkA(X)], [MrkB(X)]:

Sets/displays the horizontal position of marker.

[A (Y)], [B (Y)]:Displays the vertical position of the waveform at the marker
position.

The waveform display area contains the waveform display, display magnification (zoom) ratio
selection, and the mouse pointer position display.
If an underlined alphabetic character is displayed to the right of the item name on the toolbar or in
the waveform display area, pressing the underlined alphabetic character while holding down the Alt
key selects the corresponding item.
For example, Alt + H (pressing the H key while holding down the Alt key) selects [Horiz Zoom].
Note that Alt, H (pressing the Alt key and then pressing the H key) displays the [Help] menu
options on the menu bar.
Clicking the input/display area to the right of the item name also selects that item.
Example: MrkA(X) 0.000000
Click here or press Alt + A.
Clicking(option button) to the left of the item name selects the function and the option button

turns to(selected status).
Example:tRack
Click here or press Alt + R.

4.2

Tool Menu

The tool menu options are shown below.
Opens the waveform create screen, as does the

button on the toolbar.

Opens the compress/decompress screen, as does theOpens the interpolate screen, as does the

button on the toolbar.

button on the toolbar.

Opens the operate screen, as does the

button on the toolbar.

Opens the operate screen, as does the

button on the toolbar.

4-3

ARB Edit4.3 Setting Menu
For example, pressing Alt, T , C opens the waveform generation screen.
Waveform create screen

See “5.1 Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical
Expression Waveform”.

Compress/decompress screen

See “5.2 Contraction/Extension of Waveform”.

Interpolate screen

See “5.3 Waveform Generation Through Interpolation”.

Operate screen

See “5.4 Operation Between Waveforms”.

PWF screen

See “5.5 PWF (Parameter-Variable Waveform)”.

4.3

Setting Menu

The setting menu options are shown below.

Opens the system setup screen.
Turns on/off the grid display in the waveform display area.
Selecting [Setup] - [Setup] ( Alt , S , S ) opens the system setup screen.
On the system setup screen, it is possible to select the signal generator model, set or transfer main
parameters, transfer waveform data, set the display unit, or perform other operations.
See “5.6 Transferring the Waveform and Settings”.
Each time [Setup] - [Show Grid] ( Alt , S , G ) is selected, the grid display in the waveform
display area is turned on or off.
No grid is printed out when a waveform is printed out.

4.4

See “4.6.6 Print”.

Undo and RedoIn the “ARB Edit”, it is possible to revert the waveform creation or editing operation to the previous
status (Undo). Select [Edit] - [Undo] ( Alt , E , U ) or pressing Ctrl + U undoes the operation.
To cancel the Undo operation (Redo), select [Edit] - [Redo] ( Alt , E , R ) or press Ctrl + U .

4-4

ARB Edit4.5 Zooming and Scrolling the Display

4.5

Zooming and Scrolling the Display

4.5.1

Vertical zoom

The waveform display can be independently zoomed vertically or horizontally.
The vertical magnification ratio can be [1:1] (display the whole waveform), [1:2] (display the half ofwaveform to the full screen), [1:4]... up to [1:256].
Click thebutton to the right of [Zoom Vert] and select the desired item from the display

magnification ratio list.
To increase the magnification ratio, press Alt + V, select [Zoom Vert], and press the ↓ or → key.
To decrease the magnification ratio, press the ↑ or ← key. The Home key cancels zooming andthe End key zooms the waveform to maximum.

4.5.2

Horizontal zoom

The horizontal magnification ratio can be [1:1] (display the whole waveform), [1:2] (display the halfof waveform to the full screen), [1:4]... up to [1:128].
Click thebutton to the right of [Horiz] and select the desired item from the displayed

magnification ratio list.
To increase the magnification ratio, press Alt + H , select [Horiz] and press the ↓ or → key. To
decrease the magnification ratio, press the ↑ or ← key. The Home key cancels zooming and the
End key zooms the waveform to maximum.

4.5.3

Scrolling

When the vertical/horizontal ratio is [1:2] or greater, the scroll button appears on the scroll bar.
Drag the scroll button with the mouse to observe other parts of waveform.
The scroll button starts blinking when clicked. Pressing the ↓ or → key in this status moves thedisplay position to the right or downward. Pressing the ↑ or ← key moves the display position to
the left or upward. Pressing the PageUp /PageDown moves the display position by a larger step.
The Home key moves the display position to the leftmost or upmost position and the End key
moves the display position to the rightmost or downmost position.

4.5.4

Marker and range selection

The markers are used to select the horizontal waveform range before editing or creating waveforms.
The markers are also used to specify the horizontal position to read the vertical value of the
waveform.
The ARB Edit markers are displayed as vertical lines in the waveform display area.

4-5

ARB Edit4.5 Zooming and Scrolling the Display

4.5.5

Marker operationsa) Marker types
There are two markers used in the ARB Edit: marker A and marker B.
Marker A cannot be set to the right of marker B. marker A must be always to the left of or at the same
position as marker B.
Marker A↓

Marker B↓

The position of each marker is displayed to the right of [MrkA(X)] and [MrkB(X)].
The waveform value to the marker position is displayed to the right of [A(Y)] and [B(Y)].

b) Moving the marker (mouse dragging)
The marker can be moved in two ways: mouse dragging and numerical value specification.
Moving the mouse cursor to the same horizontal position as the marker, the shape of the mouse
cursor changes fromto. Dragging the mouse in this status moves the marker. Though themarker is difficult to see to the right or left edge, moving the mouse cursor to either edges makes the
cursor to.

When the marker is moved by mouse dragging, the waveform data address is used as the moving unit.
When one dot on the display corresponds to multiple addresses due to the display magnification
ratio, the address corresponding to one dot on the display is used as the moving step.

c) Marker moving (numerical value setting)
For marker position specification with a higher resolution, directly input the marker position with anumerical value.
Clicking the right space to [MrkA(X)] or pressing Alt + A selects the position display section ofmarker A. Inputting a numerical value followed by pressing the Enter key jump marker A to thespecified position.
To specify the marker position in higher resolution, directly input a numeric value as the marker
position.
Likewise, to jump marker B to the specified position, click the right space to [MrkB(X)] or press Alt+ B and input a numerical value in the marker B position display section, and then press the press
Enter key.

4-6

ARB Edit4.5 Zooming and Scrolling the Display
By setting a numerical value, it is possible to freely specify the marker position within thesetting/display resolution range without being restricted by the waveform data address.

d) Marker interlock mode
When (option button) to the left of [Indep] on the toolbar is selected ( ), markers A and B

independently move.
Clicking the option button to the left of [tRack] or pressing Alt + R interlocks marker A and marker
B.
The horizontal difference between marker A and marker B is displayed to the right of [dX(-)].
When either of the markers is moved, the other marker is also moved with the distance between them
being kept.
Click the right space to [dX(-)] or press Alt + - and input a numerical value, and then press theEnter key to jump marker B so that the distance between the markers becomes the specified value.

4.5.6

Range selection

The range selected with the marker is effective in the following operations:- Copy/cut/paste range of waveform

See “4.7 Copy and Paste”.

- Contraction/extension range

See “5.2 Contraction/Extension of
Waveform”.

- Range to generate the waveform through interpolation

See “5.3 Waveform Generation
Through Interpolation”.

- Inter-waveform operation range

See “5.4 Operation Between
Waveforms”.

To be exact, the marker exists just before the set/displayed horizontal axis position (the numericalvalue display to the right of [MrkA(X)] or [MrkB(X)]).
For example, when the horizontal axis position for marker A is 5 and that for marker B is 10, theselection range will be 5 ≤ X < 10. Marker A is located just before 5, so 5 is between marker A andmarker B. Marker B is located just before 10, so 10 is not between marker A and marker B.

4-7

ARB Edit4.6 File Operations and Printing

4.6

File Operations and Printing

The file menu options are shown below.
Starts multiple ARB Edits.

See “4.6.2 New”.

Reads waveform data file.
Saves waveform data file.

See “4.6.3 Specialized format file”.

Reads data file.

See “4.6.4 Text file”.

Prints displayed waveform.

See “4.6.5 Import”.

Exits the ARB Edit.

See “4.6.6 Print”.

The file name used for reading or saving is displayed on the title bar.

4.6.1

File types

ARB Edit can read/write the following types of files. The text between parentheses is the fileextension to be added to each file type.
- Specialized format file containing waveform data, signal generator settings, and display unit
See “4.6.3 Specialized format file”.

settings (.wdb)

See “4.6.4 Text file”.

- Text file containing waveform data only (.txt)- Specialized format text file containing standard waveform types as well as parameters, numericalexpression waveform's constants and expressions (.wfn)
See “5.1.5 File operation”.
See “5.3.3 File operation”.

- Text file containing control points only (.prn)- Original format text file of PWF parameter information (.PWF)
See “5.5.4 File operation”.
- “ARB Edit” specialized format file containing signal generator settings, display unit settings andother data (.ocb)

4.6.2

See “5.6.6 File operations”.

New

Selecting [File] - [New] ( Alt , F , N or Ctrl + N ) starts another “ARB Edit”. The new “ARB
Edit” starts in the same position as where the first “ARB Edit” started.
It is possible to exchange data between “ARB Edits” via the clipboard.
See “4.7.2 Clipboard” and “5.4.2 Object of operation”.

4-8

ARB Edit4.6 File Operations and Printing

4.6.3

Specialized format file

Almost all necessary information such as waveform data created using the ARB Edit, signal
generator’s settings, and display unit setting can be saved to a file in batch. This is an original format
binary file with a smaller size than a text file.
Selecting [File] - [Save As(WDB)] ( Alt , F , A or Ctrl + A ) displays the screen titled [SaveAs].
Select a saving location, input a file name, and click the Save button. The file extension is “.wdb”
and can be omitted during file name input.

Saving location

Input file name

4.6.4

Text file

Waveform data created using the “ARB Edit” can also be saved in a text file so that otherapplications can easily handle it.
Selecting [File] - [Save As(TXT)] ( Alt , F , T or Ctrl + T ) displays the screen titled [SaveAs].

Saving location

Input file name

4-9

ARB Edit4.6 File Operations and Printing
Select a saving location, input a file name and click the Save button. The file extension is “.txt” andcan be omitted during file name input.

a) Integer number format text file
If the waveform data created with ARB Edit is saved to a text file, the resulting file is a whole
number format text file.
To read the text file created with ARB Edit, select [File]-[Open] (Alt , F , O or Ctrl +O ). A screen titled [Open] appears.
In [Files of type], select [Text Integer data files (*.txt)] and specify the file name.

File typeIn the integer number format text file, 16-bit (0 to +65535) data is saved as a numeric string. One
row contains one numerical string data unit.
This file can be read as is using a text editor.
Otherwise, the ARB Edit can read the text file created using the text editor. When creating an
integer number format text file, put one data unit, which must be a 16-bit signed integer (−32768 to+32767), on one row.
The number of data units in a data file should be 524288 or smaller. If the number of data units in adata file is larger than 524288, cannot be read.
If the number of data units is smaller than the system setting, extension is done to the entire
waveform.

b) Real format text file
Besides text files created with ARB Edit, it is also possible to read text files described in real
number format.
When [File]-[Open] ( Alt , F , O or Ctrl + O ) is selected, a screen titled [Open] appears.
In [Files of type], select [Text Real data files (*.txt)] and specify the file name.
When creating a real number format text file, do so that there is 1 data per line. Restrictions
regarding the number of data are the same as for whole number format text files.

4-10

ARB Edit4.6 File Operations and Printing

4.6.5

ImportWaveform data created using other software than the ARB Edit can be imported as waveform dataof ARB Edit.
Selecting [File] - [Import] ( Alt , F , I or Ctrl + I ) displays the screen titled [IMPORT].

File location

File name input
File type

Select a file type in [Files of type]. Specify a file location, input a file name, and click the Openbutton.
If data has already been read from a file in the specialized format or text format, <Untitled> isdisplayed on the title of the waveform display screen.

If the number of data units in the data file specified at import is larger than the system setting,[Memory Size], the data is compressed. Data is imported so that the original data system should be
the waveform data memory size.
If the number of data units is smaller than the system setting, they are read into the beginning of the
waveform and the rest remains the same.

Caution
The import function cannot be used to save data in the same file format as the file imported.

4-11

ARB Edit4.7 Copy and Paste

4.6.6

Print

Waveform data created using the ARB Edit can also be printed out as a waveform. However, notethat the grid is not printed out.

See “4.3 Setting Menu”.

Selecting [File] - [Print] ( Alt , F , P or Ctrl + P ) displays the screen titled [NF ARB Edit Print].
Make settings for the printer or font as needed and click the OK button.
The upper, lower, and left margins cannot be set when printing the waveform.

Margin setting is invalid when printing the
waveform.
Printer settings
Font specification

4.7

Copy and Paste

In the ARB Edit, waveform data can be edited using the cut, copy, and paste functions.

Cuts the waveform data in the selected range to the clipboard.
Copies the waveform data in the selected range to the clipboard.
Replaces the waveform data in the selected range with the data on
the clipboard.
Deletes the waveform data in the selected range.

4.7.1

Edit operation- Cut→ [Edit] - [Cut]( Alt , E , T or Ctrl + X )- Copy→ [Edit] - [Copy]( Alt , E , C or Ctrl + C )- Paste→ [Edit] - [Paste]( Alt , E , P or Ctrl + V )- Delete→ [Edit] - [Delete]( Alt , E , D or Ctrl + D )For details on each editing operation, see “Figure 4-2 Waveform Editing Operation”.

4.7.2

Clipboard

Executing the cut or copy operation sends the waveform data in the selected range to the clipboard.
The clipboard is a temporary data storage area provided in Windows.
The waveform data in the selected range is sent to the clipboard. The data equivalent to 16 bits(−32768 to +32767) is regarded as one data unit contained in one numerical row.
Data on the clipboard can be pasted as is to the text editor, spreadsheet software, or other applicationor pasted within that “ARB Edit” or other “ARB Edit” when multiple ARB Edit s are operating.

4-12

ARB Edit4.7 Copy and Paste

Cut

The selected part is deleted.

Clipboard

The selected part remains the same.

Clipboard

Copy

Selected range

Paste

When the clipboard data is smaller: 0 is embedded at the end.

Paste

When the clipboard data is larger: The overflowed section disappears.

DeleteThough the selected part is deleted, the clipboard remains unchanged.
Figure 4-2 Waveform Editing Operation

4-13

ARB Edit5. OTHER SCREEN OPERATIONS

5.1

Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical
Expression Waveform··················································· 5-2
5.1.1 Range setting and page ········································ 5-3
5.1.2 Waveform selection ··············································· 5-3
5.1.3 Parameter setting·················································· 5-4
5.1.4 Inter-Waveform Numerical Expression ·················· 5-5
5.1.5 File operation ······················································ 5-10
5.1.6 Print ···································································· 5-10
5.2 Contraction/Extension of Waveform·····························5-11
5.2.1 Contraction/Extension of horizontal axis···············5-11
5.2.2 Contraction/extension of vertical axis ·················· 5-12
5.3 Waveform Generation Through Interpolation ·············· 5-13
5.3.1 Control point setting ············································ 5-14
5.3.2 Interpolation ························································ 5-14
5.3.3 File operation ······················································ 5-15
5.4 Operation Between Waveforms ·································· 5-16
5.4.1 Operation types··················································· 5-16
5.4.2 Object of operation·············································· 5-16
5.4.3 Operation execution ············································ 5-17
5.5 PWF (Parameter-Variable Waveform)························· 5-18
5.5.1 Waveform selection ············································· 5-19
5.5.2 Parameter setting················································ 5-19
5.5.3 PWF parameters ················································· 5-19
5.5.4 File operation ······················································ 5-20
5.5.5 Print ···································································· 5-21
5.6 Transferring the Waveform and Settings····················· 5-22
5.6.1 Model setting······················································· 5-22
5.6.2 Axis unit setting··················································· 5-23
5.6.3 Waveform memory setting ··································· 5-25
5.6.4 Oscillator Setup··················································· 5-27
5.6.5 Cautions during transfer and reading ·················· 5-29
5.6.6 File operations ···················································· 5-29
5.6.7 Print ···································································· 5-30
5.6.8 Initial values ························································ 5-30

5-1

ARB Edit5.1 Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical Expression Waveform
This chapter describes the functions and operations on each screen other than the waveform display
screen.
How to start each screen:“4.1 Organization and Functions of Waveform Display Screen”(toolbar description)“4.2 Tool Menu”

5.1

Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical
Expression Waveform

The waveform generation screen is used to generate the standard waveform and numericalexpression waveform.
Click thebutton on the toolbar or select [Tool] - [Wave Create] ( Alt, T, C ) to open the

waveform generation screen.
Immediately after returning to the waveform display screen after creating a waveform on the
waveform generation screen, the status before waveform creation can be recovered by selecting[Edit] - [Undo] (Alt, E, U ), or pressing Ctrl + U.

Figure 5-1 Waveform Generation Screen

5-2

ARB Edit5.1 Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical Expression Waveform

5.1.1

Range setting and pageOn the waveform generation screen, it is required to specify the independent “range” and“waveform definition” for each page to create a waveform. (Range specification with the markers on
the waveform display screen hardly effects the waveform generation screen.)
Set the range for each page in the two numerical input areas to the right of [Area(X)].
If there are duplicated ranges for multiple pages, the waveform definition for a larger page number(later one) takes effect. Using this characteristic, it is possible to change on the later page the part of
the waveform defined on one of the first pages.
Each page can be independently enabled or disabled. Click either[

Effect] or [No Effect] to the bottom of the screen to make it

To move the page, use the
Clicking theand(option button) in(selected status).

buttons at the bottom left of the waveform generation screen.

button moves to the previous page and clicking the

button moves to the next

button jumps to the first active page and clicking the

button jumps the last active

page.
Clicking thepage.
Directly input a number in the numerical value input area between the buttons and press the Enter
key to jump to the specified page. The page numbers range from 1 to 200.
To return the settings on the displayed page to the default values, select [Edit] - [Page Clear] ( Alt ,E , P on the waveform generation screen.
To return all pages to the default values at once, select [Edit] - [All Page Clear] ( Alt , E , A ) on
the waveform generation screen.
To create the waveform on the displayed page only, click the Page OK button at the bottom of thescreen.
To create waveforms on all pages, click the All Page OK button.
To return to the waveform display screen without creating a waveform, click the Cancel button at
the bottom of the screen or press the Esc key.
The maximum number of pages is 200.

5.1.2

Waveform selection

Clicking the

button to the right of [Function] on the waveform generation screen lists available

waveforms. Select a waveform by clicking it.
The waveform can be also selected by pressing Alt + T , selecting [Function] and then selecting
the ↓ key/ ↑ key ( → key/ ← key).
The noise is generated based on the random number calculation, so different waveform data iscreated at each generation.
DC makes the specified range the same data.
The waveform function defines the waveform with a numerical expression.
“5.1.4 Inter-Waveform Numerical Expression”

5-3

ARB Edit5.1 Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical Expression Waveform

5.1.3

Parameter setting

The parameters in “Figure 5-1 Waveform Generation Screen” can be set for sine waves, triangle
waves, square waves, noise, and DC.
Table 5-1 Parameters for Standard Waveforms
Sine Wave

Triangle Wave Square Wave

Noise

DC

DC Offset

{

{

{

{

{

Size

{

{

{

{

{

Amplitude

{

{

{

{

−

Period

{

{

{

−

−

Phase

{

{

{

−

−

Symmetry

−

{

−

−

−

DutyRatio

−

−

{

−

−

Transition

−

−

{

−

−

The size can be calculated by subtracting (lower limit) from (upper limit) of the range specification(X) on the page. When the size is changed, the upper limit of range specification is changed.
The amplitude is the peak to peak value.
The cycle specifies how many cycles (waves) of the waveform in the range are to be created.
The phase unit is ° (degree).
For the triangle wave, the inclination (symmetry) can be set. The inclination unit is %.
For the square wave, the duty ratio and transition can be set. The duty ratio unit is %. The transition
sets the time for the wave height value to go between 0% and 100% with the ratio to the cycle (%).
If the [DC Offset] or [Amplitude] setting exceeds the ± full scale value, the waveform is clipped
at the ± full scale value.
When the mouse cursor is moved to the waveform display area on the waveform generation screen,
the shape of mouse cursor changes to
Dragging the mouse in theor.

status vertically or horizontally moves the waveform. [DC Offset] ischanged by vertical operations and [Phase] is changed by horizontal operations.
Dragging the mouse in thestatus vertically or horizontally extends or compress the waveform.

[Amplitude] is changed by vertical extension/compression and [Period] is changed by verticalextension/compression.
Using

or

enables you to intuitively set parameters while looking at the waveform. It is also

possible to roughly make settings in this way and then set a more accurate value by inputting
numerical values.

5-4

ARB Edit5.1 Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical Expression Waveform

5.1.4

Inter-Waveform Numerical Expression

Selecting [Waveform Function] in “5.1.2 Waveform selection” displays the constant input
section [Constant] and numerical expression input section [Y=].

Figure 5-2 Waveform Generation Screen - Waveform Function
Input the constant and expression and click the Compute button to check the calculated waveformin the waveform display on the waveform generation screen.
To create the waveform on all pages in the batch, click the All Page OK button at the bottom of thescreen.
To create the waveform on the displayed page only, click the Page OK button at the bottom of thescreen.
To return to the waveform display screen without creating a waveform, click the Cancel button at
the bottom of the screen or press the Esc key.

a) Constants
Describe the constant in the [constant=value or expression] format such as [fs=32767;] and[s=2*pi/4096;]. Be sure to suffix a constant definition or expression with [;].
Use 1-byte characters for the constant or expression. Constants and expressions are not casesensitive.
The constant should begin with an alphabetic character and consist of alphanumeric characters.
Constants must be strings other than those shown in “Table 5-4 Built-in Functions”. It is

5-5

ARB Edit5.1 Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical Expression Waveform
recommended to use strings different from those in “Table 5-2 Built-in Constants”.
When the All Page OK button is clicked, the constant takes effect on the page where the constantis defined and subsequent pages.
For example, the constant defined on the first page affects all the pages. The constant defined on thethird page affects the third and subsequent pages, but not the first and second pages.
When the waveform on the displayed page is created with the Page OK button, the constant affects
the displayed page only. For example, the constant defined on the second page does not affect thefirst and third pages.
To use the constant on other pages, click the Compute button to execute calculation on the page
where the constant is defined in advance.

b) Built-in constants
The constants shown in “Figure 5-2 Waveform Generation Screen - Waveform Function” were
included into ARB Edit at factory.
If the constant defined in “a) constant” has the same name as the built-in constant, the defined value
or expression takes effect.
Table 5-2 Built-in Constants
Name

MeaningValuepi

Circle ratio

3.1415926535898

cLight speed

2.99792458e8hPlanck constant

6.6260755e-34kBoltzmann constant

1.380658e-23

rEuler constant

0.57721566490153

c) Functions
Specify a numerical expression in the Y=f (X) format in the numerical expression input section[Y=].
Here, “X” is a value that varies within the range of the page. For example, when the page range is1000 to 2000, [X] in the expression changes between 1000 and 2000.
The [X] value in the numerical expression is affected by the horizontal axis unit of the system setting“5.6.2 Axis unit setting”

screen settings.

For example, assume that expressions such as [Y=] or [sin (x)] are used to specify a sine wave. The
argument for the sin() function is a radian expression.
Assume that the horizontal axis unit is [Address] and the range is between 0 and 8,192. Because
8,192 = 2*π*1303.797..., the result of this expression is a sine wave with approximately 1,304
waves.

5-6

ARB Edit5.1 Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical Expression Waveform

When the horizontal axis unit is [Time] and the cycle is 1 ms, the result of the expression will be
1e-3 = 2*π*0.0001591..., a value that barely changes around the 0° of sine wave.
If the vertical axis unit is [User Unit] and 0 to 1, the result of the expression will be 1 =2*π*0.1591..., waveform of about one/sixth of the former half of sine wave.
To create the simplest expression to obtain one cycle of a sine wave, set the horizontal axis unit to[User Unit] and the range between 0 and 6.283185.
The [Y=] value in the numerical expression is affected by the vertical axis unit set on the systemsetting screen.

“5.6.2 Axis unit setting”

For example, assume that expressions such as [Y=] or [sin(x)] are used to specify the sine wave.
The value for the sin() function is ±1.
When the vertical axis unit is [Data], the range is between −32768 and +32767. Therefore, the resultof this expression is a waveform with a very small amplitude close to 0.
When the vertical axis unit is [Voltage] and the amplitude is 20 Vp-p, the range is ±10, so the resultof this expression is 1/10 of a full-scale sine wave.
When the vertical axis unit is [User Unit] and the range is between −1 and +1, the result of thisexpression is a full-scale sine wave.
If the calculation results exceed the ± full-scale range, the waveform is clipped at the ±full-scale
range.

d) Operators
The operators in “Table 5-3 Operators” can be used in the constant input section [Constant] andnumerical expression input section [Y=].
The order of operator priority ranges from top (highest) to bottom (lowest).
The logical operator returns 1 when the condition is true and 0 when the condition is 1.
Table 5-3 Operators
Operator

Associativity( ), function

→

+

←

Monadic operator, ! is a logical operator→

Binary operator, exponential

-

!

^

<

Remark*/→Binary operator, multiplication/division

+

-

→

Binary operator, addition/subtraction→

Logical operator, size comparison→

Logical operator, Equivalence comparison&&→

Logical operator, AND||→

Logical operator, OR

<=

>

==

!=

>=

5-7

ARB Edit5.1 Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical Expression Waveforme) Built-in functions
The functions shown in “Table 5-4 Built-in Functions” can be used in the numerical expression
input section [Y=] in the ARB Edit.
Table 5-4 Built-in Functions
Number of Description
Argumentssin (expression)
1
Sine, expression = Phase (radian)cos(expression)
1
Cosine, expression = Phase (radian)tan(expression)
1
Tangent, expression = Phase (radian)atn(expression)
1
Arctangent, result = Radiansqr(expression)1√
exp(expression)
1
Index e xlog(expression)
1
Natural logarithm
log10(expression)1
Common logarithm
power(expression_1,
2
Absolute value of complex vector, Expression 1 = Real
expression_2)
number part, Expression 2 = Imaginary number partphase(expression_1,
2
Argument of complex vector, Expression 1 = Real number
expression_2)
part, Expression 2 = Imaginary number parttri(expression_1,
2
Triangular wave, Expression 1 = Phase (radian), Expression 2
expression_2)= Slope [0:100]
sqw(expression_1,
3
Square wave, Expression 1 = Phase (radian), Expression 2 =expression_2,expression_3)
Duty ratio [0:100], Expression 3 = Displacement [0:100]rnd()
0Noise waveform
Function Namef) Inter-waveform numerical expression examples
Some sample inter-waveform numerical expressions are shown below.
In an example where there is only one page, the range is the whole horizontal axis range anddescription is omitted.
• One cycle of sine wave (horizontal axis unit: addresses 0 to 524288, vertical axis unit: data
±32767)
Page 1 [Constant][s=2*pi;][Y=] [sin(x*s)]• One cycle of sine wave (horizontal axis: user unit 0 to 1, vertical axis: user unit −1 to +1)
Page 1 [Constant][fs=32767;][Y=] [fs*sin(x*s)][s=2*pi/524288;] ← 524288 addresses are regarded as 2π.
• One cycle of sine wave (horizontal axis unit: time 0 to 1 ms, vertical axis unit: voltage ±10V)
Page 1 [Constant][fs=10;][Y=] [fs*sin(x*s)][s=2*pi/1e-3;] ← 1 ms is regarded as 2π.
• One cycle of sine wave (horizontal axis: user unit 0 to 6.283185, vertical axis: user unit −1 to +1)
Page 1 [Constant][None][Y=] [sin(x)]5-8ARB Edit5.1 Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical Expression Waveform• One cycle of square wave (horizontal axis: user unit 0 to 6.283185, vertical axis: user unit −1 to+1)Page 1 [Constant][None][Y=] [((sin(x)>=0)-0.5)*2](Obtain 0/+1 square wave using the logical operator “>=” and convert it to ±1.)
• DC sweep waveform (horizontal axis: user unit 0 to 1, vertical axis: user unit −1 to +1)
Page 1 [Constant][s=2*pi;][Y=] [(x-0.5)+sin(x*s*32)/2]• Damped wave (horizontal axis: user unit 0 to 6.283185, vertical axis: user unit −1 to +1)
Page 1 [Constant][None][Y=] [exp(-x)*sin(x*64)]• DSB waveform (horizontal axis: user unit 0 to 6.283185, vertical axis: user unit −1 to +1)
Page 1 [Constant][a=19.5;][Y=] [(sin(a*x)+sin(b*x))/2][b=20.5;]• CR charge-discharge waveform (horizontal axis: user unit 0 to 1, vertical axis: user unit −1 to +1)
Page 1 [Area(X)][Constant]
Page 2 [Area(X)][Constant][0] to [0.5][j=15;][Y=] [1-2*exp(-x*j)][0.5] to [1][j=15;][Y=] [-1+2*exp(-(x-0.5)*j)]• Differentiation waveform (horizontal axis: user unit 0 to 1, vertical axis: user unit −1 to +1)
Page 1 [Area(X)][Constant]
Page 2 [Area(X)][Constant][0] to [0.5][j=15;][Y=] [exp(-x*j)][0.5] to [1][j=15;][Y=] [-exp(-(x-0.5)*j)]• Magnetic head waveform: Gaussian pulse (horizontal axis: user unit −1 to 1, vertical axis: user
unit −1 to +1)
Page 1 [Area(X)][Constant]
Page 2 [Area(X)][Constant][−1] to [0][j=32;][Y=] [exp(-((x+0.5)^2)*j)][0] to [1][j=32;][Y=] [-exp(-((x-0.5)^2)*j)]• Magnetic head waveform: Lorentz waveform (horizontal axis: user unit 0 to 6.283185, verticalaxis: user unit −1 to +1)
Page 1 [Constant][None][Y=] [(sin(x)-sin(x*3)/3+sin(x*5)/5)/1.533333333]

5-9

ARB Edit5.1 Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical Expression Waveform• Waveform where surge is superimposed around 180° (horizontal axis: user unit 0 to 1, verticalaxis: user unit −1 to +1)
Page 1 [Area(X)][0] to [1][s=2*pi;][Constant]
Page 2 [Area(X)][Constant][Y=] [sin(s*x)][0.49] to [0.51][j=50;][Y=] [sin(s*x)+cos(s*j*x)/2+0.5](Create a sine wave across page 1 and overwrite the surge waveform on page 2.)5.1.5

File operation

The settings on the waveform generation screen are saved in a text file.
Selecting [File] - [Save] ( Alt , F, S or Ctrl + S ) on the waveform generation screen displays
the screen titled [Save As].
Select a saving location, input a file name and click the Save button. The file extension is “.wfn”
and can be omitted at file name input.
To read a file containing the waveform generation screen settings, select [File] - [Open] ( Alt , F ,O or Ctrl + O ).
When the screen titled [Open] appears, select a file location, input a file name and click the Openbutton.
Because the file containing the waveform generation screen settings is a text file, the file can beedited using a text editor or other application, though this operation is not recommended.
As a result of editing, the file may be not able to be normally read. For example, the format may
change to one that ARB Edit cannot read or the expression may become too long, exceeding thelimit.
Other files that ARB Edit can handle

5.1.6“4.6.1 File types”

Print

The setting conditions for the waveform generation screen can be also printed out.
Selecting [File] - [Print] ( Alt , F , P or Ctrl + P ) displays the screen titled [NF ARB Edit Print].
Make settings for the upper, lower and left margins, the printer or font as needed and click the OK
button.

5-10

ARB Edit5.2 Contraction/Extension of Waveform

5.2

Contraction/Extension of Waveform

The compression/decompression screen is used to vertically or horizontally contract or extend the
waveform in the selected range.
Click thebutton on the tool menu or select [Tools] - [Compress/Decompress] ( Alt , T , P )to open the contraction/extension screen.

Figure 5-3 Contraction/Extension Screen
Immediately after deforming a waveform on the contraction/extension screen and returning to the
waveform display screen, the status before waveform deformation can be recovered by selecting[Edit] - [Undo] (Alt, E, U ), or pressing Ctrl + U .

5.2.1“4.4 Undo and Redo”

Contraction/Extension of horizontal axis

Select the range with the markers on the waveform display screen before contracting/extending thehorizontal axis.

“4.5.6 Range selection”

The contraction/extension of the horizontal axis is set in the [X] area on the contraction/extension
screen.

a) Using the selected range as the compression/decompression start/end points
Input numerical values in the input areas to the right of [Start X=] and [End X=] and click the
OK button.
The range selected with the markers in advance can be contracted, extended, or moved to therange selected with the start/end points.
Data immediately before or after is filled in the area where data is removed as a result ofcontraction/extension.

5-11

ARB Edit5.2 Contraction/Extension of Waveformb) Extending the selected range to the full size
Click the Fit Length button to extend the range selected with the markers in advance to thewhole waveform.
Most of actual data collected with the digital oscilloscope does not exactly consist of one cycle.
In such a case, this function can clip one cycle.

c) Miscellaneous
Note that the waveform may be distorted when the contraction/extension rate is too high.

5.2.2

Contraction/extension of vertical axis

The vertical axis is contracted/extended within the selected range.
Select the range with the markers on the waveform display screen before contracting/extending thevertical axis.

“4.5.6 Range selection”

The contraction/extension of the vertical axis is set in the [Y] area on the contraction/extension
screen.

a) Performing contraction/extension by specifying the maximum/minimum
valuesWhen(option button) at the left of [Max/Min] is selected ( ), the maximum value of therange selected with the markers is displayed to the right of [Max] and the minimum value isdisplayed to the right of [Min].
Input the maximum/minimum values of the target after contraction/extension in each display
section and press the Enter key to change the waveform on the waveform display screen. If the
waveform is hidden behind the contraction/extension screen and difficult to see, move the screen.
The waveform can be vertically inverted by setting a value smaller than the minimum value to the
maximum value.
If the desired waveform is gained, click the OK button.
To return to the waveform display screen without performing contraction/extension, click theCancel button or press the Esc key.

b) Performing contraction/extension by specifying the amplitude/offset
When (option button) at the left of [ Amp/Offs] is selected ( ), the amplitude value of therange selected with the markers is displayed to the right of [Amplitude] and the offset value isdisplayed to the right of [DC Offset].
The following relationship between the amplitude/offset and the maximum/minimum values exist.
Amplitude = (maximum value − minimum value), Offset =Max. value + Min. value
2

Maximum value = offset + (amplitude/2), Minimum value = offset − (amplitude/2)
Input the amplitude/offset value of the target after contraction/extension in each display section
and click the OK button.

5-12

ARB Edit5.3 Waveform Generation Through Interpolation

The waveform can be vertically inverted by setting a negative value to the amplitude.

c) Extending the selected range to the maximum amplitude
Click the Fit Peak-Peak button to extend the range selected with the markers to the maximum
amplitude. If the selected range offset is not 0 before extension, it changes to 0 after extension.
Click the Fit Amplitude button to extend the positive or negative peak to the maximum value
without changing the offset.

d) Miscellaneous
When the setting results in extension that exceeds the ± full scale range, waveforms are clipped
at the ±full scale range.
Note that the waveform may be distorted when the rate is too high.

5.3

Waveform Generation Through Interpolation

The interpolation editing screen is used to create waveforms with different types of interpolation.
The “point” set for interpolation is called the “control point”.
Click thebutton on the tool menu or select [Tools] - [Interpolate] ( Alt , T , I )to open theinterpolation editing screen.

(Waveform display screen)

Interpolation editing screen

Figure 5-4 Interpolation Editing Screen
Interpolation editing is applied to the selected range. Select the range beforehand on the waveform
display screen with markers A and B.

5-13

ARB Edit5.3 Waveform Generation Through Interpolation

5.3.1

Control point setting

Interpolation is applied to the range selected by markers on the waveform display screen.
In the initial state, the following three control points are displayed.
[0.0, 0.0] [0.5, 0.0] [1.0, 0.0]a) Specifying the control point with a numerical value
Click the index cell in the control point list on the interpolation editing screen and then click theInsert button to insert and display a new data line. At this time, value X is the intermediate
value of the previous and following values, and value Y is 0.0.
Click the X or Y cell and change their respective values. The value X that can be input must bewithin the range defined by the previous and following control points. Also, X cannot be changed
if it is 0 or 1.
Value Y when X = 1 is the same as when X = 0.
Control points are displayed a [+] mark at the specified position in the waveform display area.

b) Specifying the control point with mouse
If any of control points’ [+] marks are shown in red (selected), click an unmarked location of the
waveform display area to change all marks to light blue (deselected).

c) Moving the control point with mouse
The control point can be moved by dragging the [+] mark on the waveform display screen. If thescreen magnification ratio is low, it might be difficult to capture the mark due to the display
resolution.
When a control point is moved with the mouse, linear interpolation is performed and the
waveform display area is overwritten.

d) Deleting the control point
Click the Delete button to delete the selected control point.
The selected control point cannot be restored. Take care when using this function.

e) Deleting all the control points
Click the Delete All button to select all the set control points. All the set control points aredeleted and the three control points of the initial state are displayed.
The selected control points cannot be restored. Take extra care when using this function.

5.3.2

Interpolation

When the range is selected and the control points are set, perform interpolation. The following three
types of interpolation methods are possible.
• Linear interpolation where the spaces between control points are interpolated with a straight line
• Spline interpolation where the spaces between control points are interpolated with a smooth curve• Continuous spline interpolation to use such a curve that the waveform is continued outside to theselected range for interpolation

5-14

ARB Edit5.3 Waveform Generation Through Interpolation

For linear interpolation, click the Linear button or press Alt + L .
For spline interpolation, click the Spline button or press Alt + S .
For continuous spline interpolation, click the Cont Spline button or press Alt + C .
If part of the waveform is selected as the range, the control points at both edges of the range andthose within the range are interpolated.
If the whole waveform is selected, continuous spline interpolates the waveform so that the head andtail of waveform will be smoothly connected if the waveform is repeated. The head and tail would
have different values in the case of spline interpolation, so the waveform will not be smooth if
repeated.
When the setting results in interpolation that exceeds the ± full scale range, waveforms are clipped
at the ± full scale range.
After interpolation, click the OK button to return to the waveform display screen.
Immediately after creating a waveform on the interpolation editing screen and returning to the
waveform display screen, the status before waveform creation can be recovered by selecting [Edit]- [Undo] (Alt, E, U ), or pressing Ctrl + U.

5.3.3

File operation

The settings on the interpolation editing screen can be saved in a text file.
Select [File] - [Save] ( Alt , F , S or Ctrl + S ) on the interpolation editing screen. The screen
titled [Save As] appears.
Select a saving location, input a file name and click the Save button. File extension is “.prn”, sothat it will not be necessary to specify it during file name input.
To read the file containing the interpolation editing screen settings, select [File] - [Open] ( Alt , F ,O or Ctrl + O ).
When the screen titled [Open] appears, select a file location, input a file name and click the Openbutton.
This file can be read as is using a text editor, spreadsheet software or other application.
Otherwise, ARB Edit can read the text file created by using a text editor, spreadsheet software, orother application. When creating a text file, put the X data and Y data on one row.
Other files that can be handled with the ARB Edit:

5-15“4.6.1 File types”

ARB Edit5.4 Operation Between Waveforms

5.4

Operation Between Waveforms

The inter-waveform operation screen is used to create a wave form by performing arithmeticaloperations to the waveform in the selected range, standard waveform, numerical expression
waveform, or the clipboard waveform.
button on the tool menu or select [Tools] - [Operation] ( Alt , T , O ) to open the

Click theinter-waveform operation screen.

Figure 5-5 Inter-Waveform Operation Screen
Immediately after creating a waveform on the inter-waveform operation screen, the status before
waveform creation can be recovered by selecting [Edit] - [Undo] (Alt, E, U ), or pressing Ctrl + U.
Inter-waveform operations are in the selected range. Select the range beforehand on the waveform
display screen with markers A and B.

5.4.1

Operation types

Clicking the

button to the right of [+], the +-*/ arithmetical operations list is displayed.

Select an operator by clicking the item in the list or pressing the ↑ ↓ → ← keys.
Note that [*] indicates multiplication (×) and [/] indicates division (÷).

5.4.2

Object of operationa) Waveform generation
Clicking the Created Waveform button or pressing Alt + W displays the waveform generation
screen. Note the following restrictions.
- [Area(X)] and [Size] cannot be changed.
- The range cannot be divided into multiple pages.
Create a waveform referring to “5.1 Generation of Standard Waveform and Numerical
Expression Waveform” and click the Page OK button. The created waveform is displayed inthe [Clip Board/Created Waveform] area.

5-16

ARB Edit5.4 Operation Between Waveformsb) Clipboard
Clicking the Clip Board button or pressing Alt + B displays the waveform stored on the clipboard
in the [Clip Board/Created Waveform] area.

Clipboard:“4.7.2 Clipboard”

If the selected range is longer than the clipboard, the overflowing part of the waveform is treated aszero data.
If the clipboard is longer than the selected range, the first part of the clipboard is used.
Though data on the clipboard are in 16-bit integers (−32768 to +32767), they are converted into thevertical axis unit in the inter-waveform operation. For example, when the vertical axis custom unit
is −1 to +1, ±32767 on the clipboard is treated as ±1.

5.4.3

Operation execution

Clicking the = button displays the result of inter-waveform operation in [Operation Result].
Click the OK button to return to the waveform display screen and reflect the operation result.
Click the Cancel button or press the Esc key to return to the waveform display screen without
performing any operation.
It is recommended to set the vertical axis unit to the custom unit: −1 to +1, especially when
executing multiplication in inter-waveform operation.
Under this setting, the result of multiplying ± full scale values can be a ± full scale value.
When the operation result exceeds the ± full scale value, waveforms are clipped at the ± full scalevalue.
Note that dividing a number by 0 results in infinity and an error usually occurs. To avoid such anerror, the result of division by 0 is 0 as an exception in this inter-waveform operation.

5-17

ARB Edit5.5 PWF (Parameter-Variable Waveform)

5.5

PWF (Parameter-Variable Waveform)

In the case of parameter-variable waveforms (PWF), waveform data can easily be generated using
25 types of waveforms and setting up to 5 parameters.
Either click the

button on the toolbar or select [Tools] - [PWF] to display the PWF screen.

Once a waveform has been created on the PWF screen and immediately after the waveform display
screen has been returned to, the state before the waveform was created can be returned to byselecting [Edit]-[Undo] ( Alt , E , U ) or by pressing Ctrl + U .

Figure 5-6 PWF Screen
For details on PWF waveforms, refer to WF1973/WF1974 Application Instruction Manual.
The waveform data that can be generated from the PWF screen includes single-polarity waveforms.
On the “ARB Edit” PWF screen, waveform data can be generated in the ± full-scale range even forsuch waveforms. Change the settings of the amplitude range of the oscillator as necessary.
Setting of the amplitude range can also be done in the oscillator settings on the system setting
screen.
“5.6.4 Oscillator Setup”
If, on the PWF screen, the unit settings for the horizontal axis and vertical axis differ from thedefault values, the settings are forcibly changed to the units of the axes.

5-18

ARB Edit5.5 PWF (Parameter-Variable Waveform)

5.5.1

Waveform selection

Clicking the

button to the right of [Function] on the PWF screen lists available waveforms.

Select a waveform by clicking it.
The waveform can be also selected by pressing Alt + T , selecting [Function] and then selecting
the ↓ key/ ↑ key ( → key/ ← key).

5.5.2

Parameter setting

When a waveform is selected on the PWF screen, the parameters corresponding to the selected
waveform are displayed in [Parameter Setting]. The number of parameters that can be set differs
according to the waveform.
The parameter settings are done through direct numerical input in the text input field to the right ofeach parameter name. Each time a parameter value is changed, the waveform data is calculated andthe display waveform is updated.
Besides numeric input, parameters can be changed via [Slider]button to the right of [Var Prmtr] to display the list of parameters. Select the desired

Click theparameter and move [Slider] in [Parameter Setting] to update the displayed waveform.
Moreover, the parameter setting value is also changed.

5.5.3

PWF parameters

The 25 types of waveforms that can be used on the PWF screen, their parameters, and their setting
ranges and resolutions are listed below.

Waveform
Unbalanced Sine
Clipped Sine
CF Ctrl Sine
Angle Ctrl Sine
Staircase Sine
Multi-Cycle Sine

Waveform
On-Ph Ctrl Sine
Off-Ph Ctrl Sine
Chattering-On Sine

Chattering-Off Sine

Table 5-5 Steady Sine Group
Parameter
Minimum Value Maximum Value

Resolution

Amptd1
Amptd2
Clip
CF
Angle
Steps
CyclesSPhase

0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
1
0.01
0.01

−100.00−100.00
0.00
1.41−180.00
2
0.01−360.00

100.00100.0099.99
10.00
180.00100
50.00
360.00

Table 5-6 Transient Sine Group
Parameter
Minimum Value Maximum Value

Resolution

OnPhaseSlopeT
OffPhase
SlopeT
OnPhaseChatterN
Ton
Toff
OffPhase
ChatterN
Ton
Toff

0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
1
0.01
0.01
0.01
1
0.01
0.01

0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0
0.00
0.00
0.00
0
0.00
0.00

5-19

360.0050.00
360.0050.00
360.00
3
20.00
20.00
360.00
3
20.00
20.00

ARB Edit5.5 PWF (Parameter-Variable Waveform)

Table 5-7 Pulse Group
Parameter
Minimum Value Maximum Value

Resolution

Sin(x)/x

Sigma
Halfwidth
Width
Width
RiseFallUpperBase
ZeroCross

0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
1

Waveform

Table 5-8 Transient Response Group
Parameter
Minimum Value Maximum Value

Resolution

TC
TC
Fn
Q
OscFreq
DampTC

0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01

Waveform
Gaussian Pulse
Lorentz Pulse
HaversineHalf-Sine Pulse
Trapezoid Pulse

Exponential Rise
Exponential Fall
2nd Ord LPF Step
Damped Oscillation

Waveform
Oscillation Surge
Pulse Surge

Waveform
Trapezoid with Offset

Half-Sine Edge Pulse

Bottom Referenced Ramp

5.5.4

0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
1

0.01
0.01
1.00
0.50
0.01
−100.00

100.00100.00100.00100.0050.00
100.0050

100.00100.00
50.00
50.00
50.00
100.00

Table 5-9 Surge Group
Parameter
Minimum Value Maximum Value

Resolution

OscFreq
DampTC
TrailTC
Tr
Td

0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01

0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01

50.00
100.00100.00100.00100.00

Table 5-10 Others Group
Parameter
Minimum Value Maximum Value

Resolution

Delay
Rise
UpperBase
Fall
Offset
LE
TE
Duty
Symm

0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01
0.01

0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00

100.00100.00100.00100.00100.00100.00100.00100.00100.00File operation

The settings on the PWF screen are saved in a text file.
Selecting [File] - [Save] ( Alt , F, S or Ctrl + S ) on the PWF screen displays the screen titled[Save As].
Select a saving location, input a file name and click the Save button. The file extension is “.pwf”
and can be omitted at file name input.
To read a file containing the waveform generation screen settings, select [File] - [Open] ( Alt , F ,O or Ctrl + O ).
When the screen titled [Open] appears, select a file location, input a file name and click the Openbutton.
Because the file containing the PWF screen settings is a text file, the file can be edited using a text

5-20

ARB Edit5.5 PWF (Parameter-Variable Waveform)

editor or other application, though this operation is not recommended.
As a result of editing, the file may be not able to be normally read.
Other files that ARB Edit can handle

5.5.5“4.6.1 File types”

Print

The setting conditions for the PWF screen can be also printed out.
Selecting [File] - [Print] ( Alt , F , P or Ctrl + P ) displays the screen titled [NF ARB Edit Print].
Make settings for the upper, lower and left margins, the printer or font as needed and click the OK
button.

5-21

ARB Edit5.6 Transferring the Waveform and Settings

5.6

Transferring the Waveform and Settings

The system setting screen is used to set the signal generator model, interface, and serial number.
This screen is also used to transfer the signal generator settings or waveform data to the signal
generator.
In addition, the vertical/horizontal axis unit displayed on the waveform display screen can be set on
this screen.
Select [Setup] - [Setup] ( Alt , S , S ) to open the system setting screen.

Figure 5-7 System Setup Screen − System Setup
The system setting screen consists of four “tab pages”: [System], [Unit], [Waveform], and[Oscillator].

5.6.1

Model setting

The [Basic Setup] frame on the [System] page is used select the signal generator model and theinterface and set the serial number.

a) Selecting the target model
Click thebutton to the right of [Model] to display the list of supported signal generator models.

Click one in the list or press the ↑ ↓ → ← keys to select a model.
The setting item and settable range in [Waveform] and [Oscillator] vary depending on theselected model.
The selected model is saved even after the ARB Edit is exited and the same setting applies at thenext startup.

5-22

ARB Edit5.6 Transferring the Waveform and Settingsb) Interface selection
Click thebutton to the right of [Interface] to display the list of supported interfaces.

Click one in the list or press the ↑ ↓ → ← keys to select an interface.
The selected interface is saved even after the ARB Edit is exited and the same setting applies at thenext startup.

c) Serial number setting
Click thebutton to the right of [Serial Number] to display the list of connected signal detector

to serial numbers. Click one in the list or press the ↑ ↓ → ← keys to select a serial number.
If not a single unit is connected, “None” is displayed and no item other than “None” can be selected.
Check the signal generator to be connected for its serial number.

5.6.2

Axis unit setting

Figure 5-8 System Setup Screen − Unit Setup
In the [X Axis Unit] and [Y Axis Unit] fields on the [Unit] page, perform the settings of thehorizontal axis and vertical axis for waveform display.
On the system setting screen, double-click the [Unit Setup] to enable the [Unit] page.

a) Horizontal axis unit
The time and the user unit can be used as the display/setting unit of the horizontal axis in addition to
the waveform data address.
The time is interlocked with [Frequency] and [Period] in [Oscillator].
From the head to the tail of waveform data, that is, one cycle corresponds to [Period] in[Oscillator].
For example, this function is useful when creating a waveform through interpolation by setting the

5-23

ARB Edit5.6 Transferring the Waveform and Settings
voltage to the vertical axis and the time to the horizontal axis.
In the custom unit, any values can be set to the beginning and end of waveform data as well as theunit name.
Several examples in the custom unit of the horizontal axis are shown in “Table 5-11 Examples of
Custom Units for the Horizontal Axis”.
When a numerical expression is used to generate a waveform, it is useful to use the 0 to 6.283185
radian units because trigonometrical functions such as sin() are in radian units.
Click thebutton to the right of [X-Axis Unit] to display the list of selectable horizontal axis

units.
Click one in the list or press the ↑ ↓ → ← keys to select a horizontal axis unit.
When the custom unit is selected as a custom unit, [Name], [Min to Max] can be set.
Input a string consisting of up to four 1-byte characters as the name of the horizontal axis unit in thearea to the right of [Name].
Input numerical values for the minimum value (leftmost value of waveform) and maximum value(rightmost value of waveform) for the custom unit in the areas to the right of [Min to Max].
Table 5-11 Examples of Custom Units for the Horizontal Axis
Range
Name (Explanation)
0 to 1cycle(Use this to align with the vertical axis range−1 to 1
when the custom unit for the vertical axis is ±1.)0 to 360
degrees (°)
0 to 400
grads
0 to 6.283185
radiansb) Vertical axis unit
The voltage and the custom unit can be used as the display/setting unit of vertical axis in addition to
the waveform data (16 bits: −32768 to +32767).
The voltage is interlocked with [Amplitude] and [DC Offset] in [Oscillator].
For example, this function is useful when creating a waveform through interpolation by setting thevoltage to the vertical axis and the time to the horizontal axis.
In the custom unit, any value can be set at the beginning and end of waveform data as well as the unit
name.
When a numerical expression is used to generate a waveform, it is useful to use −1 to +1 because themaximum value of trigonometrical functions such as sin() is ±1.
Click thebutton to the right of [Y-Axis Unit] to display the list of selectable vertical axis units.

Click one in the list or press the ↑ ↓ → ← keys to select a vertical axis unit.
When the custom unit is selected, [Name], [Min to Max] can be set.
Input a string consisting of up to four 1-byte characters as the name of the vertical axis unit in thearea to the right of [Name].
Input numerical values for the minimum value (lowermost value of waveform) and maximum value(uppermost value of waveform) for the custom unit in the areas to the right of [Min to Max].

5-24

ARB Edit5.6 Transferring the Waveform and Settings

5.6.3

Waveform memory setting

Figure 5-9 System Setup Screen − Waveform memory Setup
The [Wave Memory Setup] frame on the [Waveform] page is used to set the waveform memory
name, waveform memory number, and transfer method. Some signal generator models have items
that cannot be set.

a) Waveform memory name
Input a waveform memory in the area to the right of [Memory Name].
The waveform memory name can be set with up to 20 one-byte alphanumerical characters.
One-byte katakana and double quotation marks cannot be used.

b) Waveform memory number
Click the button to the right of [Memory Number] to select a waveform memory number.
Click to increase the memory number and click to decrease the memory number.
It is also possible to directly input a numerical value in the numerical value display area.

CAUTION
WF1973/WF1974 waveform memory
Waveform data cannot be transferred to memory 0.
Memories 1 to 128 are non-volatile memories. The transferred waveform data in these memories
is saved even after the power is switched off.

5-25

ARB Edit5.6 Transferring the Waveform and Settingsc) Transfer method
Click thebutton to the right of [Transfer Method] to display the list of transfer methods thatcan be selected.
Depending on the waveform data, transfer in the [Control Point Format] may not be possible. In
this case, the control point format cannot be selected and only [Array Format] can be selected.
The control point format is waveform data for generating waveforms through linear interpolation
inside the signal generator.
Control point data is created from the waveform data displayed on the waveform display screen
when the system setting screen is displayed.
For example, in the case of waveform data that involves complex changes such as noise, the numberof valid data points may not suffice. In such a case, the generation of control point format data is
stopped and the data is generated in the array format only.
The control point format has the advantage of a smaller amount of data compared to the array format,
which fits in the waveform memory of the main unit. Therefore, when using arbitrary waveforms
during sequence oscillation of the WF1973/WF1974, a larger number of waveform types can beused.
Note that the control point format data of this transfer method does not necessarily match the control
points on the interpolation editing screen.
The array format consists of data strings corresponding to waveform memory addresses. The data of
the control point format described previously is created from data in this array format.
d) Waveform memory size
If [Array Format] is selected as the transfer format, [Memory Size] becomes selectable. In thecase of [Control Point Format], manipulation is not possible.
button to the right of [Memory Size] to display the list of waveform memory sizes
Click thethat can be selected.
Either click on an item in the list or select a size by pressing the ↑ ↓ → ← keys.
When wishing to simply output an arbitrary waveform, a larger size is more convenient, but if
wishing to use arbitrary waveform data for sequence oscillation, a larger size limits the arbitrary
waveforms that can be used.
e) Transfer execution
Click the Transfer Data button or press Alt + T to transfer the generated waveform data to thesignal generator and output that waveform.

CAUTIONTo output different arbitrary waveforms from CH1 and CH2 on the WF1974, transfer the
waveform data to the waveform memory of the different numbers, because the waveform memory
is shared between CH1 and CH2.
f) Read execution
Click the Read Data button or press Alt + R to read waveform data from the main unit. The read
waveform data is displayed on the waveform display screen.
If the waveform data that was read from the main unit was control point format data, the control
points can be changed on the interpolation editing screen.

5-26

ARB Edit5.6 Transferring the Waveform and Settings

5.6.4

Oscillator Setup

Figure 5-10 System Setup Screen − Oscillator Setup
The [Oscillator Setup] frame in the [Oscillator] page is used to set the signal generator channel,
output on/off, frequency (cycle), output range, amplitude, DC offset, and amplitude range.
Click the [Unit] tab on the system setting screen, the [Unit] page is enabled.
The relationship between the signal generator models and settable items is shown in “Table 5-12Signal Generator Setting”.
Table 5-12 Signal Generator Setting

ChannelWF 1973

WF 1974−{

Output on/off{

Frequency{

Period{Output range{

Amplitude{

DC offset{

Amplitude range

{

5-27

ARB Edit5.6 Transferring the Waveform and Settings
In the frequency, period, amplitude, and DC offset, T (10+12 ), G (10 +9 ), M (10+6 ), k (10 +3 ), m (10 −3 ),u (10 −6: μ), n (10 −9 ), p (10 −12 ), f (10−15 ), and a (10−18 ) can be added after the number.
The oscillator setting is initialized after the next startup after ARB Edit is exited or an additional
ARB Edit is started.

“5.6.8 Initial values”

a) Channel
Click thebutton to the right of [Channel] to display the list of selectable modes.

Click one in the list or press the ↑ ↓ → ← keys to select a mode.

b) Output on/off
Click(option button) to the left in the [ON] or [OFF] display in the [Output ON/OFF]section to make it selected ( ), to select on or off.

c) Frequency
Click the input area to the right of [Frequency] or press Alt + Q to activate the input area. Input
a numerical value in this status and press the Enter key to determine the value.
Changing the frequency setting also updates the cycle (inverse number of frequency) display.

d) Period
Click the input area to the right of [Period] or press Alt + P to activate the input area. Input anumerical value in this status and press the Enter key to determine the value.
Changing the cycle setting also updates the frequency display.

e) Range
Click thebutton to the right of [Range] to display the list of selectable output ranges.

Click one in the list or press the ↑ ↓ → ← keys to select an output range.
* In the WF1974 and WF1974, the setting is fixed to [Auto].

f) Amplitude
Click the input area to the right of [Amplitude] or press Alt + A to activate the input area. Input
a numerical value at this status and press the Enter key to determine the value.
In addition, the amplitude and DC offset settings put restrictions on each other, with restrictions
placed on the range to prevent errors when transfer is executed. The settable range also differs
according to the amplitude range setting.

g) DC offset
Click the input area to the right of [DC Offset] or press Alt + O to activate the input area. Input
a numerical value at this status and press the Enter key to determine the value.
In addition, the amplitude and DC offset settings put restrictions on each other, with restrictions
placed on the range to prevent errors when transfer is executed. The settable range also differs
according to the amplitude range setting.
5-28

ARB Edit5.6 Transferring the Waveform and Settingsh) Amplitude range
button to the right of [Amplitude range] to display the list of amplitude ranges that

Click thecan be selected.
Select the output range by clicking on an item in the list or pressing the ↑ ↓ → ← keys.
If [Norm ±FS] or [Inv ±FS] is selected as the amplitude range, the [Amplitude] setting unit is[Vp-p]. In all other cases, the [Amplitude] setting unit is [Vpk].

i) Transferring data
Clicking the Oscillator Setup button or pressing Alt + L transfers the settings in the [Oscillator
Setup] frame to the signal generator.

CAUTIONIf amplitude parameter settings for the WF1973 or WF1974 are performed with [ARB Edit], thefollowing items are forcibly switched.
• Amplitude mode In the case of sequence oscillation only, continuous oscillation is set.
• Load impedance setting Open (Hi-Z)

5.6.5

Cautions during transfer and reading

When performing waveform data transfer, read, or oscillator settings of the main parameters among
the oscillator settings, observe the following cautions.
• Data cannot be transferred unless the driver software is installed normally.
“2.2.1 Installing the USB driver software”• Do not perform any operation using the ARB Edit during data transfer.
• Even when multiple ARB Edits are running, it is not possible to transfer data from multiple
ARB Edits at the same time.

5.6.6

File operations

The settings for the system setting screen are saved to a file or read from a file.
The system setting file for the ARB Edit is a binary file in the unique format and cannot be used inother applications.
Select [System Setup File] - [Save] ( Alt , F , S or Ctrl + S ) on the system setting screen todisplay the screen titled [Save As].
Select a saving location, input a file name and click the Save button. The file extension is “.ocb”
and can be omitted at file name input.
To read the system setting file, select [System Setup File] - [Open] ( Alt , F , O or
Ctrl + O ).
When the screen titled [Open File] appears, select a file location, input a file name and click theOpen button.

Other files that can be handled with the ARB Edit:

5-29“4.6.1 File types”

ARB Edit5.6 Transferring the Waveform and Settings

5.6.7

Print

The setting conditions for the system setting screen can also be printed out.
Select [System Setup File] - [Print] ( Alt , F , P or Ctrl + P ) to display the screen titled [NF
ARB Edit - Print].
Make settings for the upper, lower and left margins, the printer or font as needed and click the OK
button.

5.6.8

Initial values

The parameters set on the system screen and initialized when the ARB Edit is started are shown in“Table 5-13 Initialized Values”.
Table 5-13 Initialized Values
WF 1973

WF 1974

Waveform memory name

(No specification)

Waveform memory number0Channel−1

Output on/off

OFFFrequency [Hz]1000

Period [sec]1m

Output range

Auto

Amplitude [Vp-p]

0.1

DC offset [V]0.0

Amplitude range

Norm +/−FS

X axis unit

Custom

X axis name

(No specification)

X axis minimum value

0.000000

X axis maximum value

1.000000

Y axis unit

Custom

Y axis name

(No specification)

Y axis minimum value−1.000Y axis maximum value

1.000

5-30

ARB Edit6. ERROR MESSAGES

6.1

Arbitrary Wave Edit Software Error ······························· 6-2

6-1

ARB Edit6.1 Arbitrary Wave Edit Software Error

6.1

Arbitrary Wave Edit Software Error

The following table summarizes the error specifications of the Arbitrary Waveform Editor.
Table 6-1 Error Messages
Message
Memory Allocation Failed.

Description
Memory for OS operation could not be secured at startup.
During waveform generation using interpolation, theinterpolation was performed without any control points
No Spline point.
specified.
Displayed when the leftmost and rightmost values of the Y
Cannot create two spline point on same X.
axis are different when generating a waveform using
Do you want continue?
interpolation.
An error occurred while a file was being saved in “ARB
File Write error.
Edit”. If this error persists, restart the “ARB Edit”.
An error occurred while a file was being read in the “ARB
File Read error
Edit”. Do not use this file.
An error occurred because a data file containing theRead in is interrupted because the data fileinformation of a model other than the WF1973/WF1974 wascontains data of a model that is not supported.
read. Do not use this file.
Clip Board Open error.
An error occurred during an inter-waveform operation
Clip Board Read error.
executed for the clipboard. If this error persists, restart the
Clip Board Write error.
“ARB Edit”.
Clip Board error.
Constant format error.
Syntax error in equation.
An arbitrary function expression for waveform generation
Lack of parenthesis.
contains an error.
Unbalance of parenthesis.
Modify the error cause according to the message.
Divided by 0.
Compile error.
The unit of the axis was changed.
Indicates that the axis setting is other than the initial state,
The axis range was set to X[0.0 - 1.0], Y[−1.0 - when the PWF screen is displayed.
1.0].
Illegal Font Size.
Modify the specified font size in the printing dialog box.
This error occurs when waveform data transfer, read, oroscillator settings are performed with no signal generator
No Listeners on the INTERFACE.
connected via USB.
The Sequence Edit Software is running.
After terminating the Sequence Edit Software, start the
Terminate the Sequence Edit Software andArbitrary Waveform Editor.
restart.
If the “-225, ‘Out of memory’” message is displayed
immediately before this message, check the total size of theTransfer is interrupted because an error WF1973/WF1974 arbitrary waveform data and delete any
occurred.
unnecessary data.
If such a message is not displayed, switch off the power ofthe WF1973/WF1973 once before operating again.

6-2

ARB Edit7. MAINTENANCE

7.1
7.2
7.3

Handling CD-ROM························································ 7-2
Replacement of Damaged CD-ROM ····························· 7-2
Version Check ······························································ 7-2

7-1

ARB Edit7.1 Handling CD-ROM

7.1

Handling CD-ROM
Handle the CD-ROM carefully as described below.
z Store the CD-ROM in a place without direct sunlight, high temperature, and high humidity.
z Use and store the CD-ROM in a place without dust.
z Do not touch the recording surface directly. It may cause damage or errors.
z If it is dirty, wipe it with a soft dry cloth. Do not use any solvent such as benzene.
z Store the CD-ROM in a vertical or horizontal position so that it would not be deformed.
z When writing on the label surface of the CD-ROM, use a felt-tipped pen (Do not use anythingwith a hard point such as a ball point pen or pencil.)

7.2

Replacement of Damaged CD-ROM

If the Arbitrary Wave Edit Software CD-ROM is damaged, contact NF Corporation or your local
distributor.
We will replace it with a new CD-ROM at cost.

7.3

Version Check

The Arbitrary Wave Edit Software version number is displayed on the CD-ROM.
The version can be displayed by selecting [Help] - [About].

Figure 7-1 Version Dialog Box

7-2

ARB Edit

IMPORTANT
1. Reproduction of the program or this instruction manual either in part or in whole, is strictly
prohibited.
2. The contents of this instruction manual are subject to change without notice.
3. Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information
contained in this user’s manual, please notify NF Corporation or an NF Corporation sales
representative in case any unclear points, errors, or omissions are found.
4. NF Corporation shall not be held responsible for any errors, defects, lost profits, or otherconsequential damages arising from the use of this product, regardless of item 3.

ARBITRARY WAVEFORM EDITOR Instruction Manual
NF Corporation
6-3-20, Tsunashima Higashi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama
223-8508 JAPAN
Phone +81-45-545-8128 Fax +81-45-545-8197
http://www.nfcorp.co.jp/© Copyright 2007, NF Corporation

http://www.nfcorp.co.jp/

NF Corporation
6-3-20, Tsunashima Higashi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama 223-8508 JAPAN