Core Skill Title: Signal Generator Usage – Basic
Skill ID: ELECINSSIGB
🔍 Overview
A signal generator is an essential instrument in the toolkit of integration and test engineers. It provides well-defined electrical signals used for stimulating circuits under test. Signal generators help verify system performance and debug issues during integration. This core skill focuses on basic usage of signal generators in integration-level testing, including connector-level and board-level signal injection.
🚀 Industry Relevance
In complex electronic systems, especially those involving analog, digital, RF, and power electronics, signal generators enable controlled injection of stimuli to validate sub-system operation. During integration, signal generators simulate inputs from upstream modules, allowing validation of inter-module connectivity, signal integrity, and system response.
🔧 Microskill Table
| Sl. No | Microskill ID | Microskill Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ELECINSSIGB.01 | Understanding types of signal generators (function, RF, arbitrary waveform, pulse) |
| 2 | ELECINSSIGB.02 | Learning the interface and controls of a basic function generator |
| 3 | ELECINSSIGB.03 | Setting frequency, amplitude, offset, and waveform shape correctly |
| 4 | ELECINSSIGB.04 | Using TTL/CMOS level square wave signals for digital testing |
| 5 | ELECINSSIGB.05 | Selecting waveform suitable for analog block testing (sine, ramp, triangle) |
| 6 | ELECINSSIGB.06 | Using modulation features (AM/FM) in signal generators if available |
| 7 | ELECINSSIGB.07 | Identifying signal injection points at unit input connectors |
| 8 | ELECINSSIGB.08 | Injecting signals into test points or between PCB stages safely |
| 9 | ELECINSSIGB.09 | Understanding signal coupling (AC/DC coupling and grounding reference during injection) |
| 10 | ELECINSSIGB.10 | Measuring output response using oscilloscope after signal injection |
| 11 | ELECINSSIGB.11 | Creating test conditions to simulate sensor outputs |
| 12 | ELECINSSIGB.12 | Using signal generator in loopback testing configurations |
| 13 | ELECINSSIGB.13 | Using external triggering with signal generators for synchronized testing |
| 14 | ELECINSSIGB.14 | Performing swept frequency testing using signal generator |
| 15 | ELECINSSIGB.15 | Handling safety while connecting signal generator to powered circuit (preventing overload or shorting) |
| 16 | ELECINSSIGB.16 | Selecting correct cables (BNC, SMA, coaxial) and adapters for proper signal integrity |
| 17 | ELECINSSIGB.17 | Preventing loading effects on DUT by adjusting signal generator output impedance |
| 18 | ELECINSSIGB.18 | Documenting test setup and signal generator settings for repeatability |
⚠️ Safety Considerations
- Always verify voltage and current settings before connecting to DUT.
- Ensure signal generator and DUT share a common ground if required.
- Avoid injecting signals into circuits with unknown impedance or powered outputs.
- Use proper attenuators or protection circuits when testing sensitive inputs.
📖 Further Learning
Advanced usage of signal generators such as arbitrary waveform creation, scripting, automated test setups, and vector signal generation is covered under the advanced module: Signal Generator Usage – Advanced (Skill ID: ELECINSSIGA).