Speeding up Measurements in Spectroscopy Applications with the HDAWG Arbitrary Waveform Generator

The Zurich Instruments HDAWG multi-channel Arbitrary Waveform Generator (AWG) comprises of the highest channel density available in its class and has been designed for improved signal generation up to 750 MHz bandwidth. The HDAWG is available with either 4 or 8 DC-coupled, single-ended analog output channels with 16 bit vertical resolution. The outputs can be separately switched between a direct mode, with maximized bandwidth and greater noise performance, and an amplified mode, that enhances the signal amplitude to a maximum of 5 V_pp. With two markers per channel accurate setup synchronization is ensured while the full 16 bit output resolution is maintained.

LabOne^® offers a modern programming concept capable of combining the flexibility and performance of an AWG with effortless usage of a function generator. The platform-independent LabOne User Interface (UI) and a choice of APIs for LabVIEW^®, MATLAB^®, C, .NET, and Python allow effortless measurement automation and rapid integration into an existing control environment.

HDAWG Key Features

Highest channel density available

Less than 50 ns trigger to output delay

Digital modulation at multiple frequencies

LabOne^® AWG Sequencer and Compiler

2.4 GSa/s, 16 bit, 750 MHz signal bandwidth

5 V_pp maximum amplitude

Scalable up to 64 output channels

HDAWG Overview Video

HDAWG High-Density Arbitrary Waveform GeneratorPlay

HDAWG Applications

Radar/Lidar

NMR and EPR spectroscopy

Quantum computing

Semiconductor testing

MIMO techniques in MRI and telecommunication

The HDAWG is a high-end instrument that has been designed to meet the needs of demanding applications by extending the core AWG functionality with added waveform memory, internal oscillators, function generator functionality and a set of pulse counters.

Quantum Computing and Phased-array Radar

It is possible to automatically synchronize multiple HDAWG instruments, which can be controlled with the help of a single user interface, allowing efficient scaling of radar and quantum computing systems while decreasing complexity and the required lab space. The short 50 ns reaction time to an external trigger signal allows quantum error correction methods with great fidelity. The internal oscillators decrease waveform upload times, offer a simpler waveform definition and guarantee phase coherence. The integrated pulse counter enables simplifying setups for N-V center and trapped ion experiments.

NMR and Spectroscopy

Signals in NMR and various other spectroscopy applications occur at timescales ranging from nanoseconds up to seconds. The HDAWG is capable of speeding up these measurements by using parametric sweeping and/or a variable sampling rate. Employing digital modulation, an arbitrary envelope can be imposed on just one or multiple carrier signals along with minimal waveform upload time while phase-coherence is maintained without extra effort.

Semiconductor Testing

Waveform iteration, nested sequencing, and dynamic sequencing with DIO control are perfect for realizing signals for wide high-throughput testing. Adding or multiplying the AWG signal with a function generator signal extends the possibilities and helps simplify and speed up everyday measurement routines.