Tektronix AFG3000 Series User Manual

Operating Basics

AFG3000 Series Quick Start User Manual

To synchronize multiple arbitrary/function generators, use the Utility menu. Some documentation may also refer to the syn-
chronous operation as master-slave operation.

1. Use a BNC cable to connect the 

front-panel Trigger Output of one instru-
ment (master) to the Trigger Input of 
another unit (slave).

The master unit sends a trigger signal to 
the slave unit.

2. Connect the rear panel EXT REF OUT 

(master) and EXT REF IN (slave) with 
another BNC cable.

The master clock and the slave clock 
are synchronized.

3. Push the front-panel Utility button of 

the master unit to display the System 
menu.

4. Sets the following:

■

Trigger Out – Sync

■

Clock Ref – Internal

5. Set the slave instrument:

Display the System menu, and then 
push the Clock Ref bezel button to 
select External.

6. Select Burst as the Run Mode for both 

the master and the slave instrument.

To synchronize two instruments, you 
must stop running output signals once 
before triggering using the Burst mode.

Master

Slave

Trigger Output –  Trigger Input

EXT REF OUT – EXT REF IN (rear panel)