12$ 30MHz signal generator using Arduino

7 November, 2016Rik
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1

A signal generator is an electronic device that generates electronic signals and waveforms.
These electronic signals are either repeating or non-repeating as per the requirements and field
of applications. It is generally used in designing, testing, troubleshooting and repairing
electronic devices. A signal generator can generate various kinds of waveforms. Most
common are the sine wave, square wave, sawtooth wave and triangular wave.

This instructable shows a full guide on how to make a 30 MHz signal generator for 12$, using
an Arduino and an AD9850 DDS synthesizer module. The circuit is pretty simple and small
enough to fit in your pocket. Kedar Nimbalkar, the author of the instructable, says:

A precession signal generator is very easy and affordable to make using an

Arduino and DDS synthesizer (ad9850) . It’s World’s first smallest portable
signal generator.

You can make decent 0 -30 MHZ frequency Signal generator only in 12$ .

30 MHz signal generator using Arduino

Parts List:

1. Arduino Pro mini

2.AD9850 (DDS Synthesizer)
3.16×2 LCD Display ( Hitachi HD 44780 )
4.Rotary Encoder
5. CP2102 (or any USB to serial converter)

I think you are familiar with all of the above items except the AD9850 (DDS Synthesizer).
First of all, you need to know what does DDS stand for.

Direct Digital Synthesizer Block Diagram

Direct digital synthesizer (DDS) is a type of frequency synthesizer used for creating
arbitrary waveforms from a single, fixed-frequency reference clock. A basic Direct Digital
Synthesizer consists of a frequency reference, a numerically controlled oscillator (NCO) and
a digital-to-analog converter (DAC).

AD9850 (DDS Synthesizer):

The AD9850 is a highly integrated device that uses advanced DDS technology coupled with
an internal high-speed, high-performance D/A converter and comparator to form a digitally
programmable frequency synthesizer and clock generator function. When referenced to an
accurate clock source, the AD9850 generates a spectrally pure, analog output sine wave. In a
nutshell, AD9850 works on DDS (direct digital synthesis ) which can generate analog
waveforms with digital input.
Read the datasheet to learn more.
 The
AD9850 DDS Module

Circuit Diagram of Signal Generator:

The circuit diagram is very simple. You can make it on a breadboard, or just solder
components end to end to make it more compact.
Arduino Based Signal Generator Circuit Diagram

The Arduino sends digital signals to AD9850 and the module generates analog output Sine
wave. The display, which is connected to Arduino, shows output frequency and step
increment/decrement value. The rotary encoder is for changing frequency. Though the
AD9850 module can generate up to 40 MHz frequency, but after 30 MHz the output
frequency becomes unstable. So in this circuit, the maximum frequency is limited to 30 MHz.

You can make a decent 0-30 MHz frequency signal generator for only 12$ . If
you are pro “overclocker”, then 40 MHz in same price .

The signal generator runs on 5 Volt power supply and current should not exceed 270mA.
Arduino Sketch:

The Arduino code is HERE.

Output:

Output
Response of Arduino Based Signal Generator

Watch the video which demonstrates the 12$ signal generator.