In article , Antonio I0JX
wrote:

The frequency stability of my HP3312A function generator is poor, very
annoying for many practical use. I am trying to determine whether that
behavior is fairly normal for function generators, or my particular unit has
got a problem.

What is your experience on function generators frequency stability?

Thanks & 73

Tony I0JX
Rome, Italy


Any of the VCO-based function generators, such as the 3312A, are going
to be wobbly in terms of not only stability but ability to generate a
specific frequency or range of frequencies.

You need to move to a synthesized source to get better results. One
candidate would be the HP 3314A, which is a synthesized generator, and
covers up to 20 MHz.

I have one of these; it's very flexible, and stable. It doesn't have
the ability to lock to an external standard, but it is crystal
controlled.

With a synthesized device, you have digital control over frequency,
sweep parameters, and with something like the 3314A, you also have
digital control over amplitude and offset.

eBay offers some inexpensive function generator boards as well.