How does this power amplifier communicate with the function generator?

[Ben321]

I was thinking about buying this Rigol power amplifier https://www.tequipment.net/Rigol/PA1011/Preamplifiers/ for my Rigol function generator, but I'm not quite sure how it works. From what I read, it appears to be able to be controlled by the function generator itself, but I'm not sure how the FG controls the PA. Does it use the normal signal BNC cable, and transmit control data modulating a carrier wave well above the maximum normal output frequency of the FG's standard output? Or does it use USB or Ethernet data ports on the FG for control?

[Kean]

It has a USB interface which can be connected to a PC, or to some Rigol models like DG1022 or DG5000 series.

Look for a document called "PA1011 Application Notes"

[Ben321]

It has a USB interface which can be connected to a PC, or to some Rigol models like DG1022 or DG5000 series.

Look for a document called "PA1011 Application Notes"

Ok. Thanks.

I noticed they are also quite expensive, almost as expensive as the function generator they go with. I think that's a bit overpriced for something that's just an amplifier.

[Martin72]

"Just" an amplifier..
They´re a little bit more than just that, 1Mhz bandwith and full power are two things you can´t compare to the normal audio amps.
But, as always, it can get a little bit cheaper:

Aim-TTi WA301

We got three of them at work, for CMOS circuits or driver circuits.
Pros:
-Cheap
-30Vpp Outputlevel
-50 and 600Ohms outputs
Con:
-No on/off switch

[Kean]

Yeah, it isn't "just an amplifier".

An alternative is the Juntek DPA-2698, which is what I have.  No fancy PC control or integration with the function gen, but better specs in some respects.
https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/juntek-dpa-2698-10mhz-signal-amplifier-digilent-analog-discovery/

[mawyatt]

Here's a few examples for DIY AWG Buffer Amps.

https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/awg-buffer-amp/msg3368650/#msg3368650

https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/hv-buffer-amp-for-awg/msg3623953/#msg3623953

https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/cheap-diy-high-powervoltage-awg-buffer-amp/msg3449784/#msg3449784

We have the Juntek DPA-2698 & DPA-1698 and agree both are very good values for a AWG Buffer Amp.

Best,