---
title: "Model 685 | 2 GHz 16-Bit Arbitrary Waveform Generator"
date: 2024-11-04T07:21:35Z
modified: 2026-05-27T13:27:36Z
permalink: "https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/model-685/"
type: page
status: publish
excerpt: ""
wpid: 17925
---
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#### Model 685 | 2GHz 6GS/s 16-Bit Arbitrary Waveform Generator w/ Differential Output
Model 685. This arbitrary waveform generator leads the field with its combination of high resolution, speed, and practical features that make complex signal creation straightforward.
- **World-Leading Resolution & Speed**: 16-bit vertical resolution at 6.16 GS/s sample rate, supporting signals up to 2 GHz bandwidth with clean 110 ps rise/fall times and up to 5 Vpp output (single-ended) or 3 Vpp differential.
- **Deep Memory & Sequencing**: Up to 4 GSamples per channel, allowing long, intricate waveforms plus advanced sequencing with loops, jumps, and conditional branches for realistic pattern generation.
- **Differential Outputs Standard**: Built-in noise immunity that’s especially valuable in low-voltage or sensitive setups, helping maintain signal quality without extra hardware.
- **Multi-Channel Flexibility**: Available in 2, 4, or 8 analog channels; add digital options (up to 32 bits) and sync up to four units for 32 analog / 128 digital channels working together seamlessly.
- **Intuitive Touch-Screen & Software**: Easy front-panel operation plus flexible software for building and importing custom waveforms quickly.
- **Upgrade Path**: Field-upgradable throughout its life—add memory, RF modes, pattern generation, or storage as your needs change.
This 2 GHz arbitrary waveform generator (with strong function generator capabilities) excels in real-world applications like semiconductor device testing, radar and electronic warfare simulation, quantum computing pulses, optics/photonics experiments, aerospace/defense signal emulation, and automotive ECU validation. Whether you’re recreating pulsed RF with impairments, driving laser diodes, or testing power MOSFETs, the Model 685 delivers the fidelity and control needed for accurate, repeatable results.
Overview
Configurator
Specifications
Technical Resources
Downloadable Resources
Media
Price Lists
##### Features
- Number of Channels: 2, 4 or 8
- Resolution: 6.16 GS/s 16 Bit Vertical
- Bandwidth: 2 GHz
- Offset: ± 2.5V
- Amplitude: 3Vpp Differential (5Vpp Single-Ended) into 50 Ω
- Memory: 4096 Mpts Waveform per channel
##### Service Advantage
- Automotive
- Research Applications
- Neuroscience
- Aerospace and Defense
- IoT and Industry 4.0
- Semiconductors Test
- Quantum Computing
#### **Model 685 Device Configurator**
_**-DIGX option includes Mini SAS to Mini SAS HD cable for digital channels (8 LVDS pairs) and 8 bit LVDS to LVTTL converter**_
_**-DTTL8 is no longer a standalone option**_
input[type='checkbox']{
display:inline !important;
appearance:checkbox !important;
width:auto !important;
background-color:transparent !important;
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.tables-no-border-and-back,
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.tables-no-border-and-back tr{
border:0 !important;
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| **Number of Channels:** | Two Channel Four Channel Eight Channel |  |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Memory Option:** | 2048 Million Points Memory \[standard\] 4096 Million Points Memory \[-4G\] | |
| **Output Options:** | 5Vpp Single Ended Output \[-SE\] 8 Ch Digital License \[-8DIG\] 16 Ch Digital License \[-16DIG\] 32 Ch Digital License \[-32DIG\] 6 GHz RF Mode \[-RF6\] Serial / Pulse Pattern Generator \[-PAT\] 250GB SSD \[-SSD250\] 500GB SSD \[-SSD500\] 1TB SSD \[-SSD1000\] GPIB / USB-TMC \[-GPIB\] Fast Sequence Switch \[-FSS\] | |
| **Accessories:** | LVTTL Converter Mini SAS to SMA Cable Rackmount Kit | |
| Model 685-2C-D-2G 2 GHz, 6 GSa/s AFG, 3Vpp Differential Output, 2048 Mpts Memory | | |
| INQUIRE | | |
| **Mode of Operation** | Arbitrary Function Generator (AFG) Arbitrary Waveform Generator (AWG) |
| --- | --- |
| **Number of Outputs** | 2, 4 or 8 Channels |
| **Frequency Range** | 1 µHz to 2 GHz |
| **Waveforms** | Sine, Square, Ramp, Pulse, Gaussian, Lorentz, Exp Rise, Exp Decay, Haversine, Sinc, Noise, Arbitrary, DC, Double Pulse |
| **Run Mode** | Continuous, Modulation, Sweep, and Burst |
| **Amplitude** | 0 to 5Vpp (into 50 Ω) \*Single-ended option |
| **Offset** | -2.5V to +2.5V |
| **Resolution** | 100 µVpp or 5 digits |
| **Jitter** | < 2ps |
| **Phase** | 0 to 360° |
| **Polarity** | Positive and Negative |
| **Output Impedance** | 50Ω (Single Ended) or 100Ω (Differential) |
| **Sample Rate** | 6.16 GS/s Fixed Clock, 16-Bit Vertical Resolution |
| **Marker Outputs** | 1 |
| **Modulating Frequency** | 500 µHz – 61 MHz Internal 10MHz Max External |
| **Rise and Fall Time (20% to 80%)** | < 300 ps @ 1 Vpp |
| **Digital Channel** (optional) | 8, 16 or 32 Bits |
| **Update Rate** | 1.54 Gbps per channel |
| **Bandwidth** | 2 GHz |
| **External Reference Clock Input** | 5 MHz to 200 MHz, 1 Hz resolution |
| **External Reference Clock Output** | 10 MHz TCXO (or optional 100 MHz OCXO) |
| **Waveform Memory** | Up to 4 Billion Points |
| **Mechanical (W x H x D) Weight** | 17.7 x 6.3 x 13.4 inch \[450 x 160 x 340 mm\] 4.4 lbs \[9.7 kg\] |
| **Power Source** | 100 to 240 VAC / 45-66 Hz 120 Watts (max) |
| **Emission and Immunity** | CISPR 11, Class A, EN61000-3-2:2006, EN 61000-3-3:1995 EN 61326-1:2006, IEC 61000-4-2:2001, IEC 61000-4-3:2002, IEC 61000-4-4:2004, IEC 61000-4-5:2001, IEC 61000-4-6:2003, IEC 61000-4-11:2004 |
| **Operating Environment** | Temperature: +32 ºF to +122 ºF \[0 ºC to +50 ºC\] Humidity: 8% to 90% RH Altitude: 10,000 ft \[3048 m\] |
| **Shipping Dimensions** | 24x19x13″ |
| **Shipping Weight** | 33 lbs |
##### Automotive
Today’s cars include many highly sophisticated Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with sensitive electronic components. The Model 685 combines 6.16 GSa/s with a 16-bit vertical resolution, making it an ideal tool for successfully addressing the new testing challenges in the automotive industry.
- CAN bus, CAN-FD, LIN, Flexray, SAE J2716 SENT Protocol Emulation
- EMI debugging, troubleshooting and testing
- Electrical standards emulation up to 12V
- Power MOSFET circuitry in automotive electronics optimization
##### IoT and Industry 4.0
Arbitrary waveform and function generators will help define new industrial practices for testing the compliance of smart devices. These machines can modulate RF I/Q, enabling simulated testing environments, and are capable of generating noise to test against wireless devices, allowing for emulations close to or matching compliance test standards required for industry 4.0 applications.
##### University and Research Institute
Research centers and Universities are key users of the Model 685 Arbitrary Waveform series. Complex waveform and/or sophisticated pulse emulation based on variable edges or multilevel can be perfectly created. The combination of fast edge generation, excellent dynamic range, and an easy-to-use user interface combine perfectly for scientists and engineers working on large experiments such as accelerators, tokamak, or synchrotrons to emulate signals without creating specifics test boards.
- Emulation of Detectors
- Emulation of Noise adding Signal Sources
- Generation or Playback of Real-world Signals
- Emulation of long PRBS (PseudoRandom Binary Sequence)
- Modulating and Driving Laser Diodes
##### Aerospace and Defense
Electronic Warfare signals driven by Radar or Sonar systems match perfectly with these generators. Large BW Riders can be used on digital modulation systems for radio applications or other I/Q signal modulation. Pulses may be easily generated for applications such as Pulse Electron Beams, X-ray sources, Flash X-ray Radiography, Lighting Pulse simulators, and High Power Microwave modulators.
- Frequency Response, Intermodulation Distortion, and Noise-Figure measurements
- Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) pull-in and Hold Range characterization
- Radar Base-band Signals Emulation
##### Semiconductor Tests
Emulation of complex signals generated with the inclusion of noise or distortions is an excellent way to provide the Compliance Components Test to help semiconductor engineers. The fast edges and pulse generation can be used to provide characterization in fast power devices.
- Clock and Sensor Signals Generation
- MOSFET gate drive Amplitude Signal Emulation
- Power up sequences of IC using the Low Impedance feature (5 Ω output impedance)
##### Serial Pattern Generators
With serial data pattern generator features, the Model 685 is designed to generate a stream of binary information through the front-end BNC & SMA connectors. Serial Data Pattern Generators assist a wide range of applications stemming from Digital Logic and Semiconductors characterization, Aerospace & Defense compliance testing, Mixed Signal Systems testing, and Signal Integrity experiments.
[Arb Rider Series Digital Option User Guide](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21007/?tmstv=1772044188)
[Part Numbering – Model 685](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21015/?tmstv=1772044188)
[App Note – Serial Pattern Generator](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21023/?tmstv=1772044188)
[App Note – Optics, Photonics & Lasers](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21029/?tmstv=1772044188)
[Performance ARB Comparison Chart](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21035/?tmstv=1772044188)
[Press Room – Arbitrary Waveform Generators For Semiconductor Testing | The Model 685](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21043/?tmstv=1772044188)
[Press Room – Model 685 Series: AWGS For Optics, Photonics, And Lasers](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21049/?tmstv=1772044188)
[Press Room – The Necessity of Radar in Fighting Megafires](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21055/?tmstv=1772044188)
[Press Room – A Closer Look at MRI](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21063/?tmstv=1772044188)
[Model 685 Datasheet](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21068/?tmstv=1772044188)
Downloadable resources such as datasheets, firmware, software, drivers and products manuals. Alternatively, you can browse resources directly by visiting our [downloads page](/downloads).
- [Product Datasheets](/downloads#tm-datasheets)
- [Product Firmware](/downloads#ddg-firmware)
- [Product Software and Drivers](/downloads#tm-softwaredrivers)
- [Product Manuals](/downloads#tm-manuals)
## Playlist
#### Tools for Quantum Computing Applications
40:11
#### BERKELEY NUCLEONICS ACADEMY WEBINAR
42:35
#### Arbitrary Waveform Generators: Basics and Beyond | BNC Webinar
55:15
#### Webinar | The World’s Fastest 16bit AWG for Quantum Computing
1:50:20
[Berkeley Nucleonics Price List 2026](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/19881/?tmstv=1772044188)
##### Features
- Number of Channels: 2, 4 or 8
- Resolution: 6.16 GS/s 16 Bit Vertical
- Bandwidth: 2 GHz
- Offset: ± 2.5V
- Amplitude: 3Vpp Differential (5Vpp Single-Ended) into 50 Ω
- Memory: 4096 Mpts Waveform per channel
##### Service Advantage
- Automotive
- Research Applications
- Neuroscience
- Aerospace and Defense
- IoT and Industry 4.0
- Semiconductors Test
- Quantum Computing
#### **Model 685 Device Configurator**
_**-DIGX option includes Mini SAS to Mini SAS HD cable for digital channels (8 LVDS pairs) and 8 bit LVDS to LVTTL converter**_
_**-DTTL8 is no longer a standalone option**_
input[type='checkbox']{
display:inline !important;
appearance:checkbox !important;
width:auto !important;
background-color:transparent !important;
}
.tables-no-border-and-back,
.tables-no-border-and-back td,
.tables-no-border-and-back tr{
border:0 !important;
background-color:transparent !important;
}
| **Number of Channels:** | Two Channel Four Channel Eight Channel |  |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **Memory Option:** | 2048 Million Points Memory \[standard\] 4096 Million Points Memory \[-4G\] | |
| **Output Options:** | 5Vpp Single Ended Output \[-SE\] 8 Ch Digital License \[-8DIG\] 16 Ch Digital License \[-16DIG\] 32 Ch Digital License \[-32DIG\] 6 GHz RF Mode \[-RF6\] Serial / Pulse Pattern Generator \[-PAT\] 250GB SSD \[-SSD250\] 500GB SSD \[-SSD500\] 1TB SSD \[-SSD1000\] GPIB / USB-TMC \[-GPIB\] Fast Sequence Switch \[-FSS\] | |
| **Accessories:** | LVTTL Converter Mini SAS to SMA Cable Rackmount Kit | |
| Model 685-2C-D-2G 2 GHz, 6 GSa/s AFG, 3Vpp Differential Output, 2048 Mpts Memory | | |
| INQUIRE | | |
| **Mode of Operation** | Arbitrary Function Generator (AFG) Arbitrary Waveform Generator (AWG) |
| --- | --- |
| **Number of Outputs** | 2, 4 or 8 Channels |
| **Frequency Range** | 1 µHz to 2 GHz |
| **Waveforms** | Sine, Square, Ramp, Pulse, Gaussian, Lorentz, Exp Rise, Exp Decay, Haversine, Sinc, Noise, Arbitrary, DC, Double Pulse |
| **Run Mode** | Continuous, Modulation, Sweep, and Burst |
| **Amplitude** | 0 to 5Vpp (into 50 Ω) \*Single-ended option |
| **Offset** | -2.5V to +2.5V |
| **Resolution** | 100 µVpp or 5 digits |
| **Jitter** | < 2ps |
| **Phase** | 0 to 360° |
| **Polarity** | Positive and Negative |
| **Output Impedance** | 50Ω (Single Ended) or 100Ω (Differential) |
| **Sample Rate** | 6.16 GS/s Fixed Clock, 16-Bit Vertical Resolution |
| **Marker Outputs** | 1 |
| **Modulating Frequency** | 500 µHz – 61 MHz Internal 10MHz Max External |
| **Rise and Fall Time (20% to 80%)** | < 300 ps @ 1 Vpp |
| **Digital Channel** (optional) | 8, 16 or 32 Bits |
| **Update Rate** | 1.54 Gbps per channel |
| **Bandwidth** | 2 GHz |
| **External Reference Clock Input** | 5 MHz to 200 MHz, 1 Hz resolution |
| **External Reference Clock Output** | 10 MHz TCXO (or optional 100 MHz OCXO) |
| **Waveform Memory** | Up to 4 Billion Points |
| **Mechanical (W x H x D) Weight** | 17.7 x 6.3 x 13.4 inch \[450 x 160 x 340 mm\] 4.4 lbs \[9.7 kg\] |
| **Power Source** | 100 to 240 VAC / 45-66 Hz 120 Watts (max) |
| **Emission and Immunity** | CISPR 11, Class A, EN61000-3-2:2006, EN 61000-3-3:1995 EN 61326-1:2006, IEC 61000-4-2:2001, IEC 61000-4-3:2002, IEC 61000-4-4:2004, IEC 61000-4-5:2001, IEC 61000-4-6:2003, IEC 61000-4-11:2004 |
| **Operating Environment** | Temperature: +32 ºF to +122 ºF \[0 ºC to +50 ºC\] Humidity: 8% to 90% RH Altitude: 10,000 ft \[3048 m\] |
| **Shipping Dimensions** | 24x19x13″ |
| **Shipping Weight** | 33 lbs |
##### Automotive
Today’s cars include many highly sophisticated Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with sensitive electronic components. The Model 685 combines 6.16 GSa/s with a 16-bit vertical resolution, making it an ideal tool for successfully addressing the new testing challenges in the automotive industry.
- CAN bus, CAN-FD, LIN, Flexray, SAE J2716 SENT Protocol Emulation
- EMI debugging, troubleshooting and testing
- Electrical standards emulation up to 12V
- Power MOSFET circuitry in automotive electronics optimization
##### IoT and Industry 4.0
Arbitrary waveform and function generators will help define new industrial practices for testing the compliance of smart devices. These machines can modulate RF I/Q, enabling simulated testing environments, and are capable of generating noise to test against wireless devices, allowing for emulations close to or matching compliance test standards required for industry 4.0 applications.
##### University and Research Institute
Research centers and Universities are key users of the Model 685 Arbitrary Waveform series. Complex waveform and/or sophisticated pulse emulation based on variable edges or multilevel can be perfectly created. The combination of fast edge generation, excellent dynamic range, and an easy-to-use user interface combine perfectly for scientists and engineers working on large experiments such as accelerators, tokamak, or synchrotrons to emulate signals without creating specifics test boards.
- Emulation of Detectors
- Emulation of Noise adding Signal Sources
- Generation or Playback of Real-world Signals
- Emulation of long PRBS (PseudoRandom Binary Sequence)
- Modulating and Driving Laser Diodes
##### Aerospace and Defense
Electronic Warfare signals driven by Radar or Sonar systems match perfectly with these generators. Large BW Riders can be used on digital modulation systems for radio applications or other I/Q signal modulation. Pulses may be easily generated for applications such as Pulse Electron Beams, X-ray sources, Flash X-ray Radiography, Lighting Pulse simulators, and High Power Microwave modulators.
- Frequency Response, Intermodulation Distortion, and Noise-Figure measurements
- Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) pull-in and Hold Range characterization
- Radar Base-band Signals Emulation
##### Semiconductor Tests
Emulation of complex signals generated with the inclusion of noise or distortions is an excellent way to provide the Compliance Components Test to help semiconductor engineers. The fast edges and pulse generation can be used to provide characterization in fast power devices.
- Clock and Sensor Signals Generation
- MOSFET gate drive Amplitude Signal Emulation
- Power up sequences of IC using the Low Impedance feature (5 Ω output impedance)
##### Serial Pattern Generators
With serial data pattern generator features, the Model 685 is designed to generate a stream of binary information through the front-end BNC & SMA connectors. Serial Data Pattern Generators assist a wide range of applications stemming from Digital Logic and Semiconductors characterization, Aerospace & Defense compliance testing, Mixed Signal Systems testing, and Signal Integrity experiments.
[ Arb Rider Series Digital Option User Guide](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21007/?tmstv=1779888456)
[ Part Numbering - Model 685](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21015/?tmstv=1779888456)
[ App Note - Serial Pattern Generator](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21023/?tmstv=1779888456)
[ App Note - Optics, Photonics & Lasers](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21029/?tmstv=1779888456)
[ Performance ARB Comparison Chart](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21035/?tmstv=1779888456)
[ Press Room - Arbitrary Waveform Generators For Semiconductor Testing | The Model 685](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21043/?tmstv=1779888456)
[ Press Room - Model 685 Series: AWGS For Optics, Photonics, And Lasers](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21049/?tmstv=1779888456)
[ Press Room - The Necessity of Radar in Fighting Megafires](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21055/?tmstv=1779888456)
[ Press Room - A Closer Look at MRI](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21063/?tmstv=1779888456)
[ Model 685 Datasheet](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/21068/?tmstv=1779888456)
Downloadable resources such as datasheets, firmware, software, drivers and products manuals. Alternatively, you can browse resources directly by visiting our [downloads page](/downloads).
- [Product Datasheets](/downloads#tm-datasheets)
- [Product Firmware](/downloads#ddg-firmware)
- [Product Software and Drivers](/downloads#tm-softwaredrivers)
- [Product Manuals](/downloads#tm-manuals)
## Playlist
#### Tools for Quantum Computing Applications
40:11
#### BERKELEY NUCLEONICS ACADEMY WEBINAR
42:35
#### Arbitrary Waveform Generators: Basics and Beyond | BNC Webinar
55:15
#### Webinar | The World’s Fastest 16bit AWG for Quantum Computing
1:50:20
[ Berkeley Nucleonics Price List 2026](https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/download/19881/?tmstv=1779888456)
[ 100vw, 1105px” alt=”” width=”1105″ height=”130″ data-src=”https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/wp-content/uploads/rf-sig-gen-web-banner-ad-10-17-18.jpg” data-srcset=”https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/wp-content/uploads/rf-sig-gen-web-banner-ad-10-17-18.jpg 1105w, https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/wp-content/uploads/rf-sig-gen-web-banner-ad-10-17-18-300×35.jpg 300w, https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/wp-content/uploads/rf-sig-gen-web-banner-ad-10-17-18-1024×120.jpg 1024w, https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/wp-content/uploads/rf-sig-gen-web-banner-ad-10-17-18-768×90.jpg 768w, https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/wp-content/uploads/rf-sig-gen-web-banner-ad-10-17-18-1000×118.jpg 1000w” />
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