---
title: Arbitrary Waveform Generators for LiDAR Scenario Emulation and Sensor Testing
date: 2026-05-20T19:35:21Z
modified: 2026-05-21T13:25:48Z
permalink: "https://www.berkeleynucleonics.com/model-686-high-performance-arbitrary-waveform-generator/arbitrary-waveform-generators-lidar-testing/"
type: page
status: publish
excerpt: ""
wpid: 39325
---

## The Problem

LiDAR scenario emulation and pulsed-laser-diode test demand long, precisely-timed waveforms across multiple channels. Memory depth and trigger jitter usually become the limiting factors. Most arbitrary waveform generators (AWGs) run out of memory at 1 to 2 Gpts and accumulate jitter once channels are stacked.

## Why the BNC 686 Fits LiDAR Test

**A single AWG family that holds long scenarios in memory and keeps jitter and channel skew within instrument tolerances.** Direct drive at usable amplitude removes the need for an external amplifier in most fixtures.

- Up to **9 Gpts** of waveform memory per channel for long scenarios
- **Sub-2 ps** trigger jitter against an external master clock
- **Sub-100 fs** channel synchronization across separate units
- **50 ps** timing resolution for emulated reflected pulses
- **5 Vpp into 50 Ω** supports direct drive of pulsed laser diode test fixtures (or the BNC high-voltage pulse generator sibling for 50 V / 1 A square pulses)

## Requirements vs. BNC 686 Capability



| LiDAR Test Requirement | BNC 686 Capability |
| --- | --- |
| Long-scenario waveform memory | **Up to 9 Gpts per channel** |
| Trigger jitter against external master clock | **< 2 ps** |
| Channel synchronization across separate units | **< 100 fs** |
| Timing resolution for emulated reflected pulses | **50 ps** |
| Direct-drive amplitude into 50 Ω | **5 Vpp** |
| High-current diode drive (sibling instrument) | **BNC HV pulse generator: 50 V / 1 A square pulses** |



## Where This Is Running

OEM Sensor labs, defense electro-optical and infrared test groups, as well as LiDAR maker hardware teams, are currently interested in Berkeley Nucleonics arbitrary waveform generators for running long-scenario emulation across multiple channels.

### Key Numbers at a Glance

- 9 Gpts per channel waveform memory
- Sub-2 ps trigger jitter, sub-100 fs cross-unit channel sync
- 50 ps timing resolution for emulated reflected pulses



## Questions or would you like to test Model 686? Fill out the form below