Design of a Portable Programmable Function Generator Using PIC18F4520 Microcontroller
Keywords:
Function generator, PIC18F4520 microcontroller, Proteus simulation, waveform synthesis, hardware implementationAbstract
This study presents the design and implementation of a portable programmable function generator (PPFG) using the PIC18F4520 microcontroller, developed and simulated through Proteus Design Suite before hardware realization. The primary goal of the project was to construct a low-cost and flexible waveform generator capable of producing multiple signal types, including sine, square, triangular, sawtooth, and pulse waveforms. The circuit design incorporated key components such as the MCP4921 digital-to-analog converter (DAC), CA3140 operational amplifier, and ICL7660 voltage converter to ensure accurate waveform generation and stable bipolar/unipolar outputs. Through simulation and practical testing, the system demonstrated excellent waveform accuracy, adjustable amplitude and frequency, and reliable performance comparable to commercial laboratory instruments. The proposed PPFG serves as an educational and experimental tool for engineering students and laboratories, providing a cost-effective alternative to conventional function generators. The results confirm that the integration of microcontroller-based control and analog interfacing can achieve high-quality signal synthesis suitable for both instructional and research applications.
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