Generate voltage pulse using pc?

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SUMMARY

Generating voltage pulses using a computer is feasible through the use of sound cards and serial ports. Sound cards function as digital-to-analog converters (DACs) and can produce square or sinusoidal waves with an amplitude of +/- 5V, while serial ports can generate square wave pulses, potentially reaching up to +/- 15V. It is crucial to manage current draw to prevent damage to the hardware. Software options like HyperTerminal can facilitate pulse generation through the serial port.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of sound card functionality as DACs
  • Familiarity with serial port communication
  • Basic knowledge of voltage levels and signal types (square and sinusoidal)
  • Experience with programming or using terminal software for pulse generation
NEXT STEPS
  • Research sound card capabilities for generating voltage pulses
  • Learn about serial port programming for pulse output
  • Explore software alternatives to HyperTerminal for serial communication
  • Investigate current limitations and protection methods for sound card outputs
USEFUL FOR

Electronics enthusiasts, software developers, and engineers interested in generating voltage signals for testing or experimental purposes will benefit from this discussion.

aguy
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Hi,

I am wondering if it is possible to generate voltage pulses (square or sinuosoidal, +/- 5V) using a computer. If yes, then how would I go about doing it?

Thanks.
 
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You could use a sound card which are basically just glorified DAC's. Just make sure you're not drawing too much current which would be very bad.

Not only that but you could just as easily make an oscilloscope with a typical sound card's inputs. (That actually sounds kind of cool)
 
You can also produce an output on the serial port which will give +/- voltages.

You could use a program like Hyper Term which comes with Windows, or write something yourself, to get different combinations of pulses.

The serial port produces a good square wave pulse. The amplitude will vary with different computers, but it could be up to +/- 15 volts.

Note that the output on the serial port is inverted, so a "1" or logic high is actually the negative voltage.

Do you have an application that requires pulses or is it just a general question?
 

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