Complex Engineering Problem for Embedded Systems (EE-354)

1. Project Title:
The "AD9833 Maestro": A Programmable Waveform Generator.

2. Abstract:
This project, titled "AD9833 Maestro: A Programmable Waveform Generator," aims to develop a versatile and
programmable waveform generator using the AD9833 chip and ATMEGA328p microcontroller. By leveraging Direct
Digital Synthesis (DDS) technology, the project focuses on generating precise and stable waveforms essential for
various applications, including communication, industrial, and biomedical testing. The design incorporates key
features such as frequency and amplitude control, user interfacing, and waveform modulation.

The project includes a comprehensive literature review, highlighting the advantages of DDS over traditional analog
methods. Key components used are an Arduino UNO, AD9833 module, 16x2 LCD, and supporting elements like
potentiometers and push buttons. The development process involves studying datasheets, coding in Embedded C,
and interfacing the microcontroller with the waveform generator and LCD.

Risk assessment and mitigation strategies ensure project success, addressing potential hardware failures, software
bugs, and signal integrity issues. The final implementation demonstrates complete hardware-software integration,
with detailed functions for frequency, phase, and mode setting, as well as LCD communication. The project not only
meets technical specifications but also emphasizes efficient project management and resource allocation.

3. Task Identification:
 Waveform generation by digital synthesis.
 Frequency and Amplitude Control.
 User interfacing.

3.1 Literature Review

There are two main categories of waveform generation methods: analog and digital.

Analog Methods:

These are traditional methods that directly generate continuous waveforms using electronic components. Some
examples include:

 Phase-Locked Loop (PLL): This circuit uses a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) to generate a specific
frequency. A feedback loop ensures the output matches a reference signal.

Digital Methods:

Modern waveform generation relies on digital techniques, which offer greater accuracy and flexibility. Here are
some common digital methods:

 Direct Digital Synthesizer (DDS): This method uses a digital accumulator to generate a precise digital
representation of a sine. A digital-to-analog converter (DAC) then converts this digital signal into an
 analog voltage. DDS is ideal for high-frequency signals.

 Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC): This component directly converts a digital signal (a series of ones and
zeros) into an analog voltage level. DACs are used for various waveforms, particularly at lower
frequencies.

 Arbitrary Waveform Generator (AWG): This is a specialized instrument that can generate any user-
defined waveform by storing it in digital memory and then playing it back through a DAC. AWGs offer
great versatility for creating complex waveforms.

In addition to these core methods, digital generation can also incorporate techniques like:

 Modulation: Combining a baseband signal with a carrier signal to create complex waveforms for
communication purposes.

 Sequencing: Playing back multiple waveforms in a specific order.

The choice of method depends on the desired waveform type, frequency range, and required accuracy.

What is Direct Digital Synthesis?

Direct digital synthesis (DDS) is a method of producing an analog waveform—usually a sine wave—by generating
a time-varying signal in digital form and then performing a digital-to-analog conversion. Because operations
within a DDS device are primarily digital, it can offer fast switching between output frequencies, fine frequency
resolution, and operation over a broad spectrum of frequencies. With advances in design and process
technology, today’s DDS devices are very compact and draw little power.

DDS Versus Other methods of Waveform Generation:

The ability to accurately produce and control waveforms of various frequencies and profiles has become a key
requirement common to a number of industries. Whether providing agile sources of low-phase-noise variable-
frequencies with good spurious performance for communications, or simply generating a frequency stimulus in
industrial or biomedical test equipment applications, convenience, compactness, and low cost are important
design considerations.

Many possibilities for frequency generation are open to a designer, ranging from phase-locked-loop (PLL)-based
techniques for very high-frequency synthesis, to dynamic programming of digital-to-analog converter (DAC)
outputs to generate arbitrary waveforms at lower frequencies. But the DDS technique is rapidly gaining
acceptance for solving frequency- (or waveform) generation requirements in both communications and
industrial applications because single-chip IC devices can generate programmable analog output waveforms
simply and with high resolution and accuracy.

Furthermore, the continual improvements in both process technology and design have resulted in cost and
power consumption levels that were previously unthinkably low.

Advantages of Digital Function Generators:

 High Accuracy & Stability: DDS technology provides precise and stable waveforms essential for critical
 testing.

 Wide Range & Flexibility: They offer a broader range of frequencies and waveforms compared to analog
models.

 Easy Control & Automation: User-friendly interfaces and features like modulation and sweeps simplify
testing procedures.

Disadvantages of Digital Function Generators:

 Cost: Digital models are generally more expensive than analog counterparts.

 Limited Bandwidth: Output bandwidth might be restricted compared to some high-end analog function
generators.

In essence, digital function generators offer superior precision, flexibility, and control at a slightly higher cost.

Commercial Function Generators:

Commercial function generators are workhorse instruments for electronics professionals. They generate various
electrical waveforms for testing, design, and troubleshooting electronic circuits. Here's a breakdown of their
design:

Design Considerations:

 Accuracy and Stability: The generated waveforms need to be highly accurate and stable in frequency
and amplitude to provide reliable test results.

 Waveform Fidelity: The function generator should produce clean waveforms with minimal distortion for
accurate circuit behavior simulation.

 Output Range: The instrument should offer a wide range of adjustable frequencies and amplitudes to
accommodate various testing needs.

 Ease of Use: The user interface should be intuitive and allow for quick adjustments and waveform
selection.

 Versatility: Additional features like modulation and sweep functions enhance the instrument's
usefulness for diverse applications.

By combining these functional blocks and design considerations, commercial function generators become
valuable tools for various electronics tasks.

User Interface of Commonly Available Function Generators:

Some images of the function generators available at [Link] are pasted below:
DDS Function Generator using AD9833 IC:

The AD9833, a DDS-based programmable waveform

generator (Figure 1), operating at 5.5 V with a 25-MHz
clock, consumes a maximum power of 30 milliwatts.

What are the main benefits of using a DDS?

DDS devices like the AD9833 are programmed through a high speed serial peripheral-interface (SPI), and need
only an external clock to generate simple sine waves. DDS devices are now available that can generate
frequencies from less than 1 Hz up to 400 MHz (based on a 1-GHz clock). The benefits of their low power, low
cost, and single small package, combined with their inherent excellent performance and the ability to digitally
program (and reprogram) the output waveform, make DDS devices an extremely attractive solution—preferable
to less-flexible solutions comprising aggregations of discrete elements.

Interfacing between ATMEGA328p and AD9833:

The ATmega328p microcontroller (found in Arduino Uno) can interface with the AD9833 DDS module using Serial
Peripheral Interface (SPI). Here's a basic overview:

Connection:

 MOSI (ATmega328p) -> SDI (AD9833): Master Out Slave In (transfers data)

 SCK (ATmega38p) -> CLK (AD9833): Serial Clock (synchronizes data transfer)

 CS (ATmega328p) -> FSYNC (AD9833): Chip Select (activates AD9833)

  GND (common ground)

Communication: The ATmega328p initiates communication by pulling CS low. Data bytes are then sent on the
MOSI line with each clock pulse on SCK. The specific data format and register settings depend on the desired
waveform and parameters (frequency, amplitude, etc.). Refer to the AD9833 datasheet for detailed instructions.

Resources:

 SPI library for Arduino.

 AD9833 datasheet: This is crucial for understanding register settings and communication protocols.

Additional Considerations:

 Power supply: Ensure both the ATmega328p and AD9833 have appropriate power supplies.

 Decoupling capacitors: Use decoupling capacitors on power supply pins for both chips to improve
stability.

 Code development: Write code using the chosen library to control the AD9833 and generate the desired
waveforms.

User Interface Design for a DDS Function Generator:

A proposal for a user interface using push buttons, LCD, potentiometers and rotary encoders for a DDS Function
Generator:
Display:

 A central 2-line by 16-character LCD will show the current waveform type, frequency, amplitude, and
offset.

Controls:

 Waveform Selection:

o Four push buttons labeled "Sine", "Square", "Triangle", and "Ramp" for selecting the desired
waveform.

o Corresponding LEDs next to each button illuminate to indicate the selected waveform.

 Frequency Control:

o A rotary encoder with a push button function (press to activate) for adjusting frequency.

o Rotation increments/decrements frequency in a defined step size (e.g., 1Hz, 10Hz).

 Amplitude Control:

o A linear potentiometer for adjusting output amplitude.

 Offset Control:

o Another rotary encoder with a push button function for adjusting the DC offset voltage of the
output waveform.

o Similar operation to the frequency control knob for adjustments.

Additional Features:

 A push button to mute/unmute the output signal (optional).

Benefits of this Design:

 Clear and dedicated buttons for waveform selection.

 Intuitive rotary encoders with push buttons for precise frequency and offset control with variable
adjustment speeds.

 Visual feedback through LCD and LEDs for parameter values and active functions.
  Simple and familiar interface for users with experience with other function generators.

Customization:

 The button layout can be optimized based on user preference (e.g., grouping similar waveforms).

 Additional LEDs can be used for status indications (e.g., power, error).

 The LCD can display additional information if space allows (e.g., signal duty cycle for square wave).

This design offers a balance between ease of use, informative feedback, and control over the function
generator's features.

3.2 List of Tasks needed to be

completed to fulfill the Problem
Statement requirements
Hardware Selection and Schematic Design (Tangible Outcome: Working Circuit Schematic)

LCD Interfacing and User Interface Development (Tangible Outcome: Functional LCD Display)

Push Button Integration and User Input Handling (Tangible Outcome: User Input through Buttons)

DDS Algorithm Implementation and Waveform Generation (Tangible Outcome: Basic Sine Wave Output)

Waveform Selection and Amplitude Control (Tangible Outcome: Selectable Sine, Square, and Triangular

Waveforms)
4. Human Resource Identification (Project Team):

S. No. Name Roll. No Section

1. M. Mudassir EE-21021 A

2. M. Uzair Rashid* EE-21026 A

3. M. Tariq EE-21031 A

4. Sanaullah EE-21329 A

5. Zaeem ALi EE--21333 A

Hardware Resource Identification:

S. No. Hardware Component / Equipment Name Where / How to acquire

1. Arduino UNO Local Electronics Shop

2. AD9833 DDS Module Local Electronics Shop

 3. 16x2 LCD Local Electronics Shop

4. Push Buttons Local Electronics Shop

5. Potentiometer Local Electronics Shop

6. Bread Board Local Electronics Shop

7. Vero Board Local Electronics Shop

8. Jumper wires Local Electronics Shop

Software Resource Identification (Add rows as per need)

S. No. Software Name Where / How to acquire

1. Code blocks [Link]

2. Easy EDA [Link]

3. NI Multisim [Link]
products/[Link]#452133

5. Project Objective Statement

Design and implement a waveform generator that utilizes Direct Digital Synthesis (DDS) to produce sine, square, and
triangular waveforms. The generator should allow users to control the frequency and amplitude of the output signal
through a user-friendly interface consisting of push buttons and a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD).
6. Project Deliverables
1. Allow the user to select desired waveform at different frequency and Amplitude Ranges.
2. Interactive user interface.
3. Attractive casing

7. Resource Allocation and Time Scheduling

Hardware/Software Resource Allocation
S. No. Name Potential Contribution to the Project
1. M. Mudassir Hardware and coding
2. M. Uzair Rashid Research, Design and coding
3. M. Tariq Khalid Familiar with arduino
4. Sanaullah Hardware Implementation
5. Zaeem Ali Documentation and Management
Time Scheduling
 Time Scheduling
24 24 24 24 24 24
/ 20 / 20 / 20 / 20 / 20 / 20
15 29 13 27 10 24
4/ 4/ 5/ 5/ 6/ 6/
Study the datasheet of AD9833 and ATMEGA328p

Basic command on using arduino

Embedded C coding

ATMEGA328p and AD9833 interfacing

Implemeting LCD Display protocols

User-interfacing

Finalising Front-end and Back-end Structure

8. Budgeting and Bill Of Materials (BOM)

Estimated BOM

[Link]. Equipment/Component Name Estimated Cost (PKR)

1 Arduino UNO 1000
2 AD9833 Module 900
3 Potentiometer, Jumpers 150
4 Push Buttons 50
5 Bread Board 200
6 16x2 LCD 150
7 Vero Board 150
8 Amplifier with Variable DC power supply 800
Total Cost: 3400
Budget Funding
We divided the cost equally among ourselves.
9. Risk Assessment
Technical Risks
 Hardware failure: (Likelihood: Medium) Critical components like the function generator or
oscilloscope malfunctioning. This can be mitigated by using high-quality equipment and having
backups.
 Software bugs: (Likelihood: High) Bugs in the DDS function generator code. Implementing thorough
code testing procedures and peer reviews can lessen this risk.
 Signal integrity issues: (Likelihood: Medium) Problems with signal quality due to noise, grounding, or
cabling. Proper grounding techniques, using shielded cables, and minimizing cable lengths can reduce
this risk.
Operational Risks
 Scheduling delays: (Likelihood: Medium) Unexpected delays in tasks like development, testing, or
integration. Creating a realistic timeline, having a buffer for unforeseen issues, and effective project
 management can help mitigate this risk.
External Risks
 External component incompatibility: (Likelihood: Low) Incompatibility between hardware
components. Ensuring compatibility during the selection process of various components can mitigate
this risk.
10. References
1. Murphy, E., & Slattery, C. (2004, August). All about direct digital synthesis. Analog Devices. Retrieved
June 26, 2024, from [Link]
[Link]
2. Google. (n.d.). Gemini. Retrieved June 26, 2024, from [Link]

Submission at the time of Evaluation

1) Original source file for Gantt Chart
2) Partial/complete set of equipment bought for the project

Extent of Achievement
Skill(s) to be assessed
50% 65% 80% 100%
Resource identification and Unable to Partial Partial identification Complete
allocation identify and identification and or Partial identification and
allocate allocation allocation allocation
Task identification Unable to Partial Partial identification Complete
and scheduling identify and identification and or Poor identification and
schedule poor scheduling scheduling proper scheduling
Bill of Materials (BOM) No and Incomplete BOM Complete BOM Complete BOM and
and budgeting and budgeting and budgeting with no
BOM budgeting with errors errors
budgeting
Risk assessment Unable to Identifies risks Partial risk identification Comprehensive risk
and management identify r isks correctly but and partial mitigation plan assessment and
and unable to unable to propose proposed mitigation plan
propose mitigation plan presented
mitigation plan