I apologize if I post in the wrong section or if my question is a dummy one.
I'm using a scope's embedded AWG in order to test RL,RC and RLC circuits with square and sine signals.
However, AFAIK, the signal generator cannot suppply much current to the circuit. Moreover, it can be seen as an ideal generator in series vith an internal resistance. That means that the AWG behaves as a voltage divider.
I see it when I experiment : putting a potentiometer as R in series with a capacitor made me see that the square function peaks were reduced when I increased R, no matter the frequency used (25Hz, 1KHz...).
So how do you guys deal with this phenomenon ? How do you study circuits which are not using direct current but alternate current generated by your AWG ? How do you handle voltage drops ?
(I didn't even mention the impedance coming from the capacitor...).

 

However, AFAIK, the signal generator cannot suppply much current to the circuit.

Correct. You need a buffer amplifier between the SG and your intended load. Th type of amplifier will depend on what the load is and whether the load is AC or DC.
Welcome to AAC!

 

Okay, thanks for your reply, do you mean an opamp voltage follower ?
Thanks, it was my first post here that's true

 

Scope generator for example a Hantek AWG has an amplitude from 3.5mV to 3.5V 50Ω
If I understand correctly the AWS gain is not flat across the range. like 0 to 25Mhz.

Since the signal out of the filter is too low for the scope you want to increase the amplitude.
The method depends on the frequency and amplification needed.

The video at time 5:28 examines 3 different RF active probes and the test results, Is the op amp the best choice?
I think the trend is moving toward more affordable active probes used for oscilloscope also.

 

Great video, it enabled me to have more perspective on this "observer effect". Thanks !