Tektronix FG 502 Function Generator Plugin TM500 BNC Output 50 Ohm As-Is

Tektronix FG 502 Function Generator Plugin TM500 BNC Output 50 Ohm As-Is

The Tektronix FG 502 is a function generator plug-in module designed for use in Tektronix TM500-series mainframes. It generates sine, square, and triangle waveforms across a wide frequency range, with front-panel controls for frequency, amplitude, and offset. The module connects via the TM500 card-edge interface and draws power from the host mainframe rather than requiring a standalone power supply.

Specifications & What's Included

• Model: Tektronix FG 502 Function Generator
• Form Factor: TM500 plug-in module (card-edge connector)
• Output connector: BNC (main OUTPUT)
• Output impedance: 50 Ohm
• Reference output: 2.5V from 50 Ohm (second BNC, front panel)
• Front panel inputs/outputs: Gate In, VCF In, Trig Out (BNC)
• Front panel controls: Frequency dial (Hz), Frequency Multiplier selector, Amplitude, Offset, Function selector
• Compatible mainframes: Tektronix TM500 series
• Sold as-is — no accessories, cables, or mainframe included

Applications

The FG 502 was a widely used plug-in function generator in electronics labs, educational settings, and production test environments during the 1970s and 1980s. It fits any TM500-series mainframe (such as the TM503, TM504, or TM515), which provided power and housing for a range of interchangeable test modules. It was used for signal injection, circuit characterization, waveform generation, and driving other test instruments such as oscilloscopes and spectrum analyzers. The VCF (voltage-controlled frequency) input made it useful for swept-frequency and modulation testing. Today these modules are sought for vintage test bench setups, lab restoration, and as parts sources for working FG 502 units.