I'd like to test the rise/fall times on several of my scopes, what is a simple way to build a signal generator with for example a 10Mhz freq with very fast rise-times to serve as a signal source? Is it better to invest in a signal generator rather then to build one? any circuit suggestions?
I'm sure i saw something in the Rigol DS1052E thread , where they build a "Fast risetime" generator.
/Bingo
For low cost, available now there is a ~ $150 "100" MHz function generator discussed on eevblog, the Hantek 3x25, see the thread and mechatrommer's goltek software. It can give you the basic test signals for measurements.
You can build the Jim Williams fast pulse generator.
Both are discussed in the Rigol 1052e threads.
Build or buy? depends on deals on eBay and if you can wait for a deal.
The Jim Williams pulser will cost ~ $50-100 in parts, S&H included.
I recently bought a Tek 284 70pS reference pulse generator for $100 and adjustable 10 MHz pulse generator for $25. I waited over a year for the right moment. Until then I used the Hantek as a test source.
https://www.eevblog.com/forum/projects-designs-and-technical-stuff/generating-extremely-fast-rise-time-square-waves-for-probe-compensation/msg90410/#msg90410
the jim williams pulser works really well. there is also a chip from maxim that can create a very fast rise time.