22.2.1 Timing Example

The figure below illustrates the modulator in action. In this example, the Timer/Counter3 is set to operate in fast PWM mode (non-inverted) and Timer/Counter4 uses CTC waveform mode with toggle Compare Output mode (COMx[1:0] = 0x1).

Figure 22-3. Output Compare Modulator, Timing Diagram

In this example, Timer/Counter4 provides the carrier, while the modulating signal is generated by the Output Compare unit B of the Timer/Counter3.

The resolution of the PWM signal (OC3B) is reduced by the modulation. The reduction factor is equal to the number of system clock cycles of one period of the carrier (OC4B). In this example, the resolution is reduced by a factor of two. The reason for the reduction is illustrated in the above figure at the second and third period of the PD2 output when PORTD2 equals zero. The period 2 high time is one cycle longer than the period 3 high time, but the result on the PD2 output is equal in both periods.