The Agilent/Keysight 8648B is a synthesized RF signal generator delivering frequency coverage from 9 kHz to 2000 MHz with 0.001 Hz resolution. Built for R&D, manufacturing, and field testing, this instrument combines fast frequency switching, wide dynamic range output control, and multiple modulation modes in a platform engineered for straightforward operation and long-term reliability.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Performance
• Range: 9 kHz to 2000 MHz
• Resolution: 0.001 Hz
• Switching speed: <75 ms (≤1001 MHz), 1001 MHz)
• Frequency accuracy: ±3×10⁻⁶ × carrier frequency (standard); ±0.15×10⁻⁶ × carrier frequency with Option 1E5 High Stability Time Base
• External reference inputs: 2, 5, and 10 MHz ±10 ppm (±1 ppm with Option 1E5)
Output Power
• Range: +13 dBm to −136 dBm
• Resolution: 0.1 dB
• Power accuracy: ±1 dB (up to 27 dBm below 1 GHz); ±1.0 dB (up to 2500 MHz); ±3 dB (−100 dBm to −127 dBm, select frequency ranges)
• Output impedance: 50 ohms nominal
• Reverse power protection: 25 W (1 GHz)
Modulation
• AM: ±7% of setting ±1.5% (typical, <70% depth, 25°C ±5°C)
• FM deviation: ±3% ±30 Hz @ 1 kHz rate (<1001 MHz)
• Phase modulation deviation: ±3% ±0.05 radians @ 1 kHz rate (80 dB (<2000 MHz), rise/fall times <10 ns
Spectral Purity
• Harmonics: <−30 dBc (output ≤+4 dBm)
• Subharmonics: <−60 dBc (<1001 MHz, output ≤+4 dBm)
• Nonharmonics: <−55 dBc (<249 MHz, output ≤+4 dBm)
• Phase noise (SSB @ 20 kHz offset): <−120 dBc/Hz (500 MHz), <−116 dBc/Hz (1000 MHz), <−110 dBc/Hz (2000 MHz)
– Key Features
• GPIB (IEEE-488.2-1987) remote control interface
• Selectable external reference oscillator support
• Optional high-stability time base for improved frequency accuracy and temperature stability
• Optional modulation generator and pulse modulation capabilities
– Typical Applications
Component and subsystem testing, RF receiver validation, transmitter characterization, signal path verification in communication systems, and production manufacturing test.
– Compatibility & Integration
Standard GPIB connectivity enables integration into automated test systems and bench setups requiring remote frequency, power, and modulation control.
