The Agilent/Keysight 8663A is a synthesized signal generator delivering 100 kHz to 2560 MHz coverage with exceptional spectral purity and versatile modulation for RF and microwave development, manufacturing, and test. It combines ultra-low phase noise, fine frequency resolution across its band, and programmable modulation synthesis to support radar, satellite communications, and component characterization workflows.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Performance
• Coverage: 100 kHz to 2560 MHz (2.56 GHz)
• Frequency resolution: 0.1 Hz (< 640 MHz), 0.2 Hz (640 MHz–1.28 GHz), 0.4 Hz (1.28–2.56 GHz)
• RF settling: 250 µs to ±1 kHz, 400 µs to ±100 Hz
• Accuracy and stability: Referenced to internal or external 10 MHz oscillator
Output and Phase Noise
• Output level: +16 dBm to −129.9 dBm in 0.1 dB steps; SWR < 1.5
• SSB phase noise: −135 dBc/Hz typical at 1 kHz offset; −147 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset
Modulation
• Standard: AM, FM, BPSK, Pulse Modulation
• Optional: Phase Modulation (Option 002)
• Modulation synthesizer: 10 Hz to 99.9 kHz programmable rate; log and linear sweep; simultaneous modulation capability
Reference Oscillator
• Internal: 10 MHz quartz, < 5 × 10⁻⁷ per day aging (post 10-day warmup)
• External inputs: 10 MHz at ±0.005% (0.5–0.7 Vrms, 50 Ω) or 5 MHz at 1 V ±0.1 V
• Warm-up time: Typical 24 hours
– Key Features
• TTL modulation input for biphase control
• Swept ramp output: 0 to 10 V nominal
• Display blanking pulse: 250 µs (TTL), rear panel accessible
• GPIB remote programming; optional MATE (Option 700) with CIIL language support
• Type-tested to shock and vibration standards
– Typical Applications
Radar system development, satellite communication testing, RF component validation, and receiver characterization demanding low phase noise and precise modulation control.
– Compatibility & Integration
The Keysight E8663D PSG is code-compatible, enabling system upgrades. The 8663A has been superseded by the N5172B EXG X-Series RF vector signal generator.
