The Agilent/Keysight 8672A is a synthesized signal generator delivering precision RF and microwave signals from 2.0 GHz to 18.0 GHz. Built for communication systems testing, radar development, and electronic warfare applications, it combines fast frequency switching with exceptional signal purity and flexible modulation capabilities. Though now obsolete, the 8672A remains a capable platform for specialized test requirements demanding stable, low-noise signal generation across the upper microwave band.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Coverage & Resolution
• 2.0 GHz to 18.0 GHz operating range
• 1 kHz resolution (2.0–6.2 GHz)
• 2 kHz resolution (6.2–12.4 GHz)
• 3 kHz resolution (12.4–18.599997 GHz)
• Frequency switching time: <20 ms within specified resolution across all bands
Output Power
• Standard: +3 dBm maximum; +8 dBm to -120 dBm calibrated and leveled output
• Option 001: +10 dBm to -10 dBm
• Option 4: +7 dBm to -120 dBm
• Option 5: +9 dBm to -10 dBm
• Option 008: raises maximum to +8 dBm
• Output level flatness: <0.75 dB
Signal Quality
• SSB phase noise at 100 kHz offset: -110 dBc/Hz
• Sub-harmonics and multiples (Bands 1–3): <-25 dBc
• Internal residual noise floor: 80 dB ON/OFF ratio, <15 ns rise/fall times
Frequency Stability
• Internal 10 MHz crystal reference oscillator
• External 5 or 10 MHz oscillator compatible
• Time base drift: <5 × 10⁻¹⁰ per day
Power & Physical
• Input: 100/120/220/240 V AC, ±5%/-10%, 48–66 Hz; max 400 VA
• 425 mm (W) × 133 mm (H) × 603 mm (D); 27 kg net weight
– Key Features
• Internal automatic leveling control (ALC) maintains flat output across frequency and level ranges
• External leveling via diode detector or power meter for remote load sensing
• HP-IB remote programming of frequency, level, modulation, and ALC modes
• Meter indication selectable for output level, AM depth, or FM peak deviation
– Typical Applications
• Communication system design and validation
• Radar and EW system development
• Microwave component characterization
• Phase noise and spectral purity measurements
