The Agilent/Keysight 8673D is a synthesized microwave signal generator delivering precise frequency synthesis and modulation across 0.05 GHz to 26.5 GHz. Built around a YIG-tuned oscillator phase-locked to a 10 MHz quartz reference, it achieves frequency stability better than 5 × 10⁻⁷ per day with 1 kHz resolution. The instrument generates output power from +8 dBm to -100 dBm with harmonics suppressed below -60 dBc, making it suitable for radar, communications, and microwave subsystem characterization.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Performance
• Frequency range: 0.05 GHz to 26.5 GHz with overrange capability
• Fundamental oscillator: 2.0 GHz to 6.6 GHz YIG-tuned, multiplied for broadband coverage
• Frequency resolution: 1 kHz
• Phase stability: Quartz crystal reference locking; frequency drift < 5 × 10⁻⁷ per day
• Phase noise: Optimized via phase-locked loops
Output Power
• Output level range: 0 dBm to -100 dBm (2 GHz to 26 GHz); +10 dBm to -100 dBm (0.05 GHz to 2 GHz)
• Calibrated output power: +8 dBm to -100 dBm
• Output level resolution (remote): 0.1 dB
• Harmonics/subharmonics: < -60 dBc
• Pulse modulation: Peak power leveled to typically ±1.5 dBm/-1.0 dBm relative to set CW level
Modulation & Control
• Modulation types: AM, FM, Pulse (internally leveled)
• AM rates: Up to 100 kHz with front-panel metering
• FM: Six ranges; rates and peak deviations to 10 MHz
• Pulse modulation: Full-range internal leveling with calibrated peak power
• Simultaneous modulation: AM, FM, and Pulse applied together
• External control: AM depth and FM deviation via 1 V peak modulating input
Sweep Capability
• Sweep modes: Manual, auto, or single
• Sweep types: Start/stop or AF (span)
• Frequency points: Maximum 9999 per sweep
• Dwell time: 1 to 255 ms per frequency
• Markers: Five independent, settable frequency markers
• Sweep outputs: 0 to +10 V ramp, 0.5 V/GHz ramp, Z-axis blanking, tone marker, penlift
– Key Features
• 1 kHz frequency resolution across 0.05 to 26.5 GHz range
• Wide dynamic range: +8 dBm maximum to -100 dBm minimum output
• Low spurious and phase noise through optimized phase-locked architecture
• Flexible modulation: simultaneous AM, FM, and pulse control
• Programmable sweep with up to 9999 frequency points and independent markers
• Output attenuator option; rear-panel RF output available via option 004
– Typical Applications
• Microwave radar system testing and validation
• Communication system characterization
• Subsystem and component measurement where frequency stability is critical
• Receiver sensitivity and selectivity assessment
• Phase noise evaluation
– Compatibility & Integration
Remote programming via 0.1 dB output level resolution supports automated test sequences. External modulation control accepts 1 V peak input for AM depth and FM deviation adjustment. Sweep outputs provide ramp voltage, marker outputs, and Z-axis blanking for integration with display and measurement systems.
