The Agilent/Keysight E8241A is a high-performance CW signal generator spanning 250 kHz to 20 GHz, with millimeter-wave extension to 110 GHz via 83550 series modules. Built for component testing, receiver characterization, and local oscillator substitution, it delivers output power from −110 dBm to +13 dBm (standard) or +20 dBm with Option 1EA, paired with exceptional phase noise performance and comprehensive modulation capabilities.
Technical Specifications
Frequency & Accuracy
• Frequency range: 250 kHz to 20 GHz (extendable to 110 GHz)
• Frequency resolution: 0.01 Hz
• Frequency accuracy: calibration ± aging rate ± temperature effects ± line voltage effects
Output Power
• Maximum output power: +13 dBm at 20 GHz (standard); +20 dBm at 20 GHz (Option 1EA)
• Minimum output power: −110 dBm (Option 1E1 extends to −135 dBm)
• Output level accuracy: ±0.7 dB typical; Option 1E1 delivers ±0.6 dB (250 kHz to 2 GHz, +10 dBm to −10 dBm)
• Output impedance: 50 Ω nominal
• VSWR: <1.4:1 (250 kHz to 2 GHz); <1.6:1 (2 to 20 GHz); 3.2 GHz); internal generator supports free-run, triggered, doublet, and gated modes
• Digital sweep: step/list with per-point flatness calibration
• Dual internal modulation generator with sine, square, triangle, ramp, and noise waveforms
– Key Features
• 0.01 Hz frequency resolution across full 250 kHz to 20 GHz span
• External detector leveling for dynamic power control
• Pulse PRF: 14 MHz maximum internal; 10 Hz to 1 MHz external
• Temperature stability: ±4.5 × 10⁻⁹ (Option UNJ, 0 to 55°C)
– Typical Applications
• Component and receiver testing
• Local oscillator substitution
• Device characterization
• Production testing with improved throughput
– Compatibility & Integration
Millimeter-wave frequency extension via 83550 series source modules supports applications requiring operation beyond 20 GHz to 110 GHz.
