The HP/Agilent 83630B is a synthesized swept-signal generator delivering precision frequency synthesis across 0.01 GHz to 26.5 GHz with calibrated output power to +13 dBm. Built for component characterization, subsystem stimulus-response testing, and local oscillator applications, the instrument combines 1 kHz frequency resolution (1 Hz with Option 008) with multiple sweep modes including CW, step, list, manual, ramp, and alternate. Output power ranges from +13 dBm below 20 GHz to +10 dBm at 20 GHz and above, with optional step attenuator extending minimum power to -110 dBm. The 50 ohm output delivers source match performance of 1.6:1 typical below 20 GHz.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Performance
• Frequency range: 0.01 GHz to 26.5 GHz
• Frequency resolution: 1 kHz standard; 1 Hz with Option 008
• Internal time base: 10 MHz
• Time base aging: 5 × 10⁻¹⁰ per day, 1 × 10⁻⁷ per year
Output Power
• Maximum calibrated output: +13 dBm (<20 GHz), +10 dBm (≥20 GHz)
• Minimum settable power: -20 dBm standard; -110 dBm with Option 001
• Output power resolution: 0.02 dB
• Output impedance: 50 ohms nominal
• Source match (SWR): 1.6:1 typical <20 GHz
Spectral Purity
• Harmonics: -50 dBc typical (2.0 GHz to 26.5 GHz); -30 dBc standard (<2.0 GHz)
• Nonharmonic spurious signals: -60 dBc (10 MHz to <2.0 GHz)
• SSB phase noise: <-80 dBc at 10 GHz, 10 kHz offset
– Key Features
• Multiple sweep modes with up to 801 points in step sweep
• Dwell time adjustable from 100 µs to 3.2 s
• Ramp mode sweep rate to 50 ms
• Switching speed: 10 ms typical without attenuator change
• Pulse modulation: 80 dB on/off ratio, 25 ns rise/fall times (Option 006: <10 ns)
• AM capability: DC-coupled with 100 kHz 3 dB bandwidth
• FM capability: DC-coupled up to 8 MHz rate
– Typical Applications
• Signal simulation and local oscillator substitution
• Component and subsystem stimulus-response testing
• Swept frequency characterization of RF/microwave networks
• Pulse and modulation testing at microwave frequencies
– Compatibility & Integration
The 83630B operates in the 8360B series architecture, supporting external modulation control and programmable frequency/power sequencing.
