The HP/Agilent 83712A is a synthesized continuous-wave generator delivering precise frequency control across 10 MHz to 20 GHz. Built for RF and microwave testing in telecommunications, radar, and electronic warfare applications, it combines high spectral purity with stable frequency synthesis and flexible output power management.
## Technical Specifications
**Frequency Performance**
• Frequency range: 10 MHz to 20 GHz
• Frequency resolution: 1 kHz standard; 1 Hz with Option 1E8
• Switching time: <50 ms to within 1 kHz
• Stability (with Option 1E5 high stability timebase): aging rate <1.5 × 10⁻⁷/day; temperature effects <1 × 10⁻⁷ over 0–55°C
• Stability (standard timebase): aging rate <1.0 × 10⁻⁶/day; temperature effects <5 × 10⁻⁶ over 0–55°C
• External 10 MHz reference input supported
**RF Output Power**
• Maximum leveled output: +13 dBm at 0.01–1 GHz; +11 dBm at 1–20 GHz (+10 dBm with Option 1E1)
• Minimum leveled output: 0 dBm standard; −90 dBm with Option 1E1
• Level accuracy: ±1.0 dB typical; ±1.3 dB (10–50 MHz), ±1.0 dB (50 MHz–20 GHz) at mid-range; ±2.3 dB and ±2.0 dB over temperature
• Level resolution: 0.01 dB
• Flatness: ±0.5 dB at power ≥−90 dBm
**Spectral Purity**
• Harmonics: <−50 dBc typical
• Non-harmonic spurious: <−60 dBc
• Phase noise (SSB): −103 dBc/Hz at 500 MHz offset; −91 dBc/Hz at 2 GHz offset; −73 dBc/Hz at 18 GHz offset
• Phase noise floor: −140 dBc/Hz; offsets <100 Hz require Option 1E5
## Key Features
• Synthesized architecture for frequency agility and precision
• Dual timebase options: standard or high-stability (Option 1E5) for low-noise applications
• Extended dynamic range to −90 dBm with Option 1E1
• Sub-harmonic-free output
• Fine-resolution level control (0.01 dB steps)
## Typical Applications
• Component and subsystem characterization in microwave systems
• Receiver sensitivity and selectivity testing
• Frequency response measurement in RF circuits
• Phase noise and spectral purity assessment
• CW signal generation for radar and EW testing
## Compatibility & Integration
External 10 MHz reference input allows phase locking to precision frequency standards. Internally driven operation requires no external references.
