The Keysight (Agilent) 81180B is a high-performance arbitrary waveform generator delivering sample rates up to 4.6 GSa/s with 12-bit vertical resolution. This dual-channel instrument generates complex signals for wireless communications, satellite, radar, and software-defined radio applications. It supports arbitrary, sequenced, and standard function generation modes with advanced sequencing for dynamic real-time waveform control and efficient memory utilization.
Technical Specifications
Generation Performance
• Sample rate: 10 MSa/s to 4.6 GSa/s variable
• Vertical resolution: 12-bit
• Waveform memory: 16 MSa standard (64 MSa optional)
Bandwidth and Modulation
• Per-channel modulation bandwidth: 1 GHz
• I/Q modulation bandwidth: 2 GHz
• Direct RF carrier frequency: Up to 1.5 GHz
Channel Architecture
• Channels: 2 standard configuration
• Phase-coherent or independent channel operation
• Interchannel skew control: −3 ns to +3 ns with 10 ps resolution
• Multi-instrument synchronization: Two units form 4-channel system
Output Specifications
• Single-ended amplitude: 2 Vpp into 50 Ω
• Differential amplitude: 4 Vpp into 50 Ω
• Three software-selectable amplifiers: I/Q (1 GHz differential, DC-coupled), Direct RF (>1.5 GHz AC-coupled bandwidth), Time Domain (low overshoot/jitter, differential, DC-coupled)
Sequencing and Markers
• Advanced sequences: Up to 1 per channel
• Sequence segments: 16,000 per sequence
• Total sequences: Up to 1,000
• External 8-bit input for dynamic segment/sequence control
• Markers: 2 per channel with controlled position, width, and level
– Key Features
• Arbitrary waveform generation with downloadable memory segments
• Smart trigger with hold-off and programmable pulse width
• Marker output independent of DAC resolution
• Conditional jumps and loop control within sequences
• Real-time dynamic control via external input
– Typical Applications
Wireless communications signal generation, satellite payload simulation, radar waveform synthesis, software-defined radio development, and multi-channel coherent signal generation.
– Compatibility & Integration
Two 81180B units synchronize for 4-channel operation. Channel coupling supports both phase-coherent and independent modes with precise interchannel skew adjustment.
