The Keysight E4426B is a 4 GHz analog RF signal generator engineered for receiver testing, component characterization, and local oscillator applications. Part of the ESG-AP series, it delivers exceptional phase noise performance across its operating band and supports AM, FM, phase modulation, and pulse modulation. The instrument combines high spectral purity with superior absolute level accuracy, making it suitable for demanding RF measurement and design validation tasks.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Range: 250 kHz to 4 GHz with 0.01 Hz resolution
Output Power: +13 dBm to –136 dBm (±1.0 dB at 4 GHz nominal output of +7 dBm). Level accuracy of ±1.0 dB specified from +7 dBm to –120 dBm with return to calibration. Accuracy degrades 0.02 dB/°C across the temperature range and 0.3 dB above +7 dBm.
SSB Phase Noise (20 kHz offset, typical): <–118 dBc/Hz at 4 GHz; <–120 dBc/Hz at 3 GHz; <–123 dBc/Hz at 2 GHz; <–130 dBc/Hz at 1 GHz; <–134 dBc/Hz at 500 MHz. Calculated in CW mode at +2.0 dBm for standard units.
Modulation: AM, FM, PM, and pulse modulation with wideband FM and PM capability. High-performance pulse modulation available via Option 1E6.
Sweep: Step sweep modes for frequency, power, and list configuration with integrated function generator.
Internal Modulation Source: 0.1 Hz to 50 kHz range.
Attenuator: Electronic or mechanical selection.
Reverse Power Protection: 1 watt nominal threshold.
– Key Features
• High spectral purity with low phase noise across UHF and microwave bands
• Superior absolute level accuracy and stability for precision measurements
• Flexible modulation architecture supporting analog formats and wideband modes
• Sweep and list programming for automated test sequences
– Typical Applications
• Receiver sensitivity and dynamic range testing
• RF and microwave component validation
• Local oscillator generation for superheterodyne systems
• Modulation performance characterization
– Compatibility & Integration
Multiple personality options available including W-CDMA, CDMA2000, EDGE, and Bluetooth signal generation. High stability timebase and real-time baseband extensions support advanced wireless protocol testing.
