The Keysight/Agilent/HP 8642A is a synthesized signal generator delivering precise, stable RF signals from 0.1 MHz to 1050 MHz for demanding receiver measurements and laboratory applications. This programmable instrument combines wideband frequency coverage with exceptional output level control, making it suitable for RF characterization, ATE integration, and stringent engineering test environments.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Performance
• Frequency range: 0.1 MHz to 1050 MHz
• Resolution: 1 Hz
• Accuracy: 2% of setting
• Digitally stepped sweep with start-stop control up to 400 kHz maximum span
Output Level Control
• Power range: −140 dBm to +20 dBm
• Absolute accuracy: ±1 dB down to −127 dBm
• Output impedance: 600 Ω ±10%
• Attenuator designed for continuous ATE system operation
Signal Purity
• SSB phase noise: Better than −134 dBc/Hz at 20 kHz offset from 1 GHz carrier
• Nonharmonic spurious: Below −100 dBc up to 1 GHz
• RF leakage: < 0.5 µV in standard 2-turn loop measurement for output levels 40 dB on/off ratio, <400 ns rise/fall time (10–90%), 100 kHz maximum repetition rate, 2 µs minimum pulse width
– Key Features
• 1 Hz frequency resolution across full 0.1–1050 MHz range
• Modulation oscillator output: 0 to 3 V peak into 600 Ω with 4 mV resolution
• Low distortion modulation: <0.02% (AM), <0.4% (PM at 1 kHz)
• Carrier frequency offset control <500 Hz (DC modulation)
• HP-IB (IEEE-488-1978) remote programming interface
– Typical Applications
• RF receiver sensitivity and selectivity testing
• Automated test equipment (ATE) integration
• Signal path characterization and validation
• Modulation performance evaluation
• Receiver dynamic range assessment
– Compatibility & Integration
Remote control via HP-IB (IEEE-488-1978) enables integration into automated test systems and laboratory control frameworks.
