The Keysight (Agilent) N5173B EXG RF Analog Signal Generator delivers cost-effective signal generation from 9 kHz to 13 GHz for parametric testing of microwave components and receivers. This instrument combines output power, low harmonics, and full step attenuation to characterize filters, amplifiers, and receiver performance. It performs LO up-conversion for microwave backhaul links and CW blocking for receiver testing, while a standard high-performance OCXO provides stable frequency reference with an aging rate of 5×10⁻¹⁰ parts per day.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Range: 9 kHz to 13 GHz
Output Power: –135 dBm to +20 dBm at 20 GHz; +20 dBm at 10 GHz; +27 dBm at 1 GHz
Level Accuracy: ±0.7 dB at 20 GHz (15 °C to 35 °C)
Phase Noise: –101 dBc/Hz at 10 GHz (10 kHz offset); –118 dBc/Hz at 1 GHz (20 kHz offset)
Harmonics: –55 dBc at 10 GHz; <–40 dBc at 1 GHz
Non-Harmonics: –72 dBc at 1 GHz
Frequency Switching: 600 μs in list mode (typical); ≤1.15 ms CW mode (SCPI); ≤5 ms standard modes
– Key Features
• Sweep modes: Step and List
• AM rate: DC to 100 kHz with 100% maximum depth
• FM deviation: 2.5 to 320 MHz maximum; 10 MHz maximum at 1 GHz
• FM rate: DC to 7 MHz at 100 kHz deviation
• PM phase deviation: 1.25 to 160 rad (normal mode); 0.125 to 16 rad (high-BW mode)
• Pulse modulation with 20 ns narrow pulse width capability
• Internal time base reference oscillator
– Typical Applications
• Microwave component and receiver parametric testing
• LO up-conversion for backhaul link characterization
• CW blocking for receiver validation
• Filter and amplifier characterization
• High-stability frequency reference applications
– Compatibility & Integration
Full step attenuation and SCPI-mode switching support rapid frequency and level changes for automated test sequences.
