The Marconi IFR Aeroflex 6311 is a 20 GHz sweep generator engineered for RF and microwave device testing, calibration, and characterization. It delivers precise frequency control with 1 Hz resolution, stable output across a wide dynamic range, and comprehensive modulation capabilities including AM, FM, PM, pulse, and FSK modes. The instrument supports both linear and logarithmic sweep operation with high sweep speed, making it suitable for component validation, receiver testing, and system-level RF measurements.
Technical Specifications
Frequency: DC to 20 GHz with 1 Hz resolution.
Output Power: RF level range −137 dBm to +13 dBm with 0.1 dB resolution. Maximum calibrated output is +13 dBm; typical output exceeds +14 dBm. When AM is applied, output decreases linearly with modulation depth, reaching +7 dBm at 99.9% depth.
Output Impedance: 50 Ohms.
Modulation — Amplitude (AM): Depth 0 to 99.9% with 0.1% resolution. Bandwidth 30 kHz (1 dB). Distortion less than 3% at 1 kHz for depths to 80%.
Modulation — Frequency (FM): Deviation 0 to 100 kHz. Bandwidth 100 kHz (1 dB). Distortion less than 3% at 1 kHz for deviations to 100 kHz; typically <0.5% at 1 kHz for deviations to 10 kHz. AC or DC coupling selectable.
Modulation — Phase (PM): Deviation 0 to 10 radians. 3 dB bandwidth to 10 kHz. Accuracy ±5% of indicated deviation (excluding residual phase modulation) at 1 kHz. Distortion less than 3% at 10 radians, 1 kHz modulation rate.
Modulation — Pulse: On/Off ratio better than 40 dB above 1.2 GHz, better than 45 dB below 1.2 GHz. Rise time less than 10 µs.
Modulation — FSK: 2-level and 4-level FSK generation from external logic signals.
Internal Modulation Oscillator: Single or dual-tone generation, 0.01 Hz to 20 kHz. Waveforms: sine, triangular, square.
Power Protection: Electronic trip against reverse power to 50 W from source VSWRs to 5:1.
– Key Features
• Log and linear sweep modes for flexible characterization
• GPIB and RS232 interfaces for remote automation
• Front-panel BNC modulation input and logic carrier ON/OFF control (0–1 V logic 0; 3.5–5 V logic 1; maximum ±15 V)
• Compact form factor: 24 × 18 × 16 in., 35 lbs
– Typical Applications
Component and subsystem validation, receiver sensitivity and selectivity testing, transmitter characterization, frequency response measurement.
– Compatibility & Integration
Often paired with amplitude analyzers such as the model 6500 for comprehensive signal analysis.
