The Marconi IFR Aeroflex 6815 is a high-performance RF and microwave signal generator delivering precise frequency, amplitude, and modulation control across 10 MHz to 46 GHz. This instrument serves calibration, communication system testing, radar evaluation, and RF/microwave equipment characterization with 1 Hz frequency resolution and levelled output across multiple frequency bands. Multiple modulation types—including AM, FM, phase, pulse, and FSK—support diverse test scenarios. The 6815 operates in swept, CW, and frequency list modes, accommodating up to 1024 stored frequencies triggered via external command, menu softkey, GPIB, or RS-232. Low phase noise performance and harmonic suppression better than -50 dBc ensure signal purity for demanding applications. Optional high-power and step-attenuator configurations extend dynamic range. A 16.5 cm color TFT display and floppy disk storage provide intuitive control and configuration management. IEEE 488.1/488.2 (GPIB) and RS-232 interfaces enable seamless integration into automated test systems.
Technical Specifications
• Frequency Range: 10 MHz to 46 GHz
• Frequency Resolution: 1 Hz
• Output Power Range: -110 dBm to +20 dBm (dependent on attenuator option)
• Levelled Power Range: -10 dBm to +8 dBm (10 MHz–8 GHz); -10 dBm to +5 dBm (8–20 GHz); -10 dBm to +4 dBm (20–24 GHz); -10 dBm to 0 dBm (24–40 GHz); +10 dBm (40–46 GHz with high-power option)
• Internal Levelling Accuracy at 0 dBm: ±0.5%
• Pulse Modulation Impact: Adds ±0.5 dB to RF level accuracy
• Phase Noise: Better than -124 dBc/Hz at 20 kHz offset from 470 MHz carrier; typically -121 dBc/Hz at 20 kHz offset from 1 GHz carrier
• Harmonics: Better than -50 dBc; <-55 dBc with internal filtering
• Pulse On/Off Ratio: Better than 45 dB below 1.2 GHz; better than 40 dB above 1.2 GHz
• Pulse Rise/Fall Times: Typically 10 ns (with fast pulse modulator options)
– Key Features
• Modulation Types: External FM standard; internal FM and pulse modulation options; AM, FM, phase, pulse, FSK capability
• Internal Modulation Generator (Option 023): FM source 0.1 Hz to 500 kHz with 0.1 Hz resolution; pulse generator for repeating or multi-pulse patterns
• Operating Modes: Swept, CW, CW List (up to 1024 frequencies)
• Power Sweep: Available for amplifier gain compression testing
• Display: 16.5 cm color active matrix TFT LCD
• Data Storage: 3.5" floppy disk drive (1.44 Mb)
• Optional Step Attenuators: 70 dB step attenuator at 40 GHz
– Typical Applications
• Receiver and transmitter calibration
• Communication system validation
• Radar system testing
• RF/microwave component characterization
• Amplifier gain compression analysis
– Compatibility & Integration
• GPIB (IEEE 488.1/488.2) remote control
• RS-232 interface for legacy system integration
• Modulation input/output via rear-panel BNC connector
• TTL-level control signals supported
