The Rigol DSG836A is an RF signal generator delivering precise signal generation across 9 kHz to 3.6 GHz for RF testing, measurement, and system validation applications. Engineers, system integrators, and laboratories rely on this instrument for stable, high-purity signal creation with exceptional frequency resolution and configurable modulation schemes.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Performance
• Frequency range: 9 kHz to 3.6 GHz
• Frequency resolution: 0.01 Hz
• Output amplitude range: −110 dBm to +13 dBm (specified); maximum setting up to +20 dBm
Signal Quality
• Phase noise: Typically < −112 dBc/Hz at 20 kHz offset
• Amplitude accuracy: Typically < 0.5 dB
• Amplitude stability: < 0.02 dB variation over 72 hours
• Internal clock stability: Standard 2 ppm; optional OCXO-B08 provides 5 ppb temperature stability and 30 ppb/year aging stability
Modulation & Sweep Capabilities
• Standard analog modulation: AM, FM, phase modulation
• IQ modulation: Standard (internal and external baseband, FSK, QAM, QPSK)
• Optional pulse modulation with on/off ratio up to 70 dB
• Optional pulse train generator
• Frequency and amplitude sweep with step (linear/logarithmic) or list sweep modes
• Sweep dwell time: 20 ms to 100 s
• Continuous or single sweep modes
Interfaces & Control
• Remote control: USB, LAN (LXI compliant)
• External trigger input for sweep and IQ modulation baseband output
Physical Characteristics
• Form factor: 2U height
• Display: 8.9 cm (3.5") touch display, 320×240 pixels
• Weight: 9.3 lbs
– Key Features
• 0.01 Hz frequency resolution enables precise carrier and offset generation
• Phase noise performance supports sensitive receiver characterization
• Flexible sweep architecture with dwell times up to 100 s for step-by-step measurements
• Native IQ modulation for complex signal simulation
• Optional OCXO-B08 clock upgrade for long-term stability applications
– Typical Applications
• RF component testing and validation
• Receiver sensitivity and selectivity measurements
• System integration and bench characterization
• Signal source replacement in test setups
– Compatibility & Integration
LAN and USB interfaces enable remote operation within automated test environments. Rack mount kits support single or dual instrument mounting. Pulse modulation and pulse train generator options (DSG800-PUM, DSG800-PUG) extend stimulus capabilities for gated and burst measurement scenarios.
