The Rohde & Schwarz SFU is a modular broadcast test system that generates and analyzes signals across AM, FM, DAB, DVB-T/H/T2, ISDB-T, and multistandard terrestrial, satellite, and cable transmission standards. Built into a four-unit chassis, the SFU combines signal generation, modulation, measurement, and analysis in a single platform—eliminating the need for multiple instruments in R&D and standards development environments.
The system delivers frequency coverage from 100 kHz to 3 GHz with 0.1 Hz resolution and output power up to +19 dBm (PEP) standard, with overrange capability to +26 dBm or optional extension to +30 dBm. SSB phase noise measures typically < –135 dBc/Hz at 1 GHz (0 kHz offset) and < –131 dBc/Hz at 20 kHz carrier offset. Level accuracy is maintained within 0.5 dB across the full range using a wear-free electronic attenuator.
Technical Specifications
• Frequency Range: 100 kHz to 3 GHz
• Frequency Setting Resolution: 0.1 Hz
• Output Power: +19 dBm (PEP) standard; overrange to +26 dBm; optional –120 dBm to +30 dBm
• Level Accuracy: < 0.5 dB (overall)
• SSB Phase Noise: < –135 dBc/Hz at 1 GHz (0 kHz offset); < –131 dBc/Hz (1 GHz, 20 kHz offset)
• Chassis Size: Four height units
• Operating System: Windows XP Embedded
• Arbitrary Waveform Generator: 128 Msample or 1.8 Msample with R&S WinIQSIM™ software
– Key Features
• Modulation support: AM, FM, Vector, I/Q, Analog, Digital, PSK, QAM with parameters exceeding standard definitions
• Dynamic fading and multipath channel simulation; diversity simulation capabilities
• Integrated BER meter for transport stream and serial data/clock evaluation
• Intelligent interferer management from multiple sources (ARB, ATV predefined, analog I/Q, digital I/Q)
• Fully digital baseband signal processing with universal real-time coder
• Highly precise carrier/noise ratio generation via digital noise source
• Integrated power measurement with external sensor support
– Typical Applications
• Broadcast standards development and research
• Receiver performance testing under channel impairments
• Transmission link quality assessment
• Signal integrity validation across terrestrial and satellite platforms
– Compatibility & Integration
The modular architecture permits customization to specific test requirements, reducing infrastructure complexity while maintaining RF and baseband performance integrity across diverse broadcast applications.
