9kHz to 20GHz eight channel microwave signal generator
Author: EIS Release Date: Dec 14, 2022
Rigol has introduced an eight channel microwave generator that works across 9kHz to 20GHz and can deliver related coherent signals or independent signals.
Rigol DSG5000 signal generator
Called DG5208, it is one of the DSG5000 range, which also includes units with 2, 4 or 6 channels, and versions which top-out at 12GHz.
If eight channels are still not enough. multiple instruments can be connected and synchronised using a included 4.8GHz back-panel inputs and outputs.
With in the family, according to the company, the units typically have 85dB channel-to-channel isolation and the frequency, amplitude, and other parameters can be set individually per channel or in groups. Depending on the frequency range, the amplitude can be adjusted from -30dBm to +25dBm.
Phase noise is typically -133dBc/Hz (1GHz, 10kHz) and harmonics are up to 50dBc below the carrier. Amplitude and frequency switching time is <3ms, and <0.7dB (typ) amplitude accuracy is claimed.
“The frequency accuracy of the 10MHz reference is +/-1ppm, with an optional +/-10ppb OCXO,” said Rigol. “If several channels with the same phase have to be output synchronously, this is easily possible with the device – the generator offers a long-term phase stability of <1° at 10GHz.”
Analogue amplitude, frequency and phase modulation is available, as is pulse modulation and a sweep function.
In the pulse case, rise and fall times can be 20ns and on-off levels can be 80dB apart. 2047 pulse (20ns to 170s wide) train patterns can be used to, for example, model a radar profile.
Above each signal connector on the front panel (see photo) are four additional connectors covering “a pulse for signal validity or trigger inputs/outputs, as well as the output of the pulse signal during pulse generation or the output of a pulse during sweep application”, said the company.
Control is via the integrated 3.5inch colour touch display, via a external display (HDMI) and mouse, via a PC using a web-based interface (no PC driver software needed), or via SCPI commands over LAN (up to 1000 T-Base) or USB 3.0.
The unit consumes 2U of an equipment rack, and a rack installation kit is available.