Agilent intros 6-GHz signal generators with industry-best performance

SANTA CLARA, USA: Agilent Technologies Inc. announced four new X-Series signal generators that provide unmatched performance in phase noise, output power, ACPR, EVM and bandwidth. With these capabilities, Agilent’s new MXG and EXG products (available in analog and vector models) support the development of components and receivers that meet the complex challenges of mitigating interference, speeding data throughput and increasing signal quality in applications such as radar, military communications and consumer wireless.

Today’s aerospace/defense environment requires enhanced radar performance to detect weak signals at long distances. To provide the pure and precise signals needed to test these designs, the MXG uses an innovative triple-loop synthesizer to deliver phase noise performance of -146 dBc/Hz at 1 GHz and 20 kHz offset. For developers of radar components such as mixers and analog-to-digital converters, the MXG also features industry-leading spurious performance of -96 dBc at 1 GHz.

In wireless communications, demand for more data and better coverage is driving higher performance in consumer devices and network infrastructure. For designers developing faster data streaming in 802.11ac devices, the MXG is the only solution with factory-equalized 160-MHz RF bandwidth and ±0.2 dB flatness. For those seeking to enhance range, mitigate interference and boost component performance, both the MXG and EXG deliver three industry-leading capabilities: low EVM, output power up to +27 dBm, and ACPR of up to -73 dBc (W-CDMA test model 1, 64 DPCH).

“Our ongoing innovation in signal generation is driving the unsurpassed performance our customers need to test their highest performance devices,” said Andy Botka, VP and GM of Agilent’s Microwave and Communications Division. “With signals that range from simple to complex and pure to impaired, the MXG and EXG support detailed measurements that reveal the true performance of advanced designs.”

To support a broad range of signals for cellular communications, wireless connectivity, video, and navigation, the MXG and EXG now provide real-time simulation of complex real-world signals. The associated Agilent Signal Studio software – a flexible suite of tools that accelerates signal creation – offers support for rapidly changing standards and highly complex signals such as real-time simulation of GPS or GLONASS constellations and performance testing of LTE base stations.

In manufacturing test, the cost-effective EXG is optimized for extended uptime and fast throughput (<900-µs switching). It also provides the signals needed for basic parametric testing of components and functional verification of receivers.

To reduce cost of ownership, the X-Series is designed for reliability and fast, easy calibration, service and repair. Today’s MXG and EXG leverage technology used in previous-generation MXG signal generators, which are among the most reliable signal sources ever offered by Agilent. The recommended three-year calibration cycle and self-maintenance strategy will help reduce support costs and increase instrument uptime.