MXG Signal Generators

High performance in a compact benchtop form

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Highlights

Test your R&D device and system within and beyond its limits

On the path to better performance, the Keysight's MXG signal generators are fine-tuned signal sources in R&D measurements. Whether you’re pushing for a linear RF chain or an optimized link budget, the analog and vector MXG models deliver the performance and capabilities you need: phase noise, ACPR, channel coding, and more.

  • Address the demanding tests requirements of radar modules and systems with excellent phase noise
  • Keep pace with the latest data throughput in LTE-Advanced and 802.11ac WLAN with 160 MHz bandwidth and EVM down to 0.4%
  • Drive power amplifiers and characterize nonlinear power amplifier behavior with industry-leading ACPR and output power
  • Accelerate your calibration process with switching speeds of less than 600 us

The Custom Power Behind Our Instruments

Pushing the boundaries of technology requires instantaneous bandwidth, spurious-free dynamic range, and signal fidelity beyond basic measurements. Keysight powers every performance product with custom MMICs, designed in-house, manufactured in our proprietary indium phosphide (InP) and gallium arsenide (GaAs) fab with custom ASIC signal processing that ensure the industry’s fastest, most reliable measurements.  Keysight's MXG Signal Generators enable real-time wideband corrected signals with our custom ASIC.

Key Specifications

Frequency

9 kHz – 40 GHz

Phase Noise @ 1 GHz (20 kHz offset)

-146 dBc/Hz

Frequency Switching

<= 600 us

IQ Modulation BW (Internal/External)

Up to 960 MHz

Modulation Types Available

AM, FM, PM, Pulse

PathWave Signal Generation Software

PathWave Signal Generation software is a flexible suite of signal-creation tools that will reduce the time you spend on signal simulation. Its performance-optimized reference signals - validated by Keysight - enhance the characterization and verification of your devices.

  • Create performance-optimized reference signals
  • Validate component, transmitter, and receiver testing
  • Ensure designs meet latest standards
  • Speed signal creation and reduce simulation time
Pathwave signal generation software
Best practices for optimizing your signal generator

Best Practices for Optimizing Your Signal Generator

Signal generators provide precise, highly stable test signals for a variety of components and system test applications. Knowing the capabilities and performance of your signal generator is the first step in making accurate and consistent measurements. In this two-part Application Note, we discuss the best practices to optimize your signal generator.

Related uses cases

Featured Resources

White Papers 2024.09.05

The Essential Signal Generator Guide Building a solid foundation in RF — Part 2

The Essential Signal Generator Guide Building a solid foundation in RF — Part 2

Navigating the numerous specifications and features of signal generators can be challenging. This white paper series helps by explaining various modulation schemes, the importance of spectral purity, and the impact of distortion. Additionally, it explores how application software can enhance productivity. Signal generators are essential for meeting customer requirements for robust and reliable high-speed wireless connections, which are crucial for business success. To address market demands, selecting the right signal generator is vital. Complex modulation schemes, necessary for increasing spectral efficiency and achieving higher data rates, rely on accurate and stable signal generators. Signal generators can be either digital (vector) or analog. Vector signal generators produce complex, digitally modulated signals, while analog signal generators produce continuous wave signals with basic modulation. The choice depends on the specific application and testing requirements. Generating an RF signal requires a metrology-grade signal generator with excellent distortion and spurious characteristics to ensure high spectral purity. The frequency accuracy of a signal generator depends on the stability of the reference oscillator and the time since the last calibration. Overall, signal generators are indispensable for evaluating applications that rely on radio frequencies, such as GNSS, 5G, avionics, and radar, ensuring reliable and efficient performance.

2024.09.05

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