Keysight Packs Two 20 GHz Signal Channels Into One 2U Instrument

Keysight is putting more RF test capacity into the same rack space with its new SG6311A PSG XG7-class analog signal generator. The instrument combines two fully independent channels in a 2U chassis, with frequency coverage up to 20 GHz.

In RF testing, noise from the signal source can become part of the measurement itself. That can make it difficult to determine whether a weak response or unwanted signal is coming from the device under test or from the test equipment. Keysight has built the SG6311A around low phase noise, low amplitude-modulation noise and a low broadband noise floor.

The generator offers typical phase noise of -135 dBc/Hz at 10 GHz with a 10 kHz offset, AM noise of -150 dBc/Hz under the same conditions and a broadband noise floor of -166 dBc/Hz at 10 GHz. Calibrated output power can reach +22 dBm, helping engineers maintain the required signal level when cables, connectors and test fixtures introduce losses.

That combination is aimed at demanding applications including aerospace and defense, satellite systems, advanced wireless, radar, high-speed ADC/DAC testing and communications hardware. Keysight also positions the instrument for metrology and calibration work where the quality of the stimulus directly affects measurement confidence.

The SG6311A supports SCPI commands and familiar rear-panel connections, allowing engineering teams to reuse existing automation procedures and test architectures.

Image Source – Keysight