Keysight launches next-generation vector signal generator for dense wideband multichannel applications
20 September 2023
Keysight Technologies has introduced its N5186A MXG, a new compact, four-channel vector signal generator (VSG) capable of signal generation up to 8.5GHz with 960MHz of modulation bandwidth per channel.
It is the next-generation high-performance VSG in Keysight’s X-Series signal generator portfolio, offering the multiple, individually complex signals needed for dense wideband multichannel applications.
Evolving technologies in wireless communications and radar applications demand higher frequency coverage using complex modulation schemes like MIMO, beamforming, and multiplexing to maximise data throughput. Testing these applications requires signal generation instruments that maintain excellent modulation quality when working with greater bandwidths. To achieve higher frequencies, greater bandwidths, and more complex modulation schemes, network and design engineers typically need more bench space for additional test equipment and fixtures.
The Keysight N5186A MXG addresses this challenge by simplifying complex set-ups with reduced external connections and up to four channels in a compact 2U form factor. Claimed as the world’s first signal generator to feature an embedded reflectometer, the N5186A MXG delivers extremely accurate signals to the device under test (DUT).
The N5186A MXG offers the following benefits:
• Compact design – Delivers multichannel capabilities in a 2U size that saves up to 75 percent of rack height
• High-performance capabilities – Employs direct digital synthesis (DDS) digital-to-analog converter (DAC) proprietary technology for bandwidth coverage up to 960MHz with best-in-class error vector magnitude (EVM) and adjacent channel power ratio (ACPR) performance for lower signal distortion
• Testing convenience – Features an embedded reflectometer delivering accurate signals while enabling faster time-to-test and simplifying test set-ups
• Exceptionally low phase noise – Produces pure signals enabling high resolution radar system designs and high-throughput, next-generation communications systems
By providing consistent and repeatable results, the N5186A MXG vector signal generator is suitable for a broad range of commercial and aerospace defence applications. The MXG’s custom DAC application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) use DDS to deliver precise signals to minimise distortion and meet the evolving standards for component and module design. In addition, the embedded reflectometer expedites the setup process to correct for the match of the DUT, enabling a faster time-to-test.
Joe Rickert, Vice President and General Manager, Keysight High Frequency Measurements Centre of Excellence, said, “The groundbreaking N5186A MXG vector signal generator is a leap forward in terms of the performance and simplicity it offers design and network engineers. As the world’s [claimed] first signal generator with an embedded reflectometer, the high-performance MXG delivers powerful, precise signals. In combination with PathWave Signal Generation software, the MXG is optimised as a suitable signal generator with the required performance in one easy-to-use solution.”
More on the N5186A MXG here. More on Keysight Technologies here.
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