IN ORDER TO PRODUCE transmission-ready signals in the S-or L-band frequency spectrum, a new exciter and test-signal simulator (TSS) merges RF upconverters with a digital or analog dual modulator. Dubbed the SE-4250, the device offers data input of 50 b/s to 20 Mb/s for TTL and differential data/clock, 2400 or 4800 b/s for dibit command processor input, and 1000 or 2000 s/s for serial-command processor input. Over the 1400-to-2600-MHz frequency range, the output frequency resolution is 100 Hz. The device's output level is +10 to –60 dBm in 1-dB steps. Typical spurious levels are better than –74 dBc. The exciter and TSS provides full status and control capabilities via a standard RS-232 serial-port interface. Among its controllable selections are modulation modes, data-coding options, and RF-output frequencies/levels. Configurable front-panel BNC connectors give the operator access to its internal operating signals. Because all of the data-processing capabilities are implemented via field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and microcontrollers, the SE-4250 can be upgraded in the field. Inputs for external I and Q signals allow users to create their own wideband modulated waveforms. The exciter and TSS are housed in a 1U, 19-in. rack-mountable chassis.

Summation Research, Inc., 751 North Dr., Melbourne, FL 32934; (321) 254-2580, Internet: www.summationresearch.com.

See Associated Figure.