The Overview
Berkeley Nucleonics recently released its latest RF/microwave signal generator, the Model 870A. Designed to serve the most demanding applications, the signal generator delivers very high performance, offering ultra-high agility and ultra-low phase noise over a frequency range from 100 kHz to 50 GHz.
Equipped with multiple connectivity options to suit various setups and environments, it can connect via Ethernet, USB, or GPIB, useful for a range of applications in laboratory, production, or research. It's available in 1-, 2-, 3-, or 4-channel configurations to accommodate diverse needs. Multi-channel versions are housed in a standard 19-in. 1U rack-mountable enclosure, addressing users looking for scalability and easy integration into rack-based systems.
Who Needs It & Why?
The solution is intended to aid electronic engineers and technicians tasked with evaluating, validating, and troubleshooting systems for a variety of applications. In any application, the slightest variation in transmission and/or reception can be an issue ranging from the irritating to the catastrophic. That's why systems are in place to regularly measure performance to make sure products comply with international standards set by government and industry.
In a modern RF environment, tools need to have long-term stability and accuracy, the ability to address a broad range of power situations, and excellent phase noise, harmonic performance, signal quality, and purity. These systems must also be versatile and adaptable, as well as operate efficiently while minimizing energy usage.
Under the Hood
Among the features of the Model 870A is its updated touchscreen interface—intuitive and efficient front-panel control provides users with a seamless experience. Settings facilitate navigation, with easy to adjust parameters and customizable waveforms, so that researchers, engineers, and technicians can focus on their work.
Signal purity is a critical factor in any signal generator. The Model 870A incorporates output stage filtering along with innovative methods for signal management, delivering exceptional harmonic performance with minimized spurious outputs.The generator provides switching speeds down to 500 μs, with a Fast Control Port (FCP) option to further reduce switching speeds to 15 µs.