Frequency Synthesizers Generate 250 MHz to 32 GHz

April 1, 2019

Available in a single-slot PXIe modular format, this line of fast-switching frequency synthesizers generates frequencies in bands up to 32 GHz.

Jack Browne

The NK420 line of frequency synthesizers generate frequencies from 250 MHz to 32 GHz in bands with low phase noise and fast switching speeds. Suitable for many test and systems applications, these signal sources come in a single-slot PXIe modular format, making it possible to pack as many as 16 synthesizer channels into a single PXIe chassis. NK420 models cover frequency bands of 0.25 to 6 GHz, 2 to 8 GHz, 6 to 13 GHz, 10 to 14 GHz, 8 to 20 GHz, and 28 to 32 GHz with phase noise of −93 dBc/Hz offset 10 kHz from a 10-GHz carrier.

Based on tunable YIG oscillators, the frequency synthesizers tune in 1-kHz steps with 3-ms switching speed for a full-band step. They provide output power ranging from +8 to +11 dBm, depending on model and frequency, and work with a user-supplied reference oscillator from 10 to 200 MHz, although an option is also available for an internal 10-MHz frequency reference oscillator. The frequency synthesizers include easy-to-use Windows and Linux software.

Carmel Instruments, LLC, 1622 W. Campbell Ave., Ste. 107, Campbell, CA 95008; (408) 866-0426.

About the Author

Jack Browne | Technical Contributor

Jack Browne, Technical Contributor, has worked in technical publishing for over 30 years. He managed the content and production of three technical journals while at the American Institute of Physics, including Medical Physics and the Journal of Vacuum Science & Technology. He has been a Publisher and Editor for Penton Media, started the firm’s Wireless Symposium & Exhibition trade show in 1993, and currently serves as Technical Contributor for that company's Microwaves & RF magazine. Browne, who holds a BS in Mathematics from City College of New York and BA degrees in English and Philosophy from Fordham University, is a member of the IEEE.