Synthesizer Modules Extend to 82 GHz

The new synthesizer modules cover frequency bands of 27 to 40 GHz, 50 to 67 GHz, and 76 to 82 GHz while delivering medium-power, low-noise output signals. The modules represent cost-effect solutions for continuous-wave (CW) millimeter-wave testing of many emerging products at these higher frequencies. They are designed to work with frequency multiplier modules that mount on the top of the synthesizer modules to achieve the millimeter-wave frequencies.

All three of the QuickSyn Lite compact frequency modules (see figure) include serial Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) bus and Universal Serial Bus (USB) control interfaces, enabling connection to DC power sources and a personal computer (PC) for ease of control. In addition, a soft front panel allows a user to access frequency control and frequency sweeps plus 32-kpoint LIST mode settings. The signal sources boast embedded firmware that allows them to be used as part of integrated automated-test-equipment (ATE) systems, as well as to serve as local oscillators (LOs) in different applications. The frequency synthesizers use a standard temperature-compensate crystal oscillator (TCXO) that is factory calibrated to a Global Positioning System (GPS) standard as the internal frequency reference,

At the low frequency end of the scale, the model FSL-2740 provides +17-dBm minimum output power from 27 to 40 GHz at a 2.92-mm connector; is well suited for testing Ka-band satcom systems and backhaul digital radio applications. It offers 1-Hz frequency tuning resolution with standard frequency tuning speed of 1 ms; frequency tuning speed of 100 μs is available as an option. The compact synthesizer module features frequency temperature stability of ±1 ppm and aging rate of ±1 ppm/year.

The model FSL-2740 frequency synthesizer module suffers harmonics of -40 dBc and spurious levels of -60 dBc. Its single-sideband (SSB) phase noise is typically -103 dBc/Hz offset 10 kHz from a 40-GHz carrier and -119 dBc/Hz offset 10 MHz from a 40-GHz carrier.

The next-highest-frequency synthesizer, model FSL-5067, provides at least +17 dBm output power from 50 to 67 GHz at a coaxial 1.85-mm connector, with 1-Hz frequency tuning resolution and 1 ms frequency switching speed. Well suited for the license-free 57-to-64-GHz band in the United States and the 60-to-66-GHz band in Japan, this frequency synthesizer module offers the same frequency stability with temperature and aging rates as its lower-frequency counterpart.

The model FSL-5067 synthesizer module exhibits harmonic levels of -40 dBc and spurious levels of -60 dBc. Its SSB phase noise is typically -100 dBc/Hz offset 10 kHz from a 67-GHz carrier and -117 dBc/Hz offset 10 MHz from the same carrier.

The highest-frequency model FSL-7682 frequency synthesizer module delivers at least +10 dBm output power from 76 to 82 GHz via a WR12 waveguide interface. It is well suited for testing 77-GHz automotive radar systems and their components. The module provides similar frequency stability and aging rates as its two lower-frequency counterparts.

The model FSL-5067 synthesizer module operates with harmonic levels of -40 dBc and spurious levels of -60 dBc. Its SSB phase noise is typically -98 dBc/Hz offset 10 kHz from an 82-GHz carrier and -115 dBc/Hz offset 10 MHz from the same carrier.

All three synthesizer modules operate with an internal 10-MHz frequency reference, which can be accessed from a connector on the module. All three frequency synthesizers are supplied in compact housings measuring 4.0 × 4.0 × 1.8 in (102 × 102 × 48 mm). Output connectors are 2.92- and 1.85-mm coaxial connectors for the two lower-frequency synthesizers and WR12 waveguide for the 76-to-82-GHz unit.

SMA connectors are included for all three synthesizers for reference input and output ports. All three frequency synthesizer modules draw 1250 mA current at +15 VDC during normal operation. The frequency synthesizers are available with a number of different options, including 100-μs switching speed for higher-speed testing applications. P&A: staring at less than $4,000.

National Instruments, Microwave Components Group, 4600 Patrick Henry Dr., Santa Clara, CA 95054; (408) 610-6810