Instrument uses a fully synthesised source locked to a temperature-compensated crystal oscillator, which provides excellent signal frequency stability against temperature and ageing
TTi (Thurlby Thandar Instruments) has released a new version of its TGR1040 low-cost 1GHz RF signal generator, combining high accuracy and stability along with wide dynamic range, low phase noise and low leakage.
The new instrument uses a fully synthesised source locked to a temperature-compensated crystal oscillator, which provides excellent signal frequency stability against temperature and ageing.
The frequency can be set to a resolution of 1kHz across the whole frequency range of 10MHz to 1000MHz, yielding a precision of one part per million at 1GHz. Stability is +/-1 part per million over a temperature range of 15C to 30C.
The TGR1040 provides an amplitude range of -127dBm to +7dBm (0ú1uV to 500mV into 50 ohms).
Setting resolution is 0.1dBm or 0.01uV.
Output level steps can be set anywhere between 0ú1dBm and 100dBm (or 0ú01uV to 100mV depending on the entry mode). Stepping the level is useful for quick assessment of parameters such as circuit linearity and dynamic range.
The generator provides both internal and external FM modulation using either the internally generated 1kHz modulator signal or an external signal in the range 300Hz to 50kHz.
This wide bandwidth allows for audio-band demodulator testing as well as LF digital modulation.
The TGR1040 provides full remote-control facilities for all its functions.
An RS-232 interface is provided as standard, and a GPIB (IEEE-488.2) interface is available as an option.
In addition, it can store nine full instrument set-ups in non-volatile memory.
This allows repetitive testing procedures to be undertaken quickly and accurately.
The generator is suitable for FM analogue or digital radio receiver sensitivity measurements, system gain measurements, oscillator substitutions, EMC antenna or field-strength measurements and as a signal source for many other RF circuit and system development tasks.
In addition, the generator's low cost, ease of use and remote control make it eminently suitable for most production and development applications where a basic, stable signal source is required.
The TGR1040 costs £1195 (plus VAT) in the UK.
