RF signal generator gains an external frequency locking capability to enhance its frequency stability, now better than one part in a million
TTi (Thurlby Thandar Instruments) has added an external frequency locking capability to enhance the frequency stability of the TGR2050 low-cost full-performance 2GHz signal generator.
The generator uses a fully synthesised source locked to a temperature-compensated crystal oscillator, providing frequency stability of better than one part in a million over a 15C to 30C temperature range and an ageing rate better than one part in a million per year, the company claims.
Where yet higher accuracy and stability are required, the generator can be locked to an external 10MHz frequency standard.
Frequency can be set to a resolution of 10Hz across the whole frequency range, giving a peak setting capability of 0.005 parts in a million.
Frequency steps can be set to any value, and stepping can be done with up/down keys or the rotary encoder.
This frequency stepping system is said to make operations such as precise amplitude response characterisation particularly easy.
The TGR2050 offers AM, FM and phase modulation using either an internal or external source.
Wide modulation range and low distortion make it suitable for most modulated signal test procedures within the 150kHz to 2000 MHz spectrum.
The generator provides an amplitude range of -127dBm to +7dBm (0·1uV to 500mV into 50 ohms).
Setting resolution is 0.1dBm or 0.01uV.
Output level steps can be set anywhere between 0·1dBm and 100dBm (or 0·01uV to 100mV, depending on the entry mode).
Stepping the level is useful in applications such as quick assessment of circuit linearity and dynamic range.
The advanced attenuator design provides excellent flatness over the whole frequency range.
Meticulous internal screening provides very low output leakage for accurate low-level measurements in sensitive circuits such as receivers.
Full remote-control facilities are provided for all the instrument's functions via both RS-232 and GPIB (IEEE-488.2) interfaces.
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 TGR2050 incorporates a four-line, 80-character backlit display, numeric entry keypad and rotary encoder.
The compact casing measures 130x212x330mm (half-rack width by 3U height), and the weight is 4.6kg.
The price in the UK is £2195 (plus VAT).
