Agilent/Keysight 11720A

The Agilent/Keysight 11720A is a pulse modulator for RF applications spanning 2 GHz to 18 GHz. It delivers precise control of pulsed RF signals with sub-10 nanosecond rise and fall times, supporting minimum pulse widths below 50 ns and repetition rates exceeding 5 MHz. An on/off ratio greater than 80 dB ensures clean pulse modulation in demanding test environments.

– Technical Specifications

Frequency & RF Performance
• Operating range: 2 GHz to 18 GHz
• Insertion loss: < 6 dB (2–12.4 GHz); 80 dB
• Maximum RF input power: +20 dBm (rated); +33 dBm (absolute damage level, 2 watts AC)

Pulse Characteristics
• RF pulse rise time: < 10 ns
• RF pulse fall time: < 10 ns
• Minimum RF pulse width: < 50 ns
• Pulse width compression (TV − TRF): < 20 ns
• Video feedthrough: < 50 mV peak-to-peak
• Overshoot and ringing ratio: 5 MHz

Control Inputs
• Pulse input (normal mode): > 3 V (on); < 0.5 V (off)
• Pulse input (complement mode): 3 V (off)
• Logic levels: TTL (positive-true or negative-true)
• Maximum pulse input: 26 V peak from 2500 Ω source; +6 V peak / −0.5 V peak from < 500 Ω source

Physical & Electrical
• Impedance: 50 Ω nominal
• Power consumption: < 25 VA
• Power source: 100, 120, 220, or 240 VAC ±5%, 48–440 Hz, single phase
• RF connectors: Type N Female (input/output)
• Pulse input connector: BNC Female

– Key Features

• Minimal insertion loss across the 2–12.4 GHz band supports low-noise signal chains
• Fast switching with controlled rise/fall times enables precise pulse-shaping applications
• High on/off ratio provides excellent RF isolation in the off state
• TTL-compatible control logic simplifies integration with standard pulse generators
• Compact form factor with low power draw suits bench and rack installations

– Typical Applications

• Radar and EW signal simulation
• Pulsed RF testing and characterization
• Time-gated RF measurements
• Microwave component validation

– Compatibility & Integration

The HP Model 8013B Pulse Generator (50 MHz) is recommended; it meets or exceeds the modulation input requirements of the 11720A.

Product Status: Obsolete. Third-party support, calibration, and repair services may be available.