Agilent / Keysight 8257C PSG Analog Signal Generator

The Agilent/Keysight 8257C PSG Analog Signal Generator is a precision RF and microwave signal source engineered for component characterization, system verification, and high-volume manufacturing. Operating from 250 kHz to 40 GHz with 0.001 Hz resolution, it delivers output power up to +16 dBm (standard) or +24 dBm (optional) at 20 GHz, coupled with optional SSB phase noise performance exceeding 30 dBc/Hz improvement at 1 kHz offset.

– Technical Specifications

Frequency and Resolution
• Range: 250 kHz to 40 GHz
• Resolution: 0.001 Hz
• Frequency extension to 110 GHz available with Keysight 83550 Series mm-wave modules

Output Power
• Standard: Up to +16 dBm at 20 GHz
• Optional: Up to +24 dBm at 20 GHz
• Maximum power warranted from 15 to 35 °C; typical from 0 to 15 °C
• Power degradation typically <2 dB across 35 to 55 °C

Level Accuracy
• Applies in CW and List/Step sweep modes (15 to 35 °C)
• Degradation –10 dBm outside specified range
• Type-N connector option (Option 1ED) shows typical 0.2 dB degradation above 18 GHz

Output Impedance and Protection
• 50 Ω nominal
• Maximum reverse power: 0.5 W

– Key Features

Modulation Capability
• AM, FM, ØM, and Pulse modulation formats
• Dual internal modulation generators: sine, square, triangular, ramp, and noise waveforms
• Narrow pulse modulation with 10 ns rise/fall times and ≥20 ns pulse width (10 MHz to 40 GHz)

Sweep Functionality
• Analog ramp sweep (code compatible with Keysight 8757D scalar network analyzer)
• Digital step sweep with 2 to 65535 points
• List sweep with 2 to 1601 points per table
• Dwell time: 1 ms to 60 s

Reference and Control
• Internal timebase reference oscillator (standard)
• External reference support: 1, 2, 2.5, 5, 10 MHz
• Reference output: 10 MHz
• Optional enhanced aging specifications (Option UNR)
• ALC input: –0.2 mV to –0.5 V (120 kΩ nominal impedance)

– Typical Applications

Component testing, RF/microwave system verification, manufacturing test, and precision signal characterization where frequency accuracy and phase noise performance are critical.

– Compatibility & Integration

Frequency extension capability via Keysight 83550 Series mm-wave modules. Sweep compatibility with Keysight network analyzer instrumentation.