HP / Agilent 83731A Synthesized Signal Generator, 1-20 GHz

The HP/Agilent 83731A is a synthesized signal generator delivering precise microwave signal generation across 1 GHz to 20 GHz. Built for aerospace, defense, and telecommunications testing, this instrument combines wide frequency coverage with fast switching, exceptional spectral purity, and flexible modulation modes to characterize complex RF and microwave components and systems.

## Technical Specifications

**Frequency Generation**
• Frequency range: 1 GHz to 20 GHz
• Frequency resolution: 1 kHz standard; Option 1E8 provides 1 Hz resolution
• Switching time: +14 dBm across 1–20 GHz
• With Option 1E1 (90 dB step attenuator): +13 dBm (0.01–1 GHz), +11 dBm (1–18 GHz), +10 dBm (18–20 GHz)
• Level resolution: 0.01 dB
• Level accuracy: ±1.0 dB typical across frequency and power range
• User level correction available for distant test port compensation

**Spectral Performance**
• Harmonics: <−55 dBc
• Subharmonics: Eliminated
• Spurious signals: <−60 dBc
• Phase noise: −103 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz (500 MHz), −91 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz (2 GHz), −73 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz (18 GHz); floor 80 dB, rise/fall 3 MHz, delay −419 to +419 ms (free-run) or 225 ns–419 ms (triggered)
• FM: Rates 1 kHz to >1 MHz; deviation 10 MHz pk (2–20 GHz), 5 MHz pk (1–2 GHz); modulation index >300
• AM (logarithmic): Depth >60 dB, sensitivity −10 dB/V, step response <5 µs for 50 dB step
• Analog modulation standard

**Broadband Noise**
Improved low broadband noise performance; suitable as local oscillator for HP 8970B noise figure meter.

## Key Features

• Internal multimode pulse generator with triggered, doublet, and gated burst support
• Minimum pulse parameter resolution: 25 ns
• FM and AM fully independent of pulse modulation
• AM depth and bandwidth available at any pulse rate or width

## Typical Applications

• Aerospace and defense component characterization
• Telecommunications system testing
• Microwave component and subsystem validation
• Noise figure measurement and LO applications

## Compatibility & Integration

• HP-IB programmability for all front panel functions
• SCPI compliant; IEEE 488.2-1987 compatible
• External reference input supported