HP / Agilent 83731B 20 GHz Synthesized Signal Generator

The HP/Agilent 83731B is a synthesized signal generator delivering precise signal generation from 1 GHz to 20 GHz, with optional extended coverage down to 0.01 GHz. Built for radar, electronic warfare, and communication receiver testing, it combines high spectral purity, sophisticated modulation, and leveled output power control across its operating band.

## Technical Specifications

**Frequency & Output Power**
• Frequency range: 1.0 to 20 GHz (standard); 0.01 to 20 GHz (optional)
• Maximum leveled output power: +13 dBm (0.01–1 GHz), +11 dBm (1–18 GHz), +10 dBm (18–20 GHz)
• Minimum leveled output power: -4 dBm (standard); -110 dBm (with Option 1E1)
• Output level accuracy: ±1.3 dB (10–50 MHz), ±1.0 dB (50 MHz–20 GHz)
• Output level flatness: ±0.5 dB (power ≥ -90 dBm); ±0.7 dB (power < -90 dBm)
• Level switching time: <17 ms (without attenuator range change)
• Output SWR: <2.0:1 (nominal)

**Spectral Purity**
• Harmonics: < -55 dBc (at levels < +6 dBm)
• Spurious signals: < -60 dBc
• SSB phase noise floor: < -140 dBc/Hz
• Residual FM: < 15 Hz (1 GHz, 50 Hz–15 kHz bandwidth, Option 1E5)

**Pulse Modulation**
• Rise/fall times: 3 MHz
• Pulse on/off ratio: > 80 dB
• Maximum leveled output power: -0.5 dB relative to CW

**Scan & Frequency Modulation**
• Scan modulation depth: 60 dB log AM; 50 dB step response <5 µs
• FM rates: 1 kHz to 1 MHz

## Key Features

• Pulse modulation for radar and EW receiver simulation
• Scan modulation for antenna pattern testing
• Frequency modulation for communications data simulation
• Leveled output power across full frequency range
• Low phase noise performance with fast level switching

## Typical Applications

• Radar receiver testing and characterization
• Electronic warfare receiver validation
• Communication system development and verification
• Research and manufacturing environments requiring precision signal generation

## Compatibility & Integration

The 83731B integrates with standard test equipment interfaces and supports extended power and low-noise options via configuration variants.