Marconi IFR Aeroflex 500A – 1GHz Radio Communications Test Set

The Marconi IFR Aeroflex 500A is a portable radio communications test set covering 250 kHz to 999.9999 MHz. It integrates RF signal generation, modulation analysis, frequency measurement, and power metering in a single field-serviceable instrument. The generator delivers -127 dBm to -20 dBm output with ±3 dB accuracy and 100 Hz resolution. FM and AM modulation support frequency response to 30 kHz (FM) and 10 kHz (AM) with distortion below 1% and 10% respectively. The receiver achieves 2 µV sensitivity across AM, FM, and SSB modes with 1 Hz frequency error measurement and 0.2 ppm TCXO stability. Dual power meter ranges (0–15 W and 0–150 W) enable peak and average power assessment. Audio generation spans 10 Hz to 9999.9 Hz with variable thumbwheel control and internal speaker output. The 34 lb unit operates from 100–240 VAC (50/60 Hz), 12–14 VDC, or internal battery, making it suitable for field service, bench repair, and production test environments.

– Technical Specifications

RF Signal Generator
• Frequency range: 250 kHz to 999.9999 MHz
• Resolution: 100 Hz
• Variable generate: ±10 kHz continuous tuning from selected frequency
• Residual FM: <100 Hz peak RMS
• Output power: -127 dBm to -20 dBm (10 dB steps + 11 dB continuous vernier)
• Output accuracy: ±3 dB
• Impedance: 50 Ω nominal

Modulation Capabilities
• Types: FM and AM
• FM modulation response: 2 Hz to 30 kHz (DC in variable generate mode)
• AM modulation response: 10 Hz to 10 kHz
• FM distortion: <1% to 20 kHz deviation
• AM distortion: <10% to 60% modulation
• FM sensitivity: 0.08 VRMS/kHz ±30%
• AM sensitivity: 0.01 VRMS/%

Audio Generator
• Frequency range: 10 Hz to 9999.9 Hz (0.1 Hz steps)
• Tone output: 0 to 2.5 VRMS into 150 Ω load
• Operating modes: Internal, Speaker, External + Internal

Receiver
• Sensitivity: 2 µV (AM, FM, SSB)
• Monitor range: 100 kHz to 999.9999 MHz (100 Hz increments)
• Frequency error meter: 1 Hz resolution
• TCXO: 0.2 ppm

Power Measurement
• Ranges: 0–15 W and 0–150 W
• Response: Peak/Average

Power Supply
• AC: 100–240 VAC, 50/60 Hz
• DC: 12–14 VDC
• Internal battery with external charging
• Dimensions: 13.9" × 17.6" × 8.5"
• Weight: 34 lbs