2 Chapter 1
Signal Generator Overview
Signal Generator Models and Features
E8257D PSG Analog Signal Generator Features
The E8257D PSG includes the following standard features:
• CW output from 250 kHz to the highest operating frequency, depending on the option
• frequency resolution to 0.001 Hz
• list and step sweep of frequency and amplitude, with multiple trigger sources
• user flatness correction
• external diode detector leveling
• automatic leveling control (ALC) on and off modes; power calibration in ALC-off mode is
available, even without power search
• 10 MHz reference oscillator with external output
• RS-232, GPIB, and 10Base-T LAN I/O interfaces
• a source module interface that is compatible with Agilent 83550 Series millimeter-wave source
modules for frequency extension up to 110 GHz and Oleson Microwave Labs (OML) AG-Series
millimeter-wave modules for frequency extensions up to 325 GHz
The E8257D PSG also offers the following optional features:
Option 007—analog ramp sweep
Option UNR/UNX—enhanced phase noise performance
Option UNT—AM, FM, phase modulation, and LF output
• open-loop or closed-loop AM
• dc-synthesized FM to 10 MHz rates; maximum deviation depends on the carrier frequency
• external modulation inputs for AM, FM, and ΦM
• simultaneous modulation configurations (except: FM with ΦM or Linear AM with
Exponential AM)
• dual function generators that include the following:
— 50-ohm low-frequency output, 0 to 3 Vp, available through the LF output
— selectable waveforms: sine, dual-sine, swept-sine, triangle, positive ramp, negative ramp,
square, uniform noise, Gaussian noise, and dc
— adjustable frequency modulation rates
— selectable triggering in list and step sweep modes: free run (auto), trigger key (single), bus
(remote), and external
Option UNU—pulse modulation
• internal pulse generator
• external modulation inputs
• selectable pulse modes: internal square, internal free-run, internal triggered, internal doublet,
internal gated, and external pulse; internal triggered, internal doublet, and internal gated