Keysight Technologies Expands RF and Microwave Portfolio with Innovative Test Instruments
In a significant move to enhance its radio frequency (RF) and microwave instrument offerings, Keysight Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: KEYS) announced the launch of a new suite of compact and fast test instruments on February 27, 2025. This expansion includes six new analog signal generators, two vector signal generators, eight RF synthesizers, and three signal source analyzers, aimed at providing RF engineers with advanced tools for component and device characterization at frequencies up to 54 GHz.
1. The Importance of Signal Generators and Analyzers in RF Engineering
Signal generators and RF synthesizers are indispensable in the RF engineering landscape. They are routinely employed to test various components, devices, and systems in critical sectors, including radar and defense electronics, wireless communication systems, and consumer electronics. The newly introduced signal source analyzers (SSA) play a vital role in accurately characterizing phase noise, jitter, and frequency stability in oscillators and signal sources, ensuring optimal performance in RF and digital applications.
Key Features of the New Portfolio
Keysight's latest portfolio of RF test instruments comes packed with features designed to enhance performance and usability:
- Portability: The compact size and lower weight make these instruments easy to transport, while their reduced power consumption allows for efficient use in various lab settings.
- Rapid Testing: With fast switching speeds of up to 3 µs, the new instruments can accelerate testing processes, effectively mimicking fast-moving signals such as those found in radar applications.
- Low Phase Noise: The signal generators offer superior signal purity, exemplified by the AP5021A's phase noise specification of -145 dBc/Hz at 1 GHz and a 10 kHz offset.
- Scalable Channel Count: Users can select between single-channel and multi-channel options, with phase coherency that allows for linking multiple units together to enhance testing capabilities.
- Comprehensive Modulation Capabilities: The instruments support a wide range of modulation types, including amplitude modulation, frequency modulation, and pulse modulation, along with 400 MHz vector modulation.
- Integrated Signal Source Analyzers: The SSAs feature a cross-correlation system with multi-programmable low noise DC supplies, further enhancing their utility.
- User-Friendly Interface: An optimized user experience is provided through an LCD touch screen and remote desktop PC software, simplifying operation.
2. Leadership Insights on the New Offerings
Joe Rickert, Vice President and General Manager of Keysight's High Frequency Measurements Center of Excellence, shared insights on the new product line: “These new signal generators, frequency synthesizers, and signal source analyzers provide RF engineers a number of new test tools that provide an exciting combination of technical performance, compact form factors, and cost-effectiveness. The generators provide excellent signal purity, fast switching, multi-channel phase coherency, and more, while the synthesizers offer pure and fast signal creation with targeted feature sets and reduced size for system integrators and manufacturers.”
Rickert emphasized that the signal source analyzers support accurate characterization of important components like oscillators, underscoring the value these platforms will bring to professionals across various fields, including aerospace and defense, wireless communications, quantum computing, and consumer electronics.
3. Upcoming Showcase at Mobile World Conference
The AP5042A multi-channel signal generator, specifically designed for MIMO test applications, will be showcased at the Mobile World Conference, scheduled to take place from March 3-6, 2025, in Fira de Barcelona Gran Via, Barcelona, Spain. This event will provide an opportunity for industry professionals to see firsthand the capabilities of Keysight’s latest innovations.
4. Conclusion
With the launch of its new RF and microwave test instruments, Keysight Technologies reinforces its commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of RF engineers. These advancements not only promise to enhance testing accuracy and efficiency but also position Keysight as a leader in the RF instrumentation market. As the demand for high-performance testing solutions continues to grow, Keysight’s latest offerings are set to play a pivotal role in accelerating innovation across various high-tech sectors.
