N5171B EXG X Series RF Analog Signal Generator, 9 kHz to 6 GHz
Keysight Technologies N5171B Signal Generator Details and Parameters In the field of electronic testing, Keysight's N5171B EXG X-series RF analog signal generator has become a core device in manufacturing testing and component verification due to its precise signal output and efficient testing capabilities. This article will provide a comprehensive analysis of the technical details of this high-performance signal generator from three aspects: core parameters, technical characteristics, and application value.
Category:
Signal generator
Simulated signal generator
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- Brand: 是德科技
- Commodity name: N5171B EXG X Series RF Analog Signal Generator, 9 kHz to 6 GHz
- Brand: Keysight Technologies
Keysight Technologies N5171B Signal Generator Details and Parameters In the field of electronic testing, Keysight's N5171B EXG X-series RF analog signal generator has become a core device in manufacturing testing and component verification due to its precise signal output and efficient testing capabilities. This article will provide a comprehensive analysis of the technical details of this high-performance signal generator from three aspects: core parameters, technical characteristics, and application value.
Keysight Technologies N5171B Signal Generator Details and Specifications
In the field of electronic testing, Keysight's N5171B EXG X-series RF analog signal generator has become a core device in manufacturing testing and component verification due to its precise signal output and efficient testing capabilities. This article will comprehensively analyze the technical details of this high-performance signal generator from three aspects: core parameters, technical characteristics, and application value.I. Core Technical Parameters
1. Frequency Coverage and Accuracy
The N5171B offers three frequency options:- N5171B-501 : 9 kHz to 1 GHz
- N5171B-503 : 9 kHz to 3 GHz
- N5171B-506 : 9 kHz to 6 GHz
Its frequency resolution is as high as 0.001 Hz, supporting 0.1° phase offset adjustment, which can meet the stringent requirements for frequency accuracy in communication equipment R&D. For example, in 5G base station testing, it can accurately simulate RF signals in different frequency bands to verify the frequency response characteristics of the receiver.2. Power Output and Adjustment
At a typical operating frequency of 1 GHz, the output power range is **-144 dBm to +26 dBm**, and it is equipped with a 130 dB electronic attenuator (5 dB step). This wide dynamic range design can meet the needs of the following scenarios:- Weak signal testing : For example, when verifying the sensitivity of the RF front end, a -144 dBm level signal can be output to simulate low-level interference in a real environment.
- High-power drive : The +26 dBm output capability can directly drive a power amplifier to test its saturation characteristics and linearity.
3. Phase Noise and Spurious Suppression
At a 1 GHz carrier frequency and a 20 kHz offset, the single-sideband phase noise is as low as **-122 dBc/Hz**, and with -72 dBc non-harmonic suppression capability, it can effectively ensure:- Radar system testing : Low phase noise ensures high resolution of echo signals, avoiding target misjudgment.
- Communication receiver testing : Spurious suppression characteristics can simulate signal interference in complex electromagnetic environments to verify the equipment's anti-interference capability.
4. Modulation Function and Speed
Supports AM/FM/PM analog modulation and narrow pulse modulation (option UNW), with specific indicators including:- AM modulation : Depth 0-100%, rate 0-50 kHz
- FM modulation : Rate up to DC to 7 MHz at 100 kHz frequency deviation
- Pulse modulation : Pulse width can be as low as nanoseconds, rise/fall time ≤3 ns
Frequency switching speed ≤800 μs, combined with the 1024 commonly used frequency cache function, can significantly improve production line testing efficiency. For example, in the batch testing of mobile phone RF modules, quickly switch signals in different frequency bands to reduce downtime.II. Key Technical Characteristics
1. Hardware Architecture Optimization
It adopts a high-stability local oscillator and low-noise amplifier design to ensure signal purity and long-term stability. Its internally integrated multi-function generator (option 303) can generate basic waveforms such as sine waves and square waves to meet basic testing needs.2. Flexible Interfaces and Expandability
Provides multiple communication interfaces such as 1000BaseT LAN, USB 2.0, and GPIB, supporting SCPI, IVI-COM drivers, and MATLAB control. Through the LXI standard protocol, it can be seamlessly integrated into automated testing systems, such as in automotive electronics production lines, to achieve the collaborative work of multiple devices.3. Software Ecosystem Support
Compatible with Keysight PathWave Signal Studio software, it can quickly generate complex modulated signals such as LTE, GNSS, and DVB. For example, in satellite communication testing, predefined waveforms are loaded into the device through the software to generate RF signals that meet the standards, greatly shortening the test preparation time.III. Typical Application Scenarios
1. Communication Equipment Manufacturing Testing
In the mass production of mobile phones, base stations, and other equipment, the N5171B can:- Simulate RF signals of different standards (such as 5G NR, Wi-Fi 6) to verify receiver sensitivity and bit error rate.
- Achieve multi-band frequency sweep testing through the fast frequency switching function to detect the frequency response consistency of the equipment.
2. RF Component Verification
For filters, amplifiers, and other devices, it can:- Output signals of specific frequencies and power to test insertion loss, gain flatness, and other parameters.
- Utilize low phase noise characteristics to evaluate the frequency conversion loss and phase noise transfer characteristics of mixers.
3. Aerospace and Defense Testing
In radar system R&D:- Generate high-precision linear frequency modulation (LFM) signals to test radar range resolution.
- Simulate enemy jamming signals to evaluate the anti-jamming capability of electronic warfare equipment.
4. Scientific Research and Education
In university laboratories:- Demonstrate the modulation and demodulation principles of basic RF signals.
- Conduct communication protocol simulation experiments, such as the generation and analysis of GSM and CDMA signals.
IV. Selection Suggestions
- Basic testing needs Select N5171B-501 (1 GHz) or N5171B-503 (3 GHz) to meet general communication band testing requirements
- Wideband Application Scenarios N5171B-506 (6 GHz) can cover a wider range of RF test requirements
- Special Function Expansion :
- Option 1EA enhances output power, suitable for high-loss test systems
- Option UNZ supports fast switching ("500 ") to improve test throughput
V. Technical Comparison
Compared to the N5172B Vector model in the same series, the N5171B focuses more on analog signal generation and excels in the following aspects:- Cost Advantage More competitive price, suitable for manufacturing test scenarios with limited budgets
- Power Consumption Control Smaller size (2U rackmount), power consumption below 160W, suitable for dense test environments
VI. Operation and Maintenance
The device supports self-maintenance functions, and built-in diagnostic tools can quickly locate faulty modules. Combined with Keysight's global service network, low-cost repairs and parts replacement can be achieved, effectively reducing downtime by 500Summary Keysight N5171B signal generator, with its wide frequency coverage, high-precision signal output, and flexible modulation capabilities, is an ideal choice for electronic manufacturing, communication R&D, and other fields. Its modular design and software ecosystem support not only improve test efficiency but also reduce long-term operating costs, making it a professional test equipment that combines performance and economy -
Frequency Range
Number N5171B-501 Frequency range, 9 kHz to 1 GHz
Number N5171B-503 Frequency range, 9 kHz to 3 GHz
Number N5171B-506 Frequency range, 9 kHz to 6 GHz
General Performance Characteristics
Number N5171B-UNZ Fast Frequency Switching
Number N5171B-1EA High Output Power
Number N5171B-1ER Flexible Reference Input (1-50 MHz)
Number N5171B-SD0 No Internal Non-Volatile Memory/Solid State Drive
Number: N5171B-099 Extended License Key Upgradeability
Connector Configuration
N5171B-UNM Standard Front Panel Connector Configuration
Number N5171B-1EM Relocates all connectors to rear panel
Analog Modulation
N5171B-UNT AM, FM, Phase Modulation
Number N5171B-303 Multi-function Generator
Number N5171B-UNW Narrow Pulse Modulation
Additional Features
Number N5171B-006 Instrument Safety and Removable Memory Card
Calibration Documentation
Number N5171B-UK6 Commercial Calibration Certificate with Test Data
Number N5171B-A6J ANSI Z540-1-1994 Calibration
Number N5171B-AMG Calibration + Uncertainty + Guard Band (Certified)
Accessories
N5171B-axe Hard Carrying Case
N5171B-CVR Front Panel Cover
Software with Subscription
N5180302B Avionics VOR/ILS
N5180320B Pulse Sequence Generator
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