Astronics / EADS / Racal 3161 300MS/s Waveform Synthesizer

The Astronics / EADS / Racal 3161 is a single-slot VXIbus waveform synthesizer delivering 300 MS/s sampling for high-fidelity arbitrary waveform generation across aerospace, defense, and telecommunications applications. The instrument generates complex signals from 100 µHz to 150 MHz with 12-bit resolution and supports real-time frequency hopping between 256 programmable frequencies, external modulation inputs (AM, PM, FSK), and phase-coherent synchronization to external analog signals up to 18.75 MHz.

Technical Specifications

Sampling Rate: 300 MS/s

Output Frequency Range: 100 µHz to 150 MHz

Resolution: 12-bit

Waveform Memory: 256k points standard; 1 Meg points optional

Harmonics: Typically below -30 dB (150 MHz sine wave)

Phase Offset Resolution: Programmable in 1-point increments

Frequency Counter: Built-in 6-digit counter for external signal measurement

External Sync Bandwidth: Up to 18.75 MHz

Key Features

Real-time frequency hopping between 256 selectable frequencies

Variable clock rates via inter-division ratios (1 to 64k) for memory-efficient sequencing

Front panel D-sub control for hop selection and modulation inputs

External modulation: Amplitude Modulation (AM), Phase Modulation (PM), and Frequency Shift Keying (FSK)

Automatic phase locking to external analog reference signals

WaveCAD software compatibility for equation-based, freehand, or function-based waveform design

Waveform import from spreadsheets, math applications, and digitizers

Typical Applications Aerospace and defense signal simulation, telecommunications signal generation, frequency-agile test scenarios, and modulated waveform synthesis requiring sub-harmonics control and phase coherence.

Compatibility & Integration VXIplug&play drivers supported. Front panel connector maintains backward compatibility with legacy 3151, 3151A, and 3151A+ models. Integrates with WaveCAD waveform design software.