Keysight (Agilent) 81180B 4.6 GSa/s Arbitrary Waveform Generator

The Keysight (Agilent) 81180B is a arbitrary waveform generator delivering sample rates up to 4.6 GSa/s with 12-bit vertical resolution. This dual-channel instrument generates complex signals for wireless communications, satellite, radar, and software-defined radio applications. It supports arbitrary, sequenced, and standard function generation modes with advanced sequencing for dynamic real-time waveform control and efficient memory utilization.

Technical Specifications

• Sample rate: 10 MSa/s to 4.6 GSa/s variable


• Vertical resolution: 12-bit


• Waveform memory: 16 MSa standard (64 MSa optional) Bandwidth and Modulation


• Per-channel modulation bandwidth: 1 GHz


• I/Q modulation bandwidth: 2 GHz


• Direct RF carrier frequency: Up to 1.5 GHz Channel Architecture


• Channels: 2 standard configuration


• Phase-coherent or independent channel operation


• Interchannel skew control: −3 ns to +3 ns with 10 ps resolution


• Multi-instrument synchronization: Two units form 4-channel system Output Specifications


• Single-ended amplitude: 2 Vpp into 50 Ω


• Differential amplitude: 4 Vpp into 50 Ω


• Three software-selectable amplifiers: I/Q (1 GHz differential, DC-coupled), Direct RF (>1.5 GHz AC-coupled bandwidth), Time Domain (low overshoot/jitter, differential, DC-coupled) Sequencing and Markers


• Advanced sequences: Up to 1 per channel


• Sequence segments: 16,000 per sequence


• Total sequences: Up to 1,000


• External 8-bit input for dynamic segment/sequence control


• Markers: 2 per channel with controlled position, width, and level

Key Features

• Arbitrary waveform generation with downloadable memory segments


• Smart trigger with hold-off and programmable pulse width


• Marker output independent of DAC resolution


• Conditional jumps and loop control within sequences


• Real-time dynamic control via external input

Typical Applications Wireless communications signal generation, satellite payload simulation, radar waveform synthesis, software-defined radio development, and multi-channel coherent signal generation.

Compatibility & Integration Two 81180B units synchronize for 4-channel operation. Channel coupling supports both phase-coherent and independent modes with precise interchannel skew adjustment.