HP / Agilent 83712A Synthesized CW generator, 0.01 to 20 GHz

The HP/Agilent 83712A is a synthesized continuous-wave generator delivering precise frequency control across 10 MHz to 20 GHz. Built for RF and microwave testing in telecommunications, radar, and electronic warfare applications, it combines high spectral purity with stable frequency synthesis and flexible output power management.

Technical Specifications Frequency Performance

Frequency range: 10 MHz to 20 GHz

Frequency resolution: 1 kHz standard; 1 Hz with Option 1E8

Switching time: <50 ms to within 1 kHz

Stability (with Option 1E5 high stability timebase): aging rate <1.5 × 10⁻⁷/day; temperature effects <1 × 10⁻⁷ over 0–55°C

Stability (standard timebase): aging rate <1.0 × 10⁻⁶/day; temperature effects <5 × 10⁻⁶ over 0–55°C

External 10 MHz reference input supported RF Output Power

Maximum leveled output: +13 dBm at 0.01–1 GHz; +11 dBm at 1–20 GHz (+10 dBm with Option 1E1)

Minimum leveled output: 0 dBm standard; −90 dBm with Option 1E1

Level accuracy: ±1.0 dB typical; ±1.3 dB (10–50 MHz), ±1.0 dB (50 MHz–20 GHz) at mid-range; ±2.3 dB and ±2.0 dB over temperature

Level resolution: 0.01 dB

Flatness: ±0.5 dB at power ≥−90 dBm Spectral Purity

Harmonics: <−50 dBc typical

Non-harmonic spurious: <−60 dBc

Phase noise (SSB): −103 dBc/Hz at 500 MHz offset; −91 dBc/Hz at 2 GHz offset; −73 dBc/Hz at 18 GHz offset

Phase noise floor: −140 dBc/Hz; offsets <100 Hz require Option 1E5

Key Features

Synthesized architecture for frequency agility and precision

Dual timebase options: standard or high-stability (Option 1E5) for low-noise applications

Extended dynamic range to −90 dBm with Option 1E1

Sub-harmonic-free output

Fine-resolution level control (0.01 dB steps)

Typical Applications

Component and subsystem characterization in microwave systems

Receiver sensitivity and selectivity testing

Frequency response measurement in RF circuits

Phase noise and spectral purity assessment

CW signal generation for radar and EW testing

Compatibility & Integration External 10 MHz reference input allows phase locking to precision frequency standards. Internally driven operation requires no external references.