Agilent / Keysight 8647A Synthesized Signal Generator, 250 kHz to 1000 MHz

The Agilent/Keysight 8647A Synthesized Signal Generator delivers precision RF signal generation across 250 kHz to 1000 MHz with 1 Hz resolution. Built for receiver testing, system calibration, and high-volume manufacturing, this instrument combines synthesized signal generation with electronic attenuation to achieve repeatable output levels from +10 dBm to −136 dBm. The front panel interface supports direct manual control alongside programmable operation via HP-IB (IEEE-488.2-1987) and SCPI commands.

Technical Specifications

• Range: 250 kHz to 1000 MHz


• Resolution: 1 Hz


• Frequency accuracy (internal reference, post warm-up, within one year calibration): ±3 × 10⁻⁶ × carrier frequency in Hz


• Aging rate: <±2 ppm/yr; Temperature drift: <±1 ppm; Line voltage effects: <±0.5 ppm


• Carrier frequency accuracy (CW, dc FM, 25°C ±5°C): ±100 Hz typical (40 Hz typical) with deviations <10 kHz Output Characteristics


• Level range: +10 dBm to −136 dBm (unlevelled to +13 dBm)


• Accuracy: ±1.5 dB (+13 dBm to −127 dBm)


• Output impedance: 50 Ω nominal; SWR <2.0:1 (output <−6 dBm)


• Reverse power protection: 50 watts into 50 Ω Modulation Capabilities


• Amplitude Modulation (AM): 0–100% depth; 0.1% resolution; ±5% accuracy at 1 kHz rate; <1% THD+N at 30% AM; rates from 400 Hz/1 kHz internal or dc–25 kHz external


• Frequency Modulation (FM): Peak deviation 0–100 kHz (<249 MHz), 0–50 kHz (<501 MHz), 0–100 kHz (≤1000 MHz); ±7.5% deviation accuracy ±30 Hz; 4 kHz; rates from 400 Hz/1 kHz internal or 20 Hz–75 kHz external


• Phase Modulation (PM): Supported with frequency-dependent peak deviation ranges

Key Features

• Electronic attenuator for repeatable, controllable output power


• 1 Hz frequency resolution enables fine tuning for precision testing


• Flexible modulation: AM, FM, and PM with internal/external source selection


• HP-IB and SCPI programmability for automated test sequences


• Stable internal reference oscillator with <±2 ppm/year aging

Typical Applications

• Receiver sensitivity and selectivity testing


• System calibration and alignment


• Manufacturing test for cordless telephones and pagers

Compatibility & Integration Program via HP-IB (IEEE-488.2-1987) interface using SCPI command set. Output impedance of 50 Ω with reverse power protection to 50 watts rated into matched load.