Agilent / Keysight 8648B Synthesized RF Signal Generator, 9 kHz to 2000 MHz

The Agilent/Keysight 8648B is a synthesized RF signal generator delivering frequency coverage from 9 kHz to 2000 MHz with 0.001 Hz resolution. Built for R&D, manufacturing, and field testing, this instrument combines fast frequency switching, wide dynamic range output control, and multiple modulation modes in a platform engineered for straightforward operation and long-term reliability.

Technical Specifications

• Range: 9 kHz to 2000 MHz


• Resolution: 0.001 Hz


• Switching speed: <75 ms (≤1001 MHz), 1001 MHz)


• Frequency accuracy: ±3×10⁻⁶ × carrier frequency (standard); ±0.15×10⁻⁶ × carrier frequency with Option 1E5 High Stability Time Base


• External reference inputs: 2, 5, and 10 MHz ±10 ppm (±1 ppm with Option 1E5) Output Power


• Range: +13 dBm to −136 dBm


• Resolution: 0.1 dB


• Power accuracy: ±1 dB (up to 27 dBm below 1 GHz); ±1.0 dB (up to 2500 MHz); ±3 dB (−100 dBm to −127 dBm, select frequency ranges)


• Output impedance: 50 ohms nominal


• Reverse power protection: 25 W (1 GHz) Modulation


• AM: ±7% of setting ±1.5% (typical, <70% depth, 25°C ±5°C)


• FM deviation: ±3% ±30 Hz @ 1 kHz rate (<1001 MHz)


• Phase modulation deviation: ±3% ±0.05 radians @ 1 kHz rate (80 dB (<2000 MHz), rise/fall times <10 ns Spectral Purity


• Harmonics: <−30 dBc (output ≤+4 dBm)


• Subharmonics: <−60 dBc (<1001 MHz, output ≤+4 dBm)


• Nonharmonics: <−55 dBc (<249 MHz, output ≤+4 dBm)


• Phase noise (SSB @ 20 kHz offset): <−120 dBc/Hz (500 MHz), <−116 dBc/Hz (1000 MHz), <−110 dBc/Hz (2000 MHz)

Key Features

• GPIB (IEEE-488.2-1987) remote control interface


• Selectable external reference oscillator support


• Optional high-stability time base for improved frequency accuracy and temperature stability


• Optional modulation generator and pulse modulation capabilities

Typical Applications Component and subsystem testing, RF receiver validation, transmitter characterization, signal path verification in communication systems, and production manufacturing test.

Compatibility & Integration Standard GPIB connectivity enables integration into automated test systems and bench setups requiring remote frequency, power, and modulation control.