Agilent / Keysight 8656B Synthesized Signal Generator, 0.1 to 990 MHz

The Agilent/Keysight 8656B is a synthesized signal generator that delivers high-performance and reliability. It operates from 0.1 to 990 MHz, providing versatile signal generation for various testing applications. This instrument is known for its signal purity, frequency accuracy, and modulation capabilities.

Model
Agilent / Keysight 8656B
Calibration
Available on request
Price
$644
Status
In stock
RFQ ref
8656B
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This unit

The Agilent/Keysight 8656B is a programmable synthesized signal generator delivering stable, low-distortion RF signals from 0.1 MHz to 990 MHz. Built for manufacturing test, R&D, and field service environments, it combines precise frequency control with flexible modulation and remote programmability via HP-IB interface.


Technical Specifications

Frequency & Timing

  • Frequency range: 0.1 to 990 MHz (underrange capability to 10 kHz)

  • Frequency resolution: 10 Hz

  • Frequency switching speed: <35 ms

  • Internal reference aging: 2 ppm/year

  • High stability timebase (Option 001): 1.5 × 10⁻⁸/day Output Power

  • Level range: +13 dBm to −127 dBm

  • Level accuracy: ±1.0 dB

  • Level resolution: 0.1 dB

  • SWR: −5 dBm); <1.5 (levels <−5 dBm)

  • Reverse power protection: 25 W Modulation

  • AM and FM modulation supported

  • Internal modulation rates: 400 Hz, 1 kHz

  • External modulation bandwidth: DC to 50 kHz (DC coupled); 20 Hz to 50 kHz (AC coupled)

  • FM distortion: <1.5% (all specified deviations, DC to 100 kHz); typically 1 kHz); <0.5% (internal rates, ≥3 kHz peak deviation)

  • Incidental AM: <0.1% (center frequency ≥500 kHz, peak deviation <20 kHz, internal rates)

  • Simultaneous and mixed modulation modes from internal and external sources Signal Quality

  • SSB phase noise: −126 to −114 dBc


Key Features



  • 100 non-volatile save/recall registers for front panel settings

  • Full HP-IB remote programming with standard functions (SHO, AH1, TO, L2, SRO, RL1, PP0, DC1, DTO, CO, E1)

  • Selectable AC power: 100/120/220/240 VAC (±5%, −10%), 48–440 Hz; 125 VA max

  • Operating temperature: 0 to +55°C

  • RF leakage: <1.0 µV (two-turn 2.5 cm loop at 2.5 cm from front surface)


Physical



  • Dimensions: 133H × 425W × 520D mm

  • Net weight: 18.1 kg

Specifications

ParameterValue
Frequency Range0.1 MHz to 990 MHz | Power Range (dBm): '+13 dBm to −127 dBm | Voltage / Current Range: −10%), 100/120/220/240 VAC (±5%, 48–440 Hz

Agilent / Keysight 8656B — Repair & Calibration Service

Aumictech offers NIST-traceable calibration and repair for the Agilent / Keysight 8656B. Calibration covers output frequency accuracy, output power level accuracy across the full frequency range, AM/FM/PM/pulse modulation accuracy, harmonic and spurious output levels, and phase noise floor verification. All calibrations ship with a NIST-traceable certificate. Turnaround is typically 1–3 business days after receipt.

Standard Cal
$450
Pass/fail cert + NIST sticker
Cal with Data
$650
Full NIST cert with measured values

Common Agilent / Keysight 8656B faults: YIG oscillator failure (no output or loss of lock), step attenuator wear (output drops or steps at set attenuation), ALC loop failure (uncontrolled output power), I/Q modulator assembly failure. HP/Agilent 836xx series most common faults are YIG oscillator failure and step attenuator contact wear causing output steps or drops at specific attenuation settings. Keysight E4428C/E4438C units most commonly develop ALC loop failure and I/Q modulator assembly faults. YIG oscillator replacement and attenuator service are stocked repairs.

Agilent / Keysight 8656B price

This Agilent / Keysight 8656B is listed at $644.2. Calibration is available separately from $450. Contact us for volume pricing or if you need multiple units.

Agilent / Keysight 8656B calibration cost

NIST-traceable calibration for the Agilent / Keysight 8656B is $450 (standard — pass/fail certificate and calibration sticker) or $650 (full measured data at every test point, reference standards documented, traceability chain included). Calibration for this instrument covers output frequency accuracy, output power level accuracy across the full frequency range, AM/FM/PM/pulse modulation accuracy, harmonic and spurious output levels, and phase noise floor verification. Turnaround is 1 to 3 business days after receipt. See full calibration details →

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