Agilent / Keysight 8657B Synthesized Signal Generator, 100 kHz to 2060 MHz
The Agilent/Keysight 8657B is a synthesized signal generator that delivers high performance and reliability for a wide range of RF testing applications. Covering a frequency range of 100 kHz to 2060 MHz, it offers precise frequency control, low noise, and versatile modulation capabilities, making it suitable for both benchtop and automated testing environments.
- Model
- Agilent / Keysight 8657B
- Calibration
- Available on request
- Price
- $1,438
- Status
- In stock
- RFQ ref
- 8657B
This unit
The Agilent/Keysight 8657B is a synthesized signal generator delivering precise RF signal generation across 100 kHz to 2060 MHz. Built for RF design, manufacturing, and maintenance testing, it combines wide frequency coverage with exceptional spectral purity and fast switching. The instrument supports multiple modulation modes and operates into 50 Ω loads with tight level accuracy and low phase noise across its entire range.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Performance- Range: 100 kHz to 2060 MHz (underrange capability to 10 kHz uncalibrated)
- Resolution: 1 Hz
- Switching Speed: ≤35 ms (typically 30 ms at 25 °C)
- Accuracy and Stability: Timebase-referenced Output Level
- Range: +13 dBm to –143.5 dBm into 50 Ω (100 kHz–1 MHz: +10 dBm to –143.5 dBm)
- Resolution: 0.1 dB
- Level Flatness: ±0.5 dB (100 kHz to 2.06 GHz at 0 dBm setting)
- Absolute Accuracy: ±1.5 dB (>+3.5 dBm); ±1.0 dB (+3.5 to –127 dBm); ±1.5 dB (<–127 dBm)
- Output Impedance: 50 Ω nominal
- Reverse Power Protection: 50 watts; Maximum DC Voltage: 25 V
- SWR: <1.5 (≤–6.5 dBm); <2.0 (≤+13 dBm) Spectral Purity (CW Mode)
- SSB Phase Noise (20 kHz offset): –124 to –136 dBc/Hz across frequency bands, with best performance (–136 dBc/Hz) in the 130–260 MHz region
- Residual FM (300 Hz–3 kHz BW): <4 Hz across bands; (50 Hz–15 kHz BW): <8 Hz maximum
- Residual AM: <0.04% (50 Hz–15 kHz)
- Harmonics: <–30 dBc (0.1–1.03 GHz); <–25 dBc (1.03–2.06 GHz) at ≤+7 dBm
- Subharmonics: <–40 dBc (1.03–1.8 GHz); <–35 dBc (1.8–2.06 GHz) at ≤+7 dBm
Key Features
- 1 Hz frequency resolution with <35 ms switching
- 160.5 dB dynamic range (from +13 dBm to –143.5 dBm)
- Level flatness within ±0.5 dB across entire range
- Low phase noise enabling sensitive receiver and component testing
- Pulse modulation capable (option-dependent)
- Timebase-grade frequency accuracy
Typical Applications
- Receiver sensitivity and selectivity characterization
- Component and subsystem RF testing
- Automated manufacturing test systems
- Benchtop RF circuit development and validation
- Transceiver performance measurements
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 100 kHz to 2060 MHz | Power Range (dBm): '+13 dBm to –143.5 dBm |
Agilent / Keysight 8657B — Repair & Calibration Service
Aumictech offers NIST-traceable calibration and repair for the Agilent / Keysight 8657B. 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.
Common Agilent / Keysight 8657B 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 8657B price
This Agilent / Keysight 8657B is listed at $1,438. Calibration is available separately from $450. Contact us for volume pricing or if you need multiple units.
Agilent / Keysight 8657B calibration cost
NIST-traceable calibration for the Agilent / Keysight 8657B 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 →