Agilent / Keysight 8663A High-Performance Signal Generator, 2.5 GHz

Agilent / Keysight Signal Generators. Frequency Range: 100 kHz to 2560 MHz (2.56 GHz), Power Range (dBm): +16 dBm to −129.9 dBm, Voltage / Current Range: Modulation input: TTL; Sweep output: 0 to 10 V nominal; External reference: 0.5–0.7 Vrms or 1 V ±0.1 V.

Model
Agilent / Keysight 8663A
Calibration
Available on request
Price
$3,463
Status
In stock
RFQ ref
8663A
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This unit

The Agilent/Keysight 8663A is a synthesized signal generator delivering 100 kHz to 2560 MHz coverage with exceptional spectral purity and versatile modulation for RF and microwave development, manufacturing, and test. It combines ultra-low phase noise, fine frequency resolution across its band, and programmable modulation synthesis to support radar, satellite communications, and component characterization workflows.


Technical Specifications

Frequency Performance

  • Coverage: 100 kHz to 2560 MHz (2.56 GHz)

  • Frequency resolution: 0.1 Hz (< 640 MHz), 0.2 Hz (640 MHz–1.28 GHz), 0.4 Hz (1.28–2.56 GHz)

  • RF settling: 250 µs to ±1 kHz, 400 µs to ±100 Hz

  • Accuracy and stability: Referenced to internal or external 10 MHz oscillator Output and Phase Noise

  • Output level: +16 dBm to −129.9 dBm in 0.1 dB steps; SWR < 1.5

  • SSB phase noise: −135 dBc/Hz typical at 1 kHz offset; −147 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset Modulation

  • Standard: AM, FM, BPSK, Pulse Modulation

  • Optional: Phase Modulation (Option 002)

  • Modulation synthesizer: 10 Hz to 99.9 kHz programmable rate; log and linear sweep; simultaneous modulation capability Reference Oscillator

  • Internal: 10 MHz quartz, < 5 × 10⁻⁷ per day aging (post 10-day warmup)

  • External inputs: 10 MHz at ±0.005% (0.5–0.7 Vrms, 50 Ω) or 5 MHz at 1 V ±0.1 V

  • Warm-up time: Typical 24 hours


Key Features



  • TTL modulation input for biphase control

  • Swept ramp output: 0 to 10 V nominal

  • Display blanking pulse: 250 µs (TTL), rear panel accessible

  • GPIB remote programming; optional MATE (Option 700) with CIIL language support

  • Type-tested to shock and vibration standards


Typical Applications Radar system development, satellite communication testing, RF component validation, and receiver characterization demanding low phase noise and precise modulation control.


Compatibility & Integration The Keysight E8663D PSG is code-compatible, enabling system upgrades. The 8663A has been superseded by the N5172B EXG X-Series RF vector signal generator.

Specifications

ParameterValue
Frequency Range100 kHz to 2560 MHz (2.56 GHz) | Power Range (dBm): '+16 dBm to −129.9 dBm | Voltage / Current Range: Modulation input: TTL
Sweep output0 to 10 V nominal
External reference0.5–0.7 Vrms or 1 V ±0.1 V

Agilent / Keysight 8663A — Repair & Calibration Service

Aumictech offers NIST-traceable calibration and repair for the Agilent / Keysight 8663A. 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 8663A 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 8663A price

This Agilent / Keysight 8663A is listed at $3,463. Calibration is available separately from $450. Contact us for volume pricing or if you need multiple units.

Agilent / Keysight 8663A calibration cost

NIST-traceable calibration for the Agilent / Keysight 8663A 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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