Agilent / Keysight E8251A PSG-A Series Performance Signal Generator, 20 GHz

The Agilent/Keysight E8251A is a PSG-A Series Performance Signal Generator with a frequency range up to 20 GHz. It delivers high output power, low phase noise, and versatile modulation capabilities, suitable for testing advanced communication systems and microwave components. This signal generator provides precise and reliable signal generation for demanding research, development, and manufacturing applications.

Model
Agilent / Keysight E8251A
Calibration
Available on request
Price
$20,157
Status
In stock
RFQ ref
E8251A
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This unit

The Agilent/Keysight E8251A PSG-A Series Performance Signal Generator delivers precision signal generation from 250 kHz to 20 GHz, engineered for demanding applications in communications systems and microwave component testing. This instrument combines excellent signal quality with low phase noise and versatile modulation capabilities for research, development, and manufacturing environments.


Technical Specifications

Frequency Range & Resolution

  • 250 kHz to 20 GHz (standard)

  • Frequency resolution: 0.01 Hz

  • Optional extension to 110 GHz using Keysight 83550 Series multipliers Output Power

  • Maximum output: +13 dBm / +20 dBm at 20 GHz

  • Level accuracy: ±0.7 dB and ±0.9 dB

  • Option 1EA provides +20 dBm at 20 GHz output Phase Noise Performance

  • SSB phase noise: < -110 dBc/Hz at 20 kHz offset (10 GHz carrier, standard)

  • Standard phase noise: -85 dBc/Hz at 1 kHz offset; -110 dBc/Hz at 20 kHz offset at 10 GHz carrier

  • Optional lower noise: < -98 dBc/Hz at 1 kHz offset at 10 GHz carrier (Option UNJ)


Key Features Modulation



  • AM, FM, Phase, and Pulse modulation modes

  • Dual internal modulation generators supporting sine, square, triangle, positive/negative ramp, Gaussian Noise, Uniform Noise, Swept Sine, and Dual Sine up to 1 MHz modulation rates

  • Internal pulse generator with maximum PRF of 14 MHz Signal Generation

  • CW operation and digital sweep capability

  • List and step sweep functions with point-by-point calibration at test port

  • User-selectable flatness correction

  • Optional 115 dB attenuator module (Option 1E1)


Typical Applications



  • Advanced communication system development and validation

  • Microwave component characterization and manufacturing test

  • Phase noise-sensitive measurements requiring low-noise source performance


Compatibility & Integration



  • GPIB, LAN, and RS-232 interfaces

  • Approximately 50 lbs weight

Agilent / Keysight E8251A — Repair & Calibration Service

Aumictech offers NIST-traceable calibration and repair for the Agilent / Keysight E8251A. 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 E8251A 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 E8251A price

This Agilent / Keysight E8251A is listed at $20,157.1. Calibration is available separately from $450. Contact us for volume pricing or if you need multiple units.

Agilent / Keysight E8251A calibration cost

NIST-traceable calibration for the Agilent / Keysight E8251A 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 →