Anritsu MG3696A Synthesizer, 2GHz to 65 GHz

The Anritsu MG3696A is a synthesized signal generator delivering precision frequency synthesis across 2 GHz to 65 GHz for advanced RF and microwave testing. Purpose-built for radar systems, telecommunications, aerospace, and defense applications, it combines low phase noise, stable frequency output, and high spectral purity in a configurable platform. Frequency resolution to 0.01 Hz and switching times under 40 ms enable rapid, accurate measurements in complex test environments.

The instrument accepts internal or external 10 MHz reference inputs and offers extensive modulation and attenuation options to adapt to evolving measurement requirements.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency range: 2 GHz to 65 GHz (standard)


• Optional extension: 0.1 Hz to 2 GHz with Option 22 (DDS-based; modulation and analog sweep unavailable below 10 MHz)


• Optional extension: 10 MHz to 2 GHz with down-converter (Option 4 or 5)


• Frequency resolution: 0.01 Hz (0.02 Hz below 10 MHz with Option 22)


• Frequency accuracy: Referenced to internal or external 10 MHz time base


• Internal time base stability: <2 × 10⁻⁹/day (aging), <2 × 10⁻⁸/°C (0°C to 55°C); <5 × 10⁻¹⁰/day and <2 × 10⁻¹⁰/°C with Option 16


• External reference input: 0 to +20 dBm, ±50 Hz tolerance


• Frequency switching: <40 ms to within 1 kHz Output Power


• Standard output power: +10 dBm (2–20 GHz), +3 dBm (20–65 GHz), +12 dBm (≤2 GHz with Option 4/5)


• Output range: +10 dBm to −110 dBm


• Attenuation options: 90 dB mechanical, 110 dB mechanical, 120 dB electronic Phase Noise


• Standard performance: −105 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset (frequency-dependent)


• Ultra low phase noise (Option 3): <−130 dBc/Hz @ 1 GHz, 10 kHz offset Modulation


• Internal and external: AM, FM, phase, pulse


• Options: AM (Option 14), FM/phase (Option 12), pulse (Option 13/13X), analog suite (Option 25X)

Key Features

• 0.01 Hz frequency resolution across full range


• Configurable down to 0.1 Hz with DDS option


• Sub-40 ms frequency switching for rapid test sequences


• Selectable time base stability with optional high-stability module


• 10 MHz reference I/O for synchronized multi-instrument operation


• Multiple attenuation architectures for wide dynamic range

Typical Applications

• Radar system characterization and validation


• Component and subsystem testing in telecommunications


• Aerospace and defense RF measurements


• Phase noise and spectral purity assessment

Compatibility & Integration External 10 MHz reference acceptance enables clock synchronization across test benches. Standard 10 MHz reference output (1 Vp-p into 50 Ω, AC coupled) simplifies integration with phase-coherent measurement systems.