Agilent / Keysight N5182B MXG X-Series RF Vector Signal Generator, 9 kHz to 6 GHz

The Keysight N5182B MXG X-Series RF Vector Signal Generator delivers signal generation across 9 kHz to 6 GHz for R&D, component testing, receiver characterization, and wireless communications. The instrument combines exceptional spectral purity with fast frequency and amplitude switching, making it suitable for demanding modulation and signal fidelity applications.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency range: 9 kHz to 6 GHz


• Frequency resolution: 0.01 Hz


• Frequency switching speed (CW mode, SCPI): ≤ 5 ms typical


• CW switching to 0.05% of final frequency: 190 μs measured


• External reference input: 10 MHz standard, ±1 ppm lock range


• Frequency reference accuracy: < 1 × 10⁻¹⁰ nominal


• Temperature stability (20–30 °C): 10 MHz–3 GHz), +16 dBm (>3–6 GHz)


• Amplitude switching speed (CW mode, SCPI): ≤ 5 ms typical


• Functional power range: –15 dBm to –144 dBm measured


• Amplitude modulation rate: 0 to 50 kHz at 100% maximum depth Spectral Purity


• Phase noise: –146 dBc/Hz at 1 GHz, 20 kHz offset


• Harmonic suppression: < –35 dBc (9 kHz–4 GHz typical), 4–6 GHz typical)


• Non-harmonic spurious (CW mode): –65 dBc (9 kHz–<5 MHz), –75 dBc (5–<250 MHz), –87 dBc (250–<750 MHz)

Key Features

• Fast frequency and amplitude switching for dynamic signal scenarios


• Electronic step attenuator enables rapid power level control


• Wide dynamic range from +30 to –144 dBm supports sensitive receiver testing


• External 10 MHz reference input with ±1 ppm lock range for system synchronization


• 10 MHz reference output for distribution to external equipment


• Waveform marker-based power control delivers 20 μs switching within ±1 dB

Typical Applications

• RF component characterization and validation


• Receiver sensitivity and blocking performance assessment


• Wireless transceiver modulation testing


• Signal generation for radar and communications R&D

Compatibility & Integration The N5182B accepts SCPI remote commands for automated test sequences and integrates with 10 MHz external frequency references (sine or square waveform, ≥5 dBm ±2 dB nominal).