Keysight (Agilent) N5186A MXG Vector Signal Generator

The Keysight N5186A MXG is a multichannel vector signal generator engineered for wireless communications, aerospace, and defense test applications. It delivers complex signal generation with support for advanced modulation schemes including MIMO, beamforming, and multiplexing. The instrument configures from 1 to 4 unique output channels in a compact 2U form factor, minimizing rack space while reducing external connections.

Custom DAC ASICs employing direct digital synthesis (DDS) produce signals with minimized distortion across demanding component and receiver test scenarios.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 9 kHz to 8.5 GHz (configurable models at 3 GHz, 6 GHz, and 8.5 GHz)


• Frequency Resolution: 1 × 10⁻⁵ Hz


• Modulation Bandwidth: Up to 960 MHz per channel (options: 250 MHz, 500 MHz, 960 MHz)


• Output Power: +27 dBm measured; settable from +20 dBm to −135 dBm (standard) or +30 dBm to −135 dBm with Option 1EA


• Phase Noise: −147 dBc/Hz @ 1 GHz (20 kHz offset); −146 dBc/Hz @ 1 GHz (10 kHz offset)


• Harmonics @ 1 GHz: −35 dBc measured


• Non-Harmonics @ 1 GHz: −80 dBc to −85 dBc measured


• Frequency Switching Speed: 800 µs typical (fast switching via Option UNZ)


• Waveform Memory: 512 MSa (M05), 1 GSa (M10), 2 GSa (M20), or 2048 MSa options


• Power Consumption: 270 W nominal / 650 W max (1 channel); 380 W nominal / 650 W max (2 channels); 550 W nominal / 650 W max (4 channels)


• AC Power Input: 100/120 VAC or 220/240 VAC, 50/60/400 Hz

Key Features

• Configurable 1 to 4 independent output channels


• Built-in reflectometer option (N5186A-V08) covering 9 kHz to 8.5 GHz


• Low and enhanced low phase noise options (N5186A-EP3 or N5186A-EP4)


• Baseband generator mode with waveform playback capability


• EVM and ACPR performance

Typical Applications

• Wireless communications component and receiver validation


• MIMO and beamforming signal simulation


• Aerospace and defense system testing


• Multi-channel signal multiplexing and protocol verification