Stanford Research PRS10 Rubidium Frequency Standard

The Stanford Research Systems PRS10 is a rubidium frequency standard that delivers a 10 MHz sine wave output for precision synchronization and instrumentation applications. Built for environments where frequency stability and low phase noise are critical, the PRS10 achieves phase noise below –130 dBc/Hz at 10 Hz offset and maintains short-term stability of 2 × 10⁻¹¹ at 1 second. The unit operates from +22 VDC to +30 VDC and draws 50 W, fitting into compact 2.00" × 3.00" × 4.00" form factor.

Technical Specifications

• Output: 10 MHz sine wave, 0.5 Vrms ±10%


• Phase Noise (SSB): <–130 dBc/Hz @ 10 Hz; <–140 dBc/Hz @ 100 Hz; <–155 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz


• Spurious Outputs: <–130 dBc (100 kHz BW)


• Harmonic Distortion: <–25 dBc


• Accuracy at Shipment: ±5 × 10⁻¹¹


• Aging (monthly, after 30 days): <5 × 10⁻¹¹; optional C-option reduces to <2.5 × 10⁻¹¹


• Short-Term Stability (Allan Variance): <2 × 10⁻¹¹ @ 1 s; <1 × 10⁻¹¹ @ 10 s; 25 dB return loss


• ±30 VDC protection on all pins except RF output

Typical Applications Network synchronization, precision frequency measurement, GPS disciplining, and communication system timing where long-term stability and minimal phase noise are essential.

Compatibility & Integration The PRS10 interfaces via RS-232 for system integration and accepts CMOS-level 1 PPS input (100 kΩ impedance) for phase-locking. Standard CMOS 1 PPS output provides synchronization feedback. Operates on +22 VDC to +30 VDC supply.