Stanford Research SG386 6 GHz Signal Generator
Stanford Research Signal Generators. Frequency Range: 950 kHz to 6.075 GHz (standard), Resolution: 1 µHz, Frequency Range: DC to 62.5 MHz.
- Model
- Stanford Research SG386
- Calibration
- Available on request
- Price
- $3,779
- Status
- In stock
- RFQ ref
- SG386
This unit
The Stanford Research SG386 is a 6 GHz RF signal generator delivering precision frequency synthesis, low phase noise, and versatile modulation in a single instrument. Built on Rational Approximation Frequency Synthesis architecture, it generates signals from 950 kHz to 6.075 GHz with 1 µHz resolution and phase noise of −116 dBc/Hz at 20 kHz offset (1 GHz carrier). Frequency switching completes in less than 8 ms to within 1 ppm accuracy.
The instrument supports AM, FM, phase modulation, and pulse modulation with internal sources (sine, ramp, saw, square, pulse, noise) and external modulation inputs. AM modulation reaches 0 to 100% depth with 0.1% resolution. Output from the front-panel N-type connector ranges from +16.5 dBm to −110 dBm, equivalent to 1 Vrms to 0.707 µVrms into 50 Ω.
A secondary BNC output delivers DC to 62.5 MHz signals at amplitudes from 1.00 Vrms to 0.001 Vrms with ±5% accuracy and ±1.5 VDC offset capability. Spurious content remains below −70 dBc typical (within 10 kHz offset), while harmonics measure less than −25 dBc at output levels below +7 dBm. An optional frequency doubler (Opt. 02) extends maximum output to 8.10 GHz.
Fast frequency switching, excellent spectral purity, and flexible modulation options position this generator for RF/microwave component testing, communication system validation, and wideband signal applications where signal integrity is critical.
Technical Specifications
- Frequency Range: 950 kHz to 6.075 GHz (standard); up to 8.10 GHz with Opt. 02
- Frequency Resolution: 1 µHz
- Frequency Switching Speed: < 8 ms (to within 1 ppm)
- Phase Noise (SSB): −116 dBc/Hz at 20 kHz offset, 1 GHz carrier
- Spurious Content: < −70 dBc typical (< 10 kHz offset); harmonics < −25 dBc at < +7 dBm output
- N-Type Output Power: +16.5 dBm to −110 dBm (1 Vrms to 0.707 µVrms into 50 Ω)
- BNC Output Frequency Range: DC to 62.5 MHz
- BNC Output Amplitude: 1.00 Vrms to 0.001 Vrms; ±5% accuracy
- BNC Output Offset: ±1.5 VDC (5 mV resolution)
- Output Impedance: 50 Ω
Key Features
- AM modulation 0–100% with 0.1% resolution
- FM, phase modulation, and pulse modulation modes
- Internal modulation waveforms: sine, ramp, saw, square, pulse, noise
- External modulation input: ±1 V for full deviation (AM, FM, ΦM)
- Fast switching performance with 1 µHz tuning resolution
- Low phase noise scaling 6 dB/octave to alternate carrier frequencies
Typical Applications
- RF and microwave component characterization
- Communication system testing and validation
- Signal integrity assessment in receiver chains
- Modulated signal generation for transceiver development
Compatibility & Integration N-type and BNC front-panel connectors support standard 50 Ω coaxial cables and unterminated loads.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 950 kHz to 6.075 GHz (standard) |
| up to 8.10 GHz with Opt. 02 | Power Range (dBm) | '+16.5 dBm to −110 dBm | Voltage / Current Range: 1 Vrms to 0.707 µVrms (N-type) |
Stanford Research SG386 — Repair & Calibration Service
Aumictech offers NIST-traceable calibration and repair for the Stanford Research SG386. 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.
Common Stanford Research SG386 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.
Stanford Research SG386 price
This Stanford Research SG386 is listed at $3,779. Calibration is available separately from $450. Contact us for volume pricing or if you need multiple units.
Stanford Research SG386 calibration cost
NIST-traceable calibration for the Stanford Research SG386 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 →
