Rohde and Schwarz SGMA vector RF source, 1 MHz to 3 GHz RF

The Rohde & Schwarz SGMA is a vector RF source spanning 1 MHz to 3 GHz, engineered for research, development, and production testing environments demanding complex signal generation. It delivers CW and I/Q modulation with internal baseband capability, frequency setting resolution to 0.001 Hz, and fast settling times under 500 µs via PCIe control. The instrument combines low phase noise performance with flexible modulation bandwidth and optional pulse generation, supporting both internal and external signal sources for multi-faceted RF applications.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency range (CW & I/Q internal): 1 MHz to 3 GHz


• Frequency setting resolution: 0.001 Hz


• Synthesis resolution at 1 GHz: 0.174 µHz (nominal)


• Setting time: < 500 µs with PCIe remote control Signal Quality


• SSB phase noise at 1 GHz (20 kHz offset): < –126 dBc (–133 dBc measured)


• SSB phase noise at 2 GHz (20 kHz offset): < –120 dBc (–127 dBc measured)


• Nonharmonics: 10 kHz carrier offset, ≤ 1500 MHz, CW)


• Wideband noise: < –145 dBc (CW)


• Harmonics: < –30 dBc (≤ 8 dBm output, CW) Output & Modulation


• Maximum output level (typical): +22 dBm


• I/Q modulation bandwidth: Up to 240 MHz


• Electronic attenuator: Wear-free design available


• Pulse modulation: Optional with R&S SGT-K22 (pulse delay range 0 s to 100 s, 10 ns resolution) Reference Output


• REF/LO output: 10 MHz or 1000 MHz (SMA female, rear panel)


• Output level: +6 dBm to +12 dBm

Key Features

• Frequency setting resolution to 0.001 Hz enables precise carrier tuning


• Fast PCIe-controlled frequency switching under 500 µs


• Low phase noise across operating range supports sensitive receiver testing


• Optional internal pulse generator with external trigger capability (< 20 ns jitter)


• Configurable I/Q modulation with 240 MHz RF bandwidth


• External analog I/Q input option (R&S SGT-KB106) extends capability to 80 MHz minimum

Typical Applications

• Receiver sensitivity and selectivity characterization


• Transceiver development and validation


• Phase noise measurement and analysis


• Modulated signal generation for protocol testing


• Radar and pulse-based system evaluation

Compatibility & Integration PCIe remote control interface enables automated test sequences. Dual reference frequency outputs (10 MHz and 1000 MHz) support phase-locked operation with external instruments. USER2 connector provisions external pulse modulation and trigger outputs (LVTTL, 3.3 V nominal).