Compact general-purpose instrument from Rohde & Schwarz now generates signals up to 40 GHz with superior performance

Rohde & Schwarz has enhanced its analog R&S SMB100A mid-range signal generator by adding new frequency options. The R&S SMB-B120/B120L and R&S SMB-B140/B140L options (L versions without step attenuator) enable the generator to cover the frequency range from 100 kHz to 20 GHz and 40 GHz, respectively. The R&S SMB100A can now handle everything from analog RF to microwave applications.

In the new frequency ranges, the R&S SMB100A still offers a very wide dynamic range of -120 dBm to +14 dBm as standard. New high power options – the R&S SMB-B31 (for the 20 GHz model) and the R&S SMB-B32 (for the 40 GHz model) – make it possible to achieve an output power of max. +25 dBm. The new options allow users to skip the practice of looping in an external amplifier to achieve higher output power. This technique is now needed only when compensation is required to deal with attenuation in the test setup. The R&S SMB100A also offers best-in-class spectral purity. Even at low frequencies, it has very low single sideband phase noise thanks to an expanded attenuator range and the direct digital synthesis (DDS) method. These two features make downconversion a thing of the past.In addition to excellent signal generation performance, the R&S SMB100A will appeal to space-conscious users with its compact design: Occupying only two height units and a width of ¾ 19, it needs considerably less space on the workbench or in the rack than similar products on the market. Even the fully equipped 40 GHz model weighs only 6.9 kg, making it suitable for mobile use.

The signal generator’s cost of ownership is very low due to the three-year calibration interval and the low power consumption of max. 120 W (40 GHz model), which increases the mean time between failure (MTBF). The R&S SMB100A from Rohde & Schwarz especially targets users from the wide-base market and from the aerospace and defense industry. Device and component manufacturers can use the signal generator for local oscillator applications and for testing X-band radars, for example. The frequency options up to 20 GHz (R&S SMB-B120/B120L) and 40 GHz (R&S SMB B140/B140L) and the high power options (R&S SMB-B31/B32) for the analog R&S SMB100A signal generator are now available from Rohde & Schwarz.