Agile signal generator undertakes complex simulations

To produce realistic multi-threat scenarios, the instrument can switch frequency, amplitude and phase settings in as little as 250 ns, and it provides built-in phase repeatability. This is made possible by direct digital synthesis technology and a Keysight-proprietary digital-to-analogue converter.

When simulating advanced radar signals, it can generate pulses as narrow as 5 ns with 1 ns rise/fall times and an 80 dB on/off ratio. The UXG can also produce chirps as wide as 10 to 25 percent of the carrier frequency. To mimic antenna scan patterns, the optional attenuator provides 80 dB of agile amplitude changes and 120 dB of overall amplitude range.

With the ability to directly understand pulse descriptor words (PDWs), the instrument reduces programming time. For system testing, pre-defined scenarios can be created and stored in UXG memory for playback using list mode, and on-the-fly control can be triggered by external events.

At three rack units (3U) high, the signal generator is a slide-in replacement for legacy fast-switching sources. To minimise the need for software changes, the standard UXG is code-compatible with Aeroflex sources. It can be connected directly with existing wiring and cabling through trigger- and hardware-connector compatibility and a fast BCD input/output interface.