Keysight Mxg X N5183b Microwave Analog Signal Generator 40 GHz

Frequently Asked Questions - Signal Generators

What is a signal generator?

Engineers use a signal generator to create repeated waveforms to design, test, and manufacture systems and individual components. A signal generator is a generic term for a wider family of instruments. Other common names are signal sources, sources, and sig gens.

Learn about signal generator specifications in our blog Learn the Basics of Signal Generator Accuracy

What are the types of signal generators?

There are various types of signal generators:

• Analog Signal Generator
• Vector Signal Generator
• Arbitrary Waveform Generator
• Radio Frequency (RF) Signal Generator
• Function Generator
• Pulse Generator
• Digital Pattern Generator

What is an RF signal generator?

RF signal generators create the waveforms needed for testing applications that use radio frequencies. One type of RF signal generator is an analog signal generator (ASG), that creates amplitude modulated (AM), frequency modulated (FM), phase modulation, and pulse modulation signals. As signal modulation becomes more complex, you need a vector signal generator (VSG) to create intricate digital signals. Popular modulation formats for vector signal generators are quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK), quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), and binary phase shift keying (BPSK).

What are the applications of RF signal generators?

Signal generators are great instruments to use for evaluating applications that rely on radio frequencies to operate. Some examples in use daily are Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), 5G, avionics, and radar. They also give the flexibility of testing for real-world impairments and receiver fading.