In addition to their affordable price, the TSG4100A series of vector signal generators (VSGs) have several other important features that put them a cut above competitive VSGs. For one, these basic signal generators can have their modulation capabilities upgraded in software, so users need pay only for what they need. Further, they are the only VSGs in their class whose about actually goes from dc (not 10s or 100s of kHz) to either 2, 4, or 6 GHz. The manufacturer, Tektronix (which is entering the VSG market for the first time), points out that these vector RF signal generators are the only ones from a tier-one vendor with a price point of less than $15,000. And by less than $15k, they mean the starting price for a 2-GHz unit is just $7,800.
The instruments provide spur-free outputs with low phase noise (–113 dBc/Hz at 1 GHz), high amplitude accuracy (
The basic unit includes analog modulation (amplitude, frequency, phase, and pulse) and an internal modulation source to produce sine, ramp, saw, square, and noise waveforms; there’s an input for an external source too. For vector signal modulation on RF carriers between 400 MHz and 6.0 GHz, upgrades to vector/digital capability are done through software alone, either at order or in the field. The initial upgrade requirement is the basic vector package, VM00, which makes use of the units’ built-in dual, arbitrary-waveform generator operating at 125 MHz for baseband signal generation.
The generator has built-in support for common vector modulation schemes — ASK, QPSK, DQPSK, π/4 DQPSK, 8PSK, FSK, CPM, QAM (4 to 256), 8VSB, and 16VSB (each of which requires an optional software upgrades in addition to VM00) — and includes the standard pulse shaping filters used in digital communications: raised cosine, root-raised cosine, Gaussian, rectangular, triangular, and more. And the rear-panel BNC I/Q modulation inputs support arbitrary vector modulation from an external source.
Prices for basic instruments are $7,800, $9,820, and $13,200 (2, 4, and 6 GHz, respectively); option VM00 costs $3,700, and each modulation scheme costs $799. Delivery is now 6 weeks ARO
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