Giga-tronics Inc. has released a new 2520GTA signal generator that offers unprecedented frequency and amplitude switching speeds of <350 µS for any step size over its full frequency range and typically <200 µS for frequency steps up to 100 MHz within a band. The fast frequency switching of the 2520GTA improves throughput and reduces cost of testing by stepping through wide ranges of frequency and power levels in under 350 µS. This makes the 2520GTA suitable for data-intensive applications such as antenna characterization or in manufacturing environments like high volume component testing, where test throughput must be maximized to reduce cost of testing, according to Giga-tronics.

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In addition, the 2520GTA series signal generator’s optional high leveled output power exceeding +20 dBm and low harmonics of -55 dBc to 20 GHz eliminates the need to use an external power amplifier. This makes it suitable for measurements where low harmonics and high drive conditions are required.

For applications requiring multiple generators with high phase stability between outputs, such as smart antenna evaluation, phased array radars characterization or multisystem receiver measurements, several 2520GTAs can be locked together using a common 100 MHz reference. This unique capability delivers excellent phase coherency and long-term stability between channel to channel up to 10 kHz offsets from carriers, said the manufacturer.

Every 2520GTA comes with Giga-tronics’ AX automatic test system software package. The CD includes a full featured plug-and-play driver and soft front panels to provide the ATE system integrator with everything needed to get up and running fast. A comprehensive LIST mode, command-line interpreter with script and loop capability, and GPIB traffic monitoring are just a few of the many features a test system programmer will appreciate when developing and debugging test program sets.

2520GTA is offered in single configuration covering frequency range from 100 MHz to 20 GHz with frequency resolution of 0.001 Hz. The starting price of the unit is at $20,100/- and will be available from August with initial delivery time of six to eight weeks.