1Overview
The 825-M is an agile, ultra-low phase noise RF signal source spanning 8 kHz to 20 GHz. It is available in single-channel or multichannel configurations. A single-channel 825-M ships in a compact enclosure, with optional touch-screen display, or as a 1U 19-inch rackmount. The multi-channel version with 2, 3, or 4 channels is packaged in a 19-inch 1U rackmount.
On multi-channel units, all channels lock to a single reference source to achieve high phase coherence between channels. The state-of-the-art Fast Control Port (FCP) provides very fast frequency and amplitude switching, achieving less than 10 µs per step.
2Key Features
- Low phase noise
- Fast switching down to 5 µs
- Chirps and pulse modulation
- Internal OCXO with external variable reference
- Up to four phase-coherent channels locked to one reference
3Frequency & Output Power
Coverage runs from 8 kHz to 20 GHz with 0.01 Hz resolution and 100 ppb accuracy. Output power is settable from 0 to +18 dBm. Configurations range from a single channel to four channels in a 1U rackmount.
4Phase Noise & Spectral Purity
SSB phase noise is specified across offsets at a 1 GHz CW carrier.
| Carrier | Offset | SSB phase noise |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GHz CW | 1 kHz | -120 dBc/Hz |
| 1 GHz CW | 20 kHz | -130 dBc/Hz |
| 1 GHz CW | 10 MHz | -155 dBc/Hz |
5Frequency Switching & Agility
The 825-M is the fastest-switching synthesizer in the family. Standard switching is 200 µs. Option FS reduces switching to 5 µs per step and includes the Fast Control Port, which sustains less than 10 µs per step for streamed frequency and amplitude updates.
That agility, paired with up to four phase-coherent channels locked to a single reference, suits fast hopping, beam steering, and time-critical ATE sequencing. Frequency and list sweeps are supported alongside chirp generation.
6Modulation
The 825-M supports pulse modulation and chirps, with frequency and list sweep modes.
7Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Number of channels | 1, 2, 3, or 4 |
| Frequency range | 8 kHz to 20 GHz |
| Frequency resolution | 0.01 Hz |
| Frequency accuracy | 100 ppb |
| Output power | 0 to +18 dBm |
| Switching speed | 200 µs (5 µs with Option FS); FCP < 10 µs per step |
| Modulation | Pulse; chirps |
| Sweeps | Frequency, list |
| Remote control | Ethernet, USB, GPIB (optional); SCPI v1999 |
| Reference | Internal OCXO; external variable reference |
| Dimensions (W × L × H) | 16.85 × 18.27 × 1.73 in (428 × 464 × 44 mm) |
| Weight | 22 lbs (10 kg) |
| Shipping dimensions | 23 × 23 × 9 in |
| Shipping weight | 17 lbs |
| Power supply | Not specified (verify) |
8Interfaces & Form Factor
Control is over Ethernet and USB, with optional GPIB, using SCPI v1999. The reference is an internal OCXO with support for an external variable reference. The rackmount enclosure measures 16.85 by 18.27 by 1.73 inches (1U) and weighs 22 lbs.
Single-channel units are also offered in a compact desktop enclosure, with an optional touch-screen display.
9Options & Configurations
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| -TOUCH | Touch screen (desktop enclosure only) |
| -8k | Frequency range extension down to 8 kHz |
| -FS | Enhanced switching speed, includes Fast Control Port |
| -GPIB | GPIB interface port |
| -BUMP | Protective rubber bumper (touch-screen display only) |
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| 825-M-20 | Single-channel 20 GHz synthesizer, compact chassis |
| 825-M-20-x | 1, 2, 3, or 4 channel 20 GHz synthesizer, 19-inch 1U rackmount |
10Applications
- Automated test environment (ATE)
- Local oscillator for frequency converters
- Telecom and SatCom
- R&D quantum computers
11Ordering
Specify the channel count, the -FS option for fastest switching, and any enclosure or interface options. To configure a multi-channel system or request a quote, contact Berkeley Nucleonics.
Berkeley Nucleonics Corporation · info@berkeleynucleonics.com · 800-234-7858