As telecommunications, defence, and automotive industries increasingly adopt advanced electronic testing, signal generators, particularly super high frequency and vector models, are leading the technological shift.
Signal generators are key for testing and maintaining electronic devices in the telecommunications, defence, and automotive industries. The market, worth $1.39 billion in 2023, is projected to reach $1.98 billion by 2028. This growth is fuelled by advances in telecommunications, aerospace, defence, and the integration of IoT and 5G technologies. Innovations like the super high frequency signal generator (SHFSG) are pushing the market towards specialised applications. Agilent Technologies and Ametek Inc. are leading this trend, especially in Asia-Pacific.
The significant advancements in the electronic testing and signal generation field were driven by the introduction of vector signal generators and other sophisticated tools, enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and usability. The N5186A MXG, part of Keysight’s X-Series signal generator lineup, represents the next generation of high-performance vector signal generators (VSGs). It delivers multiple, individually complex signals essential for dense wideband multichannel applications. These technologies, boosted by better digital-to-analogue conversion, increased processing power, and advanced software algorithms, have made signal generators more integrated, user-friendly, and versatile. Incorporating AI and IoT has further transformed their functionality, enabling automated, interconnected testing environments crucial for supporting the rapid development cycles in modern electronic industries.
Signal generation software and enhanced programmability
Signal generation software offers comprehensive tools for creating a wide range of signals, including 5G NR, WLAN, and custom modulation, ensuring compliance with the latest industry standards. This software accelerates signal creation and reduces simulation time with interactive controls and graphical navigation, making it highly useful across various industries such as cellular, aerospace, and broadcasting.
New signal generator models feature high dynamic ranges, achieving up to an 80dB programmable range. They offer low-power options suitable for diverse applications and enhanced programmability for various testing scenarios. These advancements surpass previous models in terms of performance and application scope, expanding signal generation capabilities across various fields.
| Future scope of technical advancements |
| • Higher frequencies and bandwidths. Development of signal generators capable of operating at higher frequencies and wider bandwidths will support emerging communication standards, such as 6G and advanced radar systems. • Improved accuracy and stability. Enhanced precision and stability in signal generation will be critical for applications requiring high fidelity, such as quantum computing and sensitive scientific measurements. • AI and machine learning integration. Incorporating AI and machine learning algorithms will optimise signal generation processes, enabling adaptive and real-time signal adjustments based on environmental conditions and specific application needs. • Miniaturisation and portability. Advances in semiconductor technology will lead to smaller, more portable signal generators without compromising performance, making them ideal for field applications and mobile testing. • Enhanced software capabilities. Future software enhancements will offer more intuitive user interfaces, automated calibration, and improved simulation tools, facilitating faster development cycles and reducing the need for extensive manual intervention. These advancements will drive innovation in various industries, from telecommunications and aerospace to medical technology and consumer electronics. |
Compactness with embedded reflectometer and advanced modulation
Network and design engineers often need more bench space for extra test equipment to achieve higher frequencies, greater bandwidths, and complex modulation schemes. The Keysight N5186A MXG addresses this by simplifying setups with fewer external connections and up to four channels in a compact 2U form factor, cutting space requirements by 75% compared to traditional setups. As the first signal generator with an embedded reflectometer, it delivers highly accurate signals to the device under test (DUT). This optimisation maximises equipment density without compromising performance. Constructed with durable cast aluminium, these devices are suitable for both lab and field use. Their compact, handheld design ensures portability and adaptability to diverse workspaces. User-friendly interfaces simplify setup and operation, catering to users of all skill levels. Additionally, these signal generators offer optional features like pulse modulation and external frequency sweep triggers, seamlessly integrating with various platforms and programming environments for a wide range of testing applications.
The integration of embedded reflectometers and compact multichannel designs not only minimises the physical footprint of testing setups but also simplifies external connections. Enhanced signal accuracy and testing precision streamline processes by eliminating the need for certain external measurement tools, resulting in faster setup times and increased productivity in environments requiring rapid development and high precision. In telecommunications and radar systems, the latest multichannel vector signal generators, now fitting within a sleek 2U rack, can generate signals up to 8.5GHz with a modulation bandwidth of 960MHz per channel, crucial for supporting advanced wireless communications and radar systems.
Optional I/Q modulation inputs enable advanced digital modulation, allowing modulation of carriers from 400MHz to the model’s maximum frequency. An internal noise generator enhances signal complexity and testing versatility. These generators are primed for emerging technological demands, supporting sophisticated techniques like multiple input multiple output (MIMO), beamforming, and multiplexing, ensuring continued relevance and effectiveness in wireless and radar technology advancements. They support various modulation techniques, including AM, FM, ØM, PM, and frequency sweeps, with a standard high-quality oven-controlled crystal oscillator (OCXO) providing exceptional frequency stability and durability, upgradable to a rubidium oscillator for high-precision applications.
Enhancing precision and versatility
The integration of rational approximation frequency synthesis (RAFS) in the latest signal generator models is a significant advancement in frequency synthesis technology. RAFS enables ultra-high-frequency resolution down to 1µHz by utilising smaller integer divisors within a phase-locked loop system, achieving unparalleled accuracy in frequency tuning. Not only does RAFS provide precise frequency control, it also significantly reduces spurious outputs, crucial for sensitive applications spanning from scientific research to sophisticated defence systems, where even minor inaccuracies can lead to significant deviations in results.
Engineered to meet diverse technological requirements, these signal generators offer a range of frequency outputs tailored to various applications. The new R&S SMB100B microwave signal generator from Rohde & Schwarz is available with four frequency options: 8kHz to 12.75GHz, 20GHz, 31.8GHz, and 40GHz. It delivers outstanding output power, superior spectral purity, exceptionally low close-in phase noise, and minimal wideband noise, making it ideal for analogue microwave signal generation.
The base model covers frequencies from DC to 2.025GHz, ideal for general lab and educational use. Advanced models extend capabilities for radar and telecommunications applications, reaching frequencies up to 4.05GHz and 6.075GHz. Optionally, high-end models can utilise a frequency doubler to achieve frequencies up to 8.10GHz, accommodating complex systems. With these enhancements, the latest signal generators support a wide range of applications, showcasing adaptability and driving modern wireless innovations in telecommunications and radar technology.
Performance and control
New signal generators set new standards for signal quality and integrity, offering low error vector magnitude (EVM) and superior adjacent channel power ratio (ACPR). These features ensure the reliability and clarity essential for high stakes testing across multiple industries. With exceptionally low phase noise and the integration of direct digital synthesis (DDS) and custom digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) technology, these generators deliver unparalleled signal fidelity, minimising distortion and maintaining high performance.
Madhukar Tripathi, Associate Director – Business Development & Marketing at Anritsu India Pvt Ltd, informed about the launch of their MG36271A signal generator, designed for high-frequency applications. It delivers phase noise of -136dBc/Hz (typical) and -140dBc/Hz (measured) at 10GHz and 10kHz offset, with low harmonics for exceptional signal purity. With +9dBm output power at 70GHz, this generator meets Q/V band measurement requirements. It offers extensive modulation capabilities and superior frequency stability, making it ideal for aerospace, defence, communications, and research applications.
Rigol DG1022Z signal generators enhance design and portability by introducing USB power and control, eliminating the need for external power supplies. Engineers can fine-tune signals with frequency adjustments down to 100Hz and power increments of 0.5dB. The device supports programmable linear frequency sweeps and fast frequency switching (up to 100 microseconds), making it versatile for complex experiments and dynamic environments.
Connectivity for demanding fields
Designed for versatility, these devices feature dual front-panel outputs covering overlapping frequency ranges, ideal for aerospace and defence applications. Their low phase noise ensures pristine signal quality, critical in high-stakes environments.
The 2024 models of the Rohde & Schwarz SMW200A, Anritsu MG3710A, and Tektronix TSG4100A offer dual outputs with low phase noise and optional enhancements like frequency doublers and differential clock outputs. Their comprehensive connectivity options (GPIB, RS-232, and Ethernet) make them ideal for automated and remote operations across diverse industries.
Adding to their robust functionality, these models offer optional enhancements, such as output frequency doublers and differential clock outputs. These features facilitate precise timing and synchronisation necessary for managing complex setups in specialised testing scenarios. They are equipped with comprehensive connectivity options, including GPIB, RS-232, and Ethernet. This array of connections not only supports seamless integration into automated systems but also enables efficient remote operation capabilities. Such extensive connectivity ensures that these devices can be easily incorporated into diverse operational frameworks, enhancing their utility and flexibility in various technological landscapes.
The trajectory of signal generators within the realms of telecommunications, defense, aerospace, and automotive industries signifies a vibrant era of innovation and growth. The integration of cutting-edge technologies like IoT, 5G, and AI into these devices is revolutionising the way electronic devices are tested and maintained. The emergence of advanced models featuring super-high-frequency signal generators and compact multichannel vector signal generators underscores a shift towards more efficient, precise, and space-conserving testing setups. Leading companies are setting new benchmarks in signal generation that promise to enhance productivity and adaptability across various high-stakes industries. This ongoing evolution not only supports current technological demands but also lays the groundwork for future advancements, ensuring that signal generators remain indispensable tools in the development and maintenance of sophisticated electronic systems.
Akanksha Sondhi Gaur is Senior Technology Journalist at EFY. She has a German patent and brings a robust blend of seven years of industrial and academic prowess to the table. Passionate about electronics, she has penned numerous research papers showcasing her expertise and keen insight.
Nidhi Agarwal is also Senior Technology Journalist at EFY. She is an Electronics and Communication Engineer with over five years of academic experience. Her expertise lies in working with development boards and IoT cloud. She enjoys writing as it enables her to share her knowledge and insights related to electronics with like-minded techies.
