Analyzer, generator, and test set tackle RF
-- Test & Measurement World, 9/5/2006 4:38:00 AM
Agilent Technologies has introduced a series of instruments aimed at tackling RF measurement chores for R&D and manufacturing applications: the E6601A communications test set, the MXG mid-range signal generators, and the MXA signal-analysis platform.
Targeting high-volume cell-phone manufacturing applications is the E6601A communications test set, which integrates GSM, GPRS/EGPRS, WCDMA, and HSDPA test capability. It features a built-in open Windows XP PC, so users can develop, download, and execute test programs without the need for an external PC. Product manager Dan Aubertin reports that the E6601A operates up to 30% faster than alternative cell-phone test setups. Base price is $27,100.
The new MXG signal generators are mid-range instruments targeting component test, according to product marketing manager Frank Palmer, but he added that they don't scrimp on specs like adjacent channel power, achieving adjacent channel leakage ratios of better than –65 dBc for a four-carrier 3GPP WCDMA signal and –71 dBc for a single-carrier signal. Analog versions operate from 250 kHz to 1 GHz, 3 GHz, and 6 GHz and cost from $6200 to $15,000; vector-signal versions operate from 250 kHz to 3 GHz ($16,000) or 6 GHz ($25,000).
Finally, the MXA signal-analysis platform works with Agilent’s 89601A vector signal-analysis software to make WiMAX and other standards-based measurements. Product manager Ivan Clinton expects the instrument to find equal use in the lab and factory. Optional software provides preconfigured test routines for WiMAX, WCDMA, HSDPA/HSUPA, and phase-noise applications. Four models provide 20 Hz to 3.6 GHz, 8.4 GHz, 13.6 GHz, and 26.5 GHz, with base prices from $25,900 to $42,900.
