RF Explorer Signal Generator RFE6GEN 23.4MHz-6GHz

RF Explorer Signal Generator (RFE6GEN) - 23.4 MHz to 6 GHz - Australian Local Stock

The RF Explorer Signal Generator (RFE6GEN) is a wideband, fully programmable RF signal source covering an expansive frequency range from 23.4 MHz to 6 GHz without gaps. Designed as a versatile, portable instrument for RF engineers, technicians, and field operators, the RFE6GEN functions as a standalone handheld Continuous Wave (CW) generator, a frequency sweep generator, or a computer-controlled signal source when connected via USB. Housed in a pocket-sized, heavy duty solid aluminium chassis with an internal rechargeable Lithium Polymer battery, it offers exceptional field portability alongside an internal expansion slot for adding future frequency or power module upgrades.

When used alongside an RF Explorer Spectrum Analyser connected to the same PC running free RF Explorer software, the RFE6GEN operates as a high-precision tracking generator. This pairing transforms the two handheld instruments into a complete Scalar Network Analyser (SNA) system, enabling automatic, real-time frequency response sweeps, transmission loss measurements, and filter characterisation without requiring expensive desktop laboratory equipment.

Applications & Practical Uses:

• Scalar Network Analysis (SNA): Pairs with an RF Explorer Spectrum Analyser as a tracking generator to deliver real-time 2-port network analysis, measuring amplitude response, transmission loss, and bandwidth across RF components.
• RF Filter & Component Characterisation: Sweeps filters, diplexers, duplexers, and splitters from 23.4 MHz to 6 GHz to measure insertion loss, pass-band ripple, stop-band rejection, and 3 dB cut-off points.
• Cable & Attenuation Loss Measurement: Accurately measures coaxial cable signal attenuation over distance and tests physical RF attenuators, directional couplers, and switches across VHF, UHF, ISM, cellular, and microwave bands.
• Receiver Front-End Calibration & Alignment: Injects clean reference signals into radio receivers, transceivers, and telemetry equipment to verify receiver sensitivity, align local oscillators, and trace signal paths in the workshop or field.
• Amplifier Testing & Gain Characterisation: Supplies controlled RF input power levels to low-noise amplifiers (LNAs) and power amplifiers to evaluate frequency response, gain flatness, and signal amplification performance.
• EMC & Shielding Immunity Pre-Testing: Generates localised RF test signals to evaluate electromagnetic shielding effectiveness on circuit boards, electronic enclosures, and cabling prior to formal compliance testing.

Key Features:

• Wideband Frequency Coverage: Continuous frequency generation from 23.4 MHz to 6000 MHz (6 GHz).
• Scalar Network Analyser (SNA) Support: Functions as a tracking generator when paired with an RF Explorer Spectrum Analyser for full 2-port RF component characterisation.
• Internal Programmable Attenuator: Step power control covering -40 dBm to -30 dBm and -10 dBm to 0 dBm in 3 dB steps.
• Expandable Architecture: Features an internal expansion port supporting optional add-on modules for extended frequency coverage or higher output power.
• Long Battery Life: High capacity internal LiPo battery provides 10+ hours of continuous operation, rechargeable via USB.
• Compact Aluminium Enclosure: Pocket-sized, lightweight solid aluminium metal housing built for field and bench use.
• Free Open Source Software: Fully controllable via RF Explorer for Windows, with open-source API libraries for Python and .NET automation.

Technical Specifications:

• Model / Part Number: RFE6GEN
• Frequency Range: 23.4 MHz to 6000 MHz (23.4 MHz - 6 GHz)
• Frequency Resolution / Step Size: 1 kHz
• Frequency Stability: 0.5 ppm
• Temperature Compensation: 0 to 45 °C operating range
• Programmable Output Power: -40 dBm to -30 dBm (in 3 dB steps) and -10 dBm to 0 dBm (in 3 dB steps) via internal attenuator
• Amplitude Accuracy: ±0.5 dB (normalised) or ±3 dB (absolute)
• Measurement Switch Speed: Less than 10 ms
• RF Connector: Standard 50 Ohms SMA female
• Display: 128 x 64 pixel graphic LCD with backlight for indoor and outdoor visibility
• Internal Expansion: Built-in expansion slot for future module upgrades
• Dimensions: 113 x 70 x 25 mm
• Weight: 185 g

Functional Operating Modes:

• CW Signal Generator: Continuous wave signal generation at any user-selected frequency between 23.4 MHz and 6 GHz.
• Tracking Generator: Synchronises with an RF Explorer Spectrum Analyser connected to the same PC for Scalar Network Analysis (SNA).
• Sweep Generator: Automated frequency sweeping between configured start and stop frequencies with selectable step size and dwell time.

Suggested Uses & Applications:

• Measuring and testing RF filters, diplexers, cables, and attenuators in conjunction with a spectrum analyser.
• General purpose RF signal sourcing for bench prototyping, circuit alignment, and field testing.
• Educational RF laboratories and amateur radio frequency alignment.

Getting Started & Battery Charging Tips:

• Initial Charging: Fully charge the internal LiPo battery prior to initial use. Never leave the battery charging unattended.
• Power Switch Requirement: The unit powers on automatically when connected via USB, but the internal battery will only charge when the physical power switch is turned to the "ON" position.
• Software & Driver Downloads: Access manuals, firmware, and software directly from the RF Explorer download area.

Important System Caveats:

• USB Cable Requirement: Standard mini-USB cable is not supplied with this unit and must be acquired separately.
• Unfiltered Baseline Waveform: As a standard baseline generator, output signals above 23.4 MHz are unfiltered squarish waveforms containing harmonics. For applications requiring clean sinusoidal signals with active low pass filtering and higher output power (+18 dBm), refer to the RF Explorer Signal Generator Combo model.