RF Explorer Signal Generator Combo 100kHz-6GHz

RF Explorer Signal Generator Combo (100 kHz to 6 GHz) - Australian Local Stock

Description
The RF Explorer Signal Generator Combo is a major advancement over basic baseline RF generators, incorporating active harmonic filtering, high-performance output amplifiers, and fine amplitude adjustment across an ultra-wide frequency range from 100 kHz to 6 GHz without gaps. Unlike basic unfiltered signal generators that output squarish waveforms heavy in unwanted harmonics, the Signal Generator Combo delivers a clean, filtered sinusoidal signal. Enclosed in a rugged, pocket-sized solid aluminium chassis, this portable generator operates as a CW signal generator, frequency sweep generator, or tracking generator when paired with an RF Explorer Spectrum Analyser.

Key Features:

• Ultra-Wide Frequency Range: Continuous coverage from 100 kHz to 6000 MHz with no frequency gaps.
• Harmonic Filtering: Integrated low pass filtering delivers clean sinusoidal output signals with significantly reduced harmonic distortion.
• Precise Amplitude Adjustment: Fine power control with 0.25 dB resolution across the calibrated output range.
• High Output Power: High-performance internal amplifier delivering up to +18 dBm output power.
• Internal Rechargeable Battery: Integrated high capacity LiPo battery providing 10+ hours of continuous runtime, rechargeable via standard USB.
• Rugged Enclosure: Pocket-sized, lightweight design built with a durable solid aluminium metal housing.
• Comprehensive Software Suite: Includes free RF Explorer for Windows software for CW control, frequency sweeps, and Tracking Scalar Network Analyser (SNA) functionality.
• Open Source API: Automation libraries available in Python and .NET with a free USB API for custom software integration.
• Free Firmware Updates: Lifetime free firmware upgrades with ongoing community-requested feature enhancements.

Technical Specifications:

• Frequency Range: 100 kHz to 6000 MHz (100 kHz - 6 GHz)
• Calibrated Amplitude Range: -40 to +10 dBm
• Uncalibrated Extended Amplitude Range: -60 to +18 dBm
• Amplitude Resolution: 0.25 dB step size over calibrated range
• Amplitude Accuracy: ±2 dB (typical across most frequency and power ranges)
• Frequency Step / Resolution: 1 kHz
• Frequency Stability: 0.5 ppm
• Temperature Compensation: 0 to 45 °C operating range
• RF Output Impedance: 50 Ohms (Standard SMA female connector)
• Spurious Output: Internal fractional PLL configuration (typically -50 dBc or less)
• Harmonics: Typical values of -40 dBc for 2nd harmonic, -50 dBc for 3rd and higher harmonics
• Measurement Switch Speed: Less than 10 ms
• Display: 128 x 64 pixel graphic LCD with backlight for indoor and high contrast outdoor visibility
• Compliance: CE / FCC / RoHS compliant

Functional Operating Modes:

• CW Signal Generator: Continuous wave signal generation at any user-defined frequency from 100 kHz to 6 GHz.
• Tracking Generator: Works in combination with an RF Explorer Spectrum Analyser on the same PC to perform Scalar Network Analysis (SNA) for measuring filters, cables, and amplifiers.
• Sweep Generator: Automated frequency sweeping between designated start and stop frequencies with configurable step resolution and speed.

Suggested Uses & Applications:

• Field testing, antenna tuning, and wireless signal path debugging across VHF, UHF, cellular, and Wi-Fi bands.
• Scalar Network Analyser (SNA) tracking generator setup for characterising RF filters, attenuators, and coaxial cables.
• General purpose laboratory RF signal source for EMC pre-compliance testing and educational experimentation.

Getting Started & Battery Charging Tips:

• Initial Battery Charge: Fully charge the internal LiPo battery before initial field use. Units are shipped with a partial storage charge to preserve battery shelf life. Never charge the device unattended.
• Power Switch Requirement: The device automatically powers on when connected via USB, but the internal battery will only charge when the physical battery power switch is set to the "ON" position.
• Software & Driver Downloads: Access manuals, firmware, and software directly from the RF Explorer download area.

Important System Caveats:

• Spur Thresholds: Internal fractional synthesis architecture may create minor spurs (typically -50 dBc or lower) at specific frequency combinations.
• Calibrated vs Extended Range: Output settings between -40 dBm and +10 dBm are factory calibrated. Output power levels above +10 dBm (up to +18 dBm) or below -40 dBm (down to -60 dBm) operate in uncalibrated extended mode.

Signal Generation Comparison:

Comparison between RF Explorer Signal Generator Combo filtered sinusoidal output (red) and standard unfiltered RFE6GEN output (blue).