1Overview
The Model 835 is a low-noise, fast-switching analog RF signal generator covering 9 kHz to 6.1 GHz. It is designed as a cost-effective alternative to high-end units, pairing a stabilized OCXO and sub-Hertz frequency resolution with an extensive modulation suite. The compact chassis draws only 12 watts, and optional battery modules make it practical for portable field work.
Three frequency builds match the instrument to the job: the 835-2 reaches 2 GHz, the 835-4 reaches 4 GHz, and the 835-6 covers the full 6.1 GHz span. A single channel keeps the design simple and the price accessible for R&D benches, education labs, and production test.
2Key Features
- Fast switching. 400 microsecond frequency switching time.
- Low phase noise. Excellent SSB phase noise across the band.
- Comprehensive modulation. AM, FM, PM, and high-speed pulse modulation.
- Flexible remote control. LAN and USB standard, GPIB optional.
- USB power sensor input for direct power measurement.
- Trigger and sweep modes for automated test sequences.
- Compact and low-power. 12 watt consumption with optional battery operation.
3Frequency & Output Power
The Model 835 tunes with 0.001 Hz resolution. Choose the build that matches your top frequency:
| Build | Frequency Range |
|---|---|
| 835-2 | 9 kHz to 2.0 GHz |
| 835-4 | 9 kHz to 4.0 GHz |
| 835-6 | 9 kHz to 6.1 GHz |
Standard leveled output power runs from -30 to +17 dBm with 0.01 dB resolution and better than 0.8 dB power accuracy. The PE3 mechanical step attenuator extends the lower limit to -120 dBm for receiver sensitivity testing.
4Phase Noise & Spectral Purity
SSB phase noise measured at 1 GHz:
| Offset from carrier | SSB phase noise (1 GHz) |
|---|---|
| 10 Hz | -80 dBc/Hz |
| 1 kHz | -117 dBc/Hz |
| 20 kHz | -128 dBc/Hz |
| 100 kHz | -130 dBc/Hz |
| 1 MHz | -135 dBc/Hz |
| 10 MHz | -150 dBc/Hz |
5Modulation
The Model 835 supports AM, FM, PM, pulse, and chirp modulation. An optional avionics modulation package (VOR/ILS) is available for navigation-signal simulation, and a narrow-pulse option sharpens the pulse path.
- AM amplitude modulation.
- FM frequency modulation.
- PM phase modulation.
- Pulse high-speed pulse modulation.
- Chirp swept-frequency stimulus.
- Avionics (option AVIO) VOR/ILS modulation.
6Frequency Switching & Sweep
Frequency switching time is 400 microseconds. List, frequency, and power sweeps support automated measurement, and the trigger modes coordinate the generator with external instruments.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Switching speed | 400 µs |
| Sweep modes | List, Frequency, Power |
7Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency range | 835-2: 9 kHz to 2.0 GHz; 835-4: 9 kHz to 4.0 GHz; 835-6: 9 kHz to 6.1 GHz |
| Channels | 1 (single channel) |
| Frequency resolution | 0.001 Hz |
| Output power range | -30 to +17 dBm (-120 to +16 dBm with PE3 option) |
| Power resolution | 0.01 dB |
| Power accuracy | <0.8 dB |
| Switching speed | 400 µs |
| Phase noise @ 1 GHz (10 Hz) | -80 dBc/Hz |
| Phase noise @ 1 GHz (1 kHz) | -117 dBc/Hz |
| Phase noise @ 1 GHz (20 kHz) | -128 dBc/Hz |
| Phase noise @ 1 GHz (100 kHz) | -130 dBc/Hz |
| Phase noise @ 1 GHz (1 MHz) | -135 dBc/Hz |
| Phase noise @ 1 GHz (10 MHz) | -150 dBc/Hz |
| Harmonics | (verify) |
| Spurious | (verify) |
| Modulation types | AM, FM, PM, Pulse, Chirp |
| Sweep modes | List, Frequency, Power |
| Remote control / interfaces | Ethernet, USB, GPIB (optional) |
| Control protocol | SCPI v1999 |
| Form factor | Benchtop (optional 19-inch 1U rackmount, OEM board-level) |
| Dimensions | 6.77 x 10.63 x 4.21 in (172 x 250 x 106 mm) |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg) |
| Shipping dimensions | 18 x 12 x 9 in |
| Shipping weight | 10 lbs |
| Power consumption | 12 watts |
| Power supply | (verify) |
8Interfaces & Form Factor
The Model 835 is a compact benchtop instrument. Remote control follows SCPI v1999 over Ethernet and USB, with GPIB available as an option. A USB power sensor input supports direct power measurement at the device under test.
For rack integration, the 1URM option adds a 19-inch 1U chassis and the REAR option relocates the output to the rear panel. An OEM board-level package is available for embedded integration.
9Options & Configurations
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| -AVIO | Avionics modulation (VOR/ILS) |
| -PE3 | Power extension down to -120 dBm (mechanical step attenuator) |
| -GPIB | GPIB communication port |
| -FILT | Improved harmonic filtering |
| -FLASH | MicroSD card slot |
| -NP | Narrow pulse modulation |
| -1URM | 19-inch 1U rackmount chassis |
| -REAR | Move output to rear (requires -1URM) |
| -OEM | Board-level package |
Accessories
- 19-inch 3U single/dual rackmount kit (P/N 7091)
- Spare power supply (P/N 7134)
- Ruggedized protective bumper (P/N 7144)
10Applications
- Research and development labs
- Education
- Production test and measurement
- Installation and maintenance
- EMC/EMI testing
11Ordering
Specify the frequency build (835-2, 835-4, or 835-6) and append option codes as needed. For a configured quote or a demo unit, contact Berkeley Nucleonics.
| Model | Configuration |
|---|---|
| 835-2 | 9 kHz to 2.0 GHz, single channel |
| 835-4 | 9 kHz to 4.0 GHz, single channel |
| 835-6 | 9 kHz to 6.1 GHz, single channel |
Berkeley Nucleonics Corporation · info@berkeleynucleonics.com · 800-234-7858
