Model 871 Single & Multi-Channel Signal Generator

1Overview

The Model 871 is the widest multichannel microwave source Berkeley Nucleonics builds. It delivers phase-coherent generation in single- or multi-channel configurations of up to four channels, reaching 51 GHz with consistent phase alignment between outputs. The series targets work where precise power control, clean signals, and tight inter-channel phase matter as much as raw frequency reach.

Each channel pairs a built-in OCXO with a wide, accurately leveled power range and fast 10 µs switching. Two dedicated 3 GHz high-frequency clock ports let multiple channels and multiple units lock together for phased-array and beamforming work. The instrument ships as a compact desktop unit or a 19-inch 2U rack chassis holding up to four channels.

2Key Features

• Coverage from 1 kHz to 51 GHz with 10 µs frequency switching (option FS).
• Phase-coherent generation across one to four channels with consistent phase alignment.
• Built-in OCXO for accurate, stable frequency control.
• Wide, accurately leveled output power range with 0.01 dB resolution.
• Strong spurious and harmonic suppression with superior phase noise.
• Two 3 GHz clock ports (input and output) for multi-channel and multi-unit phase alignment.
• User-programmable external reference from 1 to 250 MHz; standard 10/100 MHz inputs.
• Sweep and trigger functions for swept and stepped measurements.
• Touch-display control, PC GUI software, and a customer-accessible API.
• Programming examples in MATLAB, LabVIEW, and C++.
• Desktop or 19-inch 2U rack-mount housing with low power consumption.

3Frequency & Output Power

Frequency reach is set by model variant. The 871-50 extends to 51 GHz and, with option 1K, starts as low as 1 kHz. Output power is leveled across the band, and mechanical step attenuators extend the floor to -120 dBm per channel.

4Phase Noise & Spectral Purity

The 871 is built for low phase noise, with enhanced close-in options (LN and LN plus) for the most demanding sources. Per-offset phase noise figures are published in the released datasheet PDF rather than the product page.

5Modulation

The 871 generates pulse and CW signals as standard. Analog amplitude, frequency, and phase modulation are added with the MOD option, and a dedicated PULSE option covers pulse modulation. Vector modulation is not described on the product page.

6Frequency Switching & Sweep

Standard configurations switch frequency quickly, and option FS brings switching down to 10 µs for fast swept and stepped tests. Sweep modes cover frequency, list, phase, and power. Option PHS adds phase-coherent switching for multi-channel synchronization.

7Specifications

8Interfaces & Form Factor

Control is local through a touch display or remote through the PC GUI and a SCPI 1999 command set. Ethernet and USB are standard; GPIB is optional. A customer-accessible API and MATLAB, LabVIEW, and C++ examples support custom integration into automated test systems.

The 871 housing is a compact desktop unit or a 19-inch 2U rack chassis. Multi-channel builds of up to four channels share the rack form factor, with rear-panel clock ports for inter-unit synchronization.

9Options & Configurations

10Applications

• Automated test equipment and high-volume production testing.
• R&D low-noise signal source and signal simulation.
• Defense and aerospace, service and maintenance.
• Phased-array radar testing and beamforming networks.
• MIMO system validation and multi-channel receiver development.
• Electronic warfare simulation.

11Ordering

Specify the frequency variant (871-12, 871-20, 871-40, or 871-50), channel count, and options when requesting a quote. For configuration help, pricing, or a demonstration, contact Berkeley Nucleonics.