1Overview
The RFS-1000 is a compact, high-performance RF and microwave signal source built for bench testing, automated test systems, and embedded RF development. It pairs precise frequency control and low phase noise with a wide operating range in a rugged, flange-mount enclosure. The form factor suits drop-in use as a local oscillator inside larger systems.
Two models share the same mechanical footprint. The RFS-1220 covers 20 MHz to 22 GHz. The RFS-1420 extends coverage to 42 GHz, spanning satellite and microwave bands from L through Q. Both run on USB-C power and accept USB and Ethernet control over SCPI.
2Key Features
- Wide coverage: 0.1 GHz to 22 GHz, or up to 42 GHz
- Output adjustable up to +15 dBm
- Low phase noise with strong spectral purity
- Precision frequency control
- USB-C powered, compact, rugged flange-mount design
- CW and sweep operation, SCPI over USB and Ethernet
3Frequency & Output Power
The RFS-1220 delivers up to +15 dBm across its range, with a level window from -40 dBm at low band. The RFS-1420 carries that high output to 40 GHz. Power accuracy holds to ±1.0 dB through 20 GHz on both models.
| Model | Frequency | Max output |
|---|---|---|
| RFS-1220 | 20 MHz to 22 GHz | +15 dBm |
| RFS-1420 | 100 MHz to 42 GHz | +15 dBm |
4Phase Noise & Spectral Purity
Phase noise is specified at the top of each model's range, where it is hardest to hold.
| Carrier | Offset | SSB phase noise |
|---|---|---|
| 20 GHz (RFS-1220) | 10 kHz | -92 dBc |
| 40 GHz (RFS-1420) | 10 kHz | -90 dBc |
Harmonics measure < -25 dBc typical on both models.
5Frequency Switching & Agility
The RFS-1000 sets frequency with fine resolution: < 2 Hz on the RFS-1220 and 10 Hz on the RFS-1420. It operates in CW and sweep modes under SCPI control.
6Modulation
Modulation modes are not stated on the published product page.
7Specifications
RFS-1220 (20 MHz to 22 GHz)
| Parameter | RFS-1220 |
|---|---|
| Frequency range | 20 MHz to 20 GHz calibrated, settable to 22 GHz |
| Channels | 1 (single channel) (verify) |
| Output power | -40 to +15 dBm (0 to 13 GHz); -22 to +15 dBm (13 to 22 GHz) |
| Power accuracy | ±1.0 dB typical |
| Phase noise | -92 dBc @ 20 GHz, 10 kHz offset |
| Frequency step / resolution | < 2 Hz |
| Harmonics | < -25 dBc typical |
| Reference | Internal 100 MHz VCXO/TCXO; external 10/100 MHz |
| Operation mode | CW, sweep |
| Control interface | USB and Ethernet, SCPI |
| Power supply | USB-C (5 V, 2.0 A) |
| Connector | 2.92 mm K-connector (3.5 mm SMA compatible) |
| Dimensions | 4.25 W × 2.50 H × 6.75 D in |
| Weight | 1.3 lbs (0.59 kg) |
| Enclosure | Aluminum |
RFS-1420 (100 MHz to 42 GHz)
| Parameter | RFS-1420 |
|---|---|
| Frequency range | 100 MHz to 40 GHz calibrated, settable to 42 GHz |
| Channels | 1 (single channel) (verify) |
| Output power | -20 to +13 dBm (0.1 to 20 GHz); -13 to +15 dBm (20 to 40 GHz) |
| Power accuracy | ±1.0 dB (LF to 20 GHz); ±2.0 dB (20 to 40 GHz) |
| Phase noise | -90 dBc @ 40 GHz, 10 kHz offset |
| Frequency step / resolution | 10 Hz |
| Harmonics | < -25 dBc typical |
| Reference | Internal 100 MHz VCXO/OCXO (±10 ppb stability); external 10/100 MHz |
| Operation mode | CW, sweep |
| Control interface | USB and Ethernet, SCPI |
| Power supply | USB-C (5 V, 2.0 A) |
| Connectors | 2.92 mm K-connector (3.5 mm SMA compatible); 2.4 mm K-connector |
| Dimensions | 4.25 W × 2.50 H × 6.75 D in |
| Weight | 1.3 lbs (0.59 kg) |
| Enclosure | Aluminum |
8Interfaces & Form Factor
Both models are controlled over USB and Ethernet using SCPI. Power arrives over a single USB-C connector at 5 V, 2.0 A. The enclosure is machined aluminum measuring 4.25 by 2.50 by 6.75 inches and weighing 1.3 lbs, with a flange-mount face for system integration.
RF output uses a 2.92 mm K-connector that mates with 3.5 mm SMA. The RFS-1420 adds a 2.4 mm K-connector for its upper band. Reference in and out support 10 and 100 MHz.
9Options & Configurations
The series ships in two factory configurations, the RFS-1220 and the RFS-1420, distinguished by frequency coverage and connector set.
10Applications
- Automated test environments and production verification
- Antenna design and EMC testing
- Aerospace and defense research
- Wireless infrastructure design
- Satellite band coverage: L, S, C, X, Ku, Ka, and Q band
- Local oscillator for system integration
11Ordering
Specify the model by frequency coverage. To request a configuration or a quote, contact Berkeley Nucleonics.
| Model | Coverage |
|---|---|
| RFS-1220 | 20 MHz to 22 GHz CW and sweep source |
| RFS-1420 | 100 MHz to 42 GHz CW and sweep source |
Berkeley Nucleonics Corporation · info@berkeleynucleonics.com · 800-234-7858