The Keysight (Agilent) 346C is a broadband coaxial noise source operating from 10 MHz to 26.5 GHz with a nominal Excess Noise Ratio (ENR) of 15 dB. It is designed to provide highly accurate noise figure measurements by featuring individually calibrated ENR values at specific frequencies and a low SWR to minimize measurement uncertainty caused by reflections. Option K01 extends the frequency range to 50 GHz using a 2.4 mm connector.
Specifications
Physical
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | 28.0 ± 1.0 VDC (Drive Voltage) |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 55 |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 21 × 30 × 140 |
| Weight | 0.108 |
Frequency & Excess Noise Ratio (ENR) Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 10 MHz to 26.5 GHz (Standard) / 1 to 50 GHz (Option K01) |
| Nominal Excess Noise Ratio (ENR) | 15 dB |
| ENR Calibration Frequencies | Individually calibrated ENR values at specific frequencies |
Impedance & S-Parameter Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Characteristic Impedance | 50 Ω |
| Maximum VSWR (Source ON) | 1.25 (10 MHz to 18 GHz) / 1.35 (18 GHz to 26.5 GHz) |
| Maximum VSWR (Source OFF) | 1.25 (10 MHz to 18 GHz) / 1.35 (18 GHz to 26.5 GHz) |
| Maximum Reverse Power (CW) | 1 W |
Electrical & Power Requirements
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Drive Voltage (ON) | 28.0 ± 1.0 VDC |
| Maximum Drive Current | 60 mA |
Connectors & Interfaces
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| RF Output Connector | 3.5 mm male (Standard) / 2.4 mm male (Option K01) |
| Power/Drive Input Connector | BNC female |
Environmental Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature Range | -55 to +75 °C |
Options & Accessories
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Option K01 | Broadband coverage from 1 to 50 GHz with 2.4 mm (m) coaxial connector |
Power
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Drive Voltage (OFF) | < 1 V |
Performance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| ENR Variation with Temperature | < 0.01 dB/°C |
| ENR Variation with Voltage | < 0.02 dB/V |
Environmental
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating Humidity | Up to 95% RH |
| Operating Altitude | Up to 4,600 m (15,000 ft) |
| Storage Altitude | Up to 15,240 m (50,000 ft) |
Technology
Broadband RF/Microwave Noise Source
Applications
Noise Figure Measurements