The Keysight Technologies (formerly Agilent) N4001A is a high-performance SNS Series smart noise source designed for noise figure measurements from 10 MHz to 18 GHz. With a nominal Excess Noise Ratio (ENR) of 15 dB, it is optimized for general-purpose applications and capable of accurately characterizing devices with noise figures up to 30 dB. The N4001A features an integrated EEPROM that stores calibration data for automatic download to compatible Keysight instruments, as well as a built-in temperature sensor for real-time ENR compensation.
Specifications
General
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Interfaces | Multi-pin SNS smart connector (provides +28 V pulse bias and digital communications) |
Physical
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | +28 V pulsed (supplied by host instrument via SNS cable) |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 55 °C |
RF & Noise Performance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 10 MHz to 18 GHz |
| Nominal Excess Noise Ratio (ENR) | 15 dB |
| Impedance | 50 Ω nominal |
| Noise Figure Measurement Range | Up to 30 dB |
| Maximum VSWR (10 to 1500 MHz) | 1.15:1 |
| Maximum VSWR (1.5 to 3.0 GHz) | 1.15:1 |
| Maximum VSWR (3.0 to 10.0 GHz) | 1.20:1 |
| Maximum VSWR (10.0 to 18.0 GHz) | 1.25:1 |
| Reflection Coefficient (10 to 1500 MHz) | 0.07 |
| Reflection Coefficient (1.5 to 3.0 GHz) | 0.07 |
| Reflection Coefficient (3.0 to 10.0 GHz) | 0.09 |
| Reflection Coefficient (10.0 to 18.0 GHz) | 0.11 |
| Maximum Reverse Power | 1 W |
Power & Pulse Interface
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bias Voltage Range | +28 V ± 1 V |
| Control Interface Type | SNS Smart Interface with automated serial connection |
| EEPROM Storage Capability | Integrated memory holds complete ENR calibration data points |
| Temperature Compensation Sensor | Built-in thermal sensor communicates directly with host instrument for ENR correction |
Connectors & Physical Interfaces
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| RF Output Connector (Standard) | APC 3.5 (m) |
| RF Output Connector (Option 001) | Type-N (m) |
| RF Output Connector (Option 002) | APC 7 |
Metrology & Calibration Data
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Recommended Calibration Cycle | 1 year |
Environmental Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating Altitude | Up to 4,600 m (15,000 ft) |
| Non-Operating Altitude | Up to 15,300 m (50,000 ft) |
General Information
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Standard Warranty | 1 year |
Technology
Solid-state diode noise generation with integrated digital EEPROM and temperature sensor
Applications
RF and microwave noise figure measurements, receiver characterization, amplifier testing