What is the difference between standard models and the high-power '23' models?

Models ending in 23, such as the `83623A` and `83623B`, are high-power versions that deliver up to +17 dBm of maximum leveled output power, compared to the standard +13 dBm provided by the `83620A` and `83620B` models.

Which models support continuous-wave (CW) sweeping without modulation?

The L-series models, including the `83630L` and `83640L`, are designed specifically as synthesized swept-CW microwave signal generators, providing calibrated power and fast sweeps without complex modulation.

How can the frequency resolution of an 8360 series generator be improved?

The standard frequency resolution is 1 kHz. Specifying Option 008 upgrades the instrument to a high-resolution 1 Hz step size.

Keysight 8360 Series Swept Signal Generators

11 models with full specifications from Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP).

The Keysight Technologies (formerly Agilent HP) 8360 Series consists of high-performance synthesized swept signal generators and swept-CW microwave sources. Designed for RF and microwave test applications, these instruments merge the frequency precision of a synthesized source with the sweep speed and versatility of an analog oscillator. The series includes the standard B-series sweeper models, the legacy A-series, and the L-series swept-CW models. Depending on the specific configuration, frequency limits extend from 10 MHz up to 20 GHz, 26.5 GHz, 40 GHz, or 50 GHz. This page outlines the functional divisions, frequency limits, modulation choices, and power characteristics of the series to assist engineers and technical buyers in choosing the correct model for their test environment.

Frequency Range: 10 MHz to 50 GHz
Output Impedance: 50 Ω
SSB Phase Noise: < -80 dBc/Hz @ 10 GHz (10 kHz offset)
Standard Frequency Resolution: 1 kHz (1 Hz with Option 008)
Remote Interface: GPIB

Models in this series

Model	Type	Frequency Range	Interfaces	Operating Temperature
83650B	Sweepers	10 MHz to 50 GHz	GPIB	0 to 55 °C
83640B	Sweepers	10 MHz - 40 GHz	HP-IB (GPIB)	0 to 55 °C
83620B	Sweepers	10 MHz to 20 GHz	GPIB (IEEE-488)	0 to 55
83623B	Sweepers	10 MHz - 20 GHz	GPIB	0 to 55 °C
83630B	Sweepers	10 MHz - 26.5 GHz	GPIB (IEEE-488)	0 to 55
83640A	Sweepers	10 MHz - 40 GHz	GPIB	0 to 55
83620A	Sweepers	10 MHz - 20 GHz	GPIB (IEEE-488)	0 to 55
83650A	Sweepers	10 MHz to 50 GHz	HP-IB (IEEE-488)	0 to 55
83623A	Sweepers	10 MHz - 20 GHz	GPIB (HP-IB)	0 to 55
83640L	CW	10 MHz – 40 GHz	GPIB (IEEE‑488)	—
83630L	CW	10 MHz to 26.5 GHz	GPIB (IEEE-488)	0 to 55 °C

Series Categorization and Capabilities

The 8360 series is split into three core design categories based on modulation capabilities and hardware generation:

B-Series (83620B, 83623B, 83630B, 83640B, 83650B): This generation supports complex pulse, amplitude (AM), and frequency (FM) modulation. They are general-purpose synthesized sweepers used for receiver characterization, component testing, and radar emulation.
A-Series (83620A, 83623A, 83640A, 83650A): This legacy line provides synthesized sweeping and modulation options equivalent to the B-series, serving as reliable choices for existing systems and setups requiring AM, FM, and pulse modulation.
L-Series (83630L, 83640L): The L-series consists of synthesized swept-CW microwave signal generators. These models lack standard internal modulation, making them optimal for swept-CW stimulus, passive component characterization, and applications where complex modulation is not required.

Frequency Coverage and Connector Types

Selecting a model within the series is primarily determined by the required frequency range and the mating connector system:

20 GHz Models: The 83620A, 83620B, 83623A, and 83623B cover 10 MHz to 20 GHz and utilize a 3.5 mm male RF output connector.
26.5 GHz Models: The 83630B and 83630L cover 10 MHz to 26.5 GHz and use a 3.5 mm male RF output connector.
40 GHz Models: The 83640A, 83640B, and 83640L operate from 10 MHz to 40 GHz. The 83640A and 83640B feature 2.4 mm male RF output connectors, while the swept-CW 83640L has a front-panel 2.4 mm female connector.
50 GHz Models: The broadband 83650A and 83650B cover 10 MHz to 50 GHz, utilizing 2.4 mm male RF output connectors.

Leveled Output Power and Options

Standard models in this series, such as the 83620B, 83620A, and 83630L, support a standard leveled output range down to -20 dBm. Adding Option 001 (an internal step attenuator) extends the minimum settable or leveled output power down to -110 dBm, which is essential for low-level receiver sensitivity tests.

For high-power testing, the 83623A and 83623B provide a higher calibrated maximum leveled output power of +17 dBm up to 20 GHz. This is a significant increase over the +13 dBm maximum of the standard 83620A and 83620B models. Broadband units experience power roll-off at higher frequencies; for example, the 83650A delivers a maximum leveled output of +10 dBm under 26.5 GHz, +5 dBm up to 40 GHz, and +2.5 dBm above 40 GHz.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between standard models and the high-power '23' models?: Models ending in 23, such as the `83623A` and `83623B`, are high-power versions that deliver up to +17 dBm of maximum leveled output power, compared to the standard +13 dBm provided by the `83620A` and `83620B` models.
Which models support continuous-wave (CW) sweeping without modulation?: The L-series models, including the `83630L` and `83640L`, are designed specifically as synthesized swept-CW microwave signal generators, providing calibrated power and fast sweeps without complex modulation.
How can the frequency resolution of an 8360 series generator be improved?: The standard frequency resolution is 1 kHz. Specifying Option 008 upgrades the instrument to a high-resolution 1 Hz step size.