Hauppauge, NY — Narda, an L-3 Communications company, has introduced the Model 10512 programmable signal source that digitally creates frequency-modulated "noise" waveforms and applies them to a carrier whose center frequency can be varied ±50 MHz in less than 100 ns. Its characteristics make it well suited for use as a fast-hopping signal generator, programmable noise source, or arbitrary signal generator.
Characteristics of the waveforms generated by the Model 10512, such as video bandwidth, dispersion bandwidth (to 400 MHz), and power level, can be programmed by the user or remotely by a host system. The waveforms include ramp, sinusoidal, triangle, square wave, and random, among others. The standard model operates to 3 GHz but much higher frequency ranges are available. It consumes only 11 W, measures 10.2 (L) x 10.2 (W) x 1.5 cm (H) or 4 x 4 x 0.6 inches, weighs less than 28 grams, and is rugged enough to meet military specifications for shock and vibration.
The programmable signal source employs two VCOs and a high-speed, PIN-diode-based single-pole, double-throw switch that allows it to change from one frequency to another at extremely high speed. One VCO can operate at one frequency in a band while the other is "staged" to operate at a higher frequency. By "ping-ponging" the two VCOs, it is possible to hop between frequencies much faster than by retuning a single VCO. While the tuning time for a single VCO is less than 100 ns, switching time between two retuned VCOs via the high-speed switch is less than 15 ns.
For adjusting signal amplitude, each channel utilizes a digitally-controlled attenuator (DCA) with 63 dB range that is controllable in 1-dB steps. The DCAs settle between any two states in less than 100 ns. The programmable signal source delivers +16 dBm RF output power with a 1-dB gain compression point of +21 dBm. The module exerts real-time control over all signal parameters, maintaining them within tight tolerances over a broad range of operating conditions.
Model 10512 uses an FPGA to enable real-time temperature compensation and linearization. A linearization calibration table is stored for each of eight temperatures over the unit's operating range and a temperature sensor is read once per second. The FPGA performs tune count updates at 60 MSamples/s. The results are interpolated and applied to a digital-to-analog converter (DAC). This approach achieves ovenized-type temperature stability without the size and power consumption of an oven.
Generating the required modulation bandwidth typically requires a video filter whose output is scaled to achieve the required RF bandwidth. To accommodate numerous bandwidths, a switchable bank of filters is required, the output of each filter shaped to obtain uniform power spectral density. Model 10512 uses a digital implementation of this approach. A pseudo-random number generator and linear feedback shift register (LFSR) generate a digital random sequence. The long LFSR output is passed through a digital low-pass filter bank and shaping is applied to create uniform distribution with a high-speed look-up table. A digital multiplier block provides programmable frequency excursions.
The standard Model 10512 has a frequency range of 2.8 to 3.2 GHz, but other frequencies can be accommodated well into the millimeter-wave region. Many other electrical and mechanical parameters can also be customized to meet the needs of customer requirements.
Visit ww.nardamicrowave.com/east for further information.
