Vector Modulator Turns Analog RF Signal Generators Into Digital Models

Said to combine excellent RF accuracy with low adjacent channel power to perform fast tests on mobile handsets, the 2029 vector modulator can convert any analog RF signal generator into a digital signal generator. This reportedly provides OEMs with the means for significantly reducing the cost of converting production-line testing of older wirelesss formats to new digital formats. The unit includes a vector modulator, an arbitrary waveform generator (ARB), and a RF level-control system. The novel, memory-rich ARB can store up to 15 waveforms lasting 80-ms each and has a high, 14-bit sampling rate. By combining the ARB with high performance RF circuits, the 2029 can generate RF signals carrying modulation waveforms representative of 2G, 2.5G and 3G mobile phone technology, such as WCDMA, CDMA2000, IS-95 and GSM. While designed primarily for production testing of digital cell phone handsets, the unit can also be used to test many digital RF systems and components spanning an 800-MHz to 2.51-GHz frequency range. Other 2029 specs include an RF output resolution of 0.01 dB and RF level accuracy (CW) of ±0.5 dB from 18°C to 28°C for CW signals greater than -110 dBm. The instrument measures 107 mm x 419 mm and weighs 10 kg. Price is $15,000 and it is available now. Option 1, a RF combiner, is priced at $800.