VDI Frequency Synthesizer and Frequency Counter

Synthesizer



Features: 

  • 8-20 GHz Synthesizer
  • Fast Switching Speed
  • Frequency Sweeping Capability
  • Excellent Phase Noise Characteristics
  • Software based USB Control
synthpix1

VDI synthesizers were designed specifically for VDI sources and receivers with features targeted for Terahertz applications.  The frequency range of 8-20 GHz and power of 17dBm is compatible with most VDI multiplier chains.  The synthesizer offers competitive phase noise and 20 Hz frequency resolution in a ~6 x 4.5 x 1.5 high package.

The synthesizer frequency can be controlled by a PC through a USB connection with provided software. Stepping the continuous wave frequency using USB commands can be accomplished in 1 ms for step sizes as high as 40 MHz. The frequency can be continuously swept linearly across any portion of the band with resolution better than 20 Hz and step times as low as 4 ns. Phase can be similarly controlled within 0.5 degrees. Frequency step size and step time can be changed to frequency sweep over +/-25 MHz at a rate of 3 kHz and sweep from 8-20 GHz in 170 ms with minimal frequency error. A trigger output signal is provided to synchronize other instruments with the beginning of a sweep.

The synthesizer can be phase locked to a 10 MHz reference or optionally configured for a 100 MHz reference. It can be mounted in a single housing with the VDI multiplier chain or provided separately. The synthesizer is programmed by sending ASCII text commands over the USB, and open source code for the user interface is also provided in Labview 7.0. Customized solutions are available.


VDI Frequency Synthesizer Data Sheet
Bandwidth: 8-20 GHz, SMA
Output power: 16 dBm minimum
Resolution: <20 Hz
Harmonics: -12 dBc
Non-harmonic spurs: <-50 dBc in CW mode
Settling time: 100 kHz step settles to <20 Hz within 50 us
Sweep rate:  
>25 MHz deviation at 14 ms/1 GHz, +/-25 MHz peak deviation at 3 kHz rate. Smaller deviations are proportionally faster up to ~100 kHz maximum rate. Faster rates are possible with frequency error.
Phase step size: < 0.5 degrees
CW Switching time:  < 800 uS communication time (incremental) + settling time + sweep time (USB commands can be repeated every 1 ms.)
Frequency stability: limited by reference oscillator
Frequency repeatability:  limited by reference oscillator
Absolute frequency accuracy:  <10 Hz + reference oscillator error
Reference input: 10 MHz, 10 dBm, SMA, option for 100 MHz
Sweep trigger output: 0-3.3 V digital signal, BNC (transitions high at the beginning of the sweep up and low at the beginning of the sweep down.)
Interface: USB control by ASCII text commands to FTDI chip. Open source code provided for Labview 7.0
Size: L x W x H: ~6.125 x 4.375 x 1.5” excluding connectors, reference oscillator, fan, and external DC power supply
DC Power: +15 V ~3 A, -15 V ~80 mA, Separate DC power supply included with AC wall plug, consumes ~50 W

 

Phase noise @ 16.3 GHz, 10 MHz Reference
phasenoise

 

 

Frequency Counter


Features: 

  • 0.5-20 GHz Frequency Counter
  • Compact
  • Variable Measurement Speed
  • Software control through USB port
  • No wall plug or external power supply needed

 

 

freqctr


VDI frequency counters were designed specifically to measure the fundamental frequencies driving VDI frequency extenders. The design is streamlined to avoid the extra size and cost of unnecessary features. The frequency ranges from 0.5 - 20 GHz for an input power of 0 - 10 dBm. The display resolution is 7 digits, but 32 bits of resolution can be read through a USB cable connected to a PC. The measurement time can be set to make fast measurements with moderate relative accuracy, such as 4 kHz within 100 ms. The unit is small (3.75 x 3.75 x 2”) and is powered through a USB cable connected to a computer without the need for a power supply or wall plug. Software drivers are provided that can be used with most programming languages and open source code for the user interface is also provided in Labview 7.0.

 

VDI Frequency Counter Data Sheet
Bandwidth: 0.5-20 GHz, SMA
Input power: 0-10 dBm
Resolution: 7 digits display, 32 bits through USB
Absolute accuracy: <30 kHz
Relative accuracy: 384/(measurement time (s)) (Hz) + internal clock drift
Ex. 100 ms gives 3.84 kHz measurement
Measurement time: Selectable from 0.4 ms to 26 s, read through USB every 1 ms
Display Calibration Factor: 7 significant digits
Input impedance 50 ohm
Interface: USB control with software for Windows XP. Labview runtime engine 7.0 will be installed. Open source code provided for Labview 7.0.
Size: L x W x H, 3.75 x 3.75 x 2"
Current consumption: 200 mA



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