SynthUSB3 12.5MHz 6.4GHz RF Signal Generator

The Windfreak Technologies SynthUSB3 is a pocketable 12.5MHz to 6.4GHz software tunable RF signal generator and frequency sweeper that can be controlled and powered by any device running Windows, Linux or Android via its USB port. The SynthUSB3 also has nonvolatile flash memory on-board so it can be programmed to operate by itself without requiring a PC connection on any frequency, power, sweep or modulation setting (and combinations thereof). This provides a highly mobile, low power, light weight solution for a wide range of RF signal generation needs. 

The user-friendly GUI application provided, written in LabVIEW™, is designed to provide desktop instrument performance at fraction the cost of a standalone instrument.  Data can be entered on the screen either with the touch pad, knob or directly with the PC’s keyboard or arrow keys.  Power levels are settable in 0.1dBm increments via software, with a maximum output power of 8dBm and minimum of -50dBm.  RF power setting resolution is non-linear with finer resolution at higher output powers. On board calibration is attained through a look-up table unique to each device. Device calibration is performed at the factory and stored in onboard flash memory for the whole range of 12.5MHz to 6.4GHz.  RF frequency accuracy relies on an onboard 2.5ppm 10MHz crystal oscillator.  

The SynthUSB3 was designed to work with a USB 2 port, or a USB 2 cable which can be plugged into either a USB 2 or USB3 port. Use a USB 3 cable only when tapping into the UART and Trigger signals for 3.3V COM port control of the SynthUSB3 with your own microcontroller circuit. Using a USB 3 cable attached to a USB 3 port on a PC may have unknown consequences as the PC is not designed to see the SynthUSB3 UART signals etc. See UART app note for UART usage instructions. A USB 2 to USB 3 breakout adapter board is available for easier access to the UART and Trigger / Modulation connections. UART and Trigger signals are isolated with series 500 ohm resistors to protect hardware.

This device is a versatile generic RF signal generator for test setups, or as a high quality local oscillator in your RF / microwave communication system. Expect excellent performance and high reliability despite the SynthUSB3’s low cost.