Professional Applications
Wireless Communications
The USG3045M's precise frequency control, low phase noise, and comprehensive modulation capabilities make it ideal for testing wireless communication systems and components. Engineers can generate the clean signals needed for receiver sensitivity testing, while the modulation functions enable simulation of real-world transmission conditions. The instrument's frequency range covers key wireless bands including cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and IoT standards, providing the versatility required for modern communications development. Whether characterizing RF components like filters and amplifiers or testing complete receiver systems, the USG3045M delivers the signal quality and flexibility needed for accurate wireless communications measurements.
Educational and Research Facilities
For educational and research applications, the USG3045M provides the comprehensive functionality needed to support diverse learning and experimental scenarios. The intuitive interface with clear visual feedback simplifies operation for students, while the professional-grade specifications ensure accurate results for serious research. The integrated function generator and optional pulse capabilities expand the instrument's utility across multiple laboratory applications, from basic RF principles to advanced communications theory. The USG3045M's affordability combined with its feature set makes it an excellent choice for equipping educational laboratories where budgets are constrained but performance requirements remain high.
Production Testing
In production environments, the USG3045M's automation capabilities and signal stability make it an excellent choice for quality assurance and validation testing. The comprehensive remote control options via LAN, USB, or optional GPIB support seamless integration into automated test systems. Fast frequency and amplitude switching speeds minimize test time, increasing throughput in high-volume manufacturing applications. When equipped with the optional power meter option, the system provides closed-loop verification of RF parameters, ensuring consistent test conditions across production batches. These capabilities make the USG3045M particularly valuable for manufacturing tests of RF modules, wireless devices, and communication equipment.
General RF Development
RF engineers developing filters, amplifiers, mixers, and other components rely on the USG3045M's signal quality and measurement capabilities to characterize device performance. The low phase noise and harmonic content ensure measurements reflect true device characteristics rather than signal generator artifacts. Sweep functions streamline frequency response measurements, while the optional power meter option provides immediate verification of gain or loss figures. The instrument's comprehensive frequency coverage from 9 kHz to 4.5 GHz encompasses most standard RF development applications, making it a versatile tool for general RF engineering tasks from initial prototyping through final validation.
USG3000M Series Model Comparison
The USG3000M series offers multiple models to address specific RF testing requirements. The series includes models with different frequency ranges and output power capabilities, allowing you to select the instrument that best meets your application needs and budget constraints.
Model Variants and Key Differences
The USG3000M series includes four main models. The USG3045M and USG3045M-P cover frequencies up to 4.5 GHz, while the USG3065M and USG3065M-P extend coverage to 6.5 GHz. The "-P" designation indicates models equipped with a mechanical attenuator, which provides higher maximum output power and improved level stability for applications requiring stronger signals.
| Feature |
USG3045M |
USG3045M-P |
USG3065M |
USG3065M-P |
| Frequency Range |
9 kHz to 4.5 GHz |
9 kHz to 4.5 GHz |
9 kHz to 6.5 GHz |
9 kHz to 6.5 GHz |
| Mechanical Attenuator |
No |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
| Maximum Output Power (250 MHz to 1.2 GHz) |
+20 dBm |
+24 dBm |
+20 dBm |
+24 dBm |
| Maximum Output Power (1.2 GHz to 3.6 GHz) |
+18 dBm |
+22 dBm |
+18 dBm |
+22 dBm |
| Maximum Output Power (3.6 GHz to 4.5/6.5 GHz) |
+15 dBm |
+20 dBm |
+15 dBm |
+20 dBm |
| SSB Phase Noise at 1 GHz, 20 kHz offset (Typ.) |
-122 dBc/Hz |
-122 dBc/Hz |
-122 dBc/Hz |
-122 dBc/Hz |
| Step Attenuator |
Electronic (0 to 110 dB) |
Mechanical (0 to 110 dB) |
Electronic (0 to 110 dB) |
Mechanical (0 to 110 dB) |
| SWR (1.0 GHz to Max. Freq.) |
< 1.8:1 |
< 1.6:1 |
< 1.8:1 |
< 1.6:1 |
Selecting the Right Model
When choosing between USG3000M series models, consider these factors to determine which variant best meets your requirements:
Frequency Requirements
If your applications only require signals up to 4.5 GHz, the USG3045M models offer excellent value. For higher frequency applications including 5 GHz Wi-Fi bands, 5G sub-6 GHz testing, or other systems operating between 4.5 and 6.5 GHz, select the USG3065M models.
Output Power Needs
The "-P" models with mechanical attenuators provide up to 4 dB more output power, making them ideal for:
- Testing high-attenuation systems
- Driving power amplifiers
- Compensating for lossy test setups
- Applications requiring stronger signals
The standard models with electronic attenuators offer excellent performance for most general-purpose applications at a more economical price point.
Common Options for All Models
All USG3000M series models support the same set of optional capabilities:
- USG3000M-PM: Pulse modulation with 80 dB on-off ratio
- USG3000M-PG: Narrow pulse generator (20 ns minimum width)
- USG3000M-PK: Power meter option
- USG3000M-GPIB: GPIB interface for legacy systems
Application-Specific Recommendations
Wireless Communications Testing
For 2.4 GHz applications (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee), the USG3045M provides complete coverage. For 5 GHz Wi-Fi and similar bands, choose the USG3065M. If you're testing receivers through lossy fixtures or conducting sensitivity measurements that require stronger signals, select a "-P" model.
Educational and Research
For university labs and educational settings, the USG3045M offers the best value for most RF teaching applications. The USG3065M should be considered when training involves 5 GHz wireless systems.
Radar and Pulse Applications
If your work involves radar systems or precise pulse generation, any model can be equipped with the USG3000M-PM and USG3000M-PG options. The "-P" models are recommended if higher power pulses are required, as they provide 4-5 dB more output power at higher frequencies.
Production Testing
For automated test systems, all models offer similar remote control capabilities. Select the model that matches your frequency and power requirements. Adding the USG3000M-PK power meter option is recommended for production environments to enable closed-loop verification of power levels.
Cost-Benefit Considerations
The USG3000M series is designed to provide optimal price-performance ratios across the range of models:
- USG3045M: Best value for applications below 4.5 GHz with standard power requirements
- USG3045M-P: Optimal for applications below 4.5 GHz requiring higher output power
- USG3065M: Most economical solution for applications requiring frequencies up to 6.5 GHz
- USG3065M-P: Premium solution with maximum frequency range and output power
Each model delivers professional-grade performance, with the primary differences being frequency range and output power capabilities.