R&S®SMB100A

Microwave S­ ignal Generator

Versatile, compact, up to 40 GHz;
170 GHz with upconverter

year

Product Brochure | Version 07.00

R&S®SMB100A Furthermore, the R&S®SMB100A can be ideally used
for m­ easuring the blocking characteristic up to a CW
­frequency of 12.75 GHz, as specified in various telecom-

Microwave munications standards. When it comes to frequently

changing level ­settings, this is the first time that a wear-
free electronic step attenuator is used in this frequency

Signal Generator range.

Four frequency options up to 12.75 GHz, 20 GHz,

At a glance 31.8 GHz and 40 GHz are available to cover the microwave

range. These options are suitable for tests on radar sys-
tems and antennas in the X and K bands, for example for
wideband receiver tests.
The compact, versatile R&S®SMB100A microwave
signal generator with a frequency range up to For even higher frequencies, the frequency range of the
R&S®SMB100A can be easily extended with the R&S®SMZ
40 GHz provides outstanding spectral purity and
frequency multiplier. The R&S®SMB100A plus R&S®SMZ
high output power. In addition, it features easy solution combines easy handling with precise, ­adjustable
operation, comprehensive functionality and low cost output levels in the frequency range from 50 GHz to
of ownership. 110 GHz (adjustable output levels are not possible with
R&S®SMZ170).

The R&S®SMB100A provides microwave characteristics In addition to pure CW signals, the R&S®SMB100A also
that are exceptional in its class, making it an excellent gen- provides the most common analog AM and FM/φM mod-
eral-purpose instrument. These outstanding characteristics ulation modes as standard. Moreover, the R&S®SMB100A
plus its compact size and low weight make the instrument can be equipped with an excellent pulse generator and
ideal for a wide range of applications. The R&S®SMB100A pulse modulator that makes it possible to generate user-
is optimally suited for use in development, production and programmable pulse scenarios, also referred to as pulse
service, or, to put it even simpler: wherever an analog mi- trains.
crowave signal is required.
Key facts
Its wide frequency range covers a large number of chal- ❙❙ Wide frequency range from 100 kHz to 40 GHz
lenging applications. The R&S®SMB100A is the perfect ❙❙ Excellent signal characteristics with low SSB phase noise
choice for applications in the important ISM bands up to of typ. –128 dBc (at 1 GHz, 20 kHz offset)
5.7 GHz. ❙❙ High output power of typ. up to +27 dBm
❙❙ All important analog modulations with AM, FM/φM and
pulse modulation supported
❙❙ Compact size with only two height units and low weight

2
R&S®SMB100A All-purpose signal source
❙❙ Wide frequency range from 100 kHz to 12.75/20/
31.8/40 GHz covering the main frequency bands for

Microwave microwave applications

❙❙ Frequency extension from 50 GHz to 170 GHz in
combination with the R&S®SMZ frequency multiplier

Signal Generator ❙❙ All important analog modulations with AM, FM/φM and
pulse modulation supported
❙❙ Support of R&S®NRP-Zxx power sensors

Benefits and ❙❙ Reverse power protection for high operational reliability

(optionally available for the 12.75 GHz model)
❙❙ Intuitive user interface with graphical display of signal

key features flow for easy operation

❙❙ Remote control via LAN, USB and GPIB including
emulation modes for legacy instruments
❙❙ Low weight and compact design for a wide range of
applications, including mobile applications
▷▷ page 5

Best signal quality in the mid-range

❙❙ Very low SSB phase noise of typ. –128 dBc at 1 GHz and
typ. –108 dBc at 10 GHz carrier frequency
(20 kHz carrier offset, 1 Hz measurement bandwidth)
❙❙ Optional internal low harmonic filters for the 20 GHz
and 40 GHz model to lower the harmonics to less than
–50 dBc for frequencies above 150 MHz
❙❙ Innovative DDS-based synthesizer concept
▷▷ page 7

High output power and wide level range

❙❙ High power over a wide frequency range
❙❙ Low level range down to –120 dBm (for instruments
equipped with step attenuator) with no compromise in
quality
❙❙ High harmonics suppression of < –30 dBc even at high
output power
▷▷ page 9

Ideal for production

❙❙ Wear-free electronic attenuator up to 12.75 GHz ensuring
long life even in the case of heavy use in production
❙❙ High level accuracy and repeatability for high production
yield
❙❙ Closed loop power control ensures highly accurate
and very stable input power to the DUT irrespective of
unwanted power drifts in the test setup (e.g. caused by a
power amplifier in between the signal generator and the
DUT)
❙❙ Short frequency and level settling times which can be
further reduced in List mode
❙❙ Low power consumption
▷▷ page 11

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®SMB100A Microwave ­Signal Generator 3

Frequency extension from 50 GHz to 170 GHz User-defined correction of external frequency
❙❙ R&S®SMB100A signal generator (≥ 20 GHz) plus an responses
external R&S®SMZ frequency multiplier controlled via ▷▷ page 16
USB
❙❙ An internal attenuator (mechanically or electronically Closed loop power control
controlled) can be integrated into the same housing as ▷▷ page 17
the frequency multiplier
▷▷ page 13 Flexible service concept
❙❙ Servicing on-site or at a Rohde & Schwarz service center
Ready for aerospace and defense applications ❙❙ Built-in selftest of modules to support troubleshooting
❙❙ Optional pulse modulator with typ. > 90 dB ON/OFF ­ratio ❙❙ Complete calibration recommended only every three
and rise/fall time of typ. < 5 ns and pulse generator with years
­minimum pulse width of 10 ns for radar system testing ▷▷ page 18
❙❙ Flexible generation of pulse trains for simulating complex
pulse scenarios (optional)
❙❙ Wide temperature range of 0 °C to +55 °C and high
­permissible operating altitude of 4600 m for use even
­under extreme conditions
❙❙ Sanitizing of user data for secured areas
❙❙ High-quality shielding
▷▷ page 14

Hardware and software option concept for the R&S®SMB100A.

The table provides an overview of the frequency ranges as well as of functionalities and options.

Model overview
Frequency range 100 kHz to 12.75 GHz 100 kHz to 20 GHz 100 kHz to 31.8 GHz 100 kHz to 40 GHz
With electronic step attenuator ○ – – –
Without electronic step attenuator ○ – – –
With mechanical step attenuator – ○ ○ ○
Without mechanical step attenuator – ○ – ○
High power ● ○ ○ ○
Low harmonic filter – ○ ○ ○
OCXO reference oscillator 1) ○ ○ ○ ○
OCXO reference oscillator, high performance  1)
○ ○ ○ ○
Reverse power protection ○ – – –
Pulse modulator ○ ○ ○ ○
Pulse generator ○ ○ ○ ○
Pulse train ○ ○ ○ ○

The R&S®SMB100A (20 GHz , 31.8 GHz or 40 GHz model) in combination with one of the R&S®SMZ frequency multipliers below covers the frequency
range from 50 GHz up to 170 GHz.

Model overview
Frequency multiplier R&S®SMZ75 R&S®SMZ90 R&S®SMZ110 R&S®SMZ170
Frequency range 50 GHz to 75 GHz 60 GHz to 90 GHz 75 GHz to 110 GHz 110 GHz to 170 GHz
With mechanically controlled attenuator 2) ○ ○ ○ –
With electronically controlled attenuator  2) ○ ○ ○ –

● Standard
○ Optional
– Not available

Only one of the following options can be installed: R&S®SMB-B1 (OCXO reference oscillator) or R&S®SMB-B1H (OCXO reference oscillator, high performance).
1)

Only one of the following options can be installed: the mechanically or the electronically controlled attenuator.
2)

4
All-purpose Wide frequency range from 100 kHz to 40 GHz
The signal generator’s wide frequency range, high output
power and a wide variety of modulations make it a ­flexible

signal source signal source for a broad scope of a

­ pplications. Its fre-
quency option up to 12.75 GHz covers ISM bands as well
as all important m
­ obile radio bands. In addition, the fre-
quency options up to 20 GHz and 40 GHz cover numerous
microwave applications that ­require high spectral purity
and high output power.

Frequency extension from 50 GHz to 170 GHz

in combination with the R&S®SMZ frequency
multiplier
In the frequency range of 50 GHz to 170 GHz the
R&S®SMB100A in combination with the R&S®SMZ fre-
quency multiplier is the ideal solution. It can be used in
diverse applications, e.g. in the automotive sector with
distance radars, in astronomy with sophisticated tele-
scopes and in radar interferometry for analyzing the earth's
surface.

All important analog modulations with AM,

FM/φM and pulse modulation supported
Pulse-modulated signal measured with the The R&S®SMB100A handles the important analog AM,
R&S®NRP-Z85 wideband power sensor. FM/φM modulation modes and pulse modulation with
excellent characteristics. In AM and FM/φM modulation,
the RF carrier is modulated with the internal LF genera-
tor or also with external signals. The two different sources
of modulation can be internally added to generate two-
tone-modulated signals. Due to its digital modulation pro-
cessing, the R&S®SMB100A implements the modulation
modes with high accuracy and minimum distortion.

Support of R&S®NRP-Zxx power sensors

The R&S®SMB100A supports a wide variety of
R&S®NRP‑Zxx USB power sensors. The R&S®NRP-Z92 is
a power sensor that ideally complements the frequency
and level range of the generator up to 6 GHz. Equipped
with such a power sensor, the R&S®SMB100A fully auto-
Details of the measurement with the R&S®NRP-Z85 matically performs external level correction or precisely
wideband power sensor (peak and average). measures the power in the test setup. The R&S®NRP-Z55
power sensor can be used with the 12.75 GHz, 20 GHz
or 40 GHz frequency option of the R&S®SMB100A for the
same purpose.

Reverse power protection for high operational

reliability
The reverse power protection protects the R&S®SMB100A
from high external voltages and high power at the RF out-
put. This feature shields the RF output against unwanted
high reverse power and ensures a high degree of opera-
tional reliability. The R&S®SMB-B30 reverse power protec-
tion is a
­ vailable for the R&S®SMB-B112/R&S®SMB-B112L
12.75 GHz ­frequency options.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®SMB100A Microwave ­Signal Generator 5

 Intuitive user interface
Intuitive operation via the graphical user interface and the
integrated help system facilitate the optimum use of the
R&S®SMB100A for the application at hand. To support
graphical operation, a mouse can be connected via USB.

Remote control via LAN, USB and GPIB including

emulation modes
The R&S®SMB100A is also ideally equipped with regard to
the remote control interface. In addition to conventional
GPIB, it also supports LAN and USB as standard. This is
especially advantageous in environments such as service
labs where there is often no GPIB.

Signal generators are often used in automated test envi-

ronments. Replacing them, e.g. due to malfunctions or
standard replacement procedures, requires special care.
The replacement part and the replaced part must be com-
patible at least in terms of electrical features and remote
control features. Legacy instruments often use a propri-
etary remote control language. Direct replacement there-
fore requires language emulation capability in the software
of the replacement part. To meet these requirements, the
R&S®SMB100A signal generator comes with a language
emulation feature. By selecting the desired language emu-
lation, the signal generator acts as the original replaced
instrument. The language list already includes a large
number of emulated instruments and will be updated on a
regular basis.

Low weight and compact design

The R&S®SMB100A has a compact size of only two height
units and ¾ 19" width. This form factor plus its low weight
of max. 6.9 kg for the 40 GHz model make it ideal for mo-
bile use. It easily fits in any lab and service center, where
space is often at a premium.

The emulation mode can be set in the ­remote setup menu of the
R&S®SMB100A.

6
Best signal quality Very low SSB phase noise
When it comes to SSB phase noise performance, the
R&S®SMB100A consistently achieves excellent values over

in the mid-range the entire frequency range from from 100 kHz to 40 GHz.
This is due to its remarkable concept. Below 3 GHz, the
R&S®SMB100A works down to 23.3475 MHz with fre-
quency dividers. Below this value, the integrated DDS
Phase noise, harmonics, nonharmonic spurious and synthesizer generates the output signal directly. In contrast
wideband noise are key parameters when it comes to to conventional designs that use a mixer range below ap-
characterizing the spectral properties of analog signal prox. 250 MHz, the innovative ­Rohde & Schwarz solution
generators. Many measurements focus on more than one leads to a much better phase noise performance at low
aspect simultaneously. For example, in blocking measure- frequencies.
ments, nonharmonics together with phase noise are es-
sential in generating the usually unwanted RFI power in The R&S®SMB100A is therefore the ideal replacement
the adjacent channel. in test circuits for fixed-frequency high-end crystal
­oscillators that are often used as a reference signal. The
R&S®SMB100A combines equal or even improved signal
performance with adjustable frequency and adjustable
­level, which is highly beneficial as it can be ideally adapted
to the DUT. Moreover, the R&S®SMB100A makes it pos-
sible to define the DUT tolerance range relative to the
­reference by varying these parameters.

To further improve the close-in phase noise and frequency

stability, two different OCXO reference oscillators are avail-
able as options. Especially the R&S®SMB-B1H offers excel-
lent performance that is unprecedented in this class.

SSB phase noise

–30
40 GHz

–40 20 GHz

10 GHz
–50
6 GHz

3 GHz
–60
1 GHz

–70 100 MHz

10 MHz
–80

–90
SSB phase noise in dBc (1 Hz)

–100

–110

–120

–130

–140

–150 Measured SSB phase noise with

–160
the R&S®SMB-B1H OCXO o
­ ption
1 10 100 1k 10 k 100 k 1M 10 M 30 M
for the 12.75/20/31.8/40 GHz
Frequency offset in Hz
model.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®SMB100A Microwave ­Signal Generator 7

Optional internal low harmonic filters for the Another critical application is the total harmonic distortion
20 GHz and 40 GHz model to lower the harmonics (THD) measurement of a power amplifier. The setup com-
to less than –50 dBc prises a signal generator generating the input signal, the
The harmonics of the R&S®SMB100A microwave signal DUT and a spectrum analyzer for measuring the amplifier
generator can be significantly reduced with the optional performance. Here, the harmonics must be low enough
low harmonic filters (the R&S®SMB-B25 for the 20 GHz to ­ensure that the harmonic distortion of the device ­under
model and the R&S®SMB-B26 for the 40 GHz model). test is measured and not the harmonics of the signal
The low harmonic filter generally improves measurement source. And last but not least: for scalar network analysis,
accuracy in the entire setup for frequencies higher than good dynamic range of the overall setup is essential. Bad
150 MHz. harmonics from the signal source will limit this, since the
harmonics are unintentionally measured, too.
Devices which are affected by bad harmonics are, for ex-
ample, wideband receivers. During blocking tests, the har- Innovative DDS-based synthesizer concept
monics of the signal generator could fall into the desired The R&S®SMB100A superbly handles high signal-quality
band and interfere the measurement result. requirements. Due to its innovative DDS-based synthesizer
concept, the R&S®SMB100A yields unsurpassed values in
all parameters called for in the mid-range, thereby setting
new standards.

SSB phase noise

–10
Standard (f = 1 GHz)
–20
R&S®SMB-B1 (f = 1 GHz)
–30
R&S®SMB-B1H (f = 1 GHz)
Residual (f = 1 GHz)
–40

–50

–60

–70
SSB phase noise in dBc (1Hz)

–80

–90

–100

–110

–120

–130

–140

–150

–160
1 10 100 1k 10 k 100 k 1M 10 M 30 M Measured SSB phase noise with standard reference, the
Frequency offset in Hz

R&S®SMB-B1 option and the R&S®SMB-B1H option.

Harmonics
–10
Harmonic 2f
–20 Harmonic 3f

–30
Harmonics in dBc

–40

–50

–60

–70

–80
0.00 5.00 10.00 15.00 20.00 25.00 30.00 35.00
Harmonics versus carrier f­ requency at +10 dBm output level
Carrier frequency in GHz
with R&S®SMB-B140 option and R&S®SMB-B32 (meas.).

8
High output ­power High power over a wide frequency range
The R&S®SMB100A combines excellent signal quality with
a high output power of > +18 dBm as standard, which

and wide level is unique in this instrument class, over a wide frequency
range of 1 MHz to 12.75 GHz. The maximum available
output power is up to +27 dBm, offering sufficient power

range reserve to easily compensate for level loss in a test setup.

The R&S®SMB-B31 high power option for the 20 GHz
model delivers a specified output power of +19 dBm while
the R&S®SMB-B32 high power option for the 40 GHz
­model achieves +16 dBm over a wide frequency range
up to 20 GHz and 40 GHz, respectively. These values are
even outperformed in overrange. This usually eliminates
the need for an additional external amplifier, which saves
space and also drastically reduces costs for a test system.
In applications, users additionally benefit from the high
level accuracy that the R&S®SMB100A provides – a level
accuracy that is not necessarily provided if an external am-
plifier is used.

Measured maximum output power versus frequency of the R&S®SMB100A 12.75 GHz instrument.

Maximum output power

30

25

20
Level in dBm

15

10

5
0 1 2000 4000 6000 8000 10 000 12000 14 000
RF in MHz

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®SMB100A Microwave ­Signal Generator 9

 Low level range with no compromise in quality
Even in the lower level range, the R&S®SMB100A makes
no compromise in quality. The RF level is specified down
to –120 dBm when a step attenuator is installed. This
makes the generator ideal for sensitivity measurements on
receivers.

High harmonics suppression of < –30 dBc even at

high ­output power
What is special about the R&S®SMB100A is that harmon-
ics are still suppressed with < –30 dBc even at high out-
put power, ideal for amplifier design applications up to
40 GHz. The nonharmonics are even suppressed by e.g.
typ. < –78 dBc at 3 GHz or typ. < –66 dBc at 10 GHz.

Typical measurement of the R&S®SMB100A high-power 20 GHz and 40 GHz models, with and without optional step attenuator.

Maximum output power with high power option

30

25
Level in dBm

20

15

¸SMB-B120L with ¸SMB-B31

10 ¸SMB-B120 with ¸SMB-B31
¸SMB-B140L with ¸SMB-B32
¸SMB-B140 with ¸SMB-B32
5
0 5 10 15 20 52 30 35 40
Frequency in GHz

10
Ideal for production Wear-free electronic attenuator with reverse
­power ­protection
The wear-free electronic attenuator – in the frequency
range up to 12.75 GHz – of the R&S®SMB100A functions
reliably, even if the level values frequently change. As a re-
sult, high availability in the test system is ensured together
with long service intervals even in the case of heavy use
in production. Moreover, the reverse power protection
(optionally available for the 12.75 GHz ­model) shields the
R&S®SMB100A against high reverse power or DC voltage
on the RF line.

Level linearity

0,5

0,4

0,3
Level error in dB

0,2

0,1

–0,1

–0,2

–0,3 f = 2,1 GHz

f = 5,7 GHz
–0,4 f = 12,75 GHz
–0,5 Measured level linearity, ALC ON
–120 –100 –80 –60 –40 –20 0 20
(with the R&S®SMB-B112
Level in dBm
12.75 GHz frequency option).

Level linearity

0,5

0,4

0,3
Level error in dB

0,2

0,1

–0,1

–0,2
f = 10 GHz
–0,3 f = 20 GHz
–0,4 f = 30 GHz
f = 40 GHz Measured level ­linearity, ALC ON
–0,5
(with the R&S®SMB-B140
–120 –100 –80 –60 –40 –20 0 15
Level in dBm 40 GHz frequency option and the
R&S®SMB-B32 high power option).

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®SMB100A Microwave ­Signal Generator 11

High level accuracy and repeatability for high Short frequency and level settling times
­production yield Another criterion in production is the short settling time of
The R&S®SMB100A offers high level accuracy and repeat- the test instrument in order to achieve high throughput.
ability, as well as a very high level sweep range over the The R&S®SMB100A meets this requirement by achiev-
entire range. Measurements within narrow limits can be ing short frequency (< 3 ms) and level (< 2.5 ms) settling
performed with high reproducibility, boosting production times up to 40 GHz. Plus, it features the List mode as stan-
yield. dard, which reduces the settling times to well below 1 ms.
In this mode, settling parameters for the frequency and
Closed loop power control level pairs recorded in a list are precalculated and stored in
Highly accurate and stable power for testing DUTs is a order to speed up switchover.
very important performance requirement in many ap-
plications. The real power directly applied to the DUT Low power consumption
is affected by cables, modules and components inbe- The R&S®SMB100A combines very low power consump-
tween the signal generator and the DUT. By measuring tion and effective heat dissipation. Its power consump-
the incident power to the DUT with a R&S®NRP power tion of only 140 W (40 GHz model) reduces expenditures
sensor and feeding the measurement result back to the for cooling in a production line rack. The efficient design
R&S®SMB100A signal generator, the R&S®SMB100A can of the R&S®SMB100A also has a positive impact on the
compensate for losses or drifts in the entire set up. MTBF.

Frequency settling time

2500

2000

1500
Occurrence

1000

500

0 Measured frequency settling time statistics for remote con-

0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3
trol over 10 000 settings (with the R&S®SMB-B112 ­frequency
Time in ms
option).

12
Frequency The R&S®SMB100A signal generator directly controls the
R&S®SMZ frequency multiplier via USB. This combination
operates as a single unit, allowing users to enter the want-

extension from ed frequency and the target level at the R&S®SMZ output
directly on the R&S®SMB100A.

50 GHz to 170 GHz Compared with conventional setups, this one-box so-

lution significantly simplifies setup and operation. The
R&S®SMB100A receives all necessary data from the con-
nected R&S®SMZ, such as the configuration, the multipli-
Frequencies in the range from 50 GHz to 170 GHz can cation factor and in particular the precalibrated frequency
be easily generated with the R&S®SMB100A signal gen- response. The R&S®SMB100A is able to perform automatic
erator (20 GHz, 31.8 GHz or 40 GHz model) plus an ex- correction, which ensures that the frequency and level
ternal R&S®SMZ frequency multiplier. The frequency values set on the R&S®SMB100A will actually be available
multiplier family consists of the models R&S®SMZ75 at the R&S®SMZ output. Costly, error-prone and time-con-
(from 50 GHz to 75 GHz), R&S®SMZ90 (from 60 GHz to suming level measurement using level detectors or power
90 GHz), R&S®SMZ110 (from 75 GHz to 110 GHz) and sensors, which is common for conventional setups, is no
the R&S®SMZ170 (from 110 GHz to 170 GHz). In order longer required.
to change the output power of the frequency multiplier,
an additional attenuator is necessary (not available for Signals in the frequency range from 50 GHz to 170 GHz
R&S®SMZ170). For simpler handling, the attenuator is inte- are used in both the civil sector and in aerospace & defense
grated into the same housing as the frequency multiplier. applications. Here, the R&S®SMB100A microwave signal
generator in combination with the R&S®SMZ frequency
multiplier is mainly used as a local oscillator (LO). An ­ideal
CW signal with high spectral purity and an accurate level
is required. The easiest way to obtain this signal is to use
the R&S®SMB100A plus the R&S®SMZ frequency multi-
plier with built-in electronically controlled attenuator: The
frequency and the level are set on the R&S®SMB100A and
measurement can begin immediately.

Test setup containing the R&S®SMB100A microwave signal generator (20 GHz or 40 GHz model) and the
R&S®SMZ110 frequency multiplier with built-in electronically controlled attenuator.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®SMB100A Microwave ­Signal Generator 13

Ready for Optional high-performance pulse modulator and
pulse generator
Pulsed signals are frequently required in aerospace and

­aerospace defense applications to test radar systems. To meet this

need, the R&S®SMB100A can be equipped with an inte-
grated pulse modulator (R&S®SMB-K21) and a pulse gen-

and ­defense erator (R&S®SMB-K23) with superb characteristics such as

a minimum pulse width of 10 ns for radar system testing.
The pulse modulator, for example, makes it possible to

applications perform radar tests with a high ON/OFF ratio of > 80 dB
and very short rise/fall times of typ. < 5 ns. The pulse mod-
ulator is either controlled by an external pulse signal or it
is supplied with single or double pulses or pulse trains as
modulation signals by the internal pulse generator.

Pulse train: combination of ­pulses with

different pulse widths and pulse pauses.

Editing pulse train data. Diagram of the pulse train.

14
Versatile pulse trains Sanitizing of user data for secured areas
An optional feature of the built-in pulse generator is the To meet requirements for secured areas, an erase and
possibility to generate pulse trains (R&S®SMB-K27 option), sanitize procedure has been developed that reliably erases
which are commonly used for radar applications. An ex- user data from the instrument. This ensures that no sensi-
ample of a pulse train is shown in the figure on the left. In tive data will leave the secured area. Moreover, LAN and
contrast to a single or double pulse, a pulse train is a com- USB ports can be disabled by means of a security pass-
bination of different pulses, which can be a periodical or word and the display can be disabled as well.
non-periodical set of pulses. Pulse width and pulse pause
can be set independently and separately for each pulse. High-quality shielding
This makes it possible to generate staggered pulses or to Sensitivity measurements on low-noise satellite receivers
apply jitter to pulse width and pulse pause. Up to 2047 can only be made with RF-leakage-proof signal sources.
different pulses with a repetition of 1 to max. 65 535 are The comprehensive shielding of the R&S®SMB100A based
possible. This yields very long pulse train sequences for on sophisticated technologies ensures low RF leakage ex-
testing. actly for this purpose.

Wide temperature range and high permissible

­operating altitude
The R&S®SMB100A functions reliably under extreme con-
ditions owing to its wide temperature range of 0 °C to
+55 °C and a maximum permissible operating altitude of
4600 m above sea level.

Rear view of the R&S®SMB100A.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®SMB100A Microwave ­Signal Generator 15

User-defined precisely this purpose. For a known frequency response
that needs to be corrected, the user can enter the level
correction values as a function of the frequency. Auto-

­correction of matic interpolation of the correction values is performed

between these frequency points. To simplify this, the
R&S®SMB100A can also automatically include the level

­external frequency correction values at the press of a button by using a di-

rectly connected R&S®NRP-Zxx power sensor.

responses The screenshots show the frequency response correction

for an RF cable in the range from 8 GHz to 10 GHz. With-
out frequency response correction, the level error (mea-
sured with the R&S®NRP-Z81) amounts to approx. 1.5 dB
Test setups including cables, power amplifiers or filters at 10 GHz due to cable loss. After the correction values in
always have frequency responses. The signal genera- the range from 8 GHz to 10 GHz have been automatically
tor can compensate for the frequency response. The measured and stored with the R&S®NRP-Z81, the level er-
R&S®SMB100A features the User Correction function for ror will be automatically compensated for when the User
Correction function is activated.

Without frequency response correction of the RF cable, the level error

(measured with the R&S®NRP-Z81 power sensor) amounts to approx. The connected R&S®NRP-Z81 power sensor automatically measures
1.5 dB at 10 GHz (nominal value: 5 dBm). and stores the frequency response of the RF cable.

After the User Correction table has been activated, the R&S®SMB100A
The measured level correction values are stored in a table together with adapts its output power in order to compensate for the frequency
the user-selected frequencies. ­response of the RF cable.

16
Closed loop power The best solution to this problem is “closed loop
power control” in realtime – a standard feature of the
R&S®SMB100A. In the setup below, it ensures highly accu-

control rate and very stable input power to the DUT, irrespective of
unwanted power drifts or changes in the setup.

For measuring the DUT input power, a directional coupler

One important performance requirement in many applica- plus the R&S®NRP-Zxx power sensor connected to the di-
tions is the generation of highly accurate and stable power rectional coupler can be used. An attractive alternative to
for testing DUTs (e.g. power amplifiers). This is not a trivial the directional coupler plus the R&S®NRP-Zxx power sen-
task since the real power directly applied to the DUT is af- sor is the R&S®NRP-Z28 level control sensor. The measure-
fected by the level accuracy of the signal generator, the ment result from the R&S®NRP-Zxx or the R&S®NRP-Z28
losses due to cables, the losses due to modules or compo- is fed back to the R&S®SMB100A, which immediately ad-
nents and, last but not least, by mismatching. In addition, justs its output power to compensate for the discrepancy
the frequency response of an amplifier in the setup might between wanted and measured level.
show an unwanted temperature dependency.

Closed loop power control ensures highly accurate and stable input power to the DUT irrespective of
­unwanted power drifts or changes in the setup

¸SMB100A

Module/s DUT

¸NRP-Zxx
Power Measurement Loss/gain

Mismatch
Cable loss

Closed loop power control with directional coupler plus R&S®NRP-Zxx

power sensor. Closed loop power control with R&S®NRP-Z28 level control sensor.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®SMB100A Microwave ­Signal Generator 17

Flexible service Built-in selftest of modules to support
troubleshooting
A built-in selftest carries out an operational check of the

concept instrument and serves as a troubleshooting aid during ser-

vicing. The simple and straightforward architecture with
very few modules cuts the time required for troubleshoot-
ing and repair to a minimum. A simple function check is
Servicing on-site or at a Rohde & Schwarz service usually sufficient to ensure the outstanding specifications
center of the R&S®SMB100A. Do-it-yourself servicing can be
The R&S®SMB100A is designed for maximum ­reliability completed in just 45 minutes on average.
and easy servicing to maximize uptime in all applica-
tion fields and significantly reduce cost of ownership. Complete calibration only every three years
Customers can choose between calling on a certified A complete calibration is recommended for the
­Rohde & Schwarz service center as usual or servicing R&S®SMB100A only every three years and can, of course,
the instrument themselves. also be performed on-site.

18
Specifications in brief
Specifications in brief
Frequency
Frequency range R&S®SMB-B112/-B112L 100 kHz to 12.75 GHz
R&S®SMB-B120/-B120L 100 kHz to 20 GHz
R&S®SMB-B131 100 kHz to 31.8 GHz
R&S®SMB-B140/-B140L/-B140N 100 kHz to 40 GHz
Settling time SCPI mode < 3 ms
List mode < 1 ms
Level
Maximum specified output power (PEP) R&S®SMB-B112/-B112L, 1 MHz < f ≤ 12.75 GHz +18 dBm
R&S®SMB-B120 with R&S®SMB-B31, 50 MHz < f ≤ 20 GHz +16 dBm
R&S®SMB-B120L with R&S®SMB-B31, 100 MHz < f ≤ 20 GHz +19 dBm
R&S®SMB-B131/-B140/-B140N with R&S®SMB-B32, 50 MHz < f ≤ 40 GHz +13 dBm
R&S®SMB-B140L with R&S®SMB-B32, 50 MHz < f ≤ 40 GHz +16 dBm
Minimum specified output power R&S®SMB-B112/-B120/-B131/-B140/-B140N –120 dBm
R&S®SMB-B112L –5 dBm
R&S®SMB-B120L/-B140L 0 dBm
Settling time (without switching of the SCPI mode < 2.5 ms
mechanical attenuator)
List mode < 1 ms
Spectral purity
SSB phase noise f = 1 GHz, carrier offset = 20 kHz, 1 Hz measurement bandwidth < –122 dBc, typ. –128 dBc
f = 10 GHz, carrier offset = 20 kHz, 1 Hz measurement bandwidth < –102 dBc, typ. –108 dBc
Harmonics
R&S®SMB-B112/-B112L 1 MHz < f ≤ 6 GHz; level ≤ 13 dBm 1), f > 6 GHz; level ≤ 10 dBm 1) < –30 dBc
R&S®SMB-B120/-B120L/-B131/-B140/ standard; level ≤ 8 dBm 1)
-B140N/-B140L
f > 1 MHz < –30 dBc
with R&S®SMB-B25/-B26 low harmonic option, low harmonic filter on, level ≤ 10 dBm 1)
1 MHz < f ≤ 150 MHz < –30 dBc
150 MHz < f ≤ 3 GHz < –58 dBc
3 GHz < f ≤ 20 GHz < –50 dBc
f > 20 GHz < –60 dBc (meas.)
Supported modulation modes
AM standard
AM depth 0 % to 100 %
FM/φM standard
Maximum FM deviation f = 10 GHz 32 MHz
Maximum φM deviation f = 10 GHz 320 rad
Pulse R&S®SMB-K21/-K22 pulse modulator
Rise/fall time < 20 ns, typ. < 5 ns
ON/OFF ratio > 80 dB
Minimum pulse width of pulse genera- 10 ns
tor output
Connectivity
Remote control GPIB IEEE-488.2,
Ethernet (TCP/IP),
USB
Peripherals USB

1)
Or maximum specified output power, whichever is lower.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®SMB100A Microwave ­Signal Generator 19

Ordering information
Designation Type Order No.
Base unit
Microwave signal Generator 1) R&S®SMB100A 1406.6000.02
Including power cable, quick start guide and CD-ROM (with operating and service manual)
Options
RF path/frequency option
100 kHz to 12.75 GHz, with electronic step attenuator R&S®SMB-B112 1407.2109.02
100 kHz to 12.75 GHz, without step attenuator R&S®SMB-B112L 1407.2150.02
100 kHz to 20 GHz, with mechanical step attenuator R&S®SMB-B120 1407.2209.02
100 kHz to 20 GHz, without step attenuator R&S®SMB-B120L 1407.2250.02
100 kHz to 31.8 GHz, with mechanical step attenuator R&S®SMB-B131 1407.2280.02
100 kHz to 40 GHz, with mechanical step attenuator R&S®SMB-B140 1407.2309.02
100 kHz to 40 GHz, with mechanical step attenuator, R&S®SMB-B140N 1407.2380.02
minimum pulse width limited
100 kHz to 40 GHz, without step attenuator R&S®SMB-B140L 1407.2350.02
OCXO reference oscillator  2)
R&S®SMB-B1 1407.3005.02
OCXO reference oscillator, high performance 2) R&S®SMB-B1H 1407.3070.02
Harmonic filter option
150 MHz to 20 GHz (only available with R&S®SMB-B120/-B120L) R&S®SMB-B25 1407.1660.02
150 MHz to 40 GHz R&S®SMB-B26 1407.1760.02
(only available with R&S®SMB-B131/-B140/-B140N/-B140L)
Reverse power protection (only available with R&S®SMB-B112/-B112L) R&S®SMB-B30 1407.1160.02
High power option
50 MHz to 20 GHz (only available with R&S®SMB-B120/-B120L) R&S®SMB-B31 1407.1260.02
50 MHz to 40 GHz R&S®SMB-B32 1407.1360.02
(only available with R&S®SMB-B131/-B140/-B140N/-B140L)
Pulse modulator for R&S®SMB-K21 1407.3811.02
R&S®SMB-B112/-B112L/-B120/-B120L/-B131/-B141/-B140/-B140N/-B140L
Pulse generator R&S®SMB-K23 1407.3786.02
Pulse train 3) R&S®SMB-K27 1407.3828.02

1)
The base unit must be ordered together with an R&S®SMB-B112/-B112L/-B120/-B120L/-B131/-B140/-B140N/-B140L frequency option.
2)
Only one of the R&S®SMB-B1 or R&S®SMB-B1H options can be installed.
3)
Requires the R&S®SMB-K23 option; only available for instruments with serial number > 102400.

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®SMB100A Microwave ­Signal Generator 20

 Designation Type Order No.
Recommended extras
19" rack adapter R&S®ZZA-S234 1109.4493.00
Power sensor, 9 kHz to 6 GHz, for levels up to 33 dBm; R&S®NRP-Z92 1171.7005.42
incl. USB adapter cable
Power sensor, DC to 40 GHz, for levels up to 20 dBm R&S®NRP-Z55 1138.2008.03
Power sensor, 10 MHz to 18 GHz, for levels up to 33 dBm R&S®NRP-Z22 1137.7506.02
Keyboard with USB interface (US character set) R&S®PSL-Z2 1157.6870.04
Mouse with USB interface, optical R&S®PSL-Z10 1157.7060.03
USB adapter for R&S®NRP-Zxx power sensors R&S®NRP-Z4 1146.8001.02
USB serial adapter for RS-232 remote control R&S®TS-USB1 6124.2531.00
Adapters for instruments with an R&S®SMB-B112/-B112L/-B120/-B120L frequency option
Test port adapter, PC 3.5 mm female 1021.0512.00
Test port adapter, PC 3.5 mm male 1021.0529.00
Test port adapter, N female 1021.0535.00
Test port adapter, N male 1021.0541.00
Adapters for instruments with an R&S®SMB-B131/-B140/-B140N/-B140L frequency option
Test port adapter, 2.4 mm female 1088.1627.02
Test port adapter, 2.92 mm female 1036.4790.00
Test port adapter, 2.92 male 1036.4802.00
Test port adapter, N female 1036.4777.00
Test port adapter, N male 1036.4783.00
Frequency multipliers
Frequency multiplier, 50 GHz to 75 GHz R&S®SMZ75 1417.4004.02
Frequency multiplier, 60 GHz to 90 GHz R&S®SMZ90 1417.4504.02
Frequency multiplier, 75 GHz to 110 GHz R&S®SMZ110 1417.5000.02
Frequency multiplier, 110 GHz to 170 GHz R&S®SMZ170 1417.5500.02
Including waveguide-to waveguide adapter, DC power adapter, USB cable, hex ball driver 3/32, operating manual, CD-ROM with operating manual
Options
Mechanically controlled attenuator for the R&S®SMZ75 R&S®SMZ-B75M 1) 1417.6007.02
Electronically controlled attenuator for the R&S®SMZ75 R&S®SMZ-B75E  1)
1417.6107.02
Mechanically controlled attenuator for the R&S®SMZ90 R&S®SMZ-B90M 1) 1417.6507.02
Electronically controlled attenuator for the R&S®SMZ90 R&S®SMZ-B90E 1) 1417.6607.02
Mechanically controlled Attenuator for the R&S®SMZ110 R&S®SMZ-B110M 1) 1417.7003.02
Electronically controlled attenuator for the R&S®SMZ110 R&S®SMZ-B110E 1) 1417.7103.02
Documentation
Documentation of calibration values R&S®DCV-2 0240.2193.18
Accredited calibration R&S®ACASMB100A 3596.9508.03

Option factory fitted (only mechanically or electronically controlled attenuators can be fitted).
1)

Warranty
Base unit 3 years
All other items 1 year
Options
Extended warranty, one year R&S®WE1 Please contact your local
Extended warranty, two years R&S®WE2 ­Rohde & Schwarz sales office.

Extended warranty with calibration coverage, one year R&S®CW1

Extended warranty with calibration coverage, two years R&S®CW2

For data sheet, see PD 5213.8396.22 and www.rohde-schwarz.com

Your local Rohde & Schwarz expert will help you determine the optimum solution for your requirements.
To find your nearest Rohde & Schwarz representative, visit
www.sales.rohde-schwarz.com

Rohde & Schwarz R&S®SMB100A Microwave ­Signal Generator 21

 Rohde & Schwarz
Service that adds value The Rohde & Schwarz electronics group offers innovative
❙ Worldwide solutions in the following business fields: test and mea-
❙ Local and personalized surement, broadcast and media, secure communications,
❙ Customized and flexible
cybersecurity, monitoring and network testing. Founded
❙ Uncompromising quality
❙ Long-term dependability more than 80 years ago, the independent company which
is headquartered in Munich, Germany, has an extensive
sales and service network with locations in more than
70 countries.

www.rohde-schwarz.com

Sustainable product design

❙❙ Environmental compatibility and eco-footprint
❙❙ Energy efficiency and low emissions
❙❙ Longevity and optimized total cost of ownership

Certified Quality Management Certified Environmental Management

ISO 9001 ISO 14001

Rohde & Schwarz training
www.training.rohde-schwarz.com

Regional contact
❙❙ Europe, Africa, Middle East | +49 89 4129 12345
[email protected]
❙❙ North America | 1 888 TEST RSA (1 888 837 87 72)
[email protected]
❙❙ Latin America | +1 410 910 79 88
[email protected]
❙❙ Asia Pacific | +65 65 13 04 88
[email protected]
❙❙ China | +86 800 810 82 28 | +86 400 650 58 96
[email protected]

R&S® is a registered trademark of Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG

5213.8396.12 07.00 PDP 1 en

Trade names are trademarks of the owners

PD 5213.8396.12 | Version 07.00 | June 2019 (GK)
R&S®SMB100A Microwave ­Signal Generator
Data without tolerance limits is not binding | Subject to change
© 2008 - 2019 Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG | 81671 Munich, Germany

5213839612