Why Migrate from the First-Generation MXG to the New EXG X-Series Signal Generator?

X-series signal generators are crafted to create

RF signals capable of testing your very best devices and designs. They produce the signals you need—from simple to complex, from incredibly clean to highly impaired—to test your device within and beyond its limits.

Key Benefits

More capability than the first generation MXG, including reduced spurious levels, larger waveform memory, wider modulation bandwidth and robust reverse power protection

Scale up performance and functionality with options that fit your test requirements

Real-time baseband generator

High output power

Built-in multi-function generator

Use existing Signal Studio arbitrary waveform generation applications as well as new capabilities for real-time LTE and GNSS for receiver testing

Count on continued low cost-of-ownership based on proven track record of first-generation MXG

Overview: N518xA MXG and the EXG X-Series Signal Generator

Since their 2006 introduction, the first-generation Keysight Technologies, Inc.N518xA MXG signal generators have been widely adopted for use in many RF signal generation applications, including device testing in both R&D and manufacturing. Since then, the instruments have been continually updated and enhanced and, when used in conjunction with the Keysight Signal Studio family of software products, support a broad range of wireless applications and formats, including GSM, WCDMA, LTE, Bluetooth®, WLAN, WiMAX™, as well as digital video and audio. Because transitioning to a new signal generator requires careful consideration, this document was created to provide an overview and comparison of the new Keysight N5171B and N5172B EXG X-Series RF signal generators with the first-generation MXG-Series sources (N5181A and N5182A).

While the first-generation MXG signal generators will continue to offer high performance signal generation and application versatility for years to come, new technologies and measurement demands will require even higher levels of performance in areas such as extended frequency range, signal bandwidth, significantly larger waveform memory size, and real-time vector signal generation. Also, many users will prefer the latest instrument connectivity interfaces such as Gigabit LAN and dual USB ports. If these aspects interest you, then now is the time for you to make the transition from the N518xA MXG to the new EXG X-Series signal generators.