The Anritsu MG3641A and MG3642A are synthesized signal generators covering 125 kHz to 1040 MHz and 125 kHz to 2080 MHz respectively. Built around a low-noise YIG oscillator and Anritsu synthesizer technology, these instruments deliver 0.01 Hz frequency resolution across the full range, with non-harmonic spurious better than -100 dBc and SSB phase noise better than -130 dBc/Hz at 1 GHz with 20 kHz offset.

These signal generators are used as sources for interference testing of radio receivers and as local and reference signal sources. The instrument set supports mixer characteristic measurements using Frequency Only Mode with frequency offset, and amplifier IM3 measurements using Level Only Mode where two linked units feed a two-signal characteristics measurement pad driving the amplifier under test into a spectrum analyzer.

Brand Heritage

Anritsu Corporation is a Japanese precision measurement company with roots tracing to 1895. In 1990 Anritsu acquired Wiltron Company, a US-based RF and microwave instrument maker, consolidating signal generator and network analyzer product lines under the Anritsu name. The MG synthesized signal generator series has remained an Anritsu-branded product family across this corporate evolution.

Compare Other Models in This Series

The MG3641A and MG3642A share a common platform — identical synthesizer architecture, identical YIG oscillator design, identical modulation capability, and identical control and interface features. The two models differ in a single dimension: the upper frequency limit of the carrier. Both cover the same 125 kHz lower boundary, the same 0.01 Hz resolution, and the same +17 dBm standard output capability.

Anritsu offers this two-model arrangement so a buyer can select frequency coverage to match the application without paying for range that will not be used. Customers focused on cellular and lower-UHF bands can specify the MG3641A; customers needing coverage into the lower L-band region can specify the MG3642A. The option set — Option 01 reference oscillator, Option 11 pulse modulator, Option 21 AF synthesizer, Option 22 FSK encoder — applies identically to both models.

Each pre-owned model below has its own product page with condition-matched pricing and stock status. Where the MG3641A and MG3642A share a specification (resolution, signal purity at common frequencies, modulation capability, GPIB control set), the entries on each page reflect that. Where they differ — the upper frequency limit and the phase noise specification above 1040 MHz — the per-model page documents the specifics for that unit.

The MG3641A covers 125 kHz to 1040 MHz. The MG3642A covers 125 kHz to 2080 MHz. The comparison table that follows details the frequency boundary and the additional phase noise specification that applies to the MG3642A above 1040 MHz. For applications confined to sub-GHz and the lower 1 GHz region, the MG3641A is sufficient.

FM deviation ranges also scale with carrier frequency on both models, and the MG3642A adds an upper deviation range of 0 to 2048 kHz that is available only above 1040 MHz. Pulse modulation, AF synthesizer, and FSK encoder options are interchangeable between the two models. The user interface, sweep modes, memory capacity, and trigger sequence programming are identical.

Additional differences in specifications beyond the few shown above are not listed here — see each model's full specifications below.

Accessories Supplied

• J0017F Power cord, 2.5 m (1 pc)
• B0325 GPIB connector shielded cap (1 pc)
• F0013 Fuse, 5 A (for 100 Vac mains) (2 pcs)
• F0012 Fuse, 3.15 A (for 200 Vac mains) (2 pcs)
• W1137AE MG3641A/3642A operation manual (1 copy)
• W1137BE MG3641A/3642A service manual (1 copy)

Product Core & Specifications

About this used unit

• Warranty included
• Functional verification included
• Standard Calibration Upgrade Options: No Calibration Required, NIST Traceable, Z540.1 or ISO 17025 with Data, Z540.3 Guardbanding with Data.
• Note that unnecessary accessories may not be included (contact Test Architect to confirm).

Please review the Manufacturer's Data Sheet to verify published specifications. Feedback on this webpage is always welcome — please reach out to your Test Architect at any time for questions or concerns. Thank you, we truly appreciate you being our customer.