The Agilent EXG X-Series is a family of RF signal generators comprising the N5171B analog model and the N5172B vector model, covering 9 kHz to 1, 3, or 6 GHz depending on the installed frequency option. Positioned as a cost-effective source optimized for manufacturing test, the EXG is designed to provide the signals needed for basic parametric testing of components and functional verification of receivers, delivering “just enough” test at the right price.

A signal generator produces a known, controllable RF stimulus that drives a device under test so its response can be measured. Within that category, the EXG X-Series is aimed specifically at manufacturing-test throughput and uptime, supporting basic parametric testing of components and functional verification of receivers as its intended applications.

ValueTronics stocks and holds its own inventory in a 20,000 sq ft secure warehouse at 1675 Cambridge Drive in Elgin, Illinois, where it has supplied new and used test-and-measurement equipment since 1992. Every used unit is inspected and functionally verified in-house before shipment, while new units ship factory-sealed exactly as received from the manufacturer.

Brand Heritage

This instrument was issued under Agilent Technologies, the test-and-measurement business that Hewlett-Packard spun off as a separate company in 1999. In 2014, Agilent's electronic measurement business was established as Keysight Technologies, which carries the line forward today.

Compare Other Models in This Series

The EXG X-Series is offered in two members: the N5171B analog signal generator and the N5172B vector signal generator. Both share the same frequency architecture and amplitude system, while the N5172B adds vector (I/Q) modulation and an internal baseband generator.

Frequency coverage is determined by option: Option 501 (9 kHz to 1 GHz, N5171B only), Option 503 (9 kHz to 3 GHz), and Option 506 (9 kHz to 6 GHz). The model and frequency option together define the configuration on each product page.

Each model below links to its own dedicated product page with condition-matched pricing for the pre-owned configuration you select. Choose the model and frequency option that match your application, and review that model's own specification table for its exact capabilities.

The primary differences across the family are model type and frequency ceiling. The N5171B provides analog signal generation, while the N5172B adds vector modulation, the internal I/Q baseband generator (Options 653 and 655), and the wideband AM and digital modulation capabilities tied to that baseband hardware. The 1 GHz ceiling (Option 501) is available on the N5171B only, while the 3 GHz (Option 503) and 6 GHz (Option 506) options apply across the series.

Modulation and digital-format capabilities are largely option-driven: analog modulation requires Option UNT, narrow pulse modulation requires Option UNW, and the various digital signal formats are enabled through separate software options. Refer to the comparison table that follows for the per-model and per-option capability breakdown.

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

Product Core & Specifications

Important: RF output reverse power protection (nominal): maximum reverse power 50 W below 1 GHz, 25 W from 1 to 2 GHz, and 20 W from 2 to 6 GHz; maximum DC voltage 50 VDC; trip level 2 W.

Important: Vector modulation, the internal I/Q baseband generator, and the related digital-modulation options (e.g. Options 653/655, 403, 430, 431, 432, 660) are available on the N5172B only; the N5171B is an analog-only signal generator.

Important: Analog AM/FM/Phase modulation requires Option UNT (or Option 303 for the internal modulation source); narrow pulse modulation requires Option UNW; these capabilities are not included in the standard configuration.

Recommended pairing: the rear-panel Digital Bus I/O is designed for use with the N5102A digital signal interface module.

About this Pre-Owned unit

This pre-owned unit is inspected and functionally verified in-house before it ships and is backed by our pre-owned warranty. To confirm its exact condition, firmware revision, installed options, or included accessories for your application before ordering, contact our Test Architects.

• 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).

ValueTronics supplies both new and used test and measurement equipment. New units ship factory-sealed, exactly as received from the manufacturer; every used unit is inspected and functionally verified in-house at our 20,000 sq ft secure facility in Elgin, Illinois before it ships. Our Test Architects can help you select the condition, calibration, and configuration that fit your application.

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.