The R&S SME is a signal generator that supplies the complex signals required for the development and testing of digital mobile radio receivers. It generates the signals used across the main digital radio networks in line with the relevant standards for modulation type, data format, TDMA structure, and frequency hop patterns, and it is equally at home producing the conventional analog signals expected of a traditional signal generator. The series spans four models — SME02, SME03, SME03E, and SME06 — that share a common architecture and differ principally in frequency coverage.

A signal generator produces known, controllable stimulus signals so an engineer can drive a device under test and measure its response. The SME is aimed specifically at receiver development and test for digital mobile radio: it can generate call signals to pager standards such as POCSAG and FLEX for testing pagers, and its digital modulation covers formats associated with networks including GSM, GSM1800, DECT, CT2/CT3, TETRA, NADC, PDC, APCO25, ERMES, and MODACOM. Its ultra-low RF leakage suits measurements on highly sensitive pagers. The unit can also produce stereo multiplex, VOR, and ILS signals when fitted with the multifunction generator option.

ValueTronics keeps its test-and-measurement inventory on hand in a 20,000 sq ft secure warehouse at 1675 Cambridge Drive in Elgin, Illinois, so the instruments we sell are stocked and held by us directly. Each used unit is inspected and functionally verified by our technicians before it ships, while new units leave the warehouse factory-sealed exactly as received.

Brand Heritage

R&S is the brand of Rohde & Schwarz, a privately held company that has operated independently under the same name since its founding, with no major corporate acquisitions, spinoffs, or rebrands in its history.

Compare Other Models in This Series

The SME family comprises four models that share a common architecture and feature set, differing principally in RF frequency coverage. The SME02, SME03, and SME06 are identical except for their frequency range, while the SME03E is positioned as an especially economical solution for applications involving digitally modulated signals.

Because the models share the same operating concept, menu structure, and option ecosystem, a workflow developed on one model transfers readily to another; the primary selection decision is how much frequency coverage the application requires.

Each model below links to its own dedicated product page, where you can select the pre-owned unit you need with condition-matched pricing. Choose the model whose frequency coverage and options fit your application, then review the available pre-owned inventory on that model's page.

The clearest difference across the family is upper frequency limit: the SME02 reaches 1.5 GHz, the SME03E reaches 2.2 GHz, the SME03 reaches 3 GHz, and the SME06 reaches 6 GHz, all starting from 5 kHz. The comparison table below lists each model's range alongside the other catalog details.

Beyond frequency, the SME03E differs in two notable ways called out for the series: its DM Coder for digital modulation is included as standard rather than as a separate option, and list mode is not available on the SME03E. Reverse-power overload protection also differs, with the SME06 rated to ≤1 W / 0 V versus ≤50 W / 35 V on the SME02 and SME03.

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

Product Core & Specifications

Important: Overload protection (50 Ω source): SME02 and SME03 withstand ≤50 W / 35 V; SME06 withstands ≤1 W / 0 V.

Important: The Pulse Generator option (SM-B4) functions only in conjunction with a Pulse Modulator option (SM-B3, SM-B8 or SM-B9); it provides single, delayed and double pulses.

Important: The DM Memory Extension 8 Mbit (SME-B12) is required for fitting the FLEX Protocol (SME-B41) and POCSAG Protocol (SME-B42) options.

Important: List mode (programmable measurement sequence for up to 4096 frequency and level combinations, setting time <0.5 ms) is not available on the SME03E.

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.