The Agilent N5181A MXG and N5161A MXG ATE are analog RF signal generators built around fast switching speed, high output power, and simplified self-maintenance. The family is offered in 1, 3, and 6 GHz frequency configurations and is engineered to combine performance and speed in a compact chassis that stands 89 mm (3.5 in) high.

A signal generator produces a known, controllable RF stimulus used to test and characterize devices and systems. On the MXG, the available modulation types can run simultaneously — for example, AM and FM can operate concurrently to modulate the output RF, which is useful for simulating signal impairments. The N5161A MXG ATE variant relocates its connectors to the rear panel for integration into automated test systems.

ValueTronics stocks its own inventory in a 20,000 sq ft secure warehouse at 1675 Cambridge Drive, Elgin, Illinois. Every pre-owned unit is inspected and functionally verified by our technicians before it ships, while new units ship factory-sealed exactly as received from the manufacturer.

Brand Heritage

Agilent Technologies was spun off from Hewlett-Packard in 1999 as a dedicated test-and-measurement company. In 2014, Agilent's electronic measurement business was separated again to form Keysight Technologies, which continues that product line today.

Compare Other Models in This Series

The MXG analog signal generator family consists of the Agilent N5181A MXG and the N5161A MXG ATE. Both share the same core RF performance and are configured through a common set of frequency and performance options, differing primarily in physical connector layout and intended deployment.

Frequency capability is set at order time through Options 501, 503, and 506, which establish coverage to 1 GHz, 3 GHz, and 6 GHz respectively, all starting from 100 kHz. Performance enhancements such as fast switching (UNZ), high output power (1EA), low power (1EQ), and the modulation options are selected independently of the base model.

Each pre-owned model below is its own dedicated product page with condition-matched pricing. Select the model and frequency configuration that matches your requirement to see availability and pricing for that specific pre-owned unit.

The N5161A MXG ATE is the rack- and automation-oriented member of the family: all of its connectors are located on the rear panel, suiting it to integration within automated test systems. The front-panel-to-rear-panel RF output relocation offered as Option 1EM on the N5181A is not available on the N5161A, since the ATE configuration already routes I/O to the rear.

The principal difference between the two models is connector placement and deployment intent: the N5181A MXG presents RF output and USB on the front panel for benchtop use, while the N5161A MXG ATE places its connectors on the rear panel for system integration. Both draw on the same frequency options (501/503/506) and the same performance and modulation option set.

Within either model, the comparison table below shows how the selectable options shape capability — frequency ceiling (1, 3, or 6 GHz), maximum output power (standard versus the +23 dBm Option 1EA path), switching speed (standard versus Option UNZ), and which modulation modes are present. Match the option configuration to the row that fits your application.

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

Newer model: per the manufacturer, this unit has been replaced by EXG, MXG X-Series.

Product Core & Specifications

Important: Maximum reverse power: 2 W (nominal), with a maximum DC voltage of 50 VDC (nominal).

Important: Option UNT is required for FM, AM and phase modulation inputs; Option UNU or UNW is required for pulse modulation inputs.

Important: Performance below 250 kHz is unspecified except as indicated, for units with serial numbers ending with 4742xxxx or greater; for units with lower serial numbers refer to the Archive Section.

Important: Pulse specifications apply to frequencies > 500 MHz; operable down to 10 MHz.

Important: Option 1EM (Move RF output to rear panel) is not available on the N5161A MXG ATE; all N5161A MXG ATE connectors are located on the rear panel.

Usage tip: the front-panel USB 2.0 port supports Agilent U2000 Series USB average power sensors, used for user flatness correction.

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.