The Agilent N5182A MXG Vector Signal Generator is a benchtop RF vector signal source covering 100 kHz to 3 GHz (Option 503) or 100 kHz to 6 GHz (Option 506). The companion N5162A MXG ATE is a rear-panel-output variant of the same platform optimized for automated test environments. Both share the same RF performance, baseband generator architecture, and software ecosystem, and the datasheet positions the product as optimized for performance and speed — citing fast switching, industry-best ACPR, simplified self-maintenance, Signal Studio software support, and high output power as the headline attributes.

The datasheet identifies vector signal generators as stimulus instruments for digital wireless test applications including 3GPP W-CDMA (with HSDPA/HSUPA), 3GPP2 cdma2000/1xEV-DO, 3GPP LTE FDD, GSM/EDGE, 802.11 WLAN (a/g), 802.16e Mobile WiMAX, TD-SCDMA, T-DMB, broadcast radio, Bluetooth, and digital video — each supported by a dedicated Signal Studio waveform creation application. The instrument's EVM, ACLR, and ORFS performance tables in the datasheet document its use for transmitter characterization, amplifier ACLR/ACPR testing, and receiver stimulus across these wireless standards.

Brand Heritage

Agilent Technologies emerged in 1999 when Hewlett-Packard separated its test, measurement, and chemical analysis businesses into a standalone company. In 2014, Agilent further divided when its electronic measurement business was spun off as Keysight Technologies, which is the current entity supporting Agilent-branded RF and microwave instruments like the N5182A MXG. The product itself was introduced under Agilent branding and is identified as such throughout the datasheet.

Compare Other Models in This Series

The MXG vector signal generator family consists of two form-factor variants on a shared RF and baseband platform. The N5182A MXG is the standard benchtop instrument with front-panel RF output and I/Q connectors. The N5162A MXG ATE relocates all primary connectors to the rear panel, which the datasheet identifies as the configuration intended for rack-mounted automated test systems.

Within each form factor, configuration is driven primarily by three choices: frequency range (Option 503 for 3 GHz or Option 506 for 6 GHz), performance enhancement options such as fast switching (UNZ), high output power (1EA), and low output power (1EQ), and vector-specific options including the baseband generator sample rate (651/652/654) and memory expansion (019). The same datasheet specifications apply to both N5182A and N5162A units at matched option configurations.

Each pre-owned model below is its own dedicated product page with condition-matched pricing. When evaluating between the N5182A and N5162A configurations, confirm the frequency option (503 vs. 506), the baseband generator option (651/652/654), and any installed performance enhancement options on the specific unit, since these determine measurement capability and cannot always be added in the field without manufacturer service.

The N5182A is the benchtop form factor with front-panel RF output and I/Q inputs. Option 1EM on the N5182A relocates the RF output and I/Q inputs to the rear panel, making it functionally equivalent to the N5162A MXG ATE for rack integration while retaining front-panel controls.

The primary physical difference between the N5182A and the N5162A is connector placement: the N5182A has front-panel RF and I/Q connectors by default, while the N5162A MXG ATE has all primary connectors on the rear panel for ATE rack mounting. The datasheet notes that the N5162A is intended for automated test applications and that Option 1EM on the N5182A approximates the same rear-panel layout.

Beyond form factor, the frequency option (503 for 3 GHz, 506 for 6 GHz) is the most significant capability differentiator, followed by the baseband generator sample rate (30, 60, or 125 MSa/s for Options 651, 652, 654 respectively) which determines the maximum modulation bandwidth available. The comparison table that follows summarizes the available frequency, baseband, and performance enhancement options across configurations in current ValueTronics inventory.

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

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.