UNI-T USG5014M-P | Professional RF Signal Generator with Mechanical Attenuator (9 kHz to 14 GHz)

Overview

The UNI-T USG5014M-P RF signal generator delivers premium performance for demanding RF applications, featuring extended frequency coverage from 9 kHz to 14 GHz with exceptional signal purity. Distinguished by its mechanical attenuator technology, this professional-grade instrument provides enhanced output power up to +23 dBm and superior level stability crucial for satellite communications testing, radar systems, power amplifier characterization, and production environments where signal integrity is paramount.

Engineered for the most challenging test scenarios, the USG5014M-P combines precision frequency control (0.001 Hz resolution) with comprehensive modulation capabilities and an intuitive 5-inch capacitive touchscreen interface. The mechanical attenuator variant ensures consistent performance even at high output levels, delivering the reliability and accuracy RF professionals demand when testing devices with high insertion loss or requiring strong drive signals across microwave frequencies.

USG5000M RF Generator

Key Features

• Mechanical Attenuator Technology - Provides superior output level stability and enhanced maximum power compared to standard electronic attenuators
• Extended Frequency Coverage - Generates signals from 9 kHz to 14 GHz with ultra-fine 0.001 Hz resolution for precise testing
• Enhanced Output Power - Delivers up to +23 dBm (250 MHz to 3.6 GHz) for testing high-attenuation components and systems
• Superior Signal Quality - Low phase noise (<-122 dBc/Hz @ 1 GHz, 20 kHz offset) ensures accurate measurements
• Improved SWR Performance - Better standing wave ratio minimizes reflections and measurement uncertainties
• Versatile Modulation - AM, FM, and ΦM capabilities with internal, external, or combined modulation sources
• Intuitive Operation - 5-inch capacitive touch screen with clear visual feedback and logical menu organization
• Flexible Connectivity - Remote control via LAN and USB interfaces for automated testing environments
• Integrated Function Generator - Built-in 50 MHz function/arbitrary waveform generator adds versatility
• Comprehensive Sweep Capabilities - Frequency, amplitude, and list sweep modes with customizable parameters
• Advanced Pulse Modulation - Optional pulse modulation with on-off ratios up to 80 dB (USG5000M-PM)
• Narrow Pulse Generator - Optional pulses as narrow as 20 ns with 10 ns resolution (USG5000M-PG)

Mechanical Attenuator Advantage

The USG5014M-P's mechanical attenuator technology represents a significant upgrade over standard electronic attenuators, providing both higher maximum output power and superior RF performance. This precision-engineered attenuator delivers up to 5 dB more output power across all frequency ranges, enabling testing of components with high insertion loss or receiver sensitivity measurements that require stronger signals. The mechanical design ensures excellent level accuracy and stability even at maximum power levels, critical for consistent results in production testing and research applications.

Beyond raw power advantages, the mechanical attenuator provides superior standing wave ratio (SWR) characteristics, minimizing signal reflections that can compromise measurement accuracy. This improved impedance matching is particularly valuable when testing sensitive RF components where reflection-induced artifacts could mask actual device performance. For applications requiring both high output power and precise level control, the USG5014M-P offers an optimal combination of performance characteristics that justify its position as the premium model in the 14 GHz range of the USG5000M series.

Low phase noise performance

Enhanced Output Power Performance

The USG5014M-P delivers industry-leading output power across its entire frequency range, providing the signal strength needed for challenging RF testing applications. With maximum output levels of +23 dBm (250 MHz to 3.6 GHz), +20 dBm (3.6 GHz to 7.5 GHz), and +18 dBm (7.5 GHz to 14 GHz), this model significantly outperforms the standard electronic attenuator version. This enhanced power capability is particularly valuable when compensating for cable losses, driving power amplifiers, or testing receiver sensitivity through complex signal paths.

The mechanical attenuator design maintains excellent level accuracy across the full power range, ensuring consistent test conditions even at maximum output. This combination of high output power and precise level control makes the USG5014M-P ideal for production testing environments where signal integrity across multiple test stations is critical. The robust attenuator design also provides excellent reliability under continuous high-power operation, making it suitable for applications requiring sustained maximum output levels.

Comprehensive Modulation Capabilities

The USG5014M-P provides versatile modulation capabilities essential for thorough microwave system testing. Standard analog modulation includes AM with depths up to 99%, FM with deviation up to 10 MHz, and phase modulation up to 5 radians. The flexible modulation sources allow for internal, external, or combined operation, adapting to diverse testing scenarios. Each modulation type features precise control of parameters, enabling accurate simulation of real-world signal conditions.

For applications requiring pulsed RF signals, the optional USG5000M-PM pulse modulation capability delivers outstanding on-off ratios up to 80 dB with fast rise/fall times below 20 ns. The pulse modulation can operate in various modes including free-running, triggered, gated, and customized pulse train patterns. When combined with the optional USG5000M-PG narrow pulse generator, the system can generate pulses as narrow as 20 ns with 10 ns resolution, perfect for radar system testing and pulse characterization applications. The mechanical attenuator in the USG5014M-P further enhances pulse performance by providing more powerful pulse signals with better on-off characteristics.

Analog Modulation

High-precision Pulse Generator

The USG5014M-P features a stable clock source and offers optional pulse modulation and a narrow pulse generator. The USG5000M-PG option delivers a minimum pulse width of 20 ns with a resolution of 10 ns, meeting the requirements of advanced radar systems, satellite communications testing, and high-speed digital applications. The pulse generator provides exceptional timing precision and stability across multiple operating modes.

With the optional pulse modulation package, you can generate customized pulse trains with precisely controlled timing parameters. Multiple pulse modes are supported, including Free-Run, Square, External Triggered, Adjustable Doublet, External Trigger Doublet, Gated, External Pulse, and Pulse Train. The outstanding on-off ratio of ≥ 80 dB at frequencies up to 6.5 GHz (≥ 70 dBc from 6.5 GHz to 14 GHz) ensures clear signal transitions with minimal bleed-through, while fast rise/fall times below 20 ns enable accurate simulation of high-speed pulsed systems. The mechanical attenuator in the USG5014M-P enhances these pulse modulation capabilities by providing more powerful pulse signals and improved on-off ratio performance.

High-precision Pulse Generator

Advanced Sweep Functions

The USG5014M-P features comprehensive sweep capabilities that simplify component characterization and system response testing across microwave frequencies. The instrument supports frequency, amplitude, and list sweep modes with customizable step sizes and dwell times. Engineers can perform frequency sweeps across the full 9 kHz to 14 GHz range with linear or logarithmic step patterns, enabling efficient measurement of frequency-dependent parameters like filter responses or amplifier gain flatness.

For more complex testing requirements, the list sweep mode allows creation of custom frequency-amplitude point sequences, ideal for focused testing at specific frequencies of interest. Sweep operation can be triggered via multiple methods including free-running, external trigger, manual key press, or computer command, providing flexibility for both manual testing and automated sequences. The mechanical attenuator in the USG5014M-P ensures excellent level accuracy throughout sweeps, even when operating near maximum output power, making it ideal for power amplifier characterization and high-dynamic-range measurements.

Sweep

Intuitive User Interface

The USG5014M-P features a 5-inch capacitive multi-touch screen with an intuitive user interface that accelerates test setup and enhances productivity. The flat design with clear parameter organization allows for quick access to commonly used functions, while the logical menu structure ensures even complex operations can be performed with minimal keystrokes. The touch interface supports gestures for common operations, reducing setup time and allowing engineers to focus on test results rather than instrument configuration.

Visual feedback is provided through clear waveform displays for both output and modulating signals, enabling immediate verification of signal characteristics. The interface allows seamless switching between time-domain and frequency-domain views, providing comprehensive signal visualization. Numerical parameters are displayed with high visibility and logical grouping, ensuring settings are easily verifiable at a glance. This thoughtful interface design reduces learning curves and improves testing efficiency in both research and production environments, even when working with complex microwave signals.

Flat display interface

Integrated Function Generator

The USG5014M-P includes a built-in 50 MHz function/arbitrary waveform generator that extends the instrument's versatility beyond RF applications. This integrated LF generator produces high-quality sine waves up to 50 MHz, square and pulse waveforms up to 15 MHz, and triangular waves up to 3 MHz. With output amplitude adjustable from 1 mVpp to 2 Vpp and DC offset control, it provides the signal flexibility needed for various testing applications without requiring additional equipment.

The function generator includes advanced capabilities such as linear and logarithmic sweep functions and comprehensive modulation options including AM, FM, and pulse modulation. For digital communications testing, it supports ASK, FSK, PSK, and QAM modulation with various digital patterns. This integration delivers significant value by combining two essential instruments in one compact unit, saving both bench space and equipment costs while maintaining signal generation quality across both baseband and microwave frequency ranges.

Function/ Arbitrary Waveform Generator

Optional Power Meter Option

The optional USG5000M-PK Power Meter Option transforms the USG5014M-P into a comprehensive RF test solution by adding accurate power measurement capabilities. Connected through the front panel USB port, this accessory enables precise RF power measurements, particularly valuable for calibrating output power levels and verifying signal integrity at the device under test. The power measurement system allows direct verification of actual received power, eliminating uncertainty in test setups at microwave frequencies.

A key capability of the Power Meter Option is the line loss calibration function, which automatically compensates for cable and fixture losses in the test path. This ensures that the power level reaching the device under test matches the specified value, improving measurement accuracy and test consistency. This feature is especially valuable when using the USG5014M-P's enhanced output power capabilities in complex test setups with multiple connection points or long cable runs. By combining signal generation and power measurement in a single coordinated system, the Power Meter Option streamlines test procedures and reduces the need for additional test equipment.

Power Meter Option

Professional Applications

High-Power Microwave Testing

The USG5014M-P's enhanced output power makes it ideally suited for applications requiring strong signal levels across microwave frequencies. It excels in testing receivers through high-loss test fixtures, characterizing components with significant insertion loss, and driving power amplifiers to their design limits. The mechanical attenuator ensures consistent high-power output with excellent level stability, critical for production environments where test consistency is paramount. The superior SWR characteristics minimize reflections that could otherwise compromise measurement accuracy at these higher power levels. For automated test systems or situations requiring signal distribution to multiple test points, the additional power headroom provides valuable margin to compensate for splitters, fixtures, and cable losses.

X-band Radar Development and Testing

For radar applications, the USG5014M-P provides powerful and clean signals needed for testing modern radar systems operating at X-band (8-12 GHz). The enhanced output power and mechanical attenuator ensure adequate signal levels even when testing through complex fixtures or long cable runs. When equipped with the optional pulse modulation capabilities, the instrument can generate precisely-timed radar pulses with fast rise/fall times and excellent on-off ratios. The narrow pulse generator option enables pulses as narrow as 20 ns with 10 ns resolution, meeting the requirements of advanced radar systems. These capabilities, combined with the superior level stability of the mechanical attenuator, make the USG5014M-P particularly valuable for military, weather, and aviation radar development and production testing.

Power Amplifier Development and Testing

Power amplifier engineers will find the USG5014M-P particularly valuable during development and production testing. The high output power eliminates the need for pre-amplifiers in many test setups, simplifying configurations and reducing potential error sources. The mechanical attenuator provides the level stability required for accurate gain, efficiency, and linearity measurements across various operating conditions. When combined with the optional power meter, the instrument enables closed-loop verification of amplifier performance parameters. For modulated signal testing, the AM, FM, and optional pulse modulation capabilities allow thorough characterization of amplifier behavior under realistic operating conditions, while the enhanced output power ensures adequate drive levels even for high-power devices.

Production and Automated Testing

Manufacturing environments benefit from the USG5014M-P's combination of high output power, level stability, and automation capabilities. The mechanical attenuator's enhanced reliability under continuous high-power operation makes it ideal for 24/7 production testing, while its superior level accuracy ensures consistent test conditions across multiple stations. The comprehensive remote control options via LAN, USB, or optional GPIB support seamless integration into automated test systems, with the additional output power providing margin for test fixture and cable losses that accumulate in complex production setups. For high-volume manufacturing where test time directly impacts throughput, the instrument's fast frequency and amplitude switching speeds minimize delays between test steps.

Technical Specifications

Model Comparison

The USG5014M-P is part of UNI-T's advanced RF signal generator series. Compared to the standard USG5014M model, it offers enhanced output power through its mechanical attenuator. For testing beyond 14 GHz, the USG5022M-P extends the frequency range to 22 GHz while maintaining the same mechanical attenuator advantages.

Available Options and Accessories

Package Contents

• USG5014M-P RF Signal Generator with Mechanical Attenuator
• Power cord (country-specific)
• USB data cable (UT-D14)
• 2.92-KKG connector (UT-C04-40GHz)
• Quick start guide
• Calibration certificate

Additional accessories and options available separately.

Warranty and Support

UNI-T guarantees that the instrument is free from defects in material and workmanship for three years from the purchase date. Accessories carry a one-year warranty. Comprehensive technical support is available through our experienced engineering team, with responsive service via phone, email, and our online knowledge base. Calibration services and extended warranty options are available to ensure your instrument maintains peak performance throughout its service life.

Why Choose the UNI-T USG5014M-P?

The USG5014M-P represents the premium offering in UNI-T's 14 GHz RF signal generator lineup, delivering enhanced performance through its mechanical attenuator technology. This powerful combination addresses the demanding requirements of high-power microwave applications, including satellite communications, radar systems, and advanced component testing. With significantly higher output power, improved SWR characteristics, and superior level stability across its entire frequency range, it provides the performance needed for cutting-edge development and production testing environments.

For applications requiring both high signal levels and precise control at frequencies up to 14 GHz, the USG5014M-P offers an optimal combination of performance characteristics that justify its position as the premium model in its frequency range. When coupled with options like pulse modulation, narrow pulse generation, and power measurement capabilities, it creates a versatile RF test platform capable of ad