3161 RACAL Frequency Waveform Synthesizer Vxi Card

Review RACAL Frequency Agile Waveform Synthesizer Vxi Card

The RACAL 3161 Frequency Waveform Synthesizer VXI card is a high-performance, versatile signal generation solution designed for various applications in the field of telecommunications, testing, and research. This compact VXI module integrates advanced digital synthesis technology, enabling it to generate a wide range of complex waveforms and frequencies with exceptional accuracy and stability.

At its core, the RACAL 3161 offers a frequency range from DC to 3.6 GHz with a typical spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR) of 65 dBc. It can generate various waveform types, including sine, square, triangle, sawtooth, and pulse shapes, with user-selectable rise and fall times. Additionally, it supports arbitrary waveform generation (AWG) with a memory depth of 8 Kpoints, allowing for the storage and playback of custom waveforms.

The synthesizer's built-in frequency modulation (FM), amplitude modulation (AM), and phase modulation (PM) capabilities enable the generation of modulated waveforms, making it an ideal choice for applications requiring signal modulation and analysis. Furthermore, it features a built-in phase-locked loop (PLL) for frequency multiplication and division, as well as automatic frequency control (AFC) and frequency agility functions for precise frequency tracking and synchronization.

The RACAL 3161 is designed with advanced features to facilitate ease of use and integration into various test systems. It offers both front-panel and GPIB (IEEE-488) control interfaces, providing users with flexibility in controlling the waveform generator. The instrument also supports remote control and monitoring via LAN and USB interfaces, making it compatible with popular software tools such as National Instruments LabVIEW, Agilent VEE, and Tektronix WaveSurfer.

In terms of electrical specifications, the RACAL 3161 offers a typical output power of 10 mW into a 50 load, with a maximum output power of 35 mW available upon request. It features a low phase noise of -105 dBc/Hz at 1 kHz offset and a typical output IP3 (third-order intercept point) of 11 dBm. Additionally, it offers high immunity to external interference, with a typical voltage sensitivity of 0.5 V/V and a typical current sensitivity of 1.5 nA/V.

The RACAL 3161 Frequency Waveform Synthesizer VXI card is housed in a rugged, 12.25 x 17.13 x 2.39-inch (311.1 x 435.0 x 60.8 mm) chassis, ensuring durability and reliability in various test environments. It is compliant with the VXIplusspecification, making it easy to install and integrate into VXI-based test systems. With its advanced features, high performance, and versatility, the RACAL 3161 is an indispensable tool for engineers and researchers in the fields of telecommunications, testing, and research, requiring precise and complex signal generation capabilities.

The RACAL 3161 is a high-performance frequency waveform synthesizer VXI card designed for applications in test and measurement, communication systems, and research fields. Here are some pros and cons of buying this device:

1. High Frequency Generating Capability: The RACAL 3161 can generate frequencies from DC to 8.5 GHz with a high degree of accuracy and stability.

2. Wideband Harmonic Generation: It can generate harmonics up to the 31st order, making it suitable for generating complex waveforms and signals.

3. High Spur Free Dynamic Range: The device offers an excellent spur free dynamic range, which is essential for generating clean and stable signals.

4. Digital Interface: The VXI interface provides high data transfer rates and easy integration with other test equipment.

5. Built-in Functions Generator: The synthesizer has a built-in function generator, which can produce various waveforms such as sine, square, triangle, and pulse waveforms.

1. High Cost: The RACAL 3161 is a high-end frequency waveform synthesizer, and its cost may be prohibitive for some applications.

2. Power Consumption: The device consumes a significant amount of power, which may require a large power supply or a dedicated power source.

3. Complex Setup: Setting up the synthesizer can be a complex process, requiring specialized knowledge and experience.

4. Size and Weight: The RACAL 3161 is a large and heavy device, which may require additional rack space and mounting hardware.

The RACAL 3161 is a high-performance frequency waveform synthesizer VXI card, which offers excellent frequency generating capability, wideband harmonic generation, high spur free dynamic range, digital interface, and built-in function generator. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as its high cost, power consumption, complex setup, and size and weight.

If you require a high-performance frequency waveform synthesizer for your application and have the budget for it, the RACAL 3161 is an excellent choice. However, if the cost is a significant concern or if your application does not require such high performance, there are other more affordable options available in the market. In such cases, it is recommended to consider the specific requirements of your application and evaluate the features and performance of various synthesizers before making a purchase decision.

Details:

For sale is a Racal 3161 frequency agile waveform synthesizer. Full part number is 407606-001-s1588. I no longer have a vxi controller and software so am unable to test, sold as-is.

specifications vpxisyst:

• brand: Racal
• mpn: 3161
• part type: Card

payments vpxisyst:

• other
• credit card: discover
• wallet: apple-pay

general vpxisyst:

• category: Business & Industrial > Test, Measurement Inspection > Systems > Pxi Vxi Boards Modules

offer vpxisyst:

• prices: $249.99–$1500.23
• item condition:
  • New
  • Used
  • New – Open box
  • Like New
• started: september 4, 2025
• options: ship-to-home
• availability: in stock
• best offers: true
• sold #: 12
• in stock #: 5

seller vpxisyst:

• rating: 100.0%
• city: finksburg, maryland
• # reviews: 2188

returns vpxisyst:

• policy: no returns

shipping vpxisyst:

• service: fedex ground / fedex home delivery
• class: standard
• transit: 5-11 days
• type: calculated
• carrier: fedex