Siglent SSG3000X and SSG5000X series RF Signal generators

[tautech]

SSG5000X
4 and 6 GHz models
Released May 2020
Pricing from $ 8809


https://int.siglent.com/products-overview/ssg5000x/
https://siglentna.com/rf-generators/ssg5000x-series/

Main Features
Frequency up to 4 GHz / 6 GHz
0.001 Hz frequency setting resolution
Maximum output power up to +26 dBm (typ.)
Phase Noise: -120 dBc/ Hz @ 1 GHz, 20 kHz offset (typ.)
Standard AM & FM & PM & Pulse modulation
Pulse train Generator  (option)
External IQ signal Generator (option)
High accuracy clock source (option)


SSG3000X
3.2 and 2.1 GHz models

https://www.siglentamerica.com/rf-generators/ssg3000x/
https://www.siglenteu.com/rf-generators/ssg3000x-series-of-signal-generators/





SSG3000X series RF signal source, output frequency range from 9 KHz to 3.2 GHz, standard AM & FM & PM analog modulation, pulse modulation, pulse sequencer, power meter control kit, etc., equipped with baseband source (eg: SDG 6000X), Implement IQ modulation for R&D, education, production, maintenance and other related fields.

Features
● Maximum frequency 2.1GHz/3.2 GHz
● Output frequency resolution up to 0.01Hz
● Output power range from +13dBm to -110dBm
● Phase noise <-110 dBc/Hz@1 GHz, offset 20 kHz (typical)
● Amplitude accuracy ≤ 0.7dB (typical)
● Support AM/FM/PM analog modulation, support internal and external modulation
● Pulse modulation function, the on-off ratio can reach 70dBc
● Pulse train generator, user-definable pulse sequence (optional)
● Supports external IQ modulation and outputs IQ modulated signals (optional)
● Power meter control kit for easy power meter measurement and control power output
● Support web remote control, which is convenient for users to remotely control devices
● 5-inch capacitive touch screen for user-friendly operation
● Rich communication interface: USB-HOST, USB DEVICE (USB-TMC), LAN (VXI-11, Socket, Telnet), optional GPIB

Datasheet:
https://www.siglentamerica.com/download/7543/

US Pricing:
SSG3021X          9 kHz~2.1 GHz        $2549   
SSG3032X          9 kHz~3.2 GHz        $4009


SSG5000X video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=2&v=LObh3AZTTGM&feature=emb_logo
   
The Signal Path review video SSG5060X-V

[BillB]

Oooooh, shiny!

Looks expensive.

[LapTop006]

● Power meter control kit for easy power meter measurement and control power output

Sounds interesting.

[tkamiya]

Looks very nice.
Any idea of its price point?

[ALLDAQ]

Hi. The units came out today. In Euro they are starting at 1999.00€ for the standard 2.1GHz version. Of course there are IQE versions and accessories available. I put everything together and the ultimate unit came out at just over 6,500.00€. Really awesome prices, if you compare them to the others in the market.

[simone.pignatti]

EUROPEAN pricing as below:
SSG3021X EURO 1999 + VAT
SSG3021X-EIQ EURO 4299 + VAT
SSG3032X EURO 3499 + VAT
SSG3032X-EIQ EURO 5699 + VAT

Pulse train Generator option EURO 819 + VAT
2.1 TO 3.2GHz BANDWIDTH UPGRADE EURO 1999 + VAT
RACK MOUNT KIT EURO 159 + VAT

to use the IQ you need a SDG6000X ARB gen series with IQ option installed

ENGLISH DATA SHEET
https://www.batterfly.com/PDF/Siglent/ssg3000x-datasheet.pdf

[tv84]

SSG3000X Series Signal Generator

English Programming Guide

[janekivi]

Dragon has update, made by David...

[janekivi]

eee... app name is dragon and binary listing shows ../home/david/.. as CodeSourcery

== volume siglent ==
drwxrwxrwx  2 1000  1000         688 2018-10-10 11:43:12 lib
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000       37230 2018-10-10 11:43:12 lib/ext_device_driver.so
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000      124489 2018-10-10 11:43:12 lib/libvncclient.so
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000      419792 2018-10-10 11:43:12 lib/libEasyLib.so
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000      294114 2018-10-10 11:43:12 lib/libvncserver.so
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000       24339 2018-10-10 11:43:12 lib/brusvxi11.so
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000      124489 2018-10-10 11:43:12 lib/libvncclient.so.1
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000      294114 2018-10-10 11:43:12 lib/libvncserver.so.1
drwxrwxrwx  3 1000  1000         224 2018-10-10 11:43:12 usr
drwxrwxrwx  2 1000  1000         160 2018-10-10 11:43:12 usr/usr
drwxrwxrwx  2 1000  1000         160 2018-10-10 11:43:12 firmdata0
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000       25032 2018-10-10 11:43:12 vncserver
drwxrwxrwx  2 1000  1000         160 2018-10-10 11:43:12 upgrade
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000     5966131 2018-10-25 06:58:49 dragon.app
drwxrwxrwx  6 1000  1000         504 2018-10-10 11:43:11 config
drwxrwxrwx  2 1000  1000         744 2018-10-10 11:43:11 config/arb
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000       32768 2018-10-10 11:43:11 config/arb/square_wav.bin
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000       32768 2018-10-10 11:43:11 config/arb/sin_wav.bin
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000       32768 2018-10-10 11:43:11 config/arb/1FFF.bin
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000        8192 2018-10-10 11:43:11 config/arb/iq.bin
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000       32768 2018-10-10 11:43:11 config/arb/sawtooth_wav.bin
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000       32768 2018-10-10 11:43:11 config/arb/2000.bin
-rwxrwxrwx  1 1000  1000       32768 2018-10-10 11:43:11 config/arb/triangle_wav.bin
.........................

[tv84]

Product ID = 15100
https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/siglent-ads-firmware-file-format/msg1364981/#msg1364981

.ADS parsing:

Code: [Select]

File Header Size: 00000070
00000000 - File Checksum: BBF25EE0 [00000004-008A17CE] (with only the File Header decrypted)  CKSM OK
00000004 - File Size: 008A175F (without 0x70 bytes of the File Header)
0000000C - Product_ID: 15100
00000026 - Vendor/Brand: SIGLENT
0000003A - USB Host Controller: ISP1763
****************************************************
Decrypting the 0x2800 and 0x1400 blocks...
Reversing file...
XORing with 0xFF (incrementing pattern)...
XORing with 0xFF from 0x00450BB0 until 0x008A175E
****************************************************
00000000 --- Section Checksum: B9DCD365
00000004 --- Section Size: 008A172B [00000034-008A175E]  CKSM OK
00000008 --- Section # 00000007
00000034 --- 008A175E  ***** ZIP file *****
Offset    Ver  Flag  Comp  Size      Packed    Modified             CRC32                          Name         Permissions     Extra Details
00000034  2.0  0000  0008  00119438  00002321  01-09-2016 11:44:22  B69FEE43  [0000005A-0000237A]  logo.bmp  MTime: 01-09-2016 04:44:44  ATime: 10-10-2018 12:29:51  CTime: 10-10-2018 12:29:51
0000237B  2.0  0000  0008  000001A8  000001AD  06-06-2018 23:35:09  5534B3D8  [000023A3-0000254F]  readme.txt  MTime: 06-06-2018 16:35:18  ATime: 10-10-2018 12:29:51  CTime: 10-10-2018 12:29:51
00002550  2.0  0000  0008  00880000  00597AB9  26-10-2018 09:14:06  735161E7  [00002579-0059A031]  siglent.img  MTime: 26-10-2018 02:14:13  ATime: 10-10-2018 12:27:48  CTime: 10-10-2018 12:27:48
0059A032  2.0  0000  0008  0030C730  003071C6  23-07-2018 17:28:18  F17F0C39  [0059A056-008A121B]  uImage  MTime: 23-07-2018 10:28:36  ATime: 10-10-2018 12:28:14  CTime: 10-10-2018 12:28:14
008A121C  2.0  0000  0008  00000B1B  00000340  17-10-2018 16:52:24  44D2343E  [008A1243-008A1582]  update.sh  MTime: 17-10-2018 09:52:49  ATime: 10-10-2018 12:29:51  CTime: 10-10-2018 12:29:51
Disk Entries: 5   Total Entries: 5   Directory Size: 454 bytes  [008A1583-008A1748]
****************************************************

Xilinx Zynq XC7Z020 device (top_dragon_zynq.bit) parsing:

Code: [Select]

00000000 - 0009         (0x0009) File Header Length
00000002 - 0FF00FF0     (0x0FF00FF0) File Header Long 1
00000006 - 0FF00FF0     (0x0FF00FF0) File Header Long 2
0000000A - 00           (0x00) File Header Zero
0000000B - 0001         (0x0001) Key Length
0000000D - 61 0031      (key a) Design Name: top_dragon_zynq;UserID=0XFFFFFFFF;Version=2015.4
00000041 - 62 000C      (key b) Part Name: 7z020clg484
00000050 - 63 000B      (key c) Generation Date: 2018/09/28
0000005E - 64 0009      (key d) Generation Time: 10:22:53
0000006A - 65 003DBAFC  (key e) Bitstream Length: 003DBAFC  [0000006F-003DBB6A]
--------------  BITSTREAM  ------------------------
0000006F - FFFFFFFF             Padding
00000073 - FFFFFFFF             Padding
00000077 - FFFFFFFF             Padding
0000007B - FFFFFFFF             Padding
0000007F - FFFFFFFF             Padding
00000083 - FFFFFFFF             Padding
00000087 - FFFFFFFF             Padding
0000008B - FFFFFFFF             Padding
0000008F - 000000BB             Bus width auto detect, word 1
00000093 - 11220044             Bus width auto detect, word 2
00000097 - FFFFFFFF             Padding
0000009B - FFFFFFFF             Padding
0000009F - AA995566             Sync Word (BPI/SPI Mode)
000000A3 - 20000000             T1 - 00000000  NOP      (1x)
000000A7 - 30022001 00000000    T1 W 00000001  TIMER
000000AF - 30020001 00000000    T1 W 00000001  WBSTAR
000000B7 - 30008001 00000000    T1 W 00000001  CMD      NULL - No Operation
000000BF - 20000000             T1 - 00000000  NOP      (1x)
000000C3 - 30008001 00000007    T1 W 00000001  CMD      RCRC - Reset CRC
000000CB - 20000000             T1 - 00000000  NOP      (2x)
000000D3 - 30026001 00000000    T1 W 00000001  FALL_EDGE
000000DB - 30012001 02003FE5    T1 W 00000001  COR0
000000E3 - 3001C001 00000000    T1 W 00000001  COR1
000000EB - 30018001 03727093    T1 W 00000001  IDCODE
000000F3 - 30008001 00000009    T1 W 00000001  CMD      SWITCH - Switch CCLK Frequency
000000FB - 20000000             T1 - 00000000  NOP      (1x)
000000FF - 3000C001 00000401    T1 W 00000001  MASK
00000107 - 3000A001 00000501    T1 W 00000001  CTL0
0000010F - 3000C001 00000000    T1 W 00000001  MASK
00000117 - 30030001 00000000    T1 W 00000001  CTL1
0000011F - 20000000             T1 - 00000000  NOP      (8x)
0000013F - 30002001 00000000    T1 W 00000001  FAR
00000147 - 30008001 00000001    T1 W 00000001  CMD      WCFG - Write Config Data
0000014F - 20000000             T1 - 00000000  NOP      (1x)
00000153 - 30004000             T1 W 00000000  FDRI
00000157 - 500F6C78             T2 W 000F6C78
003DB343 - 20000000             T1 - 00000000  NOP      (2x)
003DB34B - 30008001 0000000A    T1 W 00000001  CMD      GRESTORE - Pulse GRESTORE Signal
003DB353 - 20000000             T1 - 00000000  NOP      (1x)
003DB357 - 30008001 00000003    T1 W 00000001  CMD      DGHIGH/LFRM - Last Frame Write
003DB35F - 20000000             T1 - 00000000  NOP      (100x)
003DB4EF - 30008001 00000005    T1 W 00000001  CMD      START - Begin Startup Sequence
003DB4F7 - 20000000             T1 - 00000000  NOP      (1x)
003DB4FB - 30002001 03BE0000    T1 W 00000001  FAR
003DB503 - 3000C001 00000501    T1 W 00000001  MASK
003DB50B - 3000A001 00000501    T1 W 00000001  CTL0
003DB513 - 30000001 E3AD7EA5    T1 W 00000001  CRC
003DB51B - 20000000             T1 - 00000000  NOP      (2x)
003DB523 - 30008001 0000000D    T1 W 00000001  CMD      DESYNC - Reset DALIGN Signal
003DB52B - 20000000             T1 - 00000000  NOP      (400x)

uImage parsing:

Code: [Select]

00000000                 Magic: 27051956    uImage File OK
00000004         Header CRC-32: 160D89FC  [00000000-0000003F]    CRC OK
00000008               Created: 23-07-2018 09:27:37
0000000C             Data Size: 0030C6F0
00000010     Data Load Address: 00008000
00000014   Entry Point Address: 00008000
00000018           Data CRC-32: 7D30264F  [00000040-0030C72F]    CRC OK
0000001C      Operating System: Linux
0000001D      CPU Architecture: ARM
0000001E                  Type: OS Kernel Image
0000001F           Compression: None
00000020                  Name: Linux-3.19.1-xilinx-svn33403
00000040 - Image 0 [00000040-0030C72F]  0030C6F0 bytes
        000041AF - (Probable) GZIP block starts at this position!
Taken from the .app code (shows most of the ICs used):

Code: [Select]

  dev_if_register_scpi_chip_access("fpga", write_fpga_register, read_fpga_register);
  dev_if_register_scpi_chip_access("cpld", write_cpld_register, read_cpld_register);
  dev_if_register_scpi_chip_access("ad5446", write_ad5446_register, read_ad5446_register);
  dev_if_register_scpi_chip_access("ad5660", write_ad5660_register, read_ad5660_register);
  dev_if_register_scpi_chip_access("ad5660_i", write_i_ad5660_register, read_i_ad5660_register);
  dev_if_register_scpi_chip_access("ad5660_q", write_q_ad5660_register, read_q_ad5660_register);
  dev_if_register_scpi_chip_access("ad9122", write_ad9122_register, read_ad9122_register);
  dev_if_register_scpi_chip_access("adc121", write_adc121s101_register, read_adc121s101_register);
  dev_if_register_scpi_chip_access("hmc703", write_hmc703_register, read_hmc703_register);
  dev_if_register_scpi_chip_access("lmk04806", write_lmk04806_register, read_lmk04806_register);
  dev_if_register_scpi_chip_access("m25p40", write_flash, read_flash);
  dev_if_register_scpi_chip_access("cpld_iq", write_iq_cpld_register, read_iq_cpld_register);

[tv84]

Option licensing procedures:

SSG3000X = SSA3000X

[janekivi]

What about the E-SafeNet at this time?

[tv84]

What about the E-SafeNet at this time?

I've seen it but it's a sample < 1024 bytes. If you know of any other Siglent Safenet file I might try its key. But, with only this one, it's impossible (due to the size) to discover the key.

[tautech]

New tool. 
Quick screenshot taken with SSA3032X externally 10 MHz referenced to SSG3021X 10 MHz OUT.

2.1 GHz @ 0dB
N-N cable 6 GHz

1 MHz SPAN = yellow
100 Hz SPAN = cyan

[tautech]

Defpom takes a look at the base model SSG3021X 2.1 GHz RF gen.

[TurboTom]

Interestingly, the same Zync module gets used as in the SDG6000X series. I guess we can expect more intruments to be released by Siglent with this main control unit.

[tautech]

New Firmware for SSG3000X models.

http://old.siglentamerica.com/USA_website_2014/Firmware&Software/firmware/SSG3000X_V1.0.3.1.19R2_EN.zip

Version: V1.0.3.1.19R2
30.5 MB

Changelog
1. Add the function of flatness, new version provide two types to fill the flatness table. One is automatically with the power sensor or according to set the frequency step or the points to fill the flatness table
2、 Add function of adjust reference accuracy
3、 Solution some bugs of pulse train function
4、 Optimize the AM performance
5、 Solution some bugs of the FM function
6、 Solution some bugs of the VNC control

[BillB]

Has anyone purchased one of these yet?

[tautech]

Has anyone purchased one of these yet?

I can tell you the new FW hasn't meddled with the upgrade upgrades. 

[colorado.rob]

I can tell you the new FW hasn't meddled with the upgrade upgrades. 

Can the non-IQ version be upgraded to IQ?

[tautech]

I can tell you the new FW hasn't meddled with the upgrade upgrades. 

Can the non-IQ version be upgraded to IQ?

Sadly no.
The IQ HW is not installed in the 'non IQ' models and Defpom whips the lid off and confirms this.

[tv84]

No IQ upgrade. Just BW.

[videobelu]

No IQ upgrade. Just BW.

Hi I'm going to buy a SSG3021X and I wanted to ask if you can indicate me step by step the procedure to upgrade to the 3.2 GHz version ....
thanks a lot

Fabrizio

[nctnico]

I can tell you the new FW hasn't meddled with the upgrade upgrades. 

Can the non-IQ version be upgraded to IQ?

Sadly no.
The IQ HW is not installed in the 'non IQ' models and Defpom whips the lid off and confirms this.

Has anyone used the IQ modulation on these RF generators? Does it work? Someone has asked me to look into an RF generator with IQ modulation and I'm trying to compile a short list.

[tautech]

I can tell you the new FW hasn't meddled with the upgrade upgrades. 

Can the non-IQ version be upgraded to IQ?

Sadly no.
The IQ HW is not installed in the 'non IQ' models and Defpom whips the lid off and confirms this.

Has anyone used the IQ modulation on these RF generators? Does it work? Someone has asked me to look into an RF generator with IQ modulation and I'm trying to compile a short list.

When you look at the pricing structure for the IQ equipped models I do wonder if the cheaper and certainly more capable option is to pair the SSG3kX base model with an IQ equipped SDG6022X.

Something you might want to ponder on.
Jump over to the SDG6kX thread and ask owners about IQ capability:
https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/siglent-sdg6000-series-awg_s/

[nctnico]

AFAIK to generate an IQ modulated signal you need a dual channel function generation and an RF generation which has an IQ modulator. Come to think of it... an R&S SMIQ might do the job too.

[tautech]

AFAIK to generate an IQ modulated signal you need a dual channel function generation and an RF generation which has an IQ modulator. Come to think of it... an R&S SMIQ might do the job too.

Yep, in the absence of the internal SDG3kX IQ HW option they do this:



Defpom lifted the lid on mine in the vid linked on the previous page but the IQ HW is not installed in the base models.

[nctnico]

That solution is getting rather expensive and as usual I'm wary of bugs especially when it comes to equipment which serve a niche market. I really need to propose a tried & tested solution so I'm still hoping someone with hands-on experience generating IQ modulated signals can chime in.

[tautech]

That solution is getting rather expensive and as usual I'm wary of bugs especially when it comes to equipment which serve a niche market. I really need to propose a tried & tested solution so I'm still hoping someone with hands-on experience generating IQ modulated signals can chime in.

Sure I get that but do the sums vs SSG plus IQ and then compare what you have for the outlay, a SSG that can be improved  plus a well featured 16 bit AWG that can also be improved. 

Like I mentioned, jump over to the SDG6kX thread and see who's using IQ in them.

Further info, it seems you need a PC connected to SDG6kX to do IQ.
http://siglentna.com/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2017/12/SDG6000X_UserManual_UM0206X-E01A.pdf
P65/198
2.3 To Set IQ Waveform (Optional)
The SDG6000X can be used as an IQ waveform generator, providing ASK, PSK, QAM, FSK, MSK and multi-tone signals. The EasyIQ software is necessary when using SDG6000X to generate an IQ waveform. The EasyIQ is a PC program used to download IQ baseband waveform data to the SDG6000X through a USB or LAN device interface.

EasyIQ PC program is free for download from the SDG6kX Software page on Siglent websites:
https://siglentna.com/service-and-support/firmware-software/waveform-generators/#sdg6000x-series

[TheUnnamedNewbie]

AFAIK to generate an IQ modulated signal you need a dual channel function generation and an RF generation which has an IQ modulator. Come to think of it... an R&S SMIQ might do the job too.

Depends on how fast your IQ has to go, and how fast your AWG is. You can have an AWG output an IQ signal around a non-DC carrier, and then mix it in a simple AM-modulation signal generator.

Further info, it seems you need a PC connected to SDG6kX to do IQ.
http://siglentna.com/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2017/12/SDG6000X_UserManual_UM0206X-E01A.pdf
P65/198

That is a real downer. There are some basic things which a generator such as this should be able to generate built-in (basic QAM/QPSK/OOK/etc modulations with simple PRBS lengths, for instance). I use these types of measurements a lot, and needing to get out a computer everytime would be somewhat annoying.

[nctnico]

AFAIK to generate an IQ modulated signal you need a dual channel function generation and an RF generation which has an IQ modulator. Come to think of it... an R&S SMIQ might do the job too.

Depends on how fast your IQ has to go, and how fast your AWG is. You can have an AWG output an IQ signal around a non-DC carrier, and then mix it in a simple AM-modulation signal generator.

Not extremely fast. It is for a very basic proof of concept.

[2N3055]

AFAIK to generate an IQ modulated signal you need a dual channel function generation and an RF generation which has an IQ modulator. Come to think of it... an R&S SMIQ might do the job too.

Depends on how fast your IQ has to go, and how fast your AWG is. You can have an AWG output an IQ signal around a non-DC carrier, and then mix it in a simple AM-modulation signal generator.

Not extremely fast. It is for a very basic proof of concept.

What carrier frequency you need? With Siglent SD6000X  you can combine channels in gen and get everything right from the gen if 200, 350 or 500 MHz carrier is good enough. Also you can get I/Q modulator as separate component and feed it I/Q from SDG6000X and carrier from LO, that can be whatever you have....

[nctnico]

Unfortunately the carrier needs to be much higher in the 800MHz to 1GHz range (can't go into specifics). Also the experiences of Turbotom with the SDG6000 are not giving me a warm & fuzzy feeling. Right now I'm thinking an SDG2000 and a used RF generator with IQ modulator should be able to do it. From there I expect the project to move to a real radio transmitter quickly so it doesn't make sense to invest a whole lot in getting IQ modulated signals from a test setup.

[2N3055]

Unfortunately the carrier needs to be much higher in the 800MHz to 1GHz range (can't go into specifics). Also the experiences of Turbotom with the SDG6000 are not giving me a warm & fuzzy feeling. Right now I'm thinking an SDG2000 and a used RF generator with IQ modulator should be able to do it. From there I expect the project to move to a real radio transmitter quickly so it doesn't make sense to invest a whole lot in getting IQ modulated signals from a test setup.

Fair enough..

If it means anything to you,most of the bugs initially found are fixed, U/I had some improvements, I/Q was also improved. Most of the problems are with fast pulses, AWG and I/Q seems OK.
If you want, I can run a specific test to see if that works.  Just send me PM.

Regards,
Sinisa

[nctnico]

Unfortunately the carrier needs to be much higher in the 800MHz to 1GHz range (can't go into specifics). Also the experiences of Turbotom with the SDG6000 are not giving me a warm & fuzzy feeling. Right now I'm thinking an SDG2000 and a used RF generator with IQ modulator should be able to do it. From there I expect the project to move to a real radio transmitter quickly so it doesn't make sense to invest a whole lot in getting IQ modulated signals from a test setup.

Fair enough..

If it means anything to you,most of the bugs initially found are fixed, U/I had some improvements, I/Q was also improved. Most of the problems are with fast pulses, AWG and I/Q seems OK.
If you want, I can run a specific test to see if that works.  Just send me PM.

Thank you. I'll keep that in mind. 

[Howardlong]

For a POC, you could use an eval board: I've used the ADRF6755 eval board with its partner USB/SPI interface with its software front end. If you're brave you can puch the SPI interface yourself, although it depends how much you value your time second guessing against purchasing the $49 USB partner board.

This includes combined LO and IQ mixer for upconversion/modulation, and will generate a carrier from 100MHz to 2.4GHz, with ~8dBm P1dB. Baseband bandwidth 600MHz, if you can find an application that needs it!

It was about three years ago I last used one, and the underlying parts did find their way onto a real product. There may be more modern equivalents.

[TurboTom]

The ADALM-Pluto could also be a low-cost option, especially since already some software solutions are available that may suit your specific requirements.

[tautech]

OP updated with new release SSG5000X info

[tautech]

SSG5000X video link added in the foot of OP.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=2&v=LObh3AZTTGM&feature=emb_logo

[Elasia]

SSG5000X video link added in the foot of OP.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=2&v=LObh3AZTTGM&feature=emb_logo

0:23.. a competitors analyzer? lol

[tautech]

New firmware for SSG3000X models.

Version： V1.0.3.1.19R5
32.7 MB

https://int.siglent.com/upload_file/zip/firmware/Radio_Frequency_Signal_Source/SSG3000X_1.0.3.1.19R5_EN.zip

Release notes
1. Fix a bug for power meter function
2. Fix a bug for power meter filling flatness

[noreply]

Has anybody on this forum purchased on of these yet??

What’s your ‘first hand’ experience – are you a happy puppy

Also can someone explain (tautech?) what is the difference / meaning of

Level setting  vs. Level of performance

From Siglent data sheet we have …

Level setting range
9 kHz≤f<100 kHz -110 dBm~+9 dBm
100 kHz≤f<1 MHz -110 dBm~+15 dBm
1 MHz≤f≤3.2 GHz -110 dBm~+20 dBm

Level of performance range
9 kHz≤f<100 kHz -110 dBm~+7 dBm
100 kHz≤f<1 MHz -110 dBm~+10 dBm
1 MHz≤f≤3.2 GHz -110 dBm~+13 dBm 

Correct me if I'm wrong ...

Dores this mean I can 'dial-up' +20dBm on the interface

BUT

the device is likely to produce an output of +13 dBm (guaranteed)

Not sure how the above Specification / feature should be interpreted

I certainly would love to have a +20dBm guaranteed output level 

[tautech]

Setting vs Level is controlled with an external power sensor to null the impact of cables and adapters at distance from the RF source so to keep output within spec and level over its frequency range. Normal for this type of equipment AFAIK.
Have a read of 2.7 Power Sensor in the User manual.
http://siglentna.com/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2018/12/SSG3000X_UserManual_UM0803X_E01A.pdf

I have the SSG3021X (improved) if there's anything you want to see.

[tv84]

I have the SSG3021X (improved) if there's anything you want to see.

What improvements do you have, tautech?

[tautech]

I have the SSG3021X (improved) if there's anything you want to see.

What improvements do you have, tautech?

Those you supplied. 
BW

[noreply]

I have the SSG3021X (improved) if there's anything you want to see.

Would be nice to see what the MAX dBm level you get on a CW signal at 100MHz, 1GHz and (if enhanced) 3GHz as 'seen on a SSA3032x Plus??

Thank You 

[tautech]

I have the SSG3021X (improved) if there's anything you want to see.

Would be nice to see what the MAX dBm level you get on a CW signal at 100MHz, 1GHz and (if enhanced) 3GHz as 'seen on a SSA3032x Plus??

Thank You 

Here you go.
Both instruments cold and without external frequency reference. SSG running on previous FW.
10 dB attenuator fitted to SVA3032X input. Siglent 6 GHz rated N-N cable.





SSG3021X 3032X displays a red Unlevel warning when set to 20 dBm output like in this image from a Siglent webpage:

[noreply]

Here you go.
Both instruments cold and without external frequency reference. SSG running on previous FW.
10 dB attenuator fitted to SVA3032X input. Siglent 6 GHz rated N-N cable.

Thank You

Not sure what happened with the Frequency accuracy on the low end to high end with respect to the output level ??

98.1333 MHz is most likely outside its spec?? when dialling-up 100MHz even if the device is 'running cold' - would have expected better Frequency accuracy 

Having said that - we are assuming the SVA is doing its job and reporting the correct Marker frequencies 

Reason for the wide Frequencies test was to see precisely that - if the device is linier with respect to output level within its specified frequency range.

One of my most important requirements is to have a 'trusted signal source' both in frequency and output level - as I most likely will be using the signal generator in the field without access to a 'second' instrument (like an SSA) to verify the quality of the RF signal 

Maybe there is a more accurate test to verify these parameters 

[tautech]

Here you go.
Both instruments cold and without external frequency reference. SSG running on previous FW.
10 dB attenuator fitted to SVA3032X input. Siglent 6 GHz rated N-N cable.

Thank You

Not sure what happened with the Frequency accuracy on the low end to high end with respect to the output level ??

98.1333 MHz is most likely outside its spec?? when dialling-up 100MHz even if the device is 'running cold' - would have expected better Frequency accuracy 

Having said that - we are assuming the SVA is doing its job and reporting the correct Marker frequencies 

Reason for the wide Frequencies test was to see precisely that - if the device is linear with respect to output level within its specified frequency range.

Now you're addressing 2 parameters, frequency and amplitude accuracy.

Let's examine each result in this case.
For me to report frequency accuracy I had 3 options:
1. Exactly as measured with cold instruments and unreferenced. Both mentioned.
2. Cheat. Link both instruments via their 10 MHz BNC's and then they would agree even if the frequency results weren't accurate to a real world measurement.
3. Connect both to an external 10 MHz ref.......I don't possess one ! 

So you got an honest screenshot and with qualified conditions........something too often missing on this forum.
I did use a Peak marker although I agree the frequency measurement is hardly ideal however I thought your primary interest was amplitude level flatness.

Amplitude accuracy.
Back a few posts you asked about: Level setting vs Level of performance
The screenshot results and associated comments explain this, along with the Datasheet spec and User manual.
To obtain flatter response a power level control sensor is required and SSG models support a few types. RTFM. 

So if we need a guaranteed flatness of output we have 2 options, use the SSG at frequencies where flatness is specified to 'Level accuracy ≤0.7 dB (typ.)' or connect a power level sensor, for which level accuracy will then depend on the sensors spec.

[noreply]

Here you go.
Both instruments cold and without external frequency reference. SSG running on previous FW.
10 dB attenuator fitted to SVA3032X input. Siglent 6 GHz rated N-N cable.

Thank You

Not sure what happened with the Frequency accuracy on the low end to high end with respect to the output level ??

98.1333 MHz is most likely outside its spec?? when dialling-up 100MHz even if the device is 'running cold' - would have expected better Frequency accuracy 

Having said that - we are assuming the SVA is doing its job and reporting the correct Marker frequencies 

Reason for the wide Frequencies test was to see precisely that - if the device is linear with respect to output level within its specified frequency range.

Now you're addressing 2 parameters, frequency and amplitude accuracy.

Let's examine each result in this case.
For me to report frequency accuracy I had 3 options:
1. Exactly as measured with cold instruments and unreferenced. Both mentioned.
2. Cheat. Link both instruments via their 10 MHz BNC's and then they would agree even if the frequency results weren't accurate to a real world measurement.
3. Connect both to an external 10 MHz ref.......I don't possess one ! 

So you got an honest screenshot and with qualified conditions........something too often missing on this forum.
I did use a Peak marker although I agree the frequency measurement is hardly ideal however I thought your primary interest was amplitude level flatness.

Amplitude accuracy.
Back a few posts you asked about: Level setting vs Level of performance
The screenshot results and associated comments explain this, along with the Datasheet spec and User manual.
To obtain flatter response a power level control sensor is required and SSG models support a few types. RTFM. 

So if we need a guaranteed flatness of output we have 2 options, use the SSG at frequencies where flatness is specified to 'Level accuracy ≤0.7 dB (typ.)' or connect a power level sensor, for which level accuracy will then depend on the sensors spec.

Tautech

First of all thank you once again for your prompt response 

Yes you are an honest broker – so your comments about the measurements you did are welcomed with respect 

Although my main concerns are Amplitude accuracy – I can accept a calibration offset (something which can be corrected like the power coupler Siglent has as an option) but having a big drift in amplitude vs. frequency is far more difficult to control as making a perfectly linear RF signal generator is not an easy task.


Most of the RF signal generators seem to have amplitude responses < 20dBm

– so to get accurate figures at this level would not be easy as is already indicated in the specifications data.

The fact that it goes to 20dBm is a bonus

– but reproducible accuracy throughout the frequency band is not something one would expect – as you have confirmed.


I did have a close look at the review Defpom posted on the SSG3021X you loaned to him.

It was good to have a quick look inside the unit – to see the build quality.

I am not sure if the unit you made the tests on just now – was the same unit?

I ask, because I am also not sure if the unit in the review video was an early production device – if so perhaps there might be some reasons (HW or FW) for the ‘cold’ frequency offset - if indeed this was the SSG and NOT the SVA which was measuring 
 
What made me think the above – was the multitude of scratch marks on the internal chassis that the mainboard was mounted inside the SSG.

When Defpom ‘opened the sealed unit’ – I could not believe the multitude of scratches inside.

Yeah – I know it makes no difference to the operation of the device – but I guess it’s some reflection on Siglent’s quality control.

That’s why I suspect that the review unit must have been from a pre full production run??


Anyway, with all factors aside, the SSG is certainly a nice bit of kit

– it sure is a handy device and VERY functional.


I like that it has an EXTERNAL modulation input (the competition, Rigol device has same)…


This is VERY HANDY for those involved with FM Radio RF amplifier design.

You can easily introduce a Stereo Encoder to generate external stereo signal with the 19KHz pilot as well as an RDS encoder into the external modulation input

– this will give you a FULL FM broadcast signal for testing FM receivers with modulation 

[tautech]

Here you go.
Both instruments cold and without external frequency reference. SSG running on previous FW.
10 dB attenuator fitted to SVA3032X input. Siglent 6 GHz rated N-N cable.

Thank You

Not sure what happened with the Frequency accuracy on the low end to high end with respect to the output level ??

98.1333 MHz is most likely outside its spec?? when dialling-up 100MHz even if the device is 'running cold' - would have expected better Frequency accuracy 

Having said that - we are assuming the SVA is doing its job and reporting the correct Marker frequencies 

Reason for the wide Frequencies test was to see precisely that - if the device is linear with respect to output level within its specified frequency range.

Now you're addressing 2 parameters, frequency and amplitude accuracy.

Let's examine each result in this case.
For me to report frequency accuracy I had 3 options:
1. Exactly as measured with cold instruments and unreferenced. Both mentioned.
2. Cheat. Link both instruments via their 10 MHz BNC's and then they would agree even if the frequency results weren't accurate to a real world measurement.
3. Connect both to an external 10 MHz ref.......I don't possess one ! 

So you got an honest screenshot and with qualified conditions........something too often missing on this forum.
I did use a Peak marker although I agree the frequency measurement is hardly ideal however I thought your primary interest was amplitude level flatness.

Amplitude accuracy.
Back a few posts you asked about: Level setting vs Level of performance
The screenshot results and associated comments explain this, along with the Datasheet spec and User manual.
To obtain flatter response a power level control sensor is required and SSG models support a few types. RTFM. 

So if we need a guaranteed flatness of output we have 2 options, use the SSG at frequencies where flatness is specified to 'Level accuracy ≤0.7 dB (typ.)' or connect a power level sensor, for which level accuracy will then depend on the sensors spec.

Tautech

First of all thank you once again for your prompt response 

Yes you are an honest broker – so your comments about the measurements you did are welcomed with respect 

Although my main concerns are Amplitude accuracy – I can accept a calibration offset (something which can be corrected like the power coupler Siglent has as an option) but having a big drift in amplitude vs. frequency is far more difficult to control as making a perfectly linear RF signal generator is not an easy task.


Most of the RF signal generators seem to have amplitude responses < 20dBm

– so to get accurate figures at this level would not be easy as is already indicated in the specifications data.

The fact that it goes to 20dBm is a bonus

– but reproducible accuracy throughout the frequency band is not something one would expect – as you have confirmed.


I did have a close look at the review Defpom posted on the SSG3021X you loaned to him.

It was good to have a quick look inside the unit – to see the build quality.

I am not sure if the unit you made the tests on just now – was the same unit?

Yes.

I ask, because I am also not sure if the unit in the review video was an early production device – if so perhaps there might be some reasons (HW or FW) for the ‘cold’ frequency offset - if indeed this was the SSG and NOT the SVA which was measuring 
 
What made me think the above – was the multitude of scratch marks on the internal chassis that the mainboard was mounted inside the SSG.

When Defpom ‘opened the sealed unit’ – I could not believe the multitude of scratches inside.

Yeah – I know it makes no difference to the operation of the device – but I guess it’s some reflection on Siglent’s quality control.

That’s why I suspect that the review unit must have been from a pre full production run??

Maybe, it's a low SN# from not long after release.

Anyway, with all factors aside, the SSG is certainly a nice bit of kit

– it sure is a handy device and VERY functional.


I like that it has an EXTERNAL modulation input (the competition, Rigol device has same)…


This is VERY HANDY for those involved with FM Radio RF amplifier design.

You can easily introduce a Stereo Encoder to generate external stereo signal with the 19KHz pilot as well as an RDS encoder into the external modulation input

– this will give you a FULL FM broadcast signal for testing FM receivers with modulation 

I revisited the SSG 100 MHz frequency inaccuracy today wanting to investigate if it's a real problem or not and the findings may surprise you in that the issue has SFA to do with the SSG but instead SVA frequency inaccuracies at a full 3.2 GHz sweep.  A 10 MHz reference might fix this IDK.

Again, test conditions.
Cold instruments with no external references, Siglent 10 dB attenuator on SVA and 6 GHz rated N-N cable.
Now with a 500 MHz Span set that would be more reasonable for inspecting a SSG 100 MHz signal the frequency and amplitude are exactly as specifications prescribe. 

[noreply]

I revisited the SSG 100 MHz frequency inaccuracy today wanting to investigate if it's a real problem or not and the findings may surprise you in that the issue has SFA to do with the SSG but instead SVA frequency inaccuracies at a full 3.2 GHz sweep.  A 10 MHz reference might fix this IDK.

Again, test conditions.
Cold instruments with no external references, Siglent 10 dB attenuator on SVA and 6 GHz rated N-N cable.
Now with a 500 MHz Span set that would be more reasonable for inspecting a SSG 100 MHz signal the frequency and amplitude are exactly as specifications prescribe. 

That's great 

I suspected that something is not right - my gut tells me the SSG - especially at 100Mhz cannot have such a big discrepancy.

I guess trying to normalize the marker(s) frequencies in the SVA over such a large span - might cause inaccuracies.

Remember ...

2MHz at 100MHz represents 2% error
2MHz at 3GHz represents 0.06% error

Not sure how the SVA calculates marker frequencies in such a large span - there must be some normalization taking place to help with the maths??

But yeah .. something to be mindful about - for accuracy in frequency readings - reduce the analysis span for sure 

[noreply]

Defpom lifted the lid on mine in the vid linked on the previous page but the IQ HW is not installed in the base models.

What is the actual IQ HW in the IQ models?

Is it - a logic board and connectors - or just connections to the external interface and appropriately enabled software to handle these signals?

Just curious if an 'enhanced' SSG3021x with the HW addition of the external connectors could be driven with SDG6032x to provide full IQ functionality

[tautech]

Defpom lifted the lid on mine in the vid linked on the previous page but the IQ HW is not installed in the base models.

What is the actual IQ HW in the IQ models?

Is it - a logic board and connectors - or just connections to the external interface and appropriately enabled software to handle these signals?

Just curious if an 'enhanced' SSG3021x with the HW addition of the external connectors could be driven with SDG6032x to provide full IQ functionality

From the SSG3000X webpage:
External IQ modulation with SDG6000X as the baseband IQ signal

But, this requires the SDG6000X to have the IQ option enabled.

[noreply]

From the SSG3000X webpage:
External IQ modulation with SDG6000X as the baseband IQ signal

But, this requires the SDG6000X to have the IQ option enabled.

OK .. then this makes more sense now 

If we need external modulation - then the 'non IQ' variant of the SSA3000X could be enhanced to be an IQ model - by virtue that at this moment in time Siglent has not deployed any IQ HW to reside inside the SSA

- other than the external IQ connections and associated internal cables??

[tautech]

From the SSG3000X webpage:
External IQ modulation with SDG6000X as the baseband IQ signal

But, this requires the SDG6000X to have the IQ option enabled.

OK .. then this makes more sense now 

If we need external modulation - then the 'non IQ' variant of the SSA SSG3000X could be enhanced to be an IQ model - by virtue that at this moment in time Siglent has not deployed any IQ HW to reside inside the SSA

- other than the external IQ connections and associated internal cables??

This is where you need look hard at actual instrument requirements and price the options carefully.

Basic SSG3000X and SGD6000X or SSG3000X-IQE model.

Basic and SDG6000X (with IQ option) allows for a much more versatile total package IMO.
Correction below from TurboTom

[TurboTom]

@tautech: I'm not sure if this is correct. If I understand the SSG user manual correctly, in order to generate an IQ modulated RF output, you anyway need to supply an external IQ baseband signal (i.e. using the SDG6000X with IQ option) and use the IQ-Enabled version of the SSG3000X.

The IQE version apparently contains more additional hardware than just a pair of wires that run the in-phase and quadrature baseband signals to the existing motherboard of the SSG.

If someone is looking for generating IQ modulated RF signals with lab gear on a "budget (...)  ", he may be better off with the Rigol DSG800 series which is considerably less expensive in the "A" (IQ-Enabled) version than the competing Siglent generators. Other features not compared so YMMV.

[2N3055]

@tautech: I'm not sure if this is correct. If I understand the SSG user manual correctly, in order to generate an IQ modulated RF output, you anyway need to supply an external IQ baseband signal (i.e. using the SDG6000X with IQ option) and use the IQ-Enabled version of the SSG3000X.

The IQE version apparently contains more additional hardware than just a pair of wires that run the in-phase and quadrature baseband signals to the existing motherboard of the SSG.

If someone is looking for generating IQ modulated RF signals with lab gear on a "budget (...)  ", he may be better off with the Rigol DSG800 series which is considerably less expensive in the "A" (IQ-Enabled) version than the competing Siglent generators. Other features not compared so YMMV.

Tom,

AFAIK you're correct. You need SDG6000X with IQ option and IQ-Enabled version of the SSG3000X.

Regards,

Sinisa

[noreply]

Here is a good 'hands-on' and the pros / cons of the SDG6000X - check out @ 1hour 2 minutes (1:02:00) into the video - and in particular @ 1:06:15 - where its shown that ANY RF signal generator with appropriate IQ modulator such as one used in video

https://www.craneae.com/Products/Microwave/ApplicationNotes/Modulators.pdf

 and an ARB IQ source could be used for IQ test regimes 

[tv84]

AFAIK you're correct. You need SDG6000X with IQ option and IQ-Enabled version of the SSG3000X.

That seems expensive... 

Rigol seems a much better option in $$$ terms.

[tautech]

AFAIK you're correct. You need SDG6000X with IQ option and IQ-Enabled version of the SSG3000X.

Regards,

Sinisa

Yes sorry guys.
P11 of the datasheet explains requirements.
http://siglentna.com/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2018/11/SSG3000X_Datasheet_DS0803X_E01B.pdf

AFAIK you're correct. You need SDG6000X with IQ option and IQ-Enabled version of the SSG3000X.

That seems expensive... 

Rigol seems a much better option in $$$ terms.

norepy wanted the 20dB output capability.

[noreply]

AFAIK you're correct. You need SDG6000X with IQ option and IQ-Enabled version of the SSG3000X.

That seems expensive... 

Rigol seems a much better option in $$$ terms.

norepy wanted the 20dB output capability.

Yes, but there are other devices which all have 20dbm capability 

I think tv was referring to the IQ options available via Siglent as being expensive 

For the cost of a SSG3021X (IQ enabled) AND SDG6000X - you can buy an integrated IQ enabled RF Sig Gen + have some change for 

[tautech]

For the cost of a SSG3021X (IQ enabled) AND SDG6000X - you can buy an integrated IQ enabled RF Sig Gen + have some change for 

SDG6052X already can do 500 MHz IQ.

I don't have mine here to try some stuff to show you unfortunately as it's with a buddy trying out the IQ on a SSA3075X-R. 

[tv84]

Let's do some math to check if I'm doing something wrong.

In order to have RF with IQ modulation (2.1GHz):

SSG3021X IQ (5000€) + SDG6022X (1520€) = 6520€

Rigol (2.1GHz):
Rigol DSG821A (with IQ included) = 4000€

If this is correct I would say SSG3021X IQ is overpriced! Am I right?

[TurboTom]

True -- I didn't even notice that the DSG800A series offers an internal baseband generator so it can be used as a stand-alone source of an IQ-modulated RF signal. If configured like that, it will output the baseband signal at the corresponding ports at the back of the instrument. Likewise to other Rigol generators, the connectivity is superb and considerably better than Siglent's offerings can provide.

As it appears, Rigol's DSG800 series is capable of +20dbm output level as well, even though not specified. If this is the case for all models of the line and over the full bandwidth, is yet to be evaluated.

Considering that the SSG3021X-IQE can probably be up-hacked into the SSG3032X-IQE model, may make Siglent's offer appear more attractive, but since this class of instruments will rather be purchased by "professionals", hacking options are less likely to affect the decision making. If Rigol's 2.1GHz version can be "improved" to the full-bore 3.6GHz model is something I'ld rather doubt.

[tv84]

Considering that the SSG3021X-IQE can probably be up-hacked into the SSG3032X-IQE model,

Can't. Been there.      Yes, it can!   (Been there with a non-IQ version.) 

If Rigol's 2.1GHz version can be "improved" to the full-bore 3.6GHz model is something I'ld rather doubt.

That would make it even more interesting. Let's see if any DSG volunteer comes up. 

[tv84]

A look inside SSG, compiled from service manual, showing just the Control Board and the extra IQ Module.

[noreply]

Nice find tv 

Now we need similar 'inside the box' pics for the Rigol DSG800A series

[Sighound36]

Noreply far to many  smiles, reminds me of a certain internet forum personality from the north of England 

[noreply]

Noreply far to many  smiles, reminds me of a certain internet forum personality from the north of England 

You can blame Dave for the lack of appropriate Emoji's for me to use

I just feel 'naked' without ending a sentence without an emoji , and the 'smile' was the least offending I guess

(see I took note of your comment - refrained from using emoji above)

[tautech]

New firmware for SSG5000X models

Version： V1.1.1.2.4
https://int.siglent.com/upload_file/zip/firmware/Radio_Frequency_Signal_Source/SSG5000X_V1.1.1.2.4_EN.zip
37.5 MB


Release notes
Fix: The UI was not updated in time when the power meter was pulled out.
Fix: GPIB Address can not be changed.
Fix: The mouse is hidden under VNC.
Fix: Some wrong SCPI commands were executed.
Optimize function with OCXO module.
Optimize power meter function.

Following not publicly released however included in this latest FW update.
Version V1.1.1.2.2
2020/09/02
Fix: Some power meter related SCPI commands do not work
Fix: UI cannot be set without IQ board
Version V1.1.1.2.1
2020/08/17   
Optimize an overshoot signal generated when ALC is off.
Changing the offset range of multicarrier.
Optimizing the process of multicarrier generation.
Add a prompt box when using remote mode.
Use new license generation scheme
Version V1.1.1.1.9c
2020/06/18   
Fix: There is a probability that white screen will appear after power on.
Fix: AWGN State no reset.
The IQ board detection only needs detection once.

Version V1.1.1.1.9a
2020/5/14   The first released

[Bicurico]

Any owner available for a test?

[tautech]

The Signal Path review of SSG5060X-V added to the OP.

[tautech]

New firmware for SSG5000X models.

Version： V1.1.1.2.5
37.5 MB
https://int.siglent.com/upload_file/zip/firmware/Radio_Frequency_Signal_Source/SSG5000X_V1.1.1.2.5_EN.zip

Release notes
1. Fix: In the custom mode, when save the state, some items are not saved.
2. Fix: Arb mode and pulse mode conflict. Now they can work simultaneously.
3. Fix: In Arb mode, there are some spurs, when On/Off the RF Mode button.
4. Fix: Some problems about LAN setting, VNC

[coromonadalix]

here's my take on my first labview project  to control this puppy

Basic Frequency control  no  Am Fm ...

And Pulse generation ...


From Siglent labview demo,   there is one at NI too

My coding skill sucks ....  don't ask for more  loll 

Ni Visa stuff need to be installed too ...

[coromonadalix]

Reworked some buttons sizes

[coromonadalix]

oh  received questions

the original  siglent labview files : SSG-X-series-Labview-Driver-V2.0.zip     available at their instrument download ...
the zipped   VI  My Project file put there : SSG-X-series-Labview-Driver-V2.0\Public\Configure


OR The one who contain everything : SSG-X-series-Labview-Driver-V2.0 - 1.zip

You launch : Siglent SSG Series.lvproj   and open the VI   I created

lots of thing to learn and very old tutorials on the web 

[Detlev]

It's pretty quiet around the SSG5000X here. What is your experience with the SSG? Is it recommended? The so-called A-brands are clearly more expensive than the Siglent

[coromonadalix]

Its good for the use i have at my job,  to go into the very low db outputs,   -110 db

I use it for very short pulse generation

Hacked  loll to 3.2 gig output,  but does not have the IQ option board

I wold say works pretty well,  but clumsy touch screen interface in some ways / too small loll .... thats why i tried to build an NI Labview interface, since i play a lot with output levels, the joggle encoder wont survive long

Does the job ... and saved $$$  since hacked  loll

For sure its a big unit,  and may not please audience 


But if an Labview expert is lurking around  loll   PM me

I have a hard time to figure out a few things and or add the AM / FM  options  etc ...   and compile it to an full executable, i dont know if i can get rid of the  NI Labview frontpanel  or have the front panel RUN arrow integrated in the software GUI

[tautech]

New firmware for SSG3000X models

Version： V1.0.3.1.21
32 MB
https://int.siglent.com/upload_file/zip/firmware/Radio_Frequency_Signal_Source/SSG3000X_V1.0.3.1.21_EN.zip

Release notes
1. Fixed the defects related to the flatness list function
2.Fixed the defects related to SCPI command
3. Fixed the defects related to the VNC function.

[james38]

Update successful without issues so far.

Regards Chris

[coromonadalix]

hi @all

tried to "hack" a new ssg3021x  received yesterday, and alas  i did not took notes on this one, i can not make it work again 


here's is the main.py  i've tried,   with an added 30M, 2100M, 3200M,  and 21BW32 option(s)  not sure if they placed at the right option lines  ....

tried with the sn only, or both  sn and scopeid ... no avail


MCBD?    reports nothing on theses models

MD5_SRLN? and  MD5_PR?   works fine

HELP ?

[tv84]

"SSG3000X", "3200", "TRAI", "INQU", "POWE", "PULS"

[coromonadalix]

oh  damn  never tought of theses, or never knew, can't even recall i used this   or you where the helper TV84 

Since MCBD?   request are not working

Is there other ways thru scpi  to request installed licenses, to do a cross check  like other instruments ??


ill answer tomorrow  for the BW upgrade

thks once again

[coromonadalix]

not working ....    '3200'  or '3200M'   'MAX'     this one is resisting all attempts


edited python script to reflect what i've tried

empty SCOPEID or the same as SN,  nothing worked

[coromonadalix]

ok  for the scripts

lots of conflicting infos

SCOPE ID / HOST ID     scripts versions    etc ....  capital or lowercase  entries  etc ...  there is a few floating around the web

here's the one ive found with lots of comments in it, and i added some of my comments,  who worked for me (attached)   some say try the SSA script  ....  it does not work for me, numbers doesn't fit,  i'll retry them later

IT IS A SCOPE SCRIPT or i mess things up again  loll

checked with a few equipment's i had noted their " before and after "   ... but not on 1st SSG3000X    and i received help for it.

FOR THE SSG3000X  series  do note,   now i have 2x of them BW upgraded,  they don't respond to MCBD?  commands  and not  MCBD xxxxxxx  when you try to enter unlock numbers, i had to do it thru the front panel.


hope it help a few here, because infos are getting so diluted between threads ... and i'm not god  loll

i have to thank some people here 
o it

 

[coromonadalix]

updated

The 'WIFI' is found at 2 places,  not sure witch is right or wrong,  take this with a grain of salt 

added some text

[coromonadalix]

reworked other buttons sizes     ....  totally forgot how to ...   


you need NI runtime engine ....

[Martin72]

My SSG3032X arrived today, nice piece.
Very good, it also has a web interface like the scopes.
As I already have 3.2Ghz, I still have one option left, the SSG3000X-PT.
Do the IQE models have different hardware?

[Martin72]

I find the menu visually very appealing.
Now I have to get another rackmount kit for the "Tower of Power"...

[KungFuJosh]

Rackmount shelves are probably a better investment, unless you need the gear bolted down for some reason.

[Martin72]

I'm afraid I don't quite follow you, what do you mean with shelves?
I have a 19" rack and depending on where the devices are in it, I have to fix them.
And that works with the kit for the SSG.

[tautech]

My SSG3032X arrived today, nice piece.
Very good, it also has a web interface like the scopes.
As I already have 3.2Ghz, I still have one option left, the SSG3000X-PT.
Do the IQE models have different hardware?

Yes, AFAIK.
Unit weight is specified as:
Weight without package contain IQ modulator board 4.84 kg

You can see where it should be in Defpoms teardown:

https://youtu.be/ybUVSNTBHzw?t=2475

[KungFuJosh]

I'm afraid I don't quite follow you, what do you mean with shelves?
I have a 19" rack and depending on where the devices are in it, I have to fix them.
And that works with the kit for the SSG.

Siglent's SSG rack kit is $189.

Or you can get a 2-pack of these rack shelves for $47 (total) that can each hold 110lbs: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084CZCGFP

Then you'll also have space on the sides for fixtures or whatever. Unless you don't think it's pretty enough. 😉

[Martin72]

Yes, AFAIK.
Unit weight is specified as:
Weight without package contain IQ modulator board 4.84 kg

Just weighed, 4.72kg....You can't have everything.
Afterwards I read that you could generate 2-tone signals with the IQE function, which wouldn't have been bad of course.
Well, maybe I'll ask one day whether I can buy such a board later.

@Josh:
Ah, that's what it means...
For us, "shelves" means something like that.

[KungFuJosh]

@Josh:
Ah, that's what it means...
For us, "shelves" means something like that.

Same here, but rack shelves go on racks. 😉

[Martin72]

Crazy thing...
What you meant is called "Fachboden" here.
If I enter "Fachboden" into the translator, it says "shelf".
But if I enter "shelf", it translates it with what I posted as a picture...
Never mind, but that's also a good idea, I'll take a closer look.
It's also easier to get.

[KungFuJosh]

More importantly, you can put the extra $150 you're saving towards an LCX100. 😉

[Martin72]

There is a new firmware for the SSG3000X models, from last month.

1. Added open source agreement description.

https://int.siglent.com/upload_file/zip/firmware/Radio_Frequency_Signal_Source/SSG3000X_V1.0.3.1.22_EN.zip

Sounds unspectacular, but there is usually "more" to it than the official note.

I haven't had any luck hacking the PT option yet......

[tautech]

I haven't had any luck hacking the PT option yet......

Deeper attention to some things are required. 

See reply #5
https://www.eevblog.com/forum/testgear/unified-keygen-script-for-siglent/

[Martin72]

My dear Rob, I'm just a little fool.
Not a big one.
But I can't see very well, the matter of whether or not there is an IQE module is clarified very quickly without measuring weight.

[Nokia6681]

Hello from Germany,

I have a question for you, I have the Siglent SSG3021X which no longer has an output as of today, I had not previously set up a device with it and then suddenly the output was DEAD, at the absolute output maximum there was still a low signal level but no signal full power more.

Now the question is what could be defective here, with a circuit diagram I would certainly be able to determine it straight away, but where can I get something like that from?

Do any of you have a circuit diagram of the HF output?

[tautech]

Hello from Germany,

I have a question for you, I have the Siglent SSG3021X which no longer has an output as of today, I had not previously set up a device with it and then suddenly the output was DEAD, at the absolute output maximum there was still a low signal level but no signal full power more.

Now the question is what could be defective here, with a circuit diagram I would certainly be able to determine it straight away, but where can I get something like that from?

Do any of you have a circuit diagram of the HF output?

First Preset then adjust Level and Frequency to values you can easily test.
Have you checked the BNC LF output is working correctly ?
Then work through the SM checks:
https://int.siglent.com/u_file/download/19_11_22/b8cd0afabb.pdf

[Nokia6681]

I never use the LF output.
 a check using the service instructions does not reveal any errors. I think that the device that I previously compared may have sent and destroyed the output Amp.
Unfortunately, Siglent only specifies a maximum DC input voltage at the output but does not indicate the maximum amount of HF that can enter the output. I haven't disassembled it yet to get a closer look at the components used.

[tautech]

I never use the LF output.
 a check using the service instructions does not reveal any errors. I think that the device that I previously compared may have sent and destroyed the output Amp.
Unfortunately, Siglent only specifies a maximum DC input voltage at the output but does not indicate the maximum amount of HF that can enter the output. I haven't disassembled it yet to get a closer look at the components used.

Yet it is a check the rest of the generator is working correctly and any damage is confined to HF RF output.

Not heard of damage/failures in these before so do keep us posted with your findings.

[Nokia6681]

I'm going to carry out more tests today, especially regarding the LF output, but I think I destroyed it with the radio, it's quite possible that I was transmitting with it and forgot to put it back on the dummy load and the generator was damaged as a result .

My dealer said 4 years ago that nothing is normally repaired on this device but that it is either repaired or replaced at a flat rate, but spending over 1000 euros on it makes me reluctant to look for a circuit diagram, but I will do it this afternoon as soon as I can I have time to disassemble and see what generates the output here, the driver stage must still be working because with the full output power setting, around 10-20µV still comes out of the output.

[tautech]

I'm going to carry out more tests today, especially regarding the LF output, but I think I destroyed it with the radio, it's quite possible that I was transmitting with it and forgot to put it back on the dummy load and the generator was damaged as a result .

My dealer said 4 years ago that nothing is normally repaired on this device but that it is either repaired or replaced at a flat rate, but spending over 1000 euros on it makes me reluctant to look for a circuit diagram, but I will do it this afternoon as soon as I can I have time to disassemble and see what generates the output here, the driver stage must still be working because with the full output power setting, around 10-20µV still comes out of the output.

I'm 100% sure many could benefit from your findings and any imagery of PCB and devices.
Best of luck.

[Nokia6681]

YES i will do my best, Pictures i will Record some of this , i hope sharp !

[TurboTom]

Reverse power events are the usual culprits of such failures in RF signal generators.  Even though virtually all these instruments have some reverse power protection at their outputs, if you happen to supply "enough" power in reverse, these measures either aren't fast enough or just won't be able to cope with the amount of power (some single-digit wattage will most probably be tolerated for a short time, but if it's in the 100W ballpark, it's "Hasta la vista, Baby").

These defects can be repaired in most cases since they are usually very localized, but it's questionable if the instrument is still in spec after the repair and even more so if you will be able to get a schematic. Higher reverse power events also may charr some components and even damage the PCB. I was lucky that two repairs of R&S SM300s with similar problems turned out okay for me (also no schematics, but at least a decent block diagram available). I think the Siglent generator will be easier to repair simply due to the more "organized" mechanical construction. But you will definitely need some experience and RF technology knowledge, and identifying components may be somewhat awkward as well.

Depending on your own experience, it may ba a good idea to disassemble the instrument and post some good, detailed photos of the relevant section here for supportive opinions before starting to actually "rework" the instrument.

Good luck with the repair and all the best,
Thomas

[Nokia6681]

Today I removed the mainboard and checked, R620 (49.9R) burned out, but the U70 is still supplied with 3.3V voltage, U46 should get voltage via C755, as does U45 via C754, at least I did with U45 There is voltage on both pins of C754, and all other components that look like this are apparently suppression chokes + C
U70 is the same chip as the Siglent SSA 3021 digital attenuator.
The LF output works perfectly, I have now ordered the H1118.
I was also able to measure the HF at full power up to U39, but after that the HF continues to decrease, but it could be that the U70 is blocking the data due to the 30W that went into it and now other ICs can't switch properly here.

I have to put all the pictures on my server because I can only post 2 pictures in full resolution here

[Nokia6681]

Here is the Link to my Server Folder with more Pictures uncompressed !

https://www.asz-muenchen.de/reserve/Siglent/

[Nokia6681]

In Germany if you need spare parts there is absolutely nothing left, you can't even get the 49.9 ohm resistor anywhere, these days you have to order everything from somewhere abroad, it's a shame and you then wait for these parts for weeks, It's no fun anymore to repair any device. Just buy and use everything and throw it in the electronic waste.

Is that also the case in your countries? Or can you get parts better here, Mauser Elektronik has pretty much no idea where they get these parts from, but you don't really want to order everything for 20 euros or so much that you don't need in order to save on shipping do it.

Have you looked at the pictures, a super clean layout, but beware of something broken like mine is currently, then good advice is very expensive.

[TurboTom]

My approach for initial fault finding would be to remove U70 (Hittite / Analog H1118) and to jumper pads 14 and 3 on the pcb with a wire as short as possible. If the output signal is re-established at the proper level, replace U70 and you should be ready to go.

The tricky part will be removal of U70 since it's got an exposed pad, the board appears to be at least a hybrid composition, maybe Rogers, and the "white" (RF) side of it isn't typically known for its rigidity... Traces are easily pulled off if the solder isn't completely liquefied. Lead-free solder that Siglent used for assembly doesn't simplify things either. You need a decent SMT rework setup and some experience to get it right. At least, I wouldn't approach the job with single-sided heating of the PCB, due to the multiple layers of copper inside.

I hope that the "dump switch" U70 has saved the rest of the circuitry!

All the best,
Thomas

[Nokia6681]

Yes, I'll do that as soon as the 1118 is delivered. Mauser has withdrawn the order because only certain companies can order it but not on my Company  , I have now ordered it via Farnell. It should supposedly arrive tomorrow, if it is true, I will be surprised.

Soldering and unsoldering is no problem for me, hot air and very good flux, I do these and BGA almost every day, just don't drink coffee beforehand!

I'll do the connecting of the input and output after it's outside, I measured it again yesterday with the Speci, which comes out at the back with the 2.2V set (10-12µV), so to speak, nothing

As soon as I have the new one, I measured it without the IC and then with the new one back in, I'll report back.

[markus_jlrb]

Dears,

I would not like to open a new thread, as my question is partially related to the SDG6kX device
in combination with the SSG3kX.

I would like to ask if someone of you had already tried to pass a IQ signal generated by the SDG6kX
to the internal ports available in the SSA3kX (without IQ HW option)?

See the internal SSG3kX pic's listed few postings above.

Markus

[TurboTom]

Won't work...unfortunately 

If you follow the traces around J1 and J2, you will find two two-way switches U18 and U22 that either link the RF signal internally (via C122, R40 Jumper, C124) or externally to J1 (output to the I/Q modulator module) and from J2 (input from the external I/Q modulator module) towards the AM modulator section. Without this module, the SSG3kX won't do I/Q modulation.

Cheers,
Thomas

[Martin72]

Hi...

After I was contacted by a forum member, I have now understood it and am of the opinion that this is indeed still a bug:
Screensaver function...
You set it to say 1min, then it actually runs - but not after a restart.
Even if you set the power-on state to "last", it does nothing.
According to the menu, the system then remembers that the screensaver was set from "off" to 1 minute, but it is no longer activated.
Only if you change it back to "off" and then again - and then it only works for the current "session", after a restart the screensaver is no longer executed as described above.

Martin

[Nokia6681]

The H1118 was delivered just one day after ordering.

Apparently I burned the first IC while soldering it in, but I didn't use the second IC again with hot air but used it conventionally and so far everything is working as before.

The problem with soldering in and out is the circuit board, so much heat is drawn off via the circuit board that you can't actually solder it in here without a heating plate on the underside and I don't have a heating plate, all the other ICs do So far in my life I have only replaced it with hot air, but this... and at a maximum of 280 degrees, which this IC can handle according to the specifications, you don't really get very far when soldering in, even if the tin is included Its melting point is 185 degrees, the board eats it like nothing.

The main thing is that the generator is now running again inside, what more could you want.

But I don't want to remove or solder this IC again without bottom heat!

[markus_jlrb]

@TurboTom,

according to the UI, an external IQ signal could be enabled in the SSG3kX.

That's  what confusing me. But on the other hand no external IQ Input BNC
are available, but the case is already prepared for this purpose.

Btw the UM claim that external IQ modulation via a SDG6kX is possible, but
Siglent support decline this statement written in the manual.

Markus

[Martin72]

The whole IQE story stands or falls on whether you have an IQE model.
This requires the board inside and the two BNC sockets on the rear panel.
If you don't have such a model, you probably don't need to think about it any further.

[2N3055]

@TurboTom,

according to the UI, an external IQ signal could be enabled in the SSG3kX.

That's  what confusing me. But on the other hand no external IQ Input BNC
are available, but the case is already prepared for this purpose.

Btw the UM claim that external IQ modulation via a SDG6kX is possible, but
Siglent support decline this statement written in the manual.

Markus

Please find attached the very User Manual.

Page 74:

2.8 I/Q Modulation
I/Q modulation, i.e. two orthogonal signals (carriers with the same frequency, phase
difference of 90°, generally expressed by Sin and Cos) and I (In-Phase, in-phase
component) and Q (Quadrature Phase) signals are respectively modulated by carrier and
transmitted together, thereby improving spectrum utilization.

Note: Only some models are equipped with IQ modulation function. For specific models,
please refer to the SSG3000X data sheet.


User Manual is for both I/Q model and the basic model without I/Q module.
Data sheet also plainly says there are two models..

[Nokia6681]

If this option was not ordered when you purchased it, the device does not have it and cannot be selected on the front of the display. My device does not have this function, if I had wanted it I would have had to order it with an additional payment when purchasing it.

I don't think Siglent offers to buy these separately because the firmware software also needs to be expanded.

[TurboTom]

The generator probably also needs to undergo an extended calibration since the I/Q modulator has to operate over the full bandwidth of the instrument. Thats one of the disadvantages of the "direct frequency generation" approach.

Other instruments like the R&S SM300 feature a frequency mixing approach to generate the desired output. There, the I/Q modulation is much easier since it can be applied to the "fixed frequency" mixer input. Moreover, wide frequency sweeps are possible. The advantage of the "direct" approach is that it's way less difficult to generate very low phase noise signals. So, both methods have their pros and cons.

[markus_jlrb]

@TurboTom,

thanks for explanation - I was not aware of this concept Siglent is using inside the SSG3kX device.

Other instruments like the R&S SM300 feature a frequency mixing approach to generate the desired output. There, the I/Q modulation is much easier since it can be applied to the "fixed frequency" mixer input. Moreover, wide frequency sweeps are possible. The advantage of the "direct" approach is that it's way less difficult to generate very low phase noise signals. So, both methods have their pros and cons.

Due to the fact that internally we have two ports on the main PCB for I/Q I was convinced that there must by a
mixer present to modulate the carrier with the fed in I/Q signal.

But when the mixing is done inside the FPGA you are right that my request could not be fulfilled.

Nevertheless I'm keen to check what will happen if I provide a small I/Q signal to the both internal ports.
Have to wait until my grantee for my device is expired and will explore in this time the opportunity to
get an I/Q module from Siglent repair support team in Germany.

Will report my findings as soon I get a proper hint on this topic.

Markus

[Nokia6681]

I don't think that will help you at all because you can't select anything in this menu. Software nor ready for this.

[markus_jlrb]

I don't think that will help you at all because you can't select anything in this menu. Software nor ready for this.

Could it be the case the the menu becomes active when the internal circuit detects a signal?

Some SA allow you select an ext. ref clock only if an ext. ref clock is provided to the corresponding port.

Markus

[Nokia6681]

My Siglent devices all have a 10 MHz input. If the device recognizes internally that a 10 MHz signal is being applied, it automatically switches to the external reference, but every frequency counter also has this, but the interface is apparently recognized differently here when you look at it If you look at it, you can see an interface extension on the mainboard and there are also 2 SMA connections on the side of the mainboard, but you shouldn't really worry about tapping into anything because nobody knows what kind of signals are or have to be generated and fed in here.

Take a look at the price difference between the device without I/Q and with it, that's a difference of 3000 euros, I took a look at it at Batronix and they don't have the additional module under accessories, but there is an additional activation option available for it, just that Without the expansion I/Q board, this activation expansion option will also be meaningless.

But if you need this option after that, I would sell the one without I/Q as best as possible and then add a lot of euros and buy one with I/Q already installed.

I don't see any possibility of growing something here that will actually work.

[TurboTom]

I don't think that will help you at all because you can't select anything in this menu. Software nor ready for this.

Could it be the case the the menu becomes active when the internal circuit detects a signal?

Some SA allow you select an ext. ref clock only if an ext. ref clock is provided to the corresponding port.

Markus

Seems like you still "want to believe" that there's some free lunch beyond the frequency upgrade... Please have a look at the photos of this contribution. The I/Q-enabled version contains a complete additional board with an "RF Magic Box" that hides the wide-band I/Q modulator itself. The two SMB sockets on the SSG3kX mainboard can be considered as a Pre-Main connection of a HiFi amplifier that permits to plug in an equalizer or the like. If you don't need it, you just link them together. This link is closed internally on the main board via a pair of semiconductor microwave switches.

The I/Q add-on board contains a direct quadrature modulator, something like the HMC1097 or similar. Then there's probably some interface, amplification, a digital communication with the main board (which probably also enables the I/Q menus) and possibly some calibration memory that permits Siglent to iron out the modulator's non-linearities. Feeding "some" signal into the main board's SMB interface won't have any effect (except you may fry the microwave switches if the signal is too strong), since you won't be able to enable the signal path via the SMBs...

Use common sense, have a good look at Nokia6681's photos of the main board and follow the signal -- hint: it's easier to follow it in reverse, from the SSG's output back to the signal generation sections -- you may learn something. The nice thing with this RF circuitry is that from a distance, the design appears pretty simple and is easy to follow - the difficulty is hidden in the details.

[Martin72]

If you look at the teardown video from defpom, you can see that it's not "just" the missing IQE board, there are also empty spaces on the mainboard that need to be populated.
So you should say goodbye to the idea that it is enough to get the board somehow.
I have just done it.

[markus_jlrb]

Nokia6681, TurboTom, Martin72,

thanks for your effort to point out what I probably not take into consideration while thinking about this issue
of kind DIY IQ extension for the SSG3kX.

Some remarks concerning your arguments more in details.


@Nokia6681

But if you need this option after that, I would sell the one without I/Q as
best as possible and then add a lot of euros and buy one with I/Q already installed.

I don't see any possibility of growing something here that will actually work.

I have spent some Euros before on a SDG6kX with the IQ option enabled.
That's the reason I'm looking for a opportunity to feed this signal into my SSG3kX
purchased this year. If this is in general possible is one point to explore and
throw some thoughts on it instead of spending more money.

If this could not be achieved as some of your experts state I could come back to the
proposed solution and spend more money on this.
But as I'm not using my lab equipment for professional purpose but more for my hobby,
time and effort is not the first point to take into consideration. It's just the fun and challenge
to gain this goal without spent more money.


@Martin72

If you look at the teardown video from defpom, you can see that it's not "just" the
missing IQE board, there are also empty spaces on the mainboard that need to be populated.
So you should say goodbye to the idea that it is enough to get the board somehow.
I have just done it.

Thanks for this point. I have watch the YT video from defpom but honestly not notice
this. Will check this more sophisticated to catch what you mentioned.

@TurboTom

The I/Q add-on board contains a direct quadrature modulator, something like the HMC1097 or similar.
...

Seems that I missed some basics of the signal path, but I was convinced up to this time and this is
still the case, that when you have two sig channels (I & Q) the hf modulator has to be behind and not
before this stage. Please correct me if I'm wrong.

The only point that is possible is that my assumption the both connectors at the rear of the mainboard
are I&Q is wrong.

If this is the case my idea of the IQ extension is based on wrong fundamentals so I have to apologize
for wasting your time for this discussion.

Thanks for your patience

Markus




 








 

[markus_jlrb]

One more thought on this issue.

Could it be that the two coax connectors provide only a I/Q clock and the I/Q data is
transferred via the parallel pin header interface from the I/Q board to the main board?

Just an idea, not sure if reasonably.

Markus

[TurboTom]

Sorry for being blunt, but do your homework! There have been more than enough hints where to look. It appears to me that you have no clue of the basic operation of this RF signal generator and you als don't want to learn.

Again: There is no I/Q related circuitry on the SSG3kX's mainboard, period! All that the two SMB sockets provide is a switched extension path to splice in an external (additional board) I/Q modulator. You should really read some basics about RF signal generation and (complex) modulation approaches. I'm not an expert on this subject myself but I learned what I know about it by reading publications and datasheets as an autodidact. I know my limits and I'm not ashamed to admit them. It takes time to educate yourself but posting nonsense here time and time again won't get you nowhere. If you think you can magically improve the existing SSG by arbitrarily connecting some signals to its internal extension ports, do it and show us the results. Otherwise, it may be a good idea to learn from others' hints and tips and first introduce yourself to the theory.

Once again, sorry for my rather "direct" approach but in some way or the other, you provoked this. No offense meant.

All the best,
Thomas

[Nokia6681]

Tell Siglent Germany

SIGLENT Technologies Germany GmbH
Add: Staetzlinger Str.  70
86165 Augsburg, Germany
Tel: +49(0)-821-666 0 111 0
Fax: +49(0)-821-666 0 111 22
info-eu@siglent.com

[Martin72]

I haven't had any luck hacking the PT option yet......

I'm too stupid for that...

As far as the IQ-E thing is concerned:
I have now asked directly and will post the answer here.

[tautech]

Sorry for being blunt, but do your homework! There have been more than enough hints where to look. It appears to me that you have no clue of the basic operation of this RF signal generator and you als don't want to learn.

Again: There is no I/Q related circuitry on the SSG3kX's mainboard, period! All that the two SMB sockets provide is a switched extension path to splice in an external (additional board) I/Q modulator. You should really read some basics about RF signal generation and (complex) modulation approaches. I'm not an expert on this subject myself but I learned what I know about it by reading publications and datasheets as an autodidact. I know my limits and I'm not ashamed to admit them. It takes time to educate yourself but posting nonsense here time and time again won't get you nowhere. If you think you can magically improve the existing SSG by arbitrarily connecting some signals to its internal extension ports, do it and show us the results. Otherwise, it may be a good idea to learn from others' hints and tips and first introduce yourself to the theory.

Once again, sorry for my rather "direct" approach but in some way or the other, you provoked this. No offense meant.

All the best,
Thomas

Yup, it's pretty clear which models are IQE capable as it's not an option but a different unit at a higher price.
Just need to scroll down the webpage.
https://www.siglenteu.com/rf-generators/ssg3000x-series/

[Martin72]

However, Siglent's nomenclature is sometimes a little unfortunate, see in particular the 3000 series of analyzers.

[Martin72]

I haven't had any luck hacking the PT option yet......

That is now a thing of the past.

[Martin72]

As far as the IQ-E thing is concerned:
I have now asked directly and will post the answer here.

Not a chance.
As you know, you need the IQE board and this is not available retrospectively.
So we can consider the issue closed.