Gallery RefRad 18 Reference Radiator 1 GHz - 18GHz

RefRad 18 Reference Radiator 1 GHz - 18GHz

Covers 1–18 GHz with programmable frequency steps
Delivers flat, stable signals with HI/LO output options
Sequential signal generation for better dynamic range
Compatible with spectrum analyzers & EMI receivers
Battery-powered with 8-hour runtime and USB-C charging
Includes accredited calibration and supports ISO 17025 compliance

PARTNER:

SEIBERSDORF LABORATORIES GMBH

MARKETS:

TEST STANDARDS:

RefRad 18 Data Sheet

RefRad Operation Guide

SPECIFICATIONS

RefRad 18 – Reference Radiator, 1 - 18 GHz, Not a Comb Generator but better!

The Next Generation Reference Radiator for EMC System Validation

RefRad 18 is a precision-engineered, battery-operated reference radiator for validating EMC test systems across 1 GHz to 18 GHz. It combines innovative frequency generation, integrated antenna design, and high stability into a compact form factor.

Ideal for system checks, interlaboratory comparisons, shielding effectiveness measurements, and more, RefRad 18 ensures traceable and reproducible signal generation for EMI and spectrum analysis.

Key Features

Frequency range: 1 – 18 GHz, programmable frequency steps
Flat frequency response with high (HI) and low (LO) field strength settings
Integrated directional antenna and coaxial output
Outstanding frequency stability: ± 20 ppb (equals 360 Hz @ 18 GHz)
Temperature-compensated amplitude: ± 0.1 dB (10–35 °C)
Up to 8 hours of battery operation
Compact, rugged design with USB-C charging
Calibration included (accredited)

Preliminary field strength values of the RefRad 18 at 3 m distance

Applications

System check for radiated and conducted emission setups
Proficiency testing and interlaboratory comparisons
Measurement of shielding effectiveness
EMI receiver and spectrum analyzer system validation
Research & Development signal verification

Advantages Over Traditional Comb Generators

Signals are generated sequentially rather than simultaneously for better dynamic range.
Reduced spectral overlap, ensuring clear signal peaks for analysis
Adaptable measurement technique using zero span mode on spectrum analyzers
Compatible with both spectrum analyzers and EMI receivers

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Value
Frequency Range	1 GHz – 18 GHz
Frequency Steps	50 MHz (1–4 GHz), 100 MHz (4–8 GHz), 200 MHz (8–18 GHz)
Coaxial Output (HI)	-10 dBm (1 – 18 GHz)
Coaxial Output (LO)	-25 dBm (1 – 18 GHz)
Frequency Stability	± 20 ppb
Amplitude Stability	± 0.1 dB (10–35 °C)
Battery Operation Time	8 hours typical
Charging	USB-C
Dimensions (L x W x H)	134 x 134 x 244 mm
Mounting	22 mm diameter rod, or Table top sit on side H or V

Measurement Strategy (Operating Principle)

Sequential Frequency Generation: RefRad 18 generates individual tones in sequence rather than as a comb. This allows:

Improved peak detection with high dynamic range
Compatibility with narrow resolution bandwidth (RBW) filters for precise measurements

Spectrum Analyzer Mode:

Set to zero span, sweep time = cycle time (Tc), max hold detector
Observe each frequency step by adjusting center frequency

EMI Receiver Mode:

Use segment list for all frequencies
Set measurement time = Tc, use peak detector
Trace stored directly in the receiver or software

Example Measurement Times:

Frequency Range	Pulse Width	No. of Frequencies	Cycle Time (Tc)	Total Time (TM)
1–6 GHz	500 µs	81	40.5 ms	3.3 s
1–18 GHz	500 µs	151	75.5 ms	11.4 s
1–6 GHz	4 ms	81	324 ms	26.2 s
1–18 GHz	4 ms	151	604 ms	91.2 s