The Anritsu 68369B is a discontinued synthesized RF signal generator and sweep generator covering a nominal 10 MHz to 40 GHz. It produces CW, step-sweep and manual-sweep signals, with AM, FM, phase, pulse and complex/user-defined modulation available according to installed options. Despite listings that call it a “waveform generator,” it is not a modern standalone arbitrary-waveform or IQ generator.
This guide explains the model-specific specifications, option codes, documentation and tests that matter when evaluating a used 68369B.
68369B at a glance
| Item | Specification or status |
|---|---|
| Instrument type | Synthesized RF signal and sweep generator |
| Model | Anritsu 68369B, part of the 683XXB family |
| Nominal frequency range | 10 MHz to 40 GHz; verify the individual unit’s label and configuration |
| Operating modes | CW, step sweep and manual sweep |
| RF output | Single coaxial output; 40 GHz versions are commonly fitted with a Type-K female connector, which should be checked on the actual unit |
| Published standard maximum output | Approximately +13 dBm below 2 GHz, +9 dBm from 2 to 20 GHz, and +6 dBm from above 20 to 40 GHz |
| Frequency resolution | 0.1 Hz with Option 11 |
| Remote interface | IEEE-488/GPIB; SCPI programmability is associated with Option 19 |
| Status | Legacy/discontinued; normally acquired used or refurbished |
As of August 18, 2026, the 68369B is a legacy model rather than a current Anritsu product. Anritsu’s current product information centers on newer MG3690-series equipment; the MG3690B page identifies the MG3690C as its replacement family.
What the 68369B actually is
A synthesized signal generator uses a frequency reference and synthesizer to produce accurately set RF carriers. The sweep functions then move that carrier through programmed frequency or power points. The broader 682XXB/683XXB family is documented as supporting synthesized CW and sweep operation with front-panel control and IEEE-488 remote control in the family operation manual.
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“Waveform generator” is therefore an incomplete description. The term can refer to internal or downloaded modulation waveforms, but the instrument’s main output is synthesized microwave RF. It should not be treated as equivalent to a modern baseband arbitrary-waveform generator or vector signal generator with broadband IQ output.
Frequency, output power and level control
Frequency coverage
The model-specific listing identifies nominal coverage from 10 MHz through 40 GHz. Confirm the serial-number configuration, front or rear labeling and connector before relying on that range, particularly when buying a unit described only as a 683XXB-family generator.
Maximum output varies by band and options
Published 68369B information gives approximate leveled maximums of +13 dBm from about 10 MHz to below 2 GHz, +9 dBm from 2 to 20 GHz, and +6 dBm above 20 to 40 GHz. These are configuration-dependent figures, not one guaranteed maximum across the band. Option 15 high-power hardware can change the available output, while Option 2B’s attenuator can affect rated maximum power.
A broader 68000B/68300B family headline such as +17 dBm must not be substituted for the 68369B’s band-specific values.
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Level range, resolution and switching
Datasheet material reports a typical range of more than 40 dB below maximum without the step attenuator and more than 130 dB below maximum with it. Output-level resolution is 0.01 dB. Level changes are typically under 1 ms when the attenuator setting does not change and under 20 ms when it does. These figures describe switching and setting capability, not absolute power accuracy at every frequency.
When checking a used unit, account for frequency band, attenuator state, leveled versus unleveled operation, cable and adapter loss, connector condition and calibration status.
Modulation and waveform capability
Available functions
- Amplitude modulation (AM)
- Frequency modulation (FM)
- Phase modulation
- Pulse modulation
- Internal modulation waveforms
- Complex or user-defined modulation on appropriately optioned units
AM depth is typically up to 90% in linear mode or 20 dB in logarithmic mode. Cited specifications describe AM bandwidth as approximately DC to 50 kHz minimum and DC to 100 kHz typical. External modulation is provided through a BNC input, with impedance and function depending on the selected mode. FM deviation and rate depend on narrow, wide or locked modes. Pulse behavior depends on the pulse option, frequency band and whether operation is leveled.
Why this is not a general-purpose arbitrary-waveform generator
An internal modulation source or downloadable user waveform shapes the RF carrier; it does not turn the 68369B into a broad-bandwidth baseband/IQ instrument. Complex modulation and user-defined waveforms require the relevant hardware and software options, and are not standard on every unit.
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Option codes that change the instrument
| Option | Practical meaning |
|---|---|
| 2B | Step attenuator; extends low-level output range, but can reduce rated maximum output |
| 6 | Phase modulation |
| 7 | Generator-related configuration; may remove internal AM/FM generators |
| 8 | Internal power meter |
| 9 | Rear-panel RF output |
| 10 | Complex modulation |
| 11 | 0.1 Hz frequency resolution |
| 15 | High-power output configuration |
| 16 | High-stability timebase |
| 17 | Front panel deleted; typically a remote-control configuration |
| 18 | Millimeter-wave bias-related function |
| 19 | SCPI programmability |
Compatibility is not universal, and some options are mutually exclusive or alter other specifications. Photograph the option labels, serial plate and RF connector rather than accepting a seller’s generic “68369B” description.
Frequency resolution, accuracy and timebase
Option 11 provides 0.1 Hz setting resolution. Display resolution is not the same as absolute frequency accuracy, short-term stability, phase noise or reference accuracy. Option 16 provides a high-stability timebase; do not assume it is fitted unless the option label or service documentation confirms it.
Remote control and software
The family uses IEEE-488/GPIB. Option 19 is the relevant SCPI-programmability option in the cited 68369B material. A GPIB connector alone does not prove that a unit supports the SCPI command set your software expects.
- Obtain the 683XXB programming manual, not a command list for a newer MG3690C.
- Allow for a GPIB controller, cable and possibly a GPIB-to-LAN or USB adapter.
- Check driver and operating-system compatibility before committing to automated testing.
- Test actual frequency, level, sweep and modulation commands on the specific serial-numbered unit.
Anritsu’s download center maintains documentation and software for related legacy families. A model-filtered page is also available for the MG3690B Series.
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Manuals and documentation
- 682XXB/683XXB operation manual for front-panel operation and family functions.
- Anritsu technical datasheet material for family specifications and modulation information.
- Anritsu signal-generator catalog for option descriptions.
- The correct GPIB/SCPI programming manual for the 683XXB family.
- Maintenance, calibration and user-defined-waveform documentation when those functions are installed.
Used 68369B inspection checklist
Identity and configuration
- Confirm the exact model is 68369B, not 68269B, another 683XXB model or an MG369x instrument.
- Record the serial number and every option code.
- Verify nominal 10 MHz–40 GHz coverage and the fitted RF connector.
- Check whether a front panel is present and whether GPIB is fitted.
Functional checks
- Power the instrument from cold and record boot errors, display faults, fan noise and overheating.
- Set CW frequencies in low, middle and high bands and measure frequency and power with calibrated external equipment.
- Run a frequency or power sweep and check for dropouts, leveling faults and abnormal settling.
- Test the attenuator, low-level output, AM/FM/phase/pulse functions and any complex modulation required by your application.
- Exercise GPIB control and verify the commands used by your test software.
- Check internal and external reference operation if stability matters.
RF and service evidence
- Request measured output power, flatness, harmonics, spurious signals and phase-noise data where relevant.
- For modulation, request measured depth, deviation, pulse width and on/off ratio.
- Inspect the 40 GHz connector for wear, damage and contamination; include adapter and cable losses in measurements.
- Ask for calibration date, certificate, measurement data, repair history and return terms.
- Treat “powers on” as a basic condition, not proof of RF compliance.
Custom-Cal lists a web introductory standard-calibration price of $1,310 for the 68369B, but scope, measurement data, shipping, repairs and restoration of failed hardware may be additional. See the 68369B calibration and repair page.
Buying sources and price context
Used listings can help identify configurations, but availability and asking prices change. Examples include National Test Equipment, ValueTronics, AccuSource, TestWorld, Transcat Canada and Alliance Test Equipment. AccuSource displayed an $8,995 listing for a unit with Options 2B and 11 when crawled; that is an observed asking price, not a confirmed transaction value. National Test Equipment showed contact-for-pricing availability.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When the 68369B is the right choice
Choose it when you need a calibrated, option-matched CW or swept source through 40 GHz, already have GPIB infrastructure, and can verify performance at the required bands. It can be attractive for laboratory and university work where used-equipment pricing outweighs lifecycle convenience.
Avoid it when you need broadband IQ, LTE/5G/Wi-Fi waveform libraries, modern LAN/USB control, compact field equipment, guaranteed factory support or long-term parts availability. A current vector signal generator or newer synthesized source is a better fit for those requirements.
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Alternatives
Anritsu MG3690B and MG3690C
The MG3690B is a related synthesized microwave family and is itself discontinued; Anritsu identifies MG3690C as its replacement. Compare exact frequency range, phase noise, power, modulation, interfaces and options rather than assuming interchangeability.
Modern vector signal generators
Choose a current vector platform for digitally generated IQ, wide modulation bandwidth, standards-based waveforms and supported LAN/USB software. The 68369B remains more relevant for pure CW, sweep and microwave-source work.
Other used microwave sources
When comparing Keysight, Rohde & Schwarz or other used generators, score frequency range, phase noise, maximum and minimum power, sweep speed, resolution, accuracy, interfaces, calibration cost, manuals, repair support and total delivered cost.
The Bottom Line
The Anritsu 68369B can be a capable 10 MHz–40 GHz microwave source, but the model number alone does not define the instrument. Option codes, calibration evidence, connector condition and measured high-frequency performance determine whether a particular used unit is suitable.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
