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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →The official SRS SG380 Series User Manual covers the SG384, SG382, and SG386; the current PDF identifies itself as Revision 2.07. The SG384 is a 4.05 GHz RF signal generator, not a conventional arbitrary waveform generator. Its front-panel Type-N connector is the RF output, specified from 950 kHz to 4.050 GHz.
Download the official SG384 manual
Download the SG380 Series User Manual (PDF). It covers all three models in the family, so use the PDF search function for “SG384,” “Type-N Output,” “Quick Start Instructions,” “Remote Programming,” or “Operation Verification.” The current official PDF identifies itself as Revision 2.07 and includes copyright years through 2024; check the revision on your own downloaded copy because SRS notes that information may change without notice.
What the SG384 is—and what “N-type output” means
The SG384 is part of Stanford Research Systems’ SG380 Series RF signal generators. “N-type output” describes its front-panel Type-N RF connector, not a separate model. The family models differ in their maximum standard RF frequency: SG382 reaches 2.025 GHz, SG384 reaches 4.050 GHz, and SG386 reaches 6.075 GHz. The SG384 also has a front-panel BNC output for DC–62.5 MHz. Option 2 adds a separate rear-panel doubler output; it does not extend the normal Type-N connector’s specified range.
The SG384 synthesizes a sine-wave RF carrier and can apply modulation, pulse gating, and frequency sweeps. Its internal sine, ramp, sawtooth, square, pulse, and noise functions serve as modulation signals; they are not arbitrary sample files played directly from the RF output. SRS classifies it as an RF signal generator, though some catalog listings may use the broader “waveform generator” label. See the manufacturer’s product description.
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Type-N and BNC outputs compared
| Output | Frequency range | Level and coupling | Typical role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front-panel Type-N | 950 kHz–4.050 GHz | RF level in dBm, Vrms, or Vpp; AC-coupled; specified for 50 Ω | RF carrier generation |
| Front-panel BNC | DC–62.5 MHz | Low-frequency output with settable DC offset | Low-frequency signal and modulation-related work |
| Rear-panel doubler output, Option 2 | 4.05–8.10 GHz | Separate output with specifications distinct from Type-N | Extended-frequency RF generation |
The outputs are not interchangeable. In particular, Type-N is AC-coupled and has no user-settable DC offset. The manual’s Type-N protection specification is up to 30 VDC and +25 dBm RF input; these are protection limits, not recommended operating conditions. Refer to the manual for connector, load, and handling details.
SG384 Type-N specifications
| Specification | SG384 Type-N value |
|---|---|
| Frequency range | 950 kHz–4.050 GHz |
| Frequency resolution | 1 µHz |
| Nominal output setting range | −110 dBm to +16.5 dBm; maximum available power falls above 3 GHz |
| Maximum near 4 GHz | Approximately +13 dBm under the manual’s frequency-derating specification |
| Output load | 50 Ω |
| Power setting resolution | 0.01 dBm |
| Typical switching speed | Less than 8 ms to within 1 ppm |
| Frequency stability | Better than 1 × 10⁻¹¹ Allan variance at 1 second, subject to timebase conditions |
The manual specifies a 3.50 dB/GHz reduction in maximum output above 3 GHz. Thus, +16.5 dBm is not a guaranteed available level at the top of the SG384 range. Typical power accuracy is ±1 dB, with relaxed limits at specified frequency or level extremes. For context, the manufacturer’s typical phase-noise figures at a 1 GHz carrier are −80 dBc/Hz at 10 Hz offset, −102 dBc/Hz at 1 kHz offset, −116 dBc/Hz at 20 kHz offset, and −130 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset for SG382/SG384. These are typical values at the stated conditions, not promises for every carrier frequency. Consult the SRS product specifications and manual specifications for conditions and limits.
Make a basic Type-N RF output
- Connect the instrument to AC mains within the manual’s specified 90–264 VAC, 47–63 Hz range, then power it on. At startup, check the displayed model, firmware version, and serial number.
- If you need a known starting state, initialize the instrument: press [SHIFT], then [0] (the shifted INIT function), and confirm the prompt with [ENTER]. Initialization can replace the current operating state, so record or save settings you need first.
- Connect a suitable 50 Ω RF cable and load to the front-panel Type-N connector. Use components rated for the frequency and power involved.
- Press [FREQ], enter the carrier frequency, and select the appropriate unit key.
- Press [AMPL] until the Type-N/RF amplitude field is selected, then enter the desired level in dBm, Vrms, or Vpp as appropriate.
- Enable the Type-N output if it is off. Confirm that the Type-N indicator is illuminated.
- Verify the signal with a suitably rated RF power meter, spectrum analyzer, or receiver, using the intended 50 Ω setup.
For front-panel labels and the exact quick-start sequence, use the manual’s quick-start section: SG380 Series User Manual.
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Understand amplitude, units, and termination
The Type-N output is specified into 50 Ω. At 0 dBm into 50 Ω, the manual gives approximately 0.224 Vrms or 0.632 Vpp. These voltage readings assume the specified termination and voltage convention. An oscilloscope set to high impedance can show approximately twice the voltage seen with a proper 50 Ω termination, so identify both the input impedance and whether the instrument reports Vrms or Vpp before comparing measurements.
For everyday checks, use a calibrated power meter or a spectrum analyzer appropriate to the frequency and level, a short suitable RF cable, and minimal adapters. Set the meter or analyzer to the generator’s frequency and confirm the measurement input is terminated as intended. For formal verification, follow the manual’s Type-N output power test procedure: it calls for a calibrated power meter directly attached to the Type-N connector without an intervening cable, at specified test frequencies and levels. That is a verification procedure, not necessarily the most convenient everyday bench arrangement.
Modulation, sweeps, and pulse limits
The SG384 supports AM, FM, phase modulation (ΦM), pulse modulation, blank modulation, and frequency sweeps. Internal modulation functions include sine, ramp, sawtooth, square, pulse, and noise; external modulation is accepted through the rear-panel modulation input. The internal modulation generator is also available as a rear-panel output. These functions modulate or gate the synthesized carrier rather than providing general-purpose arbitrary waveform playback.
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In pulse mode, a logic-high level turns RF on; in blank mode, logic high turns RF off. For the Type-N output, the specified on/off ratio varies with frequency: approximately 57 dB below 1 GHz, 40 dB from 1 GHz to below 4 GHz, and 35 dB at or above 4 GHz. Typical turn-on/off delay is 60 ns, typical RF rise/fall time is 20 ns, and typical pulse feed-through is 10% of the carrier for a 20 ns turn-on event. These characteristics can matter when measuring short bursts or when a well-isolated RF-off state is required, particularly near the upper end of the SG384 range. See the SRS SG380 specifications.
Optional SG384 features
Options are configuration-dependent; verify the individual unit’s installed options rather than assuming a feature is standard.
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|---|---|---|
| Option 1 | Rear-panel differential clock outputs for precision clock applications; selectable logic compatibility includes PECL, ECL, RSECL, LVDS, CML, and NIM | Typical transition time is under 35 ps |
| Option 2 | Rear-panel SMA doubler output and DC bias source | Extends SG384 output to 8.10 GHz at the separate doubler output, not the Type-N connector; its amplitude, phase-noise, harmonic, subharmonic, and accuracy specifications differ |
| Option 3 | External I/Q modulation | SG384 carrier range for I/Q operation is 400 MHz–4.05 GHz; rear I and Q inputs are 50 Ω with ±0.5 V input capability; carrier suppression is specified above 40 dBc under stated conditions |
| Option 4 | Rubidium timebase | Provides improved stability and aging performance compared with the standard OCXO reference |
Option 3 is the relevant choice when external vector/IQ modulation is needed; it does not turn the instrument into an arbitrary waveform generator with sample playback. Full option specifications and conditions are in the product specifications.
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Remote control over LAN, GPIB, or RS-232
The SG384 supports Ethernet/LAN, GPIB (IEEE-488.2), and RS-232. For a LAN session, the manual’s TCP/IP example requires the instrument to be connected to a LAN with a configured IP address. On the front panel, press [SHIFT] → [STATUS] and navigate to the TCP/IP status display to find the address.
The following commands illustrate the manual’s C++ TCP/IP example and its command meanings:
*IDN?
*RST
FREQ 50e6
AMPR -10.0
AMPL -5.0
*OPC?*IDN?queries instrument identification.*RSTresets the instrument.FREQ 50e6sets frequency to 50 MHz.AMPR -10.0sets Type-N output amplitude to −10 dBm.AMPL -5.0sets BNC output amplitude to −5 dBm.*OPC?queries whether pending operations are complete.
Do not confuse the amplitude commands: AMPR addresses the Type-N RF output, while AMPL addresses the BNC output. The manual also shows AMPR -3.0, AMPR 0.1 RMS, and AMPR? for setting or querying RF amplitude, and ENBR 1 to enable the Type-N output. Syntax and interface setup are covered in the remote programming section.
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Troubleshoot common SG384 output problems
- No output below 950 kHz on Type-N: This is outside the Type-N frequency range. Use the BNC output for supported frequencies from DC to 62.5 MHz.
- Cannot set the expected carrier: Check that the requested frequency falls within 950 kHz–4.050 GHz for Type-N, or within the separate limits of the selected output.
- Cannot obtain +16.5 dBm near 4 GHz: The SG384’s maximum output is derated above 3 GHz; approximately +13 dBm is specified around 4 GHz.
- Oscilloscope voltage seems roughly doubled: Check for a high-impedance input instead of a 50 Ω termination and confirm the voltage convention.
- No DC offset at Type-N: Expected—the Type-N path is AC-coupled. The BNC output has the settable offset; use an appropriate external bias tee if the RF setup requires DC bias, observing its ratings.
- Remote command changes the wrong output: Use
AMPRfor Type-N andAMPLfor BNC. - RF indicator is off or output seems disabled: Check the Type-N output enable state, frequency, cable and load, recalled or reset state, and whether the measurement instrument can detect the selected level.
- Option 2 appears not to provide 8.10 GHz at Type-N: Option 2’s extended-frequency signal is at the separate rear-panel doubler output; the standard Type-N range remains 4.050 GHz.
- Level differs from expectation at high frequency: Account for the maximum-power derating and the measurement chain. Cable loss, adapters, connector condition, termination, and calibration affect the result.
Choosing the SG384 for a test bench
The SG384 is a fit when the job calls for a stable synthesized RF carrier up to 4.05 GHz, analog or pulse modulation, frequency sweeps, or automated bench control. Its optional timebase and I/Q features can address specific stability or modulation needs when fitted. It is a poor match for arbitrary point-by-point waveform playback, DC offset on the RF connector, high-power RF drive, or pulse-envelope requirements that exceed its rise/fall, delay, feed-through, or on/off specifications.
If the required carrier range is lower, the SG382 is specified to 2.025 GHz; if it must exceed 4.05 GHz without relying on the optional doubler, the SG386 reaches 6.075 GHz. For vector modulation or predefined communications waveforms, SRS lists the SG390/SG394/SG396 family: SRS SG390 Series. For lower-frequency function or arbitrary waveform work, the DS345 or DS360 categories may be more appropriate, but neither substitutes for a 4 GHz RF source: DS345 and SRS datasheet index.
SRS showed the SG380 series “from $4,800” on its product page; that is a series-level price signal, not a model-specific SG384 quote. The SG384 ordering page uses a Buy/Quote route, so confirm current configuration and pricing with SRS: product page and ordering page.
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