PicoSource AS108

The PicoSource AS108 from Pico Technology is a full-function USB-controlled vector signal synthesizer covering 300 kHz to 8.192 GHz with output power adjustable from -15 to +15 dBm in 0.1 dBm steps. Designed for RF test, stimulus-response measurement, and automated test system integration, the AS108 combines broad frequency coverage with fast switching (55 microsecond frequency settling, 25 microsecond amplitude settling) and built-in AM, FM, PM, and external IQ modulation in a compact USB-powered module. The included Windows software and programmable API enable direct front-panel-style operation as well as integration into automated test sequences where frequency hopping, sweep generation, and list-mode programming are required.

AS108 Specifications

Feature	Specification
Frequency Range	300 kHz to 8.192 GHz
Frequency Resolution	1 Hz (to 125 MHz), 10 Hz (to 4 GHz), 20 Hz (above 4 GHz)
Output Power	-15 to +15 dBm
Power Resolution	0.1 dBm
Power Accuracy	+/-1.5 dB
Phase Noise (1 GHz, 10 kHz offset)	-100 dBc/Hz typical
Phase Noise (8 GHz, 10 kHz offset)	-85 dBc/Hz typical
Harmonics	-26 dBc typical
Sub-harmonics	-46 dBc typical
Spurious	-60 dBc typical
Frequency Switching	55 us to +/-10 ppm
Amplitude Switching	25 us to +/-1 dB
Modulation	AM, FM, PM, external (DC to 10 kHz)
Connectors	BNC(f) for RF, reference, trigger, modulation
Power	12 to 15 V DC
Control	USB with Windows software and API

The AS108’s frequency resolution — 1 Hz below 125 MHz, 10 Hz up to 4 GHz, and 20 Hz above 4 GHz — provides the fine frequency control needed for characterizing narrow-band filters, testing receiver selectivity, and generating precise stimulus signals for RF component evaluation. Phase noise performance of -100 dBc/Hz typical at 1 GHz (10 kHz offset) is suitable for general-purpose RF testing, while the +15 dBm maximum output power drives most passive and active DUT configurations without requiring an external amplifier. BNC connectors for RF output, reference input/output, trigger I/O, and external modulation provide the standard interconnect expected in RF test environments.

Watch the PicoSource AS108 introduction

Multiple AS108 units can be managed simultaneously from a single PC, enabling synchronized multi-source test configurations. The programmable API supports frequency sweeps, hopping sequences, and list-based operation modes for automated production test and characterization routines. GSAS Micro Systems supplies the PicoSource AS108 with application guidance for RF test, telecommunications, and automated measurement system integration across India.