HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
The Holzworth HS9000 Series multi-channel platform is designed to achieve optimal channel-tochannel stability across all integrated channel synthiesizers via a conductively cooled, fan-lessenclosure. Specific attention is paid to phase coherency between the independely controllable
channels.

RoHS
The HS9000 Series is a unique platform allowing the user to specify custom configurations for a
COTS product. Units are loaded with anywhere from 1 to 8 channels1, with the additional flexibility
to specify each channel’s frequency limits and performance options. The result is a highperformance, multi-channel synthesizer that is tailored to an application with an optimal price point.
FULLY INDEPENDENT CHANNELS
Each RF output is driven by a separate,internally loaded synthesizer module. Up
to 81 independently tunable synthesizers
can be specified per 1U chassis allowing
for the highest integrated channel density
available in its class. With an average
power dissipation of 7 Watts per channel,
the HS9000 series is highly efficient.
PHASE COHERENT CHANNELS
Holzworth Multi-channel RF Synthesizers
offer the benefits of a proprietary NONPLL
basedsynthesisarchitecture.
Coupling the NON-PLL architecture with acentralizedreference
distribution
subsystem enables a truly phase coherent
relationship across all integrated channels.
THE ULTIMATE IN CHANNEL-TO-CHANNEL STABILITY
Different from traditional PLL based synthesizers, Holzworth’s proprietary architecture creates
precisely synthesized signals that exhibit both instantaneous and long term stability. Temperature
variations between the channels remain the only contribution to drift. The thermally optimized, fanless chassis was specifically developed for maintaining the lowest possible thermal gradients fromchannel-to-channel.
Holzworth multi-channel designs are integrated into precision applications that range from particle
accelerator timing clocks to satellite position tracking. Due to the necessity for the ultimate in signal
stability, Holzworth synthesizers also come standard with thermal monitor outputs to track therelative channel temperature of each loaded channel.
1

Number of channels per 1U chassis can be limited based on options selected.

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 1 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS - FREQUENCY
The specified parameters for the HS9000 Series RF Synthesizers are fully verified at final
performance test and 100% guaranteed for the warranted life of the product. Performance
specifications listed on this page are specific to Frequency.

FREQUENCY PERFORMANCE (channels up to 6.4 GHz)1
PARAMETER
Frequency Option Ranges4
OPT-A1 thru OPT-A8
OPT-B1 thru OPT-B8
OPT-C1 thru OPT-C8
OPT-D1 thru OPT-D8
OPT-E1 thru OPT-E8
Frequency Resolution

MIN

TYPICAL3

250 kHz250 kHz250 kHz250 kHz250 kHzMAX

2

1.024 GHz
2.048 GHz
3.072 GHz
4.096 GHz
6.400 GHz

Settable from 100 kHz.
Settable from 100 kHz.
Settable from 100 kHz.
Settable from 100 kHz.
Settable from 100kHz to 6.720 GHz
Offset Accuracy:±0.05 deg
±0.10 deg
±0.20 deg
±0.40 deg
±0.80 deg

0.1 deg
0.2 deg
0.4 deg
0.8 deg
1.6 deg

300 µs maximum by design.
< 3.072 GHz, 100 µs maximum by design. 75 µs typical.
≥ 3.072 GHz, 100 µs by design.
100 µs by design. Wideband Steps (full bandwidth)
6 µs by design. Narrowband Steps (<5% bandwidth)

List/Step Sweep Mode (WB)
List/Step Sweep Mode (NB)
Internal Time Base Reference(Oscillator Aging Rate)± 1 ppm/yr•

1st year. ±0.5 ppm/yr each subsequent year

± 1 ppm± 0.1 ppm
+ 5 dBm
50 Ω

Fixed, Nominal
Nominal+ 5 dBm
50 Ω

Fixed, Nominal
Nominal

10 / 100± 4 ppm
0 dBm+2 dBm0 to 55 °C• ±5%± 1 ppm+10 dBm+6 dBm50 Ω

Sweep Range

250 kHz6.720 GHz

Dwell Time

100 µs

100 s

2
2

65535
3201

Number of Points (STEP)
Number of Points (LIST)COMMENTS

0.001 Hz

Phase Offset Resolution
250 kHz – 512 MHz
512 MHz – 1.024 GHz
1.024 GHz – 2.048 GHz
2.048 GHz – 4.096 GHz
4.096 GHz – 6.40 GHz
Switching Speed (Frequency)
SPI Mode (ASCII)SPI Mode (Binary)

Temperature Effects
Line Voltage Effects (12V)
10 MHz Reference Output
Amplitude
Impedance
100 MHz Reference Output
Amplitude
Impedance
External Reference Input
Input Frequency
10MHz Lock Range
10MHz External Amplitude
100MHz External Amplitude
Impedance
Waveform
Digital Sweep Modes
Operating Modes

2

Triggering

10MHz or 100MHz Auto-detect, or Internal Ref.
20Hz Locking BW, Internal OCXO remains on
20Hz Locking BW, Internal OCXO remains on
Internal OXCO shuts off
50 Ω (nom)Sine
Step sweep (linear, internal)
List Sweep (arbitrary list of freq steps)
Simultaneous Amplitude sweep (list)
1 µs increments

Free Run, External Trigger

1

Specifications are subject to change per the discretion of Holzworth Instrumentation, Inc.
2
All MIN/ MAX (Minimum/ Maximum) performance parameters are guaranteed and 100% verified during final performance test.
3
Typical performance is “by design” and consistent with field performance data.

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 2 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
4

Option OPT-PWR18 limits calibrated minimum frequency to 32MHz

ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS - FREQUENCY (continued)
FREQUENCY PERFORMANCE (12.5 and 20 GHz channels)1
PARAMETER
Frequency Range
OPT-X1 thru OPT-X4
OPT-F1 thru OPT-F4
Frequency Step Size
Phase Offset
Phase Offset Resolution
250 kHz – 512 MHz
512 MHz – 1.024 GHz
1.024 GHz – 2.048 GHz
2.048 GHz – 4.096 GHz
4.096 GHz – 5.0 GHz
5.0 GHz – 10 GHz
10 GHz – 20GHz
Switching Speed (Frequency)
SPI Mode (ASCII)SPI Mode (Binary)

MIN

2

TYPICAL3

10 MHz10 MHzMAX

2

12 GHz18 GHzCOMMENTS
VHF through X Band (Settable to 12.5GHz)
VHF through Ku Band (Settable to 22.5GHz)

0.001 Hz0 deg

+360 deg
Offset Accuracy:±0.05 deg
±0.10 deg
±0.20 deg
±0.40 deg
±0.80 deg
±1.60 deg
±3.20 deg

0.1 deg
0.2 deg
0.4 deg
0.8 deg
1.6 deg
3.2 deg
6.4 deg
300us
100us

Internal Time Base Reference(Oscillator Aging Rate)± 1 ppm/yr

1st year. ±0.5 ppm/yr each subsequent year

Temperature Effects
Line Voltage Effects (12V)± 1 ppm± 0.1 ppm

0 to 55 °C±5%Reference Output
Frequency
Amplitude
Impedance
External Reference Input
Input Frequency
10MHz Lock Range
10MHz External Amplitude
100MHz External Amplitude
Impedance
Waveform

100 MHz+2 dBm

+6 dBm50 Ω10 / 100± 4 ppm

0 dBm+2 dBm± 1 ppm+10 dBm+6 dBm50 ΩNominalNominalSoftware Select 10MHz, 100MHz or No Ext. Ref.
20Hz Locking BW, Internal OCXO remains on
20Hz Locking BW, Internal OCXO remains on
Internal OXCO shuts off
50 Ω (nom)Sine

1Specifications are subject to change per the discretion of Holzworth Instrumentation, Inc.
All MIN/ MAX (Minimum/ Maximum) performance parameters are guaranteed and 100% verified during final performance test.
Typical performance is “by design” and consistent with field performance data.
4
Option OPT-PWR18 limits calibrated minimum frequency to 32MHz
2
3

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 3 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS - AMPLITUDE
The specified parameters for the HS9000 Series RF Synthesizers are fully verified at final
performance test and 100% guaranteed for the warranted life of the product. Performance
specifications listed on this page are specific to Amplitude.

AMPLITUDE PERFORMANCE (channels up to 6.4 GHz)1
PARAMETER
Output Power
Output Power with +18dBm Option
Resolution
Step Attenuator
ConnectorSWR
f < 32MHz
32MHz < f < 1.024GHz
1.024GHz < f < 6.720GHz
Maximum Reverse PowerMax DC Voltage> 100 kHz
Switching Speed (Amplitude)
SPI Mode
List / Step Sweep Mode
Absolute Level Accuracyf < 10MHz
0 to -70dBm
10MHz < f < 32MHz
0 to -70dBm
32MHz < f < 4.096GHz+10 to -30dBm
32MHz < f < 4.096GHz-30 to -70dBm
4.096GHz < f < 6.4GHz +10 to -30dBm
4.096GHz < f < 6.4GHz -30 to -60dBm
SSB Phase Noise
100 MHz, 10kHz offset
500 MHz, 10kHz offset
1.0 GHz, 10kHz offset
2.0 GHz, 10kHz offset
3.0 GHz, 10kHz offset
4.0 GHz, 10kHz offset
6.0 GHz, 10kHz offset
Harmonics (CW mode)
Pout = 0dBm
Pout = +10dBm
Non-Harmonics (CW mode)
250 kHz to 3.072 GHz
3.072 GHz to 6.400 GHz
Sub-Harmonics (CW mode)
250 kHz to 3.072 GHz
3.072 GHz to 6.400 GHz
Jitter155 MHz622 MHz
2.488 GHzMIN

2

TYPICAL3-70 dBm-60 dBm

MAX

2

COMMENTS+10 dBm+20dBmSettable from -100 to +15 dBm(See information on p. 19)

100 dB

5 dB steps
SMA

0.01 dB
0 dB
50 Ω
1.4 (-15.6 dB)
1.15 (-23.0 dB)
1.3 (-17.7 dB)
25 VDC maximum by design.
10 mW (10dBm) max by design.

1.7 (-11.7 dB)
1.4 (-15.6 dB)
1.5 (-14 dB)*** Some applications may require reverse power protection.

300 µs maximum by design. Settling to within 0.1 dB.
100 µs maximum by design.
+0.25/ -2.0 dB+0.1/ -1.25 dB± 0.10 dB± 0.25 dB± 0.15 dB± 0.25 dB

NS+0.6/ -2.0 dB± 0.5 dB
± 1.0 dB
± 0.6 dB
± 1.1 dB

≤ -153 dBc/Hz≤ -139 dBc/Hz≤ -133 dBc/Hz≤ -127 dBc/Hz≤ -123 dBc/Hz≤ -121 dBc/Hz≤ -117 dBc/Hz≤ -145 dBc/Hz≤ -134 dBc/Hz≤ -128 dBc/Hz≤ -122 dBc/Hz≤ -117 dBc/Hz≤ -115 dBc/Hz≤ -111 dBc/Hz-40 dBc-30 dBc-30 dBc
NS-70 dBc-60 dBc-60 dBc-50 dBc@ 0 dBm@ 0 dBm-70 dBc-60 dBc-60 dBc-50dBc@ 0 dBm@ 0 dBm

60 fs
61 fs
55 fs

NS
NS
NS

25C to 35C (case temperature)≤ -152 dBc/Hz @ 20kHz offset≤ -140 dBc/Hz @ 20kHz offset≤ -134 dBc/Hz @ 20kHz offset≤ -128 dBc/Hz @ 20kHz offset≤ -124 dBc/Hz @ 20kHz offset≤ -122 dBc/Hz @ 20kHz offset≤ -118 dBc/Hz @ 20kHz offset

100Hz < BW < 1.5MHz
1kHz < BW < 5MHz
5kHz < BW < 20MHz

1

Specifications are subject to change per the discretion of Holzworth Instrumentation, Inc.
All MIN/ MAX (Minimum/ Maximum) performance parameters are guaranteed and 100% verified during final performance test.
3
Typical performance is “by design” and consistent with field performance data.
2

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 4 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS - AMPLITUDE (continued)
AMPLITUDE PERFORMANCE (12.5 and 20 GHz channels)1
PARAMETER
Output Power (Calibrated)
10 MHz to 12 GHz
12 GHz to 18 GHz
Resolution
Connector
SWR (S11)
10 MHz < f ≤ 6 GHz
6 GHz < f ≤ 18 GHz
Maximum Reverse PowerMax DC Voltage> 100 kHz
Switching Speed (Amplitude)
Absolute Level Accuracy
10 MHz - 6 GHz
6 GHz - 12 GHz-10 dBm to 5 dBm
5 dBm to 18 dBm
12 GHz - 18 GHz-10 dBm to 5 dBm
5 dBm to 16 dBm
SSB Phase Noise
2.0 GHz, 10 kHz offset
4.0 GHz, 10 kHz offset
8.0 GHz, 10 kHz offset
12.0 GHz, 10 kHz offset
18.0 GHz, 10 kHz offset
Harmonics (CW mode)
Non-Harmonics (CW mode)
10 MHz to 8 GHz
8 GHz to 18 GHz
Sub-Harmonics (CW mode)
10 MHz to 8 GHz
8 GHz to 18 GHz
Jitter (RMS) at 18 GHz
1
2
3

MIN

2

TYPICAL3MAX-10 dBm-10 dBm

2+18 dBm+16 dBm
0.01 dB
50 Ω

COMMENTS
Settable -20 to +23 dBm
SMA

1.33 (-17.0 dB)
1.43 (-15.0 dB)
25 VDC maximum by design.
16 dBm max by design.
SPI Mode (Binary)*** Some applications may require reverse power protection.
100us

Settling to within 0.1dB± 0.5 dB
± 0.5 dB
± 1 dB

25C to 35C (case temperature)± 0.6 dB
± 1.1 dB
≤ -128 dBc/Hz≤ -122 dBc/Hz≤ -114 dBc/Hz≤ -110 dBc/Hz≤ -106 dBc/Hz-30 dBc-60 dBc-50 dBc-60 dBc-50 dBc
55 fs

5 kHz < BW < 20 MHz

Specifications are subject to change per the discretion of Holzworth Instrumentation, Inc.
All MIN/ MAX (Minimum/ Maximum) performance parameters are guaranteed and 100% verified during final performance test.
Typical performance is “by design” and consistent with field performance data.

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 5 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS - AMPLITUDE (continued)
TYPICAL AMPLITUDE PERFORMANCE (12 and 20 GHz channels)

Figure 1: Maximum and Minimum Amplitude Threshold

Figure 2: Calibrated Output Power Accuracy vs. Frequency

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 6 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS - MODULATIONThe external stimulus modulation parameters are only available on units equipped with option OPTEXTMOD. Units with OPT-EXTMOD have channel dedicated modulation input ports installed.

EXTERNAL MODULATION (channels up to 6.4 GHz)1
PARAMETERPERFORMANCECOMMENTSFREQUENCY MODULATION (Analog)
Max Deviation
Resolution
Deviation Accuracy
Modulation Freq. Response

100 kHz
0.01% or 1mHz, whichever is greater< ± 2%DC to 20 kHz (-3dB)

Sensitivity when using Ext. Input± 1V peak into 50Ω

DC Coupled+ 1V: Maximum Positive Deviation
0V: Zero Deviation from Carrier- 1V: Maximum Negative Deviation

PHASE MODULATION (Analog)
Modulation Deviation
Frequency Response
Resolution±1.6 deg to ±180 deg
DC to 20 kHz (-3dB)
Frequency Dependent

Sensitivity when using Ext. Input± 1V peak into 50Ω

DC Coupled
See Phase Offset Specification+ 1V: Maximum Positive Deviation
0V: Zero Deviation from Carrier- 1V: Maximum Negative Deviation

AMPLITUDE MODULATION (Analog)
AM Depth Type
Depth
Maximum
Resolution
Depth Accuracy
Modulation Rate
Sensitivity when using Ext. Input

Linear
5% to 75%
<3% of Maximum Depth
5% of Maximum Depth
DC to 10 kHz (-3dB)± 1V peak for indicated Depth (into 50Ω)

0.45 dB to 12 dB
DC Coupled+ 1V: Maximum Amplitude
0V: 50% of Maximum Depth- 1V: Maximum Depth

PULSE MODULATION (Analog)
Risetime (Tr)
Falltime (Tf)
On/Off Ratio
Minimum Pulse Width
ALC Loop Deviation (ALC disabled)
1<100 ns<100 ns> 70dB
200 ns
1dB difference from ALC enabled

Specifications are subject to change per the discretion of Holzworth Instrumentation, Inc

PARAMETER
External Trigger Threshold

PERFORMANCECOMMENTS+1.2V±5% into 50Ω

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 7 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS - MODULATION (continued)
HSM Series synthesizers up to 6.4GHz maximum output frequency that have firmware version
3.3.1 or higher, are capable of operating in internal pulse modulation mode, which does not require
an external stimulus signal.

SELF PULSE MODULATION (channels up to 6.4 GHz)1
PARAMETER
Risetime (Tr)fc < 512MHz
fc > 512 MHz
Falltime (Tf)
On/Off Ratio
Minimum Pulse Width
ALC Loop Deviation (ALC disabled)
1

PERFORMANCECOMMENTS

11ns (typical)<100 ns> 70dB
200 ns
1dB difference from ALC enabled

Specifications are subject to change per the discretion of Holzworth Instrumentation, Inc

Figure 1: Self Pulse Mod fc = 500MHz, 2us Pulse

22Internal pulse modulation for frequencies greater than 512MHz will exhibit increased settling time. Contact Holzworth customer support
for additional data.

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 8 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS - MODULATION (continued)
SELF PULSE MODULATION (channels up to 6.4 GHz, continued)
Pulse modulation will exhibit longer rise/fall times for frequencies greater than 512 MHz. Figures 2
and 3 below demonstrate this difference between set frequencies.

Figure 2a: Pulse Mod Rise Time, fc = 500MHz

Figure 3a: Pulse Mod Fall Time, fc = 500MHz

Figure 2b: Pulse Mod Rise Time, fc = 530MHz

Figure 3b: Pulse Mod Fall Time, fc = 530MHzHOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 9 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS - MODULATION (continued)
Modulation capabilities on channels equipped with OPT-X1 or OPT-F1 are different thanthose on the lower frequency channels. Currently modulation is limited to externally driven
pulse modulation. This pulse modulation exhibits better performance than the same
capability on the lower frequency channels, however.
EXTERNAL MODULATION (12.5 and 20 GHz channels)
PARAMETERPERFORMANCE

Risetime (Tr)
Falltime (Tf)
On/Off Ratio
10MHz to 10GHz
10GHz to 20GHz
Minimum Pulse Width
ALC Loop Deviation (ALC disabled)
1

COMMENTS<20 ns<20 ns> 80dB> 50dB
50 ns
1dB difference from ALC enabled

Specifications are subject to change per the discretion of Holzworth Instrumentation, Inc

PARAMETER
External Trigger Threshold

PERFORMANCECOMMENTS+1V±5% into 50Ω

10 ns

Figure 1: External Pulse Modulation Rise Time (seconds)

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 10 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS1
Environmental specifications are based on component margins, thermal verification testing andcurrent draw tests. Production unit performance is not verified over temperature.
PARAMETER
Operating Temperature
Temperature Monitor Range
AC Power Supply
Power Consumption
Base Power Consumption
Channel ≤ 6.4 GHz
12 or 20GHz Channel
Warm-Up Time
1

MIN

TYPICAL

0C-40 C
100 VAC
5W
7W
15 W
10 minMAX

COMMENTS

+55 C
+85 C
240 VAC

Absolute, channel dedicated outputs
50 – 60Hz

20 min20 C (ambient temp. dependent)

Specifications are subject to change per the discretion of Holzworth Instrumentation, Inc

DESCRIPTIONSPECIFICATION (by design)

Operating Environment
Humidity
AltitudeVibration

RH 20% to 80% at wet bulb temp. <29C (non-condensing)
0 to 2,000m (0 to 6,561 feet)
0.21 G-rms maximum, 5Hz to 500Hz

Storage (Non-Operating)Temperature
Humidity
AltitudeVibration-10C to + 60C
RH 20% to 80% at wet bulb temp. <40C (non-condensing)
0 to 4,572m
Altitude(0 to 15,000 feet)
0.5 G-rms maximum, 5Hz to 500Hz

PHASE DRIFT PERFORMANCE
Holzworth non-PLL based multi-channel RF synthesizers provide superior channel-to-channel
phase coherency. The unique architecture also leverages a channel-to-channel phase drift
advantage over other synthesis solutions. Figures 1a and 1b demonstrate channel-to-channel
phase drift over a 1 hour period under ambient laboratory conditions (20C ±2C).

Figure 4a: 100MHz Phase Drift (1hr, 20C)

Figure 4b: 3GHz Phase Drift (1hr, 20C)

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 11 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
PHASE NOISE PERFORMANCE
Holzworth products are well known for their ultra low phase noise characteristics. All products
undergo 100% phase noise performance verification prior to shipment.
SYNTHESIZER CHANNEL PERFORMANCEThe raw data displayed in Figure 2 is of SSB Phase Noise vs. Frequency Offset as measured for
the HS9000 Series RF Synthesizers. All data was collected with output power set at +10dBm.

Figure 5: Channel SSB Phase Noise (POUT = +10dBm)

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 12 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
FIXED REFERENCE OUTPUT PERFORMANCEThe HS9000 Series come equipped with fixed 10MHz and 100MHz reference outputs. The fixedreference output signals are derived directly from the internal reference standard (100MHz OCXO).
The data shown in figures 3a and 3b represents typical performance.

Figure 6a: 10MHz Reference Output SSB Phase Noise

Figure 6b: 100MHz Reference Output SSB Phase Noise
HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 13 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
SPECTRAL PURITY DATA
The data contained in this section demonstrates the spectral purity performance of the HS9000
Series designs. Spectrum analyzer test settings: 300kHz Resolution BW, 30kHz Video BW.

Figure 7a: 1GHz Narrow Band Spectrum

Figure 7b: 1GHz Broad Band Spectrum

Figure 8a: 3GHz Narrow Band Spectrum

Figure 8b: 3GHz Broad Band Spectrum

Figure 9a: 4GHz Narrow Band Spectrum

Figure 9b: 4GHz Broad Band Spectrum

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 14 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers

Figure 10a: 6GHz Narrow Band Spectrum

Figure 10b: 6GHz Broad Band Spectrum

Figure 11a: 8GHz Narrow Band Spectrum

Figure 11b: 8GHz Broad Band Spectrum

Figure 12a: 12GHz Narrow Band Spectrum

Figure 12b: 12GHz Broad Band Spectrum

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 15 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers

Figure 13a: 14GHz Narrow Band Spectrum

Figure 13b: 14GHz Broad Band Spectrum

Figure 14a: 16GHz Narrow Band Spectrum

Figure 14b: 16GHz Broad Band Spectrum

Figure 15a: 18GHz Narrow Band Spectrum

Figure 15b: 18GHz Broad Band Spectrum

Data at additional frequencies available upon request.

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 16 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
HS9000 SERIES CONFIGURATION GUIDEThe HS9000 Series synthesizer platform is designed to be user/application defined. Follow 4 easy
steps to determine the part number with the required options.
STEP 1: SELECT TOTAL NUMBER OF CHANNELS
Select the base part number, strictly calling out the total number of channels to be loaded into themulti-channel chassis.
No. Channels
Part Number

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

HS9001A

HS9002A

HS9003A

HS9004A

HS9005A

HS9006A

HS9007A

HS9008A

STEP 2: SELECT CHANNEL FREQUENCY OPTIONS
Select any combination of channel frequency options. Note that the total number of channels
specified here must equal the number of channels selected under STEP 1.
Number of Channels per Frequency Range

Frequency Range
CMOS 5MHz - 200MHz
250kHz - 1GHz
250kHz - 2GHz
250kHz - 3GHz
250kHz - 4GHz
250kHz - 6.4GHz
10MHz - 12.5GHz
10MHz - 20GHz

1x

2x

3x

OPT-CMOS1

OPT-CMOS2

OPT-CMOS3

4x

5x

6x

7x

8x

OPT-A1
OPT-B1
OPT-C1
OPT-D1
OPT-E1
OPT-X1

OPT-A2
OPT-B2
OPT-C2
OPT-D2
OPT-E2
OPT-X2

OPT-A3
OPT-B3
OPT-C3
OPT-D3
OPT-E3
OPT-X3

OPT-A4
OPT-B4
OPT-C4
OPT-D4
OPT-E4
OPT-X4

OPT-A5
OPT-B5
OPT-C5
OPT-D5
OPT-E5NA

OPT-A6
OPT-B6
OPT-C6
OPT-D6
OPT-E6NA

OPT-A7
OPT-B7
OPT-C7
OPT-D7
OPT-E7NA

OPT-A8
OPT-B8OPT-C8
OPT-D8
OPT-E8NA

OPT-F1

OPT-F2

OPT-F3

OPT-F4

NA

NA

NA

NA

OPT-CMOS4 OPT-CMOS5 OPT-CMOS6 OPT-CMOS7 OPT-CMOS8STEP 3: SELECT ADDITIONAL OPTIONS & ACCESSORIESThe options listed in this section are available for the multi-channel platform to comply withapplication specific requirements.

1

TYPE

Part Number

Description

OPTIONOPTIONOPTIONACCESSORYACCESSORYACCESSORY

OPT-EXTMOD-n
OPT-OCXO
OPT-PWR18-n
HCM5
RACK-1URACK2-1U

Channel dedicated, external modulation input. n= 1, 2, 3, etc. (specify up to 6 ch)
High Performance OCXO. 10dB Improved Phase Noise at close to the carrier+20dBm maximum output power level. n= 1, 2, 3 , etc. (specify for up to 5 channels)1
Ethernet Control Module19" Rack Mount Bracket Kit, 90º rear bracket
19" Rack Mount Bracket Kit, straight rear bracket

Available for channels up to 6.4GHz maximum output only.

PART NUMBER EXAMPLE
Ordering a 5 channel synthesizer with 1x CMOS channel, 1x 3GHz channels, 2x 6.4GHz channels,
2x 12GHz and a high performance OCXO would result in the following configuration:
Part Number:
Options:

HS9005A
OPT-CMOS1
OPT-C1
OPT-E2
OPT-X1OPT-OCXO

Description:
5 ch, Multi-Channel RF Synthesizer
1x CMOS Channel
1x 3GHz Channel
2x 6.4GHz Channels
1x 12.5GHz ChannelHigh Performance OCXOHOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 17 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
OPTION SPECIFICATIONS 1
OPT-CMOS
Option OPT-CMOS is an additional channel (or channels) loaded into the multi-channel system.
OPT-CMOS provides a CMOS logic output signal, which may be optimal for a system that requires
square wave trigger or clock signals.
PARAMETER
Frequency Range
Output Voltage (CMOS Logic)
Phase Noise
10MHz, 10kHz Offset
19.2MHz, 10kHz Offset
100MHz, 10kHz Offset
200MHz, 10kHz Offset
Rise Time / Fall Time (Tr / Tf)
Output Impedance

1
2
3

MIN

2

TYPICAL

3

5MHz

MAX

2

COMMENTS

500MHz0V - 5V-152 dBc/Hz-154 dBc/Hz-152 dBc/Hz-146 dBc/Hz
900ps

0V to 2.5V into 50Ω-145 dBc/Hz-145 dBc/Hz-143 dBc/Hz-135 dBc/Hz

50Ω

Specifications are subject to change per the discretion of Holzworth Instrumentation, Inc.
All MIN/ MAX (Minimum/ Maximum) performance parameters are guaranteed and 100% verified during final performance test.
Typical performance is “by design” and consistent with field performance data.

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 18 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
OPTION SPECIFICATIONS 1

CONTINUED

OPT-OCXO
Option OPT-OCXO replaces the standard internal reference (100MHz OCXO) with a higher

performing reference source. A phase noise performance improvement of approximately
10dB is realized at close to the carrier. The 1GHz channel output example (below)
demonstrates the typical performance with OPT-OCXO versus that of the standard
reference oscillator.

Figure 14: SSB Phase Noise OPT-OCXO Comparison (POUT=+10dBm)

1Specifications are subject to change per the discretion of Holzworth Instrumentation, Inc.
All MIN/ MAX (Minimum/ Maximum) performance parameters are guaranteed and 100% verified during final performance test.
3
Typical performance is “by design” and consistent with field performance data.
2

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 19 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
OPTION SPECIFICATIONS 1

CONTINUEDNOTE: OPT-PWR18-n is only available for channel up to 6.4GHz maximum output frequency.
Channels with maximum frequency of 12.5 or 20GHz channels come standard with output power
calibrated to +18dBm (up to 12GHz) and +16dBm (12GHz to 18GHz).
OPT-PWR18
Option OPT-PWR18 increases the maximum output power to a typical value of +20dBm. amplifiers
are designed to contribute the lowest additive phase noise possible, as well as to maintain signal
stability across all frequencies.
2

PARAMETERMINFrequency Range
Absolute Level Accuracy
10MHz < f < 32MHz+18 to -60dBm
32MHz < f < 4.096GHz+18 to -20dBm
32MHz < f < 4.096GHz-20 to -60dBm
4.096GHz < f < 6.4GHz +18 to -20dBm
4.096GHz < f < 6.4GHz -20 to -50dBm
Harmonics (CW mode, Pout = 0dBm)
10 MHz to 64 MHz
Pout = +10dBm
Non-Harmonics (CW mode)
10 MHz to 64 MHz
64 MHz to 3.072 GHz
3.072 GHz to 6.400 GHz
Sub-Harmonics (CW mode)
10 MHz to 64 MHz
64 MHz to 3.072 GHz
3.072 GHz to 6.400 GHz
Case Operating Temperature

10MHz

TYPICAL

3

MAX

2

6.4GHzCOMMENTS
Based on channel max. freq.

+0.20/ -1.5 dB± 0.20 dB± 0.3 dB
± 0.2 dB
± 0.3 dB

+1/ -3 dB± 0.60 dB± 1.0 dB
± 0.6 dB
+1.0/ -1.5 dB-20 dBc-40 dBc

NS-30dBc-50 dBc-70 dBc-60 dBc

NS-60 dBc-50 dBc@ 0 dBm-50 dBc-70 dBc-60 dBc
40 C

NS-60 dBc-50dBc@ 0 dBm

Power Consumption

5W

Warm-Up Time

10 minOutput Impedance50Ω

40C (case temperature)

Calibrated at typical case temperature4.
Additional 5 W per Channel.
20 min20 C (ambient temp. dependent)

1

Specifications are subject to change per the discretion of Holzworth Instrumentation, Inc.
2
All MIN/ MAX (Minimum/ Maximum) performance parameters are guaranteed and 100% verified during final performance test.
3
Typical performance is “by design” and consistent with field performance data.
4
OPT-PWR18 calibration is sensitive to changes in temperature while at the same time introducing excess heat due to power dissipation.
Holzworth recommends using airflow to maintain constant 40C (±5C) case operating temperature.

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 20 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
OPTION SPECIFICATIONS 1

CONTINUED

OPT-HCM5
An Ethernet connection is available via the back panel of the instrument using part number: HCM5
(USB Communication Module for HA7000 Series). The HCM5 module comes with a standard 10ft(3m) CAT-6 Ethernet cable.

The HCM5 is installed directly to the DB25 connector located at the left side of the rear panel, using
the 2x captive panel screws to securely fasten the HCM5 into position. Once the HCM5 is installed,
an Ethernet cable can be used to connect the instrument directly to a PC or to a network.

NOTE 1: USB INACTIVATED. Once the HCM5 module is physically mated to thesynthesizer, USB control will no longer be available to the user. This scenario is valid
whether or not an Ethernet cable is installed. To regain a USB connection, the HCM5
module must be completely removed from the instrument.
NOTE 2: For direct PC connection via Ethernet (non-networked) a cross over Ethernet
cable is required.

1

Specifications are subject to change per the discretion of Holzworth Instrumentation, Inc.

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 21 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
MECHANICAL CONFIGURATIONThe HS9000 Series comes in a 1U high, rack mountable chassis. The example shown is of a 6channel unit (front panel configuration may vary). A universal rack mount bracket kit is an available
accessory (Part No.: RACK-1U or RACK2-1U). Mechanical dimensions are listed in inches (andmillimeters).

17.00
(432)

TOP

15.00
(381)

FRONT

REAR

1.75
(45)

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 22 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
INCLUDED HARDWARE AND CERTIFICATIONSEach product delivery includes specific, standard hardware and certifications.
TYPE

DESCRIPTIONCOMMENTS

HARDWARE

HS9000 SERIES SYNTHESIZER

DELIVERABLE

HARDWARE

EXTERNAL AC POWER CORD

1

DELIVERABLE

HARDWARE

10ft CAPTIVE PANEL USB CABLE

DELIVERABLEWARRANTY

2 YEAR MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTYCERTIFICATECALIBRATION CERTIFICATIONCERTIFICATECERTIFICATECERTIFICATE1NON-APPLICABLE
DELIVERABLE

CE COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATEDIRECTIVE: 2004/108/EC, TEST STANDARD: EN 61326-1: 2006
RoHS COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATEDIRECTIVE: 2002/95/EC
WEEE COMPLIANCE STATEMENTDIRECTIVE: 2002/96/EC

WEB DOWNLOADWEB DOWNLOADWEB DOWNLOAD

Specify country code for power cord

CONNECTORS and PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Front Panel
Rear Panel

Modulation Input

USB Data I/O (1)TypeSMA JACKSMA JACK

Mini-B JACKDescription

AC Input

Ref.In (1), Ref. Out (2)SPI Data I/O (1)IEC 60320-1

SMA JACK

DB25 JACK

Type

1

1

Channel Output (1 – 8)

Description

Physical Dimensions (L x W x H)

1U high, 19” rack mount: 15in x 17in x 1.75in ( 381mm x 431.8mm x 44.5mm )Weight30 lb ( 13.6 kilograms ) MAXIMUM

Channels equipped with OPT-EXTMOD only.

INCLUDES: 1x captive lock USB 2.0 cable (10ft/3m), and 1x AC power cord (6ft/1.8m). Specify
country code for power cord.

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 23 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
EXTERNAL DB25 CONNECTOR DIAGRAM
The HS9000 Series is equipped with a rear-mounted DB25 connector that can be used tocommunicate with the instrument over SPI (See Appendix D for more information).
Onboard Connector Part Number:

TE Connectivity 5745783-2

PIN
1

Label
GND

PIN
14

Label
/CS-CH0-REF

2

SDI

15

/CS-CH1

3

SDO

16

/CS-CH2

4

SCLK

17

/CS-CH35PWRGOOD

18/CS-CH4

6

READY

19

/CS-CH5

7/ERROR

20/CS-CH6

8

NC

21/CS-CH79/CH-RESET

22/CS-CH810/SPI_EN

23

NC

11

NC

24

NC

12

NC

25

+5V

13

GND

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 24 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
EXTERNAL DB25 CONNECTOR PIN DEFINITIONS+5V

5V DC Output

SDI

Serial Data Input (synthesizer module/slave data out). High-Z input on
module. 3.3V logic levels, 5V tolerant. 47k pulldown.

SDO

Serial Data Output (synthesizer module/slave data out. High-Z input on
module. 3.3V logic levels, 5V tolerant. 47k pulldown.

SCLK

SPI Clock (slave clock input). Idle low, active high. Data is transitioned
into the module on a rising low to high transition. Data is transitionedout on the same edge and is valid on the falling edge of SCLK. 3.3V
logic levels, 5V tolerant. 47k pulldown.

Open collector output, 47k pullup to 3.3V. When high, power ishealthy. When low, either voltages or currents are problematic.
Modules may not operate correctly. There is a 0.5 second delay fromPWRGOOD
when power is applied to a valid PWRGOOD. Actual PWRGOOD may
take up to 2 seconds to go high due to some very stable internalreferences that require settling.
Open collector output, 47k pullup to 3.3V. Nominally high. After an
SPI communication, if a command has been issued then READY will
READY
go active low. Duting this time no communication may occur and SPI
bus will be asleep.
Open collector output, 47k pullup to 3.3V. nominally high. If an error/ERROR
condition ovvurs, such as a PLL unlock or un-leveled condition, this willgo active low.
Active low on this pin puts the module in reset, releasing it returns to/CH-RESET reset operation. Module is ready 2-3 seconds after /RESET isreleased. 47k pullup to 3.3V in parallel to 0.01uF cap to ground.
Disables the USB communication that has control of the bus. Only
/SPI_EN
when driven low should the user apply any signal to the lines.
Communications chip select, active low. 47k pullup on this line. /CS/CS
must be low for any communication to occur. Allows for multiple
synthesizer modules on a single SPI bus. 3.3V lgic levels, 5V tolerant.
NC
These are reserved lines. Should be left floating.

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 25 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
SPI COMMUNICATIONSBUS OVERVIEWThe SPI bus is a byte oriented bus, sending 8bits at a time. Any number of bytes may be sent,from 1 byte to 64 bytes while chip select is low. Bytes sent beyond 64 bytes will be ignored. The
data is held in a buffer until chip select goes high, initiating the parsing of the data and execution of
the commands. The maximum speed of the bus is 10Mbits/s. Data may be written to the moduleand data may be received from the module. After a command is sent requesting data, the nexttransfer sends this data out on SDO. During the read, a new command may be send and will beparsed when chip select goes high. A read is always followed by a write with a read request.
BUS HARDWARE PROTOCOL
Data is clocked into the module on the rising edge of sclk. Data is clocked out of the module on thissame edge. Data output is valid on the falling edge of sclk. Data is only transferred when chip
select is low. When chip select goes high, this initiates the parsing and execution of data.
SPI TIMING

/CS
SDI
CLK
SDO
The figure above demonstrates bit level timing where data is sampled into and out of the moduleon the rising edge of SCLK (Slave Clock). Data out is valid on the falling edge of SCLK.

/CS
SDI

Byte 1

Byte NSDO

Byte 1

Byte NThe above figure displays how byte level communications occurs. Any number of bytes may be
sent. After /CS goes high, the data is parsed and executed. If no data is sent, the SPI
communications module simply resets itself and no parsing or execution of data occurs. If /CS
goes high in the middle of a byte transfer (1-7 bits are sent instead of 8) this byte is ignored.

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 26 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
INTERFACE - GUI
The HS9000 Series hardware utilizes a virtual front panel as the visual interface. Each unit comeswith an open license to operate the application on any standard PC, including those equipped withtouch screen monitors. The analyzer operates under the HID (Human Interface Device) protocol,
which means there are no drivers to install. The Java™ based application GUI compliments thedriver free instrument by being extremely reliable. The open DLL can also be directly accessed forcontrol of the unit via MATLAB™, LabVIEW™, C++ code, VB code, etc.

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 27 of 28

HS9000 SERIES
Multi-Channel RF Synthesizers
WARRANTY
All Holzworth synthesizer products come with a standard 3 year 100% product warranty covering
manufacturing defects. All product repairs and maintenance must be performed by Holzworth
Instrumentation. Holzworth reserves the right to invalidate the warranty for any products that havebeen tampered with or used improperly. Refer to Holzworth Terms & Conditions of Sales for moredetails.

Holzworth products are proudly designed and manufactured in the USA.

CONTACT INFORMATION
Contact Holzworth directly for a product quotation, a product demonstration, or for technical inquiries.

Holzworth Instrumentation Sales Support
Phone: +1.303.325.3473 (option 1)
Email: sales@holzworth.com

Holzworth Instrumentation Technical Support
Phone: +1.303.325.3473 (option 2)
Email: support@holzworth.com

www.HOLZWORTH.com

HOLZWORTH INSTRUMENTATION, INC.
BOULDER, COLORADO
Email: sales@holzworth.com
www.HOLZWORTH.com

HS9000 Series Sept 2015
Page 28 of 28