RFGEN44 is a fully open source programmable RF signal generator. It is capable of generating frequencies up to 4.4 Ghz, and is controllable and programmable over USB. It’s perfect if you need a simple, driver-free, RF source when on the go.

Designed to be cross platform, RFGEN44 can be used with most computers and is modifiable with Python. Thanks to its USB HID support, you can integrate it into your workflow, making it available to scientific applications like Matlab. Built with reliable components from Analog Devices and Microchip, it’s as thoughtfully designed as it is easy to use.

Generate RF Where You Need It

RFGEN44 is designed specifically for hobbyists, students, and small laboratory environments that require a reliable and affordable RF signal source. Built to deliver precise and stable RF outputs across a wide frequency range, it provides the essential functionality needed for testing antennas, receivers, filters, and experimenting with modulation techniques—without the hassle and bulk of traditional laboratory equipment.

Many electronics enthusiasts and companies encounter the same challenge: commercial RF signal generators from major manufacturers are often expensive, oversized, and can require complex programming and far beyond the practical requirements of a smaller laboratory team. RFGEN44 is ideal in such an environment, opening up new possibilities to a wide array of users ignored by other signal generators.

But that’s not to say RFGEN44 sacrifices accuracy. Based around Analog Devices’ ADF4351 chip, RFGEN44 achieves professional-grade frequency generation in a compact form factor. The result is a practical tool that meets most RF testing needs inside the lab or in the real world.

Features & Specifications

Core Components

• Analog Device ADF4351 Wideband Synthesizer with Integrated VCO
• Microchip PIC16 MCU with USB and high-endurance flash

Signal Generation

• Output range: 35 Mhz to 4.4 Ghz with 10 khz increments
• Adjustable amplitude, with Max amplitude:
• 35 Mhz  to 1 Ghz:  -1 dBm
• 1 Ghz to 2 Ghz: 0.0 dBm
• 2 Ghz to 4.4 Ghz: -4.0 dBm

Ports, Weight, and Size

• RF+ and RF-, Sync-out/Reference clock-in
• Power-in: USB Type-C
• Weight: 65 grams (2.29 oz)
• Dimensions: 81 x 47 x 26 mm (3.18 x 1.85 x 1.02 in)

Other Features

• External or internal clock reference
• Aux port supports external reference input sync
• Features automatic frequency sweep and hop
• Sweep control and aux sync with external devices like spectrum analyzers
• Driver-free operation with USB HID
• Simple integration with your own application, LabView, Matlab or any other RF development platform

Open Source

RFGEN44 uses open source firmware. The firmware running on the PIC USB MCU bridges USB to SPI, which enables control of the ADF4351 PLL IC. This firmware also manages AUX pin function and some other features. This firmware will be made available under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 license. Its companion software is also open, and we will make the QT PC software and Python scripts, along with binaries, available for everyone to access.

Interested in This Project?

You can sign up to be notified when this campaign launches, and to get any other useful updates, right at the top of this page. We work hard to only send out useful information and you can unsubscribe at any time.