PECA's Phase Noise Generator Unit (Unit 11) is a subsection of PECA's Transmission Medium Impairment Simulator (TMIS) systems.

PECA's TMIS Phase Noise Generator provides the means to introduce phase modulation to the test signal carrier at channel 12, 210 MHz.  The phase modulation is effectively introducing phase noise characteristics.  The introduction of phase noise allows for the testing of the susceptibility to phase noise of a receiving demodulator unit, such as a cable modem or digital set top box.

The Phase Noise Generator is driven by a Wavetek Model 395 Arbitrary Waveform generator.  Typically the drive is in the form of wideband (10 kHz) gaussian noise.

The Phase Noise Generator is generally the most requested unit modified/customized by PECA's customers.  PECA has several different variations of the Phase Noise Generator to meet many different customer needs.  Different variations of the PECA Phase Noise Generator may required additional equipment, such as an Upconverter.  PECA works tightly with customers to design a unit that effectively accommodates these customizations.  

The  Phase Noise Generator Unit can be controlled either manually, via front panel controls or via RS-485 interface for computer and automated control.

The computer (automated) control is via an I/O board which are internal to the Phase Noise Generator  unit and a PECA RS-485 SmartPlug Module externally connected to the 25 pin D connector on the I/O board.

In a fully integrated test system, the PECA RS-485 SmartPlug Modules are daisy chained via RJ-11 modular cables between units. The chain is connected to an RS-232 to RS-485 converter on the RS-232 COM port of a PC or via PECA Unit 10.