This opens access to the higher frequency spectrum, including the FR3, Ku, and X bands, to support advanced applications such as multichannel radar, non-terrestrial networks (NTN), and integrated sensing and communications (ISAC). The X420 delivers near-instrument-level RF performance on a flexible, software-defined platform optimized for research, prototyping, and deployment.
By combining wide frequency coverage, high instantaneous bandwidth, and multi-channel operation with phase coherence, the X420 enables researchers and engineers to quickly develop and validate complex RF systems in aerospace, defense, wireless communications, and academic research environments.
The key features and benefits are detailed below:
Extended frequency range up to 20 GHz: supports the development of advanced radars, satellite communications and research in FR3 and NTN 6G.
Multi-channel architecture with phase coherence: Integrated sharing of the local oscillator (LO) simplifies synchronization, reduces system complexity, and accelerates development.
Instantaneous high bandwidth: enables the capture and generation of broadband signals for applications such as spectrum monitoring, recording and playback, and integrated detection and communications.
Accessible high-end RF: brings cutting-edge performance to academic laboratories, government research organizations, and commercial innovators.
Top-of-the-line USRP: Offers the most advanced RF performance in Emerson's USRP product portfolio to date.
The local oscillator (LO) sharing feature is significant for aerospace and defense applications, where phase coherence is critical for beamforming, MIMO radar, and distributed sensing architectures. By minimizing external timing hardware, the X420 enables faster prototyping, lower system costs, and more scalable multichannel designs.
“Researchers need tools that combine flexibility with performance to keep pace with rapidly evolving technologies like 6G and advanced radars,” says Sarah LaSelva, director of product marketing for NI RF and Wireless at Emerson. “The X420 delivers that balance by providing access to high-frequency spectrum and multi-channel coherence on a software-defined platform that accelerates innovation.”.
