Why does one need a device which generates a wideband noise on the HF bands? Well, its not as malicious as you might think, in fact its really quite useful for aligning filters, doing a quick check of receiver operation, etc. I found this a simple but fun kit, takes less than an hour to build, and perfect addition to the test workbench, which also includes the Elecraft W1 140W Computing Wattmeter and SWR Bridge, the XG2 Three Band Receiver Test Oscillator / S-Meter Calibrator, and now the XG2 Three Band Receiver Test Oscillator / S-Meter Calibrator.
The folks at Elecraft tell it best, so here is the description of the unit from their website:
The Elecraft N-gen is a wideband noise source that is useful for a variety of receiver alignment tasks. It can be used in conjunction with a software program such as Spectrogram to align IF filters in the K2 or in other receivers. It can also be used to align the RF stages in Elecraft XV Transverters or other HF, VHF, and UHF equipment. Note: The N-gen does not generate repetitive pulse noise, so it cannot be used to test pulse-type I.F. noise blankers such as the Elecraft KNB1 or KNB2.
Specifications
Power Requirement: 9V battery or external 12 to 15 volts DC
Current Consumption: approximately 25 ma.
Excess noise output: approximately 35 dB
Bandwidth: within 3 dB from 100 kHz to 500 MHz
