Com-Power CGO-520 20-4500 MHz Comb Generator

Key Features At A Glance

• Reference radiated and conducted signal source for EMC test site verification
• Frequency output extending to 4.5 GHz across the CGO-520 model
• Step sizes available at 1 MHz, 5 MHz, and 20 MHz intervals depending on model
• Internal 6V NiMH rechargeable battery pack eliminates external cable influence on radiated output
• Automatic RF shutoff when battery voltage drops below reliable operating levels
• Up to 18 hours of continuous operation on a full charge
• Circular chassis design promotes uniform signal radiation in all directions within the same plane
• Ships with two antennas, charger, and custom wooden storage box

The Com-Power CGO Comb Generator series is a family of portable reference signal sources designed for validating EMC test sites. Each unit generates frequency harmonics at defined intervals to serve as a stable, repeatable reference for radiated and conducted measurements. The series includes the CGO-501, CGO-505, CGO-515, and CGO-520, each covering different frequency ranges and step sizes to match the verification requirements of various EMC test environments.

Comb Generators serve as quick site verification tools for EMC test engineers working in Open Area Test Sites (OATS) or anechoic chambers. By maintaining a log of radiated readings from the Comb Generator in a known test setup, an engineer can detect issues with antennas, cables, preamplifiers, or receivers by comparing current measurements against historical reference data. When EMC emissions measurements from a product vary across repeated tests, substituting the Comb Generator into the same setup helps isolate whether the variation originates from the test site or the product itself. The output can also be used for testing cables and filters.

ValueTronics International stocks Com-Power CGO Comb Generators alongside a broader inventory of EMC test instrumentation and reference sources. All equipment is held and inspected at our 20,000 square foot secure warehouse at 1675 Cambridge Drive in Elgin, Illinois. This is the same facility where pre-owned units are evaluated and graded by our technicians before they ship, and where new distribution inventory is received and routed for customer orders. Working with a stocking specialist that physically handles every unit is different from working with a drop-ship reseller — for site-verification instruments where consistent reference output is the whole point of the purchase, that difference matters.

Compare Other Models in This Series

The CGO Comb Generator series consists of four models that share a common purpose — generating stable reference signals for EMC test site verification — but differ in frequency coverage, step size resolution, and output connector type. Selecting the correct model depends on the upper frequency limit of the test environment, the spectral resolution needed to characterize the site, and any program-specific form-factor requirements such as those defined for automotive EMC laboratory recognition.

All four models share the same 6V NiMH internal battery architecture, the same 7.5 VDC charger input, the same 2 lb (0.9 kg) weight, and the same automatic RF shutoff feature. The differentiating specifications are frequency range, step size, output connector, and base dimensions.

Each new CGO model below is its own dedicated product page with condition-matched pricing and the corresponding included accessories listed there. Use the comparison table to identify the model whose frequency range and step size match the test site verification requirements, then follow the link to that model's page for current availability.

The CGO-501 and CGO-505 differ primarily in step size and lower frequency limit. The CGO-501 provides 1 MHz step resolution starting from 1 MHz, while the CGO-505 uses 5 MHz steps starting from 5 MHz. Both terminate at the lower end of the family's coverage range (1000 MHz and 1500 MHz respectively) and use BNC output connectors. The CGO-515 combines both 1 MHz and 5 MHz step capabilities in a single unit covering 1 to 1500 MHz, making it the most flexible of the BNC-output models.

The CGO-520 is the only model in the family that extends coverage into the multi-GHz range, reaching 4500 MHz with 20 MHz steps. It uses an SMA output connector rather than BNC, reflecting the higher frequency range. The CGO-520 is the appropriate selection for any site verification application that needs to reach above 1.5 GHz. The lower-frequency BNC models are appropriate when verification is bounded to the sub-GHz or low-GHz range and finer step resolution is preferred.

Model	Frequency Range	Step Size	Output Connector
CGO-520	20-4500 MHz	20 MHz	SMA
CGO-501	1-1000 MHz	1 MHz	BNC
CGO-505	5-1500 MHz	5 MHz	BNC
CG-515	1-1500 MHz	1 & 5 MHz	BNC

Additional differences in specifications beyond the few shown above are not listed here — see each model's full specifications below.

Product Core & Specifications

Model	Freq. range (MHz)	Step Size (MHz)	Internal Battery (NimH)	Charger Input (VDC)	Output Connector	Base dimensions dia × height in / cm	Weight lbs / kg
CGO-501	1-1000	1	6 V	7.5	BNC	7 × 0.75 / 17.7 × 1.9	2 / 0.9
CGO-505	5-1500	5	6 V	7.5	BNC	7 × 0.75 / 17.7 × 1.9	2 / 0.9
CG-515	1-1500	1 & 5	6 V	7.5	BNC	4 × 4 × 4 / 10 × 10 × 10*	2 / 0.9
CGO-515	1-1500	1 & 5	6 V	7.5	BNC	7 × 0.75 / 17.7 × 1.9	2 / 0.9
CGO-520	20-4500	20	6 V	7.5	SMA	7 × 1 / 17.7 × 2.5	2 / 0.9

* For Automotive EMC Lab Recognition Program - dimensions L × W × H

All values are typical values unless specified. All specifications are subject to change without notice.

Important: Model CG-515 is listed with cubic base dimensions (4 × 4 × 4 in) for the Automotive EMC Lab Recognition Program, while the CGO-515 uses the standard 7 × 0.75 in circular base. Confirm which form factor is required by the applicable test program before ordering.Important: Two antennas are supplied with the Comb Generator for low and high frequency signal radiation. The Comb Generator, charger and antennas are shipped in a custom wooden storage box.Important: The Comb Generator is powered by a rechargeable internal battery pack. When fully charged, the battery allows continuous use of the Comb Generator up to 18 hours. When the battery voltage reaches below reliable operating levels, the RF will shut off automatically to prevent further use.Important: Three year warranty.

Please review the Manufacturer's Data Sheet to verify published specifications. Feedback on this webpage is always welcome — please reach out to your Test Architect at any time for questions or concerns. Thank you, we truly appreciate you being our customer.