The STI 1000 is a synthetic microwave test system optimized for testing satellite payloads in a factory setting. The STI 1000 can be used either as a stand-alone instrument or controlled by an external network as part of enterprise-wide factory automation. The STI 1000 is designed to dramatically improve integrated payload test times and reduce measurement errors introduced by either the operator or the test hardware. Through its digitally synthesized stimulus and response system design, the STI 1000 can easily be configured both in hardware and software to meet specific user requirements.