The Agilent HP 41800A is an active probe designed for analog and RF circuit characterization from 5 Hz to 500 MHz. It delivers high input impedance and minimal loading effects, enabling accurate signal acquisition in mixed-signal environments. The probe integrates with oscilloscopes, network analyzers, and spectrum analyzers for precision measurements including spurious content, harmonic analysis, noise characterization, and gain/phase/group-delay determination at the circuit level.
Technical Specifications
• Bandwidth: 5 Hz to 500 MHz
• Input Impedance: 100 kΩ, 3 pF (probe alone); 1 MΩ, 1 pF (with 10:1 or 100:1 divider)
• Frequency Response Relative to 50 MHz: ±2 dB (200 MHz)
• Harmonic Distortion: <-50 dBc @ -20 dBm input (250 MHz)
• 3rd Order IMD: +3 dBm input @ 500 MHz
• Average Noise: 10 nV/√Hz
• Maximum Input (AC+DC): ±40 V (probe alone); ±0.5 Vrms (1:1 divider); 5 Vrms (10:1 divider); 30 Vrms (100:1 divider)
• Power Requirements: +15 V / 85 mA, -12.6 V / 65 mA
• Output: 50 Ω Type N male
• Operating Range: 0 to 55 °C, RH ≤95% (at 40 °C)
– Key Features
• Low input capacitance minimizes circuit loading
• Retractable metal sleeve protects probe tip and provides ESD shielding
• Gain compression point ensures linearity at moderate signal levels
• Ultra-low noise floor supports weak-signal detection
– Typical Applications
• Spurious and harmonic measurement in RF circuits
• Gain, phase, and group-delay characterization via network analyzer
• Noise analysis in sensitive analog circuits
• Multi-signal intermodulation studies
– Compatibility & Integration
The probe operates directly with Agilent network and spectrum analyzers providing internal probe power. External power is available via the optional 11899A probe power supply or DC adapter cable (Agilent 87405-20012). Oscilloscope compatibility spans multiple platforms. Performance is specified with the Agilent 11880A Type N adapter termination.
