The Agilent/Keysight 8508A Vector Voltmeter is a dual-channel autoranging receiver that measures RF voltage, power, and phase relationships between two continuous-wave signals. It delivers dynamic range exceeding 90 dB with sensitivity to 10 µV, enabling precise characterization of components and circuit sections. The instrument presents measurements as voltage, power, gain/loss, impedance, phase matching, normalized magnitude and phase angle, or real and imaginary components. Built-in procedures support simplified network analysis under normal device operating conditions using any CW stimulus source.
Technical Specifications
• Dynamic Range: >90 dB
• Sensitivity: 10 µV minimum (B-channel)
• Phase Resolution: 0.1 degrees across ±180 degree range
• Maximum Input: 2 V peak AC (+16 dBm), ±50 VDC
• Reference (A) Channel Minimum Input:
– 10 mV (−47 dBm) from 100 kHz to 300 kHz
– 1 mV (−47 dBm) from 300 kHz to 3 MHz
– 300 µV from 3 MHz to 1.0 GHz
– −57 dBm from 3 MHz to 2.0 GHz (85082A module)
• B-Channel Noise: 10 µV (−87 dBm)
• Input Crosstalk: >100 dB (1 MHz to 500 MHz); >80 dB (500 MHz to 2 GHz with 85082A)
• Power Consumption: 40 VA typical
• Dimensions: 133 mm H × 426 mm W × 473 mm D
• Weight: 21 lb
– Key Features
• Dual-channel configuration with independent voltage and phase measurements
• Autoranging capability across extended dynamic range
• HP-IB interface for remote programming and control
• Operates from 100/120/220/240 VAC ±10%, 48–440 Hz single phase
– Compatibility & Integration
The 8508A accepts two input module configurations. The standard HP 85081B provides high-impedance probe inputs for 100 kHz to 1 GHz operation. The optional HP 85082A module (Option 050) offers 50 Ω Type-N connectors for 300 kHz to 2 GHz measurements on impedance-matched networks. The HP 11570A accessory kit enables probe-to-50 Ω adaptation, including tees, power splitter, and terminations. Option 001 supplies a bail handle and protective front cover.
