The Agilent/Keysight 8511B is a four-channel receiver/signal processor that extends network analyzer capabilities across RF and microwave frequencies. It converts RF signals to intermediate frequency for precise magnitude and phase measurements of impedance, S-parameters, and frequency response in multiport devices, subsystems, and antennas.
Technical Specifications
• Frequency Range: 45 MHz to 50 GHz
• Four separate RF to IF converters with excellent RF source tracking
• Input Connectors: Precision 2.4 mm female connectors, all channels
• Impedance: 50 ohms nominal
• Dynamic Range (frequency-dependent):
– 0.045 to 8 GHz: 110 dB (-10 to -120 dBm)
– 8 to 20 GHz: 112 dB (-10 to -122 dBm)
– 20 to 40 GHz: 107 dB (-15 to -122 dBm)
– 40 to 50 GHz: 102 dB (-20 to -122 dBm)
• Enhanced Crosstalk (corrected): -115 dB
• Phase Drift: ±(0.01 + 0.01 f(GHz)) °C
• Magnitude Drift: ±0.001 °C, linear
• RF Input Damage Level: +13 dBm (20 mW) CW
– Key Features
• Input Power for Phase Lock varies by frequency band:
– 45 MHz to 8 GHz: -41 to -5 dBm
– 8 to 20 GHz: -39 to -5 dBm
– 20 to 26.5 GHz: -32 to -5 dBm
– 40 to 50 GHz: -30 to -5 dBm
• Exceptional dynamic range across the extended frequency spectrum
• Low crosstalk performance supports accurate multi-channel analysis
– Typical Applications
• Multiport device and subsystem characterization
• Antenna measurements and analysis
• Transmission measurements with user-supplied power splitters
• Reflection measurements using bridges or directional couplers
– Compatibility & Integration
The 8511B operates in conjunction with network analyzers such as the Agilent 8510C, forming a general-purpose four-channel magnitude/phase receiver system. Integration with external passive components enables flexible measurement configurations for complex RF and microwave characterization.
