The Agilent/Keysight 8515A S-Parameter Test Set provides full two-port S-parameter characterization across 45 MHz to 26.5 GHz. Designed to integrate with network analyzers such as the 8510C, this test set incorporates independent reference channels for each incident port to maximize measurement accuracy. The instrument features a built-in electronic switch for efficient RF routing, dual 90 dB step attenuators (0–90 dB in 10 dB steps) for precise signal level control at ports 1 and 2, and external DC bias capability supporting 500 mA at 40 Vdc maximum for active device testing. All connections utilize 3.5 mm connectors for reliable coaxial measurements.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Range: 45 MHz to 26.5 GHz
Test Ports (Port 1 or 2)
• Nominal Operating Power: −5 to −25 dBm
• Connector: 3.5 mm male with APC adapter
• Impedance: 50 Ω nominal
• DC Bias: 500 mA, 40 Vdc maximum
RF Input (Rear Panel)
• Maximum Input Power: +14 dBm
• Connector: 3.5 mm female
Attenuation
• Range: 0 to 90 dB in 10 dB steps
Dynamic Range (Transmission Measurements)
• 45 MHz–2 GHz: Receiver 103 dB, System 96 dB
• 2–8 GHz: Receiver 105 dB, System 93 dB
• 8–20 GHz: Receiver 104 dB, System 87 dB
• 20–26.5 GHz: Receiver 100 dB, System 74 dB
Raw Measurement Port Characteristics
• 45 MHz–2 GHz: Directivity 24 dB, Source Match 23 dB, Load Match 23 dB
• 2–8 GHz: Directivity 24 dB, Source Match 23 dB, Load Match 23 dB
• 8–20 GHz: Directivity 28 dB, Source Match 16 dB, Load Match 16 dB
• 20–26.5 GHz: Directivity 27 dB, Source Match 14 dB, Load Match 14 dB
Calibrated/Error-Corrected Characteristics
• 45 MHz–2 GHz: Residual Directivity 48 dB, Source Match 40 dB, Load Match 48 dB, Reflection Tracking ±0.003, Transmission Tracking ±0.009, Crosstalk 117 dB
• 2–8 GHz: Residual Directivity 50 dB, Source Match 50 dB, Load Match 50 dB, Reflection Tracking ±0 dB, Transmission Tracking ±0.004, Crosstalk 114 dB
• 8–20 GHz: Residual Directivity 50 dB, Source Match 50 dB, Load Match 50 dB, Reflection Tracking ±0 dB, Transmission Tracking ±0.009, Crosstalk 108 dB
– Key Features
• Dual independent reference channels enhance port isolation and measurement fidelity
• Electronic switch eliminates manual RF routing; simplifies multiport test sequences
• Programmable 90 dB attenuators optimize dynamic range for varying component impedances
• DC bias support enables characterization of active devices and varactor-tuned networks
– Typical Applications
• S-parameter measurement of passive RF/microwave components
• Active device characterization with external bias control
• Transmission line and filter evaluation
• Two-port network analysis from UHF through K-band
– Compatibility & Integration
Integrates directly with Agilent/HP 8510C network analyzers and compatible instruments accepting 3.5 mm test-port connections.
