The Agilent/Keysight 8720B is a microwave vector network analyzer engineered for RF and microwave component and system characterization from 130 MHz to 20 GHz. It combines a synthesized source, integrated switching S-parameter test set, and color display in a single instrument, enabling both forward and reverse S-parameter measurements with a single connection.
Technical Specifications
Frequency and Resolution
• Frequency range: 130 MHz to 20 GHz
• Standard frequency resolution: 100 kHz
• Optional high-resolution mode (Option 001): 1 Hz for narrow-band or long devices
• Measurement update time: Approximately 1 ms per point
Dynamic Range and Power
• Dynamic range: Greater than 85 dB (standard)
• Option 003 forward dynamic range: 95 dB, with solutions up to 100 dB available
• Source output power: -10 dBm to -65 dBm in 5 dB steps
• Source stability: Within 10 ppm (typical)
• Maximum input level: +20 dBm
S-Parameter Measurement
• All four S-parameters measured (S11, S21, S12, S22) with single connection
• Two independent display channels (four channels available in 8720ES variant)
• Display formats: log magnitude, linear magnitude, SWR, phase, group delay, polar, real, Smith Chart, and time domain (Option 010)
Bias and External Control
• Two internal bias tees for active device testing
• DC bias maximum: 500 mA at 40 VDC
• External reference frequency input: 1, 2, 5, and 10 MHz (-10 dBm to +20 dBm, 50 Ω)
• External trigger: Negative TTL transition or contact closure
• Auxiliary AM input: 0 to 10 V, 5 kHz maximum
• Auxiliary voltage input: -10 V to +10 V
– Key Features
• Vector accuracy enhancement for 3.5 mm, 7 mm, Type-N connectors, and user waveguide kits
• Up to 22 test limits per channel for pass/fail decisions
• Four simultaneous markers per channel with advanced functions: tracking maximum/minimum, delta calculations, and automatic bandpass filter characterization (center frequency, bandwidth, Q)
• Configuration save/recall: five internal memory registers or external disk drive storage
– Compatibility & Integration
• Full HP-IB programmability from external computer
• Direct printer/plotter compatibility
