The HP 8590B is a spectrum analyzer operating from 10 kHz to 1.8 GHz, delivering signal analysis across a broad frequency range suited to laboratory and field deployment. Configured with Option 003 (Memory Card Reader) and Option 021 (HPIB Interface), this instrument integrates data storage and remote control capabilities essential for automated measurement systems and production environments.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Performance
• Frequency range: 10 kHz to 1.8 GHz
• Span range: 0 Hz (zero span) to 1.8 GHz, minimum 50 kHz span
• Frequency readout accuracy: ±(5 MHz + 1% of frequency span)
• Frequency span accuracy: ±3% of indicated span
• Sweep time range: 20 ms to 100 s with ±3% accuracy
• Frequency stability: <75 kHz drift over 5 minutes post-warmup
• Noise sidebands: 30 kHz offset from CW signal
Amplitude Performance
• Amplitude range: -115 dBm to +30 dBm (50 ohm input)
• Input attenuator: 0 dB to 60 dB
• Maximum safe input: +30 dBm continuous (1 watt, 50 ohm)
• Resolution bandwidth: 1 kHz to 3 MHz
• Average noise level: -115 dBm
– Key Features
• Internal storage for 50 traces
• Option 003 enables loading application-specific measurement personalities (CATV, EMC, digital radio)
• Option 003 supports up to 24 additional traces on RAM card
• Built-in automatic calibration maintains measurement consistency
• Selectable sweep triggers: free run, single, line, video, or external
– Typical Applications
Signal characterization across RF systems, cable television networks, electromagnetic compatibility testing, and digital radio applications benefit from the 8590B’s frequency coverage and trace storage capabilities.
– Compatibility & Integration
Option 021 (HPIB Interface) enables direct printer/plotter output and remote instrument control, integrating the analyzer into automated test environments and system architectures requiring centralized data acquisition.
