The HP/Agilent 3588A is a frequency-domain spectrum analyzer covering 10 Hz to 150 MHz with dual measurement modes for both swept and transient signal analysis. Its swept-tuned architecture delivers sharp digital IF filtering, while the narrowband zoom mode leverages FFT for faster measurements across spans from 1 Hz to 40 kHz. The instrument integrates a fully synthesized tracking generator, enabling scalar network measurements on passive and active devices without external sources.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Domain Analysis
• Frequency range: 10 Hz to 150 MHz
• Swept spectrum mode: 1.1 Hz to 17 kHz resolution bandwidth (RBW)
• Narrowband zoom mode: 11 mHz to 360 Hz RBW; spans 1 Hz to 40 kHz
• Video bandwidth (VBW): 10 Hz to 3 MHz
Amplitude Measurement
• Amplitude accuracy: ±0.25 dB (typical)
• Signal-to-noise dynamic range: up to 112 dB
• Distortion-free dynamic range: 80 dB (low-distortion mode)
• Maximum measured input power: +10 dBm
• Input impedance: 50 Ω, 75 Ω (with adapter), 1 MΩ (selectable)
Tracking Generator
• Output power range: +15 to -54.9 dBm
• Fully synthesized with programmable amplitude
Performance
• Frequency accuracy (initial): ±0.07 ppm (with Opt 1D5)
• Frequency aging: ±0.01 ppm/month (with Opt 1D5)
• Phase noise: -100 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset
• Spurious responses: <-70 dBc typical (typical <-80 dBc)
• Harmonic distortion: <-80 dBc typical (<-90 dBc) in low-distortion mode
• Intermodulation distortion: <-80 dBc typical (<-90 dBc) in low-distortion mode
– Key Features
• Dual-mode operation: swept analysis for traditional measurements; FFT zoom for high-resolution, transient-signal capture
• Built-in frequency counter for signal identification
• Limit lines with go/no-go indication
• Measurement functions: noise, S/N, power, frequency
• Selectable input impedance (50 Ω, 75 Ω, 1 MΩ)
– Typical Applications
• Filter and amplifier characterization
• Network scalar measurements
• EMI/RFI troubleshooting
• Signal analysis in dense RF environments
• Transient capture and analysis
– Compatibility & Integration
• HP Instrument BASIC support
• HP-IB connectivity for automated operations and data logging
