The HP/Agilent 8161A is a fully programmable 100 MHz pulse generator engineered for precision timing and signal generation in research, semiconductor testing, and RF applications. Front-panel keyboard and HP-IB control enable flexible operation with nine storable instrument setups. Dual-channel capability (optional) supports synchronous or complex waveform generation.
## Technical Specifications
**Pulse Generation:**
• Maximum frequency: 100 MHz
• Output voltage: ±5 V (adjustable)
• Pulse width range: 4.0 ns to 990 ms
• Pulse delay range: 0.0 ns to 990 ms
• Double pulse range: 8.0 ns to 990 ms
• Transition times: 1.3 ns to 900 µs (adjustable; 20–80% rise/fall, <1 ns possible)
• Timing period range: 10 ns to 980 ms
• Output impedance: 50 Ω
**Accuracy and Stability:**
• Amplitude accuracy: ±1%
• Pulse width accuracy: ±1%
• Basic accuracy: 1–3%
• Maximum jitter: 0.1% + 50 ps (< 999 ns)
• Resolution: 100 ps (best case)
## Key Features
• ECL-compliant transition times with sub-nanosecond slew rates
• Normal and complement output selection; output enable/disable
• Burst and gate trigger modes
• Nine independent stored setups, manually or remotely recalled
• Logical front-panel display with parameter, value, unit, and error status
• Standard HP-IB interface for remote automation
## Typical Applications
Semiconductor device characterization, digital circuit validation, RF signal verification, and high-speed pulse sequence generation requiring sub-nanosecond timing accuracy and ECL logic compatibility.
## Compatibility & Integration
HP-IB standard interface enables integration into automated test systems and remote control environments. BNC(f) output connectors provide industry-standard signal routing. Benchtop form factor: 178 mm H × 426 mm W × 530 mm D, 46 lb. Operates on 115/230 Vac, 48–66 Hz.
