The HP/Agilent 8350A is a mainframe sweep oscillator for RF and microwave signal generation and characterization. It operates as a modular platform, with frequency range and capabilities determined by installed 83500 series RF plug-in modules. The instrument provides multiple sweep architectures, precise frequency control, and remote programming via HP-IB for integration into automated test systems and complex measurement configurations.
Technical Specifications
• Frequency Control: Determined by installed RF plug-in module
• Sweep Modes: START/STOP and CF/AF (Center Frequency/Amplitude Frequency)
• START/STOP Sweeps: Independent calibration and continuous adjustment from defined START to STOP frequency
• CF/AF Sweep: Symmetric frequency sweep centered on CF setting; AF continuously adjustable from 0 to 100% of frequency range
• Manual Sweep: Continuous front-panel frequency adjustment with 0.1% resolution of selected sweep width (980 points)
• Sweep Time: 10 ms to 100 seconds, continuously adjustable; minimum affected by RF plug-in bandwidth
• CW Operation: Single-frequency output; CW frequency equivalent to CF parameter
• Vernier Control: ±0.05% frequency adjustment with 4 ppm resolution (262,144 points across band); LED indicates active vernier state
• Mode Interchangeability: START/STOP and CF/AF modes interchange without RF output disruption
– Key Features
• Modular architecture with interchangeable RF plug-in modules
• Dual-mode sweep operation for application flexibility
• High-resolution manual tuning via front-panel controls and keyboard entry
• Fine-frequency adjustment capability via vernier with reset function
• HP-IB interface for automated test integration
– Typical Applications
• RF and microwave component characterization
• Frequency response testing and measurement
• Network analyzer stimulus generation
• Automated swept-frequency test systems
– Compatibility & Integration
The 8350A integrates with RF test platforms including HP 8410B network analyzers and HP 8755 Frequency Response Test Sets. Frequency range, linearity, and CW accuracy specifications are determined by the installed RF plug-in module.
