The HP/Agilent 8443A is a dual-function test instrument combining a tracking generator and frequency counter in a single 3U chassis. The tracking generator produces CW signals from 100 kHz to 110 MHz with amplitude control from -120 dBm to +10 dBm, synchronizing output frequency to an external spectrum analyzer for swept-frequency device characterization. The integrated frequency counter measures signals across the same 100 kHz to 110 MHz range with selectable resolution down to 10 Hz, plus external signal measurement capability to 120 MHz. Five operational modes—Marker, Track Analyzer, Restore Signal, External, and Scan Hold—accommodate diverse RF and microwave testing workflows. Amplitude flatness of ±0.5 dB and absolute accuracy of ±0.3 dB at 0 dBm/30 MHz enable reliable component alignment in telecommunications, aerospace, and defense environments.
## Technical Specifications
**Tracking Generator**
• Frequency range: 100 kHz to 110 MHz
• Amplitude range: -120 dBm to +10 dBm (10 dB and 1 dB step attenuators plus 1.2 dB vernier)
• Amplitude flatness: ±0.5 dB
• Absolute amplitude accuracy: ±0.3 dB (at 0 dBm, 30 MHz)
• Output impedance: 50 ohms, BNC connector, AC coupled
• Reflection coefficient: ≤0.09 (1.2 SWR) with output <0 dBm
• Modulation: Continuous Wave (CW)
**Frequency Counter**
• Measurement range: 100 kHz to 110 MHz (internal); 10 kHz to 120 MHz (external)
• Resolution: 1 kHz (1 ms), 100 Hz (10 ms), 10 Hz (100 ms gate time)
• Accuracy: ±1 count ± time base accuracy
• Time base aging: <3 × 10⁻⁹ per day (post-warmup)
• Time base temperature drift: <3 × 10⁻⁸ (0 to 55°C)
• Digital output: 8,4,2,1 BCD code, positive logic
**Environmental & Power**
• Operating temperature: 0 to 55°C
• Storage temperature: -40 to +75°C
• Power input: 100/120/220/240 V ±10%, 48–440 Hz
• Power consumption: 75 W typical; 30 W standby
• Dimensions: 18-3/4" L × 16-3/4" W × 3-7/8" H (476 × 425 × 98 mm)
• Weight: 24 lbs 5 oz (11.02 kg)
• EMI: Meets or exceeds MIL-I-6181D
## Key Features
• Five operation modes for marker, tracking, signal restoration, external measurement, and scan-hold functions
• Counter input accepts ±10 dBm to +25 dBm signals at 50 ohms
• Switchable resolution and gate time for precision frequency measurement
• 1 MHz time base reference input/output (40 ohms, 1 Vrms minimum)
## Typical Applications
RF/microwave component alignment, frequency response characterization, signal source verification, and swept transmission measurements in conjunction with spectrum analyzers.
## Compatibility & Integration
Designed for integration with HP/Agilent spectrum analyzers including the 8553B and 8552A models via direct tracking and marker mode synchronization.
