The HP/Agilent 8449B Microwave Preamplifier is a high-gain, low-noise amplifier that extends the sensitivity of RF and microwave measurement systems across the 1 GHz to 26.5 GHz band. By amplifying weak signals before detection, it reduces system noise floor and enables measurement of signals otherwise masked by instrument noise. Minimum gain is 23.5 dB, with typical performance of ≥26 dB across the operating range. The device delivers noise figures of 7 dB typical (1.0–12.7 GHz), 9 dB typical (12.7–22.0 GHz), and 12 dB typical (22.0–26.5 GHz), making it effective for spectrum analyzer applications and low-level signal detection.
## Technical Specifications
• **Frequency Range:** 1 GHz to 26.5 GHz
• **Gain:** 23.5 dB minimum; ≥26 dB typical; up to 30 dB
• **Gain Flatness:** ±4.5 dB (1–26.5 GHz, 0–55 °C); ±2.4 dB (2–22 GHz, 20–30 °C)
• **Noise Figure:** 8.5 dB max / 7 dB typical (1.0–12.7 GHz); 12.5 dB max / 9 dB typical (12.7–22.0 GHz); 14.5 dB max / 12 dB typical (22.0–26.5 GHz)
• **Output Power (1 dB Compression):** ≥+7 dBm
• **Harmonic Distortion:** −30 dB at 0 dBm output (characteristic)
• **Reverse Isolation:** >50 dB typical
• **VSWR Input:** 2.0:1 (1.0–2.0 GHz, 12.5–26.5 GHz); 1.5:1 (2.0–12.5 GHz)
• **VSWR Output:** 2.0:1 (1.0–26.5 GHz)
• **Impedance:** 50 Ω
• **Connectors:** Type-N female, ACP 3.5 male
## Key Features
• Covers full microwave band from 1 GHz to 26.5 GHz with consistent high gain
• Low-noise design minimizes degradation of receiver cascade noise figure
• Compact half-width package: 214 mm × 133 mm × 366 mm; 7 kg net weight
• Optional rackmount kit (Option 908) enables System II integration
• 50 Ω matched input and output for direct connection to spectrum analyzers
## Typical Applications
• Extending spectrum analyzer sensitivity for marginal signal detection
• Low-level RF and microwave signal measurement
• Reducing measurement time in weak-signal environments
• Front-end amplification in receiver chains
## Compatibility & Integration
Designed to interface directly with HP/Agilent spectrum analyzers and RF/microwave test equipment. Type-N and ACP connectors provide compatibility with standard laboratory sources and analyzers.
