The HP/Agilent 8720ES is a 20 GHz S-parameter network analyzer built for precise RF and microwave component characterization. It integrates a synthesized source, S-parameter test set, and tuned receiver into a single platform, delivering magnitude and phase measurements across 50 MHz to 20 GHz. Two independent measurement channels feed four display channels, enabling simultaneous analysis of forward and reverse S-parameters with up to 105 dB dynamic range and 1 Hz frequency resolution.
Technical Specifications
• Frequency Range: 50 MHz to 20 GHz
• Dynamic Range: Up to 105 dB (100 dB standard)
• Frequency Resolution: 1 Hz
• Source Stability: ±10 ppm typical
• Maximum Output Power: +5 dBm (standard)
• Input Impedance: 50 Ω
• Test Ports: 3.5 mm male connectors
• Measurement Channels: Two independent; four display channels
– Key Features
• Full four-port S-parameter measurement (S11, S21, S12, S22) in forward and reverse directions
• Ratioed receiver signals: A/R, B/R, A/B
• Parameter conversion: Z-parameters (series/parallel), Y-parameters (series/parallel), inverse S-parameters
• Multiple display formats: Cartesian (log/linear magnitude, phase, group delay, SWR, real, imaginary), Smith Chart, and Polar
• Frequency and power sweep capability
• Vector accuracy through full two-port error correction, adapter-removal calibration, and enhanced response calibration
• Electronic calibration (ECal) support
• Data averaging and pass/fail testing
• GPIB (IEEE-488) remote programming interface
• Built-in color LCD display with VGA output for external monitors
• Integrated test-sequencing automation
– Optional Capabilities
• Time-domain measurement mode
• High-power measurement configurations
• Frequency offset mode for mixer characterization
• TRL calibration support
– Typical Applications
Component and subsystem characterization in research, development, and production; RF filter and amplifier evaluation; transmission line analysis; impedance and admittance profiling; device isolation and return-loss measurement.
