New Agilent 8510B Microwave VNA

Agilent 8510B Microwave Vector Network Analyzer 

The Agilent 8510B Microwave Vector Network Analyzer is a high-performance instrument that offers accurate and reliable measurements from 45 MHz to 40 GHz. Designed for microwave and RF testing, it is particularly suited for characterizing high-frequency components, microwave systems, and complex RF devices in industries such as aerospace, telecommunications, and defense. Paired with the 8514B test set and a built-in display, the 8510B offers enhanced flexibility for precision S-parameter measurements.

Key Features:

• Wide Frequency Range:
  Covers a frequency range from 45 MHz to 40 GHz, making it suitable for testing a wide variety of microwave devices and systems.

• High Measurement Accuracy:
  The Agilent 8510B delivers high-precision S-parameter measurements (S11, S21, S12, and S22), with excellent magnitude and phase accuracy to ensure reliable results for complex systems.

• Comprehensive S-Parameter Measurement:
  Supports S-parameter measurements for both active and passive devices such as filters, amplifiers, antennas, and mixers, offering full two-port measurement capabilities.

• Wide Dynamic Range:
  Offers a dynamic range of >100 dB, ensuring accurate measurement of signals across a wide power range, which is essential for low-level signal measurements.

• Time Domain Analysis (Option):
  With the optional time-domain analysis software, you can obtain time-domain measurements, providing more insight into the behavior of microwave devices and systems.

• Integrated Display:
  Equipped with a built-in display, the 8510B offers real-time data visualization, simplifying operation and enhancing productivity.

• Compatibility with 8514B Test Set:
  The 8514B Test Set provides the necessary hardware to extend the frequency range and enhance performance, making it ideal for high-frequency measurements in both laboratory and production environments.

• Advanced Calibration and Error Correction:
  The 8510B supports various advanced calibration techniques including SOLT (Short-Open-Load-Thru) and TRL (Through-Reflect-Line), ensuring highly accurate measurements. Error correction techniques are implemented to remove systematic errors from the measurement system.

• Versatile Measurement Tools:
  The 8510B offers various graphical representations such as Smith charts, polar plots, and linear or logarithmic plots, making it easier to analyze results.

• Remote Control & Automation:
  Equipped with GPIB (IEEE-488), RS-232, and Ethernet interfaces, it supports automated testing and remote operation, facilitating integration into larger test systems or automated production lines.

Applications:

✔ Microwave and RF Component Testing: Ideal for testing amplifiers, mixers, filters, and couplers.
✔ Antenna Testing and Characterization: Suitable for measuring antenna parameters such as impedance and reflection.
✔ Radar and Satellite Communications: Perfect for high-frequency testing in defense and aerospace applications.
✔ Telecommunications Systems: Use in wireless communications to test components like transmitters and receivers.
✔ Research & Development: A valuable tool in academic and industrial R&D labs for developing new microwave devices and systems.

Benefits:

• High-Accuracy S-Parameter Measurements for reliable data across a wide frequency range.
• Wide Dynamic Range (>100 dB) ensures accurate results for both high- and low-power signals.
• Built-in Display and Intuitive Interface enhance ease of use and reduce measurement time.
• Time Domain and Frequency Domain Analysis provide a comprehensive toolset for advanced RF testing.
• Automation Ready with GPIB, RS-232, and Ethernet interfaces, making it suitable for high-throughput environments.

The Agilent 8510B Microwave Vector Network Analyzer is an excellent solution for engineers and technicians working in microwave system development, antenna testing, and RF component characterization. With its broad frequency range, high accuracy, and advanced features, the 8510B is designed to meet the demanding requirements of modern microwave research and production testing.

Specifications

General Specifications:

• Model: Agilent 8510B
• Instrument Type: Microwave Vector Network Analyzer
• Frequency Range: 45 MHz to 40 GHz
• Measurement Ports: 2-Port, Fully Calibrated
• Input Impedance: 50 Ω (nominal)
• Dynamic Range: >100 dB
• Measurement Types:
  • S-parameters: S11, S21, S12, S22
  • Return Loss, Insertion Loss, VSWR, and Phase Measurements
  • Time Domain Analysis (optional software required)

Measurement Performance:

• Frequency Resolution: 1 Hz
• IF Bandwidth: 10 Hz to 1 MHz (selectable)
• Phase Accuracy: ±0.2° (typical)
• Magnitude Accuracy: ±0.05 dB (typical)
• Port-to-Port Isolation: >90 dB

Calibration & Error Correction:

• Calibration Methods:
  • SOLT (Short-Open-Load-Thru)
  • TRL (Through-Reflect-Line)
  • LRM (Line-Reflect-Match)
• Error Correction:
  • Vector error correction for improved accuracy
  • Reference plane extension for fixture compensation

Graphical Display & Data Analysis:

• Display Type: Built-in display with real-time measurement data visualization
• Graphical Representations:
  • Smith chart
  • Polar plot
  • Time-domain conversion (optional software)
• Data Processing:
  • Real-time measurement analysis
  • Marker & limit testing for detailed data analysis
  • Data storage & export to printer or computer

Connectivity & Remote Operation:

• Interfaces:
  • GPIB (IEEE-488), RS-232, Ethernet for remote operation and automated testing
  • USB Ports for external storage and printer connection
• Software Compatibility: Compatible with Agilent’s VNA software tools for enhanced reporting and analysis

Power & Environmental Requirements:

• Power Supply: 100-240V AC, 50/60 Hz
• Power Consumption: < 500 W
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to +50°C
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to +70°C
• Humidity: Up to 95% RH (non-condensing)

Physical Specifications:

• Dimensions:
  • Main Unit: Approx. 482 mm (W) x 178 mm (H) x 600 mm (D)
  • Test Set (8514B): Approx. 482 mm (W) x 132 mm (H) x 406 mm (D)
• Weight:
  • Main Unit: Approx. 24 kg (53 lbs)
  • Test Set (8514B): Approx. 16 kg (35 lbs)

Key Benefits:

✔ Wide Frequency Range (45 MHz – 40 GHz) for diverse microwave and RF testing applications
✔ High Dynamic Range (>100 dB) ensures accurate measurements across different signal levels
✔ Comprehensive S-Parameter Testing for passive and active device characterization
✔ Advanced Calibration & Error Correction provides highly accurate results
✔ Remote Operation and Automation with multiple connectivity options for integration into production environments

The Agilent 8510B Microwave Vector Network Analyzer is a high-precision tool for microwave system testing, component analysis, and RF device characterization, designed to meet the demands of high-frequency testing in research, development, and manufacturing.