Description

Agilent HP 16500B Logic Analyzer Mainframe

Modular, Expandable, and Powerful Debugging Tool

The Agilent HP 16500B Logic Analyzer Mainframe is a high-performance, modular test system designed to meet the demands of digital circuit analysis, embedded system debugging, and microprocessor-based design verification. Originally manufactured by Hewlett-Packard (HP) (now part of Keysight Technologies), the HP 16500B provides engineers and technicians with a flexible, expandable, and intuitive solution for troubleshooting and analyzing digital signals with precision.

Versatile Modular Architecture

The HP 16500B is designed to accommodate a wide range of plug-in modules, enabling users to configure the system to meet specific test requirements. With five module slots, the mainframe can be customized with logic analyzers, oscilloscopes, pattern generators, and other test instruments, making it a multi-instrument platform for digital debugging and signal analysis.

User-Friendly Touchscreen Interface

A key feature of the HP 16500B is its integrated monochrome CRT touchscreen display, which allows users to control the instrument directly through an intuitive graphical interface. This eliminates the need for extensive button navigation, streamlining the setup and analysis process.

Powerful Logic Analysis Capabilities

With the right module configuration, the HP 16500B supports high-speed state and timing analysis, enabling engineers to capture and interpret digital signals from microcontrollers, FPGAs, memory buses, and other complex circuits. Modules such as the HP 16550A offer deep memory storage and high sampling rates, providing detailed insights into circuit behavior.

Comprehensive Connectivity and Data Management

The HP 16500B offers multiple communication interfaces, including GPIB (IEEE-488), RS-232, and LAN, allowing seamless integration into automated test environments. Engineers can transfer captured data, automate testing, and generate reports for documentation purposes. The system also features a built-in floppy disk drive for saving configurations and analysis data.

Expandability with HP 16500-Series Modules

The HP 16500B is compatible with a variety of HP 16500-series modules, such as:

• HP 16510B Timing Analyzer – High-speed timing analysis with deep memory.
• HP 16550A State/Timing Analyzer – Advanced state analysis with conditional triggering.
• HP 16520A Pattern Generator – Signal generation for functional verification.
• HP 16530A Oscilloscope Module – High-resolution analog waveform capture.
• HP 16531A Oscilloscope Module – Advanced oscilloscope functionality for mixed-signal debugging.

This modularity ensures that the HP 16500B remains a valuable tool even as test requirements evolve.

Typical Applications

The HP 16500B is widely used in digital design validation, embedded system debugging, and failure analysis across industries such as telecommunications, automotive electronics, aerospace, and semiconductor development. Engineers rely on its precision and flexibility for tasks including:

• Debugging and verifying microprocessor-based designs
• Capturing and analyzing complex bus transactions
• Identifying signal integrity issues and setup/hold time violations
• Reverse engineering and troubleshooting legacy systems

Technical Specifications

• Display: Integrated monochrome CRT touchscreen
• Module Slots: 5 slots for plug-in measurement modules
• Supported Interfaces: GPIB (IEEE-488), RS-232, LAN
• Data Storage: Built-in floppy disk drive
• Power Requirements: 120V/240V AC
• Weight: Approximately 24 kg (53 lbs)
• Dimensions: 17” W x 12” H x 24” D

The Agilent HP 16500B Logic Analyzer Mainframe remains a powerful and adaptable tool for engineers requiring detailed insight into digital circuit operation. Its modular design, touchscreen interface, and high-speed analysis capabilities make it an excellent choice for professionals working in embedded system development, digital debugging, and legacy equipment maintenance.