Keysight (Agilent) 16903A Logic Analysis System

The Keysight (Agilent) 16903A is a modular logic analysis system mainframe designed for system-level debugging of digital designs. Its 3-slot architecture accepts customizable measurement modules to reach up to 204 channels, depending on configuration. The platform features a 12.1-inch color LCD touch screen (800 × 600 resolution) running Windows XP Pro, with multiple data views including waveform, listing, packet viewer, source code, and compare displays.

Operators control the system via dedicated hotkeys, knobs, keyboard, and mouse input.

Technical Specifications

• Mainframe Slots: 3 modules


• Maximum Channels: 204 (module-dependent)


• Display: 12.1-inch color LCD, 800 × 600 resolution, touch-screen interface


• Operating System: Windows XP Pro


• External Monitors: Up to 4 monitors at 1600 × 1200 resolution


• Power Requirements: 115/230 V AC, 48–66 Hz, 900 W max


• Weight: 14.5 kg (net); 23.2 kg (shipping); ≈0.9 kg per installed module


• Operating Temperature: 0 °C to 50 °C


• Storage Temperature: –40 °C to +75 °C


• Altitude Rating: To 3000 m


• Humidity: 8–80% relative humidity at 40 °C (non-condensing)

Key Features

• Trigger Output: VOH 2.0 V min., VOL 0.5 V max.; pulse width 80–160 ns; LVTTL (3.3 V logic) threshold; BNC connector with 50 Ω recommended termination


• Connectivity: 10/100 BaseT LAN (gigabit available via E5860A or Option 014); dual USB 1.1; parallel and serial ports; external video output


• PCI Expansion: 1 full-profile slot, 1 low-profile slot


• Target Control Port: 8 TTL-level signals with tri-state/high-impedance output disabled


• Calibration and Clock: Dedicated BNC inputs for external clock and calibration signals


• Oscilloscope Integration: View Scope feature enables time-correlated waveform display with Keysight oscilloscopes

Typical Applications System-level digital design validation, embedded system debugging, protocol analysis, and multi-instrument measurement correlation.

Compatibility & Integration Modular architecture supports custom probe and measurement module configurations. LAN connectivity enables remote operation and data transfer. Multi-monitor support accommodates large-scale analysis workflows.