HP / Agilent 4193A IMPEDANCE METER

The HP/Agilent 4193A is a precision vector impedance meter for measuring impedance magnitude and phase across 400 kHz to 110.0 MHz. It characterizes electronic components, materials, and circuits in development, R&D, and quality control. The instrument performs both spot frequency and swept frequency measurements - linear or logarithmic - with 1 kHz resolution on the internal oscillator or 100 Hz resolution when paired with external synthesizers.

A constant current source (10 µA to 100 µA) drives the impedance under test.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 400 kHz to 110.0 MHz (internal oscillator); 1 kHz resolution. Linear and logarithmic sweep capability. External synthesizer input supported for finer resolution.


• Impedance Measurement: 10 mΩ to 120 kΩ across five decade ranges (10 Ω, 100 Ω, 1 kΩ, 10 kΩ, 100 kΩ). Magnitude accuracy: ±3.0% of reading. 3½-digit display resolution.


• Phase Measurement: −180.0° to +180.0°. Resolution: 0.1°. Accuracy: ±3.2°.


• Test Signal: Constant current source, 10 µA to 100 µA depending on impedance range.


• Measurement Rate: 1 measurement/second (normal); ~7 measurements/second (high speed).


• Frequency Settling Time: 5 ms to 400 ms.


• Residual Capacitance (probe tip): ≤0.11 pF.


• Spurious Output: −60 dBc.

Key Features

• In-circuit and out-of-circuit component testing.


• Auto, hold, and manual range control.


• Internal, external, and manual measurement trigger modes.


• 4-digit frequency display; 3½-digit impedance and phase displays.


• HP-IB (IEEE-488) and analog outputs for system integration.


• Operating temperature: 0°C to 55°C. Operating humidity: ≤95% RH at 40°C.

Typical Applications

• Component characterization and validation across microwave frequencies.


• Quality control and production testing of passive and active devices.


• Materials impedance analysis in research environments.


• Impedance-based circuit troubleshooting and optimization.

Compatibility & Integration Connects via HP-IB (IEEE-488) and analog outputs. Accepts external oscillator input for higher-resolution frequency control via synthesizers such as HP 3335A or HP 8656B. Supplied with low-grounded probe kit including spare pins, clips, and BNC adapter.