HP / Agilent 54501A 100 MHz Digitizing Oscilloscope

The HP/Agilent 54501A is a 100 MHz, 4-channel digitizing oscilloscope engineered for repetitive signal acquisition and single-shot measurements. This instrument combines dual-time-base windowing with advanced logic triggering and automatic measurement capabilities, supporting both manual operation and integration into automated test equipment (ATE) systems. Full HP-IB programmability enables deployment across research, device characterization, and production test environments.

Technical Specifications Bandwidth & Timing

DC-coupled repetitive: DC to 100 MHz (-3 dB)

DC-coupled single-shot: DC to 1 MHz (10 points per period minimum)

AC-coupled repetitive: 10 Hz to 100 MHz (-3 dB)

AC-coupled single-shot: 10 Hz to 1 MHz

Rise time: 3.5 ns Vertical Characteristics

Channels 1 & 4: 5 mV/div to 5 V/div (1-2-5 sequence)

Channels 2 & 3: 100 mV/div to 500 mV/div (1-2-5 sequence, limited attenuator inputs optimized for digital signals)

Vertical gain accuracy (DC): ±1.5%

Vertical resolution: 8-bit ADCs (7-bit effective below 7 mV/div)

Dynamic range: ±16 divisions from center

Maximum input voltage: ±250 V DC + peak AC (<10 kHz)

Offset accuracy: ±2% of offset + 0.2 × (V/div) + 0.075 div/°C; ±2% of offset + 0.4 × (V/div) + 0.15 div/°C at 5 mV/div Triggering

Trigger level range: ±6 divisions from center

Minimum trigger pulse width: 7 ns

Advanced logic triggering: edge, pattern, state, and delay modes

TV trigger supported Acquisition

4-channel configuration (2+2): alternating pair acquisition when more than two channels active

Dual time-base windowing with up to 20:1 expansion

Memory depths: 500 points (real-time normal), 2000 points (real-time extended), 1024 points (repetitive 10 ns–5 s/div), 200–1000 points (repetitive faster timebases)

Key Features

Simultaneous operation: Channels 1 or 2 with Channels 3 or 4

Fine vertical sensitivity adjustment via keypad or FINE control

Programmable via HP-IB for test automation

Waveform zoom capability for detailed signal analysis

Typical Applications

Automated test equipment (ATE) integration

Device and circuit characterization

Repetitive signal analysis and single-shot capture

Digital signal verification and validation

Compatibility & Integration HP-IB programmability enables seamless incorporation into test systems and laboratory automation environments.