Agilent/Keysight 54542C

The Agilent/Keysight 54542C is a four-channel digitizing oscilloscope delivering 500 MHz analog bandwidth with simultaneous 2 GSa/s real-time sampling across all channels. Built for transient capture and detailed waveform analysis, this instrument combines 32K acquisition memory per channel with 1 ns peak detect capability and sequential single-shot acquisition for successive event recording. A color LCD display presents acquired data, while an onboard FFT engine extends analysis into the frequency domain up to 1 GHz.

The integrated 3.5-inch multi-format floppy disk drive handles setup storage, waveform logging, and screen captures in TIFF, PCX, and EPS formats, and manages operating system upgrades. HP-IB connectivity enables remote programming and automated data transfer.

Technical Specifications

• Analog Bandwidth: 500 MHz (4 channels)


• Sample Rate: 2 GSa/s simultaneous on all 4 channels


• Peak Detect: 1 ns


• Acquisition Memory: 32K points per channel


• Record Length: 32,768 points (real-time maximum); 501 points (repetitive)


• Resolution: 8 bits standard; 10 bits via HP-IB with averaging


• FFT Frequency Range: DC to 1 GHz


• FFT Frequency Resolution: 3.9 MHz minimum (2 GSa/s ÷ 512 points)


• Display: Color LCD flat-panel

Key Features

• Sequential single-shot acquisition for capturing non-repetitive transient events


• Multi-format disk storage supporting TIFF, PCX, and EPS image formats


• Fast Fourier Transform analysis for frequency-domain characterization


• Downloadable operating system upgrades via floppy disk drive


• HP-IB (IEEE 488) interface for instrument control and data retrieval

Typical Applications Transient signal capture, multi-channel simultaneous acquisition, frequency-domain analysis, and automated test environments requiring remote control and data logging.

Compatibility & Integration HP-IB (IEEE 488) connection supports remote programming, automated data transfer, and integration into larger measurement systems.