Agilent / Keysight 83205A 50 ohm RF bridge 300kHZ-6GHZ

The Agilent/Keysight 83205A is a 50-ohm RF directional bridge engineered for precise impedance and reflection coefficient measurements from 300 kHz to 6 GHz. It delivers exceptional directivity and insertion loss performance significantly better than conventional RF bridges, making it the preferred choice for accurate reflection measurements across demanding frequency ranges. This bridge combines the measurement capabilities of directional bridges with minimal signal degradation.

Its nominal 16 dB coupling factor remains flat within ±0.2 dB below 3 GHz and ±0.4 dB above 3 GHz. Directivity ranges from 40 dB at 2 GHz down to 16 dB at 6 GHz, supporting reliable measurements across the full frequency span. Insertion loss measures only 1.5 dB nominally plus 0.1 dB/GHz - a substantial improvement over the typical 6 to 8 dB associated with standard RF bridges.

Return loss performance spans 23 dB at 2 GHz to 16 dB at 6 GHz. The bridge maintains excellent input match across its operating range. Standing wave ratio stays at 1.15 from 0.3 MHz to 2.0 GHz, rising to 1.38 SWR at 5–6 GHz.

All connections use Type-N female connectors. The compact form factor - 160 mm wide, 93 mm high, 23 mm deep - weighs only 0.57 kg, enabling flexible bench and system integration.

Technical Specifications

• Impedance: 50 Ohms (nominal)


• Frequency Range: 300 kHz to 6 GHz


• Operating Temperature: 0 °C to 55 °C


• Coupling Factor: 16 dB nominal (±0.2 dB 3 GHz); frequency response ±0.2 dB


• Directivity: 40 dB (5 MHz to 2 GHz); 30 dB (2–3 GHz); 20 dB (3–5 GHz); 16 dB (5–6 GHz)


• Return Loss: 23 dB @ 2 GHz; 20 dB @ 3 GHz; 18 dB @ 5 GHz; 16 dB @ 6 GHz


• Insertion Loss: 1.5 dB + 0.1 dB/GHz (±0.2 dB deviation)


• SWR: 1.15 (0.3 MHz–2 GHz); 1.22 (2–3 GHz); 1.29 (3–5 GHz); 1.38 (5–6 GHz)


• Connectors: Type-N (female)


• Dimensions: 160 mm W × 93 mm H × 23 mm D


• Net Weight: 0.57 kg

Key Features

• Low insertion loss - 1.5 dB nominal, substantially lower than conventional bridges


• Wideband operation across 300 kHz to 6 GHz in single unit


• Flat coupling factor response ensures consistent performance across frequency bands


• High directivity at lower frequencies; maintained above 16 dB through 6 GHz


• Excellent return loss performance from VHF through microwave

Typical Applications

• Reflection and impedance measurements on RF components and systems


• Signal leveling and power monitoring in test systems


• Component characterization requiring directional signal separation

Compatibility & Integration The 83205A integrates with vector network analyzers, scalar network analyzers, and spectrum analyzers. It is an ideal accessory for the E5061/71 family of ENA series network analyzers.