Agilent / Keysight 8590E Spectrum Analyzer

The Agilent/Keysight 8590E is a benchtop spectrum analyzer for RF and microwave signal measurement from 9 kHz to 1.8 GHz. It delivers calibrated amplitude measurements from +30 dBm to -130 dBm across a 70 dB onscreen display range, with sensitivity down to -70 dBm at 30 Hz resolution bandwidth. The instrument handles peak pulse power to +50 dBm (100 W) under controlled conditions and maintains excellent dynamic range through -77 dB second-order distortion and -90 dB third-order intermodulation performance.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency range: 9 kHz to 1.8 GHz (50 Ohm); 1 MHz to 1.8 GHz (75 Ohm optional)


• Resolution bandwidth: 1 kHz to 3 MHz standard; optional 30 Hz to 300 Hz narrowband filters


• EMI bandwidths: 9 kHz and 120 kHz available


• Phase noise: -105 dBc at 30 kHz offset


• Frequency reference aging: ±2 × 10⁻⁶/year; temperature stability ±5 × 10⁻⁶ Amplitude and Dynamic Range


• Calibrated range: +30 dBm to -130 dBm


• Display range: 70 dB onscreen


• Maximum input (≥10 dB attenuation): +30 dBm average continuous; +50 dBm peak pulse


• Gain compression: ≤0.5 dB at –10 dBm mixer input


• Second-order distortion: 77 dB; third-order intermodulation: 90 dB Sweep and Video


• Sweep time: 20 ms to 100 s (zero span); optional 20 µs minimum


• Video bandwidth: 30 Hz to 1 MHz standard; optional 1 Hz to 1 MHz


• Sweep modes: free run, single, line, video, external trigger

Key Features

• Optional precision frequency reference improves accuracy to 210 Hz


• Expandable through optional measurement personality cards and circuit modules


• GPIB and RS-232C programmable control; parallel printer port for direct output


• Memory card support (32 K to 512 K) for measurement personalities and data storage


• External keyboard interface for analyzer control

Typical Applications

• RF and microwave signal characterization


• EMI/RFI compliance testing with dedicated 9 kHz and 120 kHz bandwidths


• Digital modulation analysis


• Field and laboratory measurements

Compatibility & Integration GPIB and RS-232C interfaces enable integration into automated test systems. HP-IB and RS-232 printer/plotter output options provide direct documentation of measurements.