Agilent / Keysight 8591A 9kHz-1.8GHz RF Spectrum Analyzer

The Agilent/Keysight 8591A is a portable RF spectrum analyzer covering 9 kHz to 1.8 GHz, engineered for general-purpose spectrum analysis in telecommunications, research and development, and manufacturing environments. It delivers wide dynamic range and high sensitivity across its frequency span, with amplitude measurements from -115 dBm to +30 dBm and resolution bandwidth selectable from 30 Hz to 1 MHz in 1, 3, 10 increments.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency range: 9 kHz to 1.8 GHz


• Frequency accuracy: 7.5 ppm (standard)


• Frequency reference aging: ±1 × 10⁻⁷/day (standard); ±1 × 10⁻⁷/year (optional precision reference)


• Temperature stability: ±5 × 10⁻⁶ (standard); ±1 × 10⁻⁸ (precision reference option)


• Marker count accuracy: ±230 Hz at 1 GHz with optional precision frequency reference


• Frequency span: 0 Hz (zero span) or 10 kHz to 1.8 GHz Amplitude Characteristics


• Amplitude range: -115 dBm to +30 dBm


• Displayed average noise level: -115 to -113 dBm


• Input attenuator: 0 to 60 dB in 10 dB steps


• Reference level: -115 to +30 dBm (50 Ω); -63 to +75 dBmV (75 Ω)


• Absolute frequency response: ±1.5 dB (referenced to 300 MHz CAL OUT)


• Relative flatness: ±1.0 dB


• Log incremental accuracy: ±0.2 dB/2 dB (0 to -70 dB from reference level)


• Linear accuracy: ±3% of reference level Resolution Bandwidth


• Range: 30 Hz to 1 MHz in 1, 3, 10 increments


• Accuracy: ±30% and 3 MHz

Key Features

• Built-in memory card reader for measurement storage and custom personality loading


• Zero span capability for time-domain analysis


• Dual impedance support: 50 Ω and 75 Ω inputs


• Optional precision frequency reference (Option 004) for enhanced accuracy


• Multiple amplitude scale units: dBm, dBmV, dBmicroV, Volts, Watts


• Marker readout resolution: 0.05 dB (log) or 0.07% of reference level (linear)

Typical Applications

• RF signal characterization and troubleshooting


• Electromagnetic interference (EMI) measurement


• Transmitter and receiver testing


• Component and subsystem validation across VHF, UHF, and low microwave bands

Compatibility & Integration The 8591A operates as a standalone instrument with internal calibration reference and external connectivity for integration into larger test systems.