Keysight (Agilent) 86242A RF Plug-In
The Keysight (Agilent) 86242A is an RF plug-in module designed for use with compatible Keysight/Agilent mainframe units. It extends the capabilities of the mainframe, offering specific RF functionalities such as signal generation, analysis, or switching. Ideal for testing and measurement applications in RF and microwave domains.
- Model
- Keysight / Agilent 86242A
- Calibration
- Available on request
- Price
- $1,100
- Status
- In stock
- RFQ ref
- 86242A
This unit
The Keysight (Agilent) 86242A is an RF plug-in module that extends mainframe test system capabilities with precision signal generation and analysis from 10 MHz to 24 GHz. This module delivers output power spanning -130 dBm to +10 dBm with ±1.0 dB accuracy and supports AM/FM modulation for realistic signal simulation. Engineered for RF and microwave testing, it combines low spurious output (<-60 dBc), minimal harmonic distortion (<-25 dBc), and rapid frequency settling (<50 ms for 100 MHz steps) to meet demanding laboratory and system integration requirements.
Technical Specifications
Signal Generation- Frequency range: 10 MHz to 24 GHz
- Output power: -130 dBm to +10 dBm
- Power accuracy: ±1.0 dB at +10 dBm (typical)
- Power flatness: ±0.5 dB to 18 GHz; ±1.0 dB from 18 GHz to 24 GHz
- Harmonic distortion: <-25 dBc at +10 dBm output (to 18 GHz)
- Spurious output: <-60 dBc at +10 dBm output
- Frequency settling time: <50 ms (typical) for 100 MHz step
- Frequency switching speed: <100 ms (typical) Modulation
- AM: 0% to 100% depth; ±1 dB response (20 Hz to 10 kHz)
- FM: 0 kHz to 5 MHz deviation; ±1 dB response (20 Hz to 10 kHz) Signal Quality
- Residual FM: <1 kHz peak deviation (typical)
- Residual AM: <0.1% modulation depth (typical)
Key Features
- Wide frequency coverage from 10 MHz through 24 GHz supports diverse RF and microwave applications
- Extended power range accommodates sensitive receiver and high-power transmitter characterization
- Low spurious and harmonic content ensures signal purity for precision measurements
- AM and FM modulation capabilities enable real-world signal simulation
- Fast frequency switching and settling support automated test sequences
Typical Applications
- RF and microwave component testing
- Receiver and transmitter characterization
- Signal generation for modulated signal analysis
- Automated test system integration
Compatibility & Integration Operates as a plug-in module within compatible Keysight and Agilent mainframe units. Remote control via mainframe standard interface enables automated test system integration.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 10 MHz to 24 GHz | Power Range (dBm): '-130 dBm to +10 dBm |
Keysight / Agilent 86242A — Repair & Calibration Service
Aumictech offers NIST-traceable calibration and repair for the Keysight / Agilent 86242A. Calibration covers output frequency accuracy, output power level accuracy across the full frequency range, AM/FM/PM/pulse modulation accuracy, harmonic and spurious output levels, and phase noise floor verification. All calibrations ship with a NIST-traceable certificate. Turnaround is typically 1–3 business days after receipt.
Common Keysight / Agilent 86242A faults: YIG oscillator failure (no output or loss of lock), step attenuator wear (output drops or steps at set attenuation), ALC loop failure (uncontrolled output power), I/Q modulator assembly failure. HP/Agilent 836xx series most common faults are YIG oscillator failure and step attenuator contact wear causing output steps or drops at specific attenuation settings. Keysight E4428C/E4438C units most commonly develop ALC loop failure and I/Q modulator assembly faults. YIG oscillator replacement and attenuator service are stocked repairs.
Keysight / Agilent 86242A price
This Keysight / Agilent 86242A is listed at $1,100. Calibration is available separately from $450. Contact us for volume pricing or if you need multiple units.
Keysight / Agilent 86242A calibration cost
NIST-traceable calibration for the Keysight / Agilent 86242A is $450 (standard — pass/fail certificate and calibration sticker) or $650 (full measured data at every test point, reference standards documented, traceability chain included). Calibration for this instrument covers output frequency accuracy, output power level accuracy across the full frequency range, AM/FM/PM/pulse modulation accuracy, harmonic and spurious output levels, and phase noise floor verification. Turnaround is 1 to 3 business days after receipt. See full calibration details →
