Agilent/Keysight 8720ET

The Agilent/Keysight 8720ET is a vector network analyzer that integrates a synthesized source, tuned receiver, and transmission/reflection test set for S-parameter measurements across RF and microwave applications. Operating from 50 MHz to 20 GHz, it delivers full magnitude and phase characterization in forward and reverse directions with dynamic range up to 105 dB. This legacy instrument remains capable of filter rejection measurements down to −120 dB and supports optional time-domain analysis and mixer measurements with frequency offset capability.

Technical Specifications

Frequency Range: 50 MHz to 20 GHz Dynamic Range: Up to 105 dB; transmission measurements between 102 dB (0.05–0.84 GHz) and 104 dB (0.84–20 GHz) Source Output Power: −10 dBm standard; −5 dBm across 0.05–20 GHz Receiver Architecture: Dual-channel, three-input configuration for magnitude, phase, and group delay measurement Measurement Channels: Two measurement channels; four display channels Line Power: 48–66 Hz, 115 V nominal

Key Features

• One-port, response, and enhanced response calibration; full two-port calibration available on ES models


• TRL or LRM calibration for non-coaxial environments; ECal support with firmware control


• Enhanced response calibration corrects source match effects


• Display formats: magnitude, phase, group delay, Smith chart, polar, SWR, and time-domain


• Pass/Fail testing, marker functions, data averaging, and save/recall storage


• VGA-compatible display output for external monitors


• Option 007: Mechanical transfer switch adds 5 dB to test port power and dynamic range


• Option 012: Direct sampler access


• Option 085: High-power S-parameter test set modification


• Option 089: Mixer measurement capability with frequency offset mode


• NIST-traceable calibrations

Typical Applications Component characterization, filter rejection analysis, gain compression measurement, output power assessment, and S-parameter extraction in research and manufacturing environments.