Agilent/Keysight 8754A

The Agilent/Keysight 8754A is a network analyzer that characterizes RF and microwave device frequency response through simultaneous magnitude and phase measurements. The instrument integrates a swept source, tuned receiver, and CRT display into a single unit, functioning as a complete stimulus-and-response test system.

Technical Specifications

Frequency coverage spans 4 MHz to 1300 MHz, with optional external doubler capability extending range to 2600 MHz. Source output power reaches +10 dBm typical across a 0 to +13 dBm range, maintaining ±0.5 dB flatness. Three receiver inputs

R (reference), A, and B (test) - feed two independent measurement channels for parallel transmission or reflection parameter acquisition. Dynamic range extends to 100 dBm, with 80 dB receiver range across both channels. Magnitude dynamic accuracy spans ±0.3 dB from 0 to ~50 dBm, degrading to ±2.5 dB near -70 to -80 dBm limits. Phase frequency response holds ±2.5 degrees; phase range extends ±180 degrees. Noise floor remains below -80 dBm at A and B inputs. Maximum input level tolerates 0 dBm at all receiver ports, with damage threshold at +20 dBm (50 Vdc). Spectral purity delivers -28 dBc harmonics and ≤7 kHz rms residual FM (10 kHz bandwidth) at +10 dBm output. Input port match exceeds 20 dB return loss (1.22 SWR equivalent). Crosstalk between channels surpasses 83 dB. Magnitude flatness (absolute) achieves ±1 dB; ratio measurements (A/R, B/R) stay within +0.3 dB. Minimum R input level for phase-lock operation is -40 dBm.

Key Features

• CRT display with rectilinear and polar graticules; 0.25 dB and 2.5 degree per major division resolution


• Simultaneous S-parameter measurement: S21, S12, S11, S22


• Reflection coefficient, return loss, insertion loss/gain, and insertion phase display modes


• Type-N female connectors (50 Ω nominal impedance)


• External source lock capability


• Programming connector (J7) for automation

Typical Applications Filter tuning and characterization, amplifier response measurement, cable insertion loss and phase testing, and general RF/microwave device impedance and gain analysis.

Compatibility & Integration Compatible with external test sets including the HP 8502A Transmission/Reflection Test Set for enhanced measurement configurations. Supports external frequency doubler extension (Option H26).