Agilent HP Keysight 8901B Modulation Analyzer, 150 kHz to 1.3 GHz

The Agilent HP Keysight 8901B Modulation Analyzer characterizes modulated RF signals from 150 kHz to 1.3 GHz. This single instrument integrates a power meter, modulation analyzer, frequency counter, and audio analyzer with full GPIB programmability. It delivers AM and FM modulation accuracy to 1%, phase modulation to 3%, and power measurements from −20 dBm to +30 dBm with the 11722A sensor or −70 dBm to +44 dBm with 8480 series sensors.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 150 kHz to 1.3 GHz


• Modulation Types: AM, FM, Phase Modulation (φM)


• Modulation Accuracy: AM/FM ±1%; φM ±3%


• RF Power Measurement: −20 to +30 dBm (with 11722A); −70 to +44 dBm (with 8480 series)


• Power Meter Linearity: ±0.02 dB plus ±0.02 dB per range change


• Frequency Counter Resolution: 10 Hz


• Audio Measurement: 6-digit frequency resolution; distortion measurement at 400 Hz and 1000 Hz; RMS levels 100 mV to 3 V (±4% accuracy)


• Adjacent Channel Power: ±0.5 dB accuracy; >115 dB dynamic range; >90 dB selectivity


• Carrier Noise (with Options 030–037): SSB measurements to 1.3 GHz; ±0.5 dB to −129 dBc/Hz; −150 dBc/Hz noise floor


• Display: 10-digit LED


• Memory: Eight non-volatile locations

Key Features

• Integrated power meter, modulation analyzer, frequency counter, and audio analyzer in one unit


• Channel filters: 12.5 kHz, 25 kHz, 30 kHz spacing


• Front panel 50 MHz power reference (±0.7%, traceable to U.S. National Bureau of Standards)


• Meets CEPT standards for adjacent channel power


• Eight configurable measurement memory slots


• GPIB full automation and programmability

Typical Applications

• RF design and signal characterization


• Modulation quality testing and validation


• Power and frequency measurement across UHF/microwave bands


• Audio distortion and RMS analysis


• Carrier noise performance evaluation

Compatibility & Integration Works with Agilent 8480 series power sensors for extended dynamic range. Optional modules add rear-panel connections, high-stability reference (1×10⁻⁹), external oscillator support, and extended low-frequency operation (48–440 Hz below 40°C).