Agilent / Keysight E4403B 3GHz ESA-L Spectrum Analyzer

The Agilent/Keysight E4403B ESA-L Spectrum Analyzer operates across 9 kHz to 3.0 GHz, delivering precise RF signal analysis for communications systems, component characterization, and signal quality evaluation. This instrument combines wide dynamic range with flexible triggering modes and selectable detector types to support development, manufacturing, and field troubleshooting workflows.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency range: 9 kHz to 3.0 GHz


• Frequency span: 0 Hz (zero span) or 100 Hz to 3.0 GHz


• Span accuracy: ±0.5% (linear sweep), ±2.0% characteristic (log sweep)


• Sweep time: 1 ms to 4000 s (span > 0 Hz); 10 µs to 4000 s (zero span)


• Frequency reference stability: ±2 × 10⁻⁶/year aging; ±5 × 10⁻⁶ over 0–55 °C


• Counter resolution: 1 Hz to 100 kHz selectable


• Phase noise at 1 GHz, 10 kHz offset: ≤ -90 dBc/Hz (characteristic)


• Residual FM: ≤ 150 Hz peak-to-peak (1 GHz, 100 Hz RBW, 100 Hz VBW) Amplitude & Dynamic Range


• Input attenuator: 0 to 60 dB in 5 dB steps


• Amplitude accuracy: ±1.1 dB


• Maximum safe input: +30 dBm average continuous (attenuator ≥ 15 dB); +30 dBm peak pulse (attenuator ≥ 30 dB); 100 Vdc maximum


• Trace detectors: Peak, Negative Peak, Sample, RMS, Average Resolution & Analysis


• Resolution bandwidth: 1 kHz to 5 MHz (–3 dB) in 1-3-10 sequence


• EMI bandwidths: 9 kHz and 120 kHz (–6 dB)


• Option 1DR adds 10, 30, 100, 300 Hz (–3 dB) and 200 Hz (–6 dB) EMI capability Trigger Modes


• Free Run, Single, Line, Video, External, Delay, Offset, Gate (Option 1D6), TV (Option B7B)

Key Features

• Selectable counter resolution from 1 Hz to 100 kHz for precise marker frequency measurement


• Multiple sweep trigger modes enable synchronized testing and transient capture


• Five detector types optimize noise floor visibility and dynamic signal characterization


• Zero-span mode supports fast time-domain monitoring at 10 µs minimum sweep

Typical Applications

• RF component validation and filter characterization


• Communication system signal quality assessment


• EMI/RFI troubleshooting and compliance verification


• Phase noise and spectral purity measurement

Compatibility & Integration Standard configuration supports 9 kHz–3.0 GHz analysis. Optional narrow RBW (1DR) and advanced triggering (1D6, B7B) expand capability for specialized measurements.