Keysight (Agilent) E5056A SSA-X Signal Source Analyzer, 1 MHz to 26.5 GHz

The Keysight E5056A SSA-X Signal Source Analyzer characterizes signal sources from 1 MHz to 26.5 GHz with integrated phase noise, residual noise, spectrum analysis, and vector network analysis capabilities. Built for R&D and manufacturing, this instrument delivers phase noise sensitivity to -171 dBc/Hz and supports absolute phase noise measurements above 54 GHz via external mixers. It combines single and dual-port configurations with optional VNA functionality, VCO control outputs, and clock jitter analysis - eliminating the need for multiple benchtop instruments.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 1 MHz to 26.5 GHz


• Phase Noise Sensitivity: -171 dBc/Hz (RF = 16 GHz @ 1 MHz offset, typical)


• Offset Frequency Range: 1 mHz to > 1 GHz


• Cross-Correlation Factor: 1 to 100,000


• Residual Spurious Level: < -50 dBc for carrier < 100 MHz; < -80 dBc for carrier ≥ 100 MHz (typical)


• Level Measurement Uncertainty (1 MHz to 8 GHz, sinusoidal input): ±1.2 dB (-20 to -10 dBm), ±1 dB (-10 to +15 dBm), ±1.5 dB (+15 to +20 dBm)


• Warm-up Period: 90 minutes minimum


• Operating Temperature: 0 °C to 40 °C

Key Features

• Phase noise (absolute and residual) and AM noise measurement


• Baseband noise, frequency/power/phase transient characterization


• Full span spectrum analysis with two-port vector network analysis


• Clock jitter analysis including RJ and PJ components


• Built-in clean internal signal source for residual phase noise benchmarking


• Two DC voltage channels and tuning outputs for VCO analysis


• External mixer support for DUTs above 54 GHz


• VNA option with ECal and mechanical calibration kit compatibility

Typical Applications

• VCO and oscillator characterization


• Phase noise profiling of RF/microwave sources.


• Signal purity assessment in communication and radar systems.


• Network analysis of passive and active components.


• Clock jitter evaluation in timing-sensitive applications.

Compatibility & Integration Available in 1-port (standard or enhanced low-noise) and 2-port configurations with optional low-noise internal source. Supports external mixer and power divider integration for extended frequency coverage.