Keysight (Agilent) E5503A Phase Noise Measurement Solution, 50 kHz to 18.0 GHz

The Keysight (Agilent) E5503A Phase Noise Measurement Solution is an integrated system for characterizing signal sources and RF components across 50 kHz to 18.0 GHz. Built on proven low phase noise and RF measurement technology, it delivers high measurement integrity and repeatability in both automated test environments and R&D settings. The E5503A measures phase noise and AM noise on one-port devices including VCOs, DROs, crystal oscillators, and synthesizers using phase detector methods with optional PLL enhancement for frequency tracking and in-band noise suppression.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency range: 50 kHz to 18.0 GHz


• Measurement capability: Phase noise and AM noise


• Offset range: 0.01 Hz to 100 MHz and beyond (configuration-dependent)


• AM noise measurement: Direct measurement on carriers up to 26.5 GHz


• Supported devices: One-port VCOs, DROs, crystal oscillators, synthesizers


• Measurement method: Phase detector with optional phase-lock-loop (PLL) enhancement

Key Features

• phase noise measurement sensitivity


• Rapid measurement capability optimized for test automation


• Modular instrument architecture for flexible integration


• SCPI programming support for remote control and automated test integration


• Direct AM noise characterization

Typical Applications

• Automated test equipment (ATE) systems requiring fast characterization cycles


• Research and development evaluation of oscillators and frequency synthesizers


• Production testing of VCOs, DROs, and crystal oscillator devices


• Phase noise and AM noise characterization across microwave frequencies

Compatibility & Integration

• Part of the Keysight E5500 Series phase noise measurement platform


• Designed for direct integration into ATE systems with minimal test time overhead


• Supports SCPI command language for test environment programming


• Requires measurement software for data processing and analysis


• May require external RF reference sources and microwave downconverters depending on measurement scenario Note: This is an obsolete product.