Agilent/Keysight E5503B

The Agilent/Keysight E5503B is a phase noise measurement system designed to characterize frequency sources including VCOs, DROs, crystal oscillators, and synthesizers across a wide frequency range. The instrument delivers sensitivity for one-port phase noise measurements and enables direct AM noise characterization. It operates as both a benchtop R&D tool and integrates into automated test equipment environments, reducing measurement time while maintaining excellent repeatability and measurement integrity.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 50 kHz to 18 GHz


• Offset Range: 0.01 Hz to 100 MHz (standard)


• Measurement Types: Phase noise (one-port), direct AM noise


• System Configuration: 70001A Mainframe, 70420A Opt. 001 Test Set, 70422A Downconverter

Key Features

• measurement sensitivity across the full frequency range


• Direct AM noise measurement capability alongside phase noise analysis


• Wide offset range enabling both close-in and far-from-carrier characterization


• Real-time monitoring mode for live observation of phase noise and discrete spurs during device tuning


• Multiple output formats: single-sideband phase noise power plots, integrated noise power, and calculated Allan variance

Typical Applications

• VCO characterization and optimization


• Crystal oscillator and DRO evaluation


• Frequency synthesizer phase noise assessment


• R&D benchtop phase noise testing


• Automated production testing of frequency sources

Compatibility & Integration The E5503B operates with E5500 series phase noise measurement software running on a Pentium PC with 32 MB RAM, 1 GB hard drive, and Windows NT 4.0. Automated carrier measurement and real-time phase noise monitoring enable efficient device characterization. The system supports a defined upgrade path from Agilent 3048 systems.