The HP Keysight 8516A is an S-parameter test set designed specifically for use with the HP 8510 series Vector Network Analyzers, covering a frequency range from 45 MHz to 40 GHz. It features a dual-port, coupler-based architecture with a single built-in electronic RF switch. Standard configurations include two 60 dB step attenuators and bias tees, enabling external DC bias application to the center conductors of the 2.4 mm (male) test ports. Specialized options are available to support IF switching (Option 001), component deletion (Option 002), and enhanced forward dynamic range (Option 003).
Specifications
General
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Interfaces | HP 8510 System Interface |
| Display | None (status indicators only; controlled by host network analyzer) |
Physical
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | 100 / 120 / 220 / 240 VAC ±10%, 47 to 66 Hz |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 55 °C |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 425 mm × 133 mm × 508 mm |
| Weight | 16 kg |
| Shipping Weight | 21 kg |
RF & S-Parameter Performance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 45 MHz to 40 GHz |
| Nominal Impedance | 50 Ω |
| Number of Test Ports | 2 |
| Symmetric S-Parameter Dynamic Range (Standard Config) | Identical dynamic range performance in both forward and reverse transmission measurements |
Connectors & Interface Ports
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Test Port Connector Type | 2.4 mm (male) |
System Control & Compatibility
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Internal RF Switch Type | Single built-in electronic switch |
| Compatible Vector Network Analyzers | HP 8510B, HP 8510C |
| IF Signal Frequency | 20 MHz (daisy-chained to VNA) |
Signal Handling & Insertion Loss
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Step Attenuators | Two 90 dB step attenuators (Port 1 and Port 2, standard configuration) |
| Attenuation Range | 0 to 90 dB |
DC Bias Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| DC Bias Capabilities | External bias can be applied to test port center conductors |
| Maximum Bias Voltage | 40 Vdc |
| Maximum Bias Current | 500 mA |
Configuration Options & Accessories
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Option 001 | Add IF switching (daisy-chain 20 MHz IF from multiple test sets) |
| Option 002 | Delete step attenuators and bias tees |
| Option 003 | High forward dynamic range (reverses port 2 coupler, dynamic range increased in forward direction) |
Rear Panel Connectors
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| RF Input Connector | 2.4 mm (female), rear panel |
| LO Input Connector | 2.4 mm (female), rear panel |
| IF Output Connectors | Four BNC (female) connectors: a1, a2, b1, b2 |
| DC Bias Inputs | Two BNC (female) connectors, Port 1 and Port 2 |
Power
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Source | AC mains power (100 / 120 / 220 / 240 VAC ±10%, 47 to 66 Hz) |
Options
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Option 908 | Rackmount kit without handles |
| Option 913 | Rackmount kit with handles |
Technology
Coupler-based S-Parameter Test Set
Applications
RF & Microwave Vector Network Analysis