The Keysight (formerly Agilent / HP) 8720ES is a high-performance vector network analyzer designed for complete characterization of RF and microwave components. Operating from 50 MHz to 20 GHz, it integrates a synthesized source, an S-parameter test set, and a tuned receiver into a single instrument. It features 100 dB of dynamic range, fast sweep capabilities, and robust built-in vector accuracy enhancement, making it a reliable standard for both production and R&D environments.

Specifications

General

ParameterValue
InterfacesGPIB (IEEE-488.2), RS-232, Parallel (Centronics), VGA out
DisplayColor LCD

Physical

ParameterValue
Dimensions (W×H×D)425 x 222 x 457
Weight25 kg

System Performance

ParameterValue
Frequency Range50 MHz to 20 GHz
Frequency Resolution1 Hz
Standard Impedance50 Ω

Test Port Characteristics

ParameterValue
Test Port Connector Type3.5 mm (male)

Source Characteristics

ParameterValue
Output Power Range-75 to +5 dBm (standard)

Measurement and Display Capabilities

ParameterValue
Measured Parameters (S-Parameters)S11, S21, S12, S22
Measurement Channels2
Display Channels4
Number of Data Points3 to 1601
Sweep TypesLinear frequency, log frequency, power, CW time, list frequency

Data Processing and Calibration

ParameterValue
Calibration Methods SupportedFull two-port, adapter-removal, optional TRL (with Option 400)
Electronic Calibration (ECal)Supported
Test SequencingInternal automation supported
Pass/Fail TestingSupported (with limit lines)

Hardware Options

ParameterValue
Time Domain AnalysisSupported (Option 010)
Direct Sampler AccessOptional (Option 012)
High Power Test SetOptional (Option 085)
Frequency-Offset ModeOptional (Option 089)
Four Samplers and TRL CalibrationOptional (Option 400)

Source

ParameterValue
Output Power Resolution0.01 dB

Receiver

ParameterValue
IF Bandwidth Settings10 Hz to 6 kHz

Options

ParameterValue
High-Stability Frequency ReferenceOption 1D5
Mechanical Test Port SwitchOption 007

Storage

ParameterValue
Removable Storage3.5-inch floppy disk drive (1.44 MB, DOS format)

Environmental

ParameterValue
Storage Temperature-40 °C to +70 °C

Power

ParameterValue
Power Consumption280 VA maximum
AC Voltage Input90 to 132 Vac or 198 to 264 Vac (automatically selected)
AC Frequency Input48 to 66 Hz

Compliance

ParameterValue
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)CISPR 11 / EN 55011 Group 1, Class A

Performance

ParameterValue
Sweep AveragingSweep-by-sweep averaging; 1 to 999 averages
Trace Smoothing0 to 20% of span (selectable)

Technology

Vector Network Analysis

Applications

RF & Microwave Component Characterization