The Keysight (formerly Agilent HP) 8761B is a high-performance, single-pole double-throw (SPDT) electromechanical coaxial switch operating from DC to 18 GHz. Designed for 50-ohm transmission systems, this unterminated switch features magnetic latching solenoids, exceptionally low SWR, and superb RF repeatability, making it highly suitable for automated testing and systems applications where space is at a premium. It supports an extensive array of user-specified RF connector configurations.
Specifications
Physical
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | 24 to 30 VDC solenoid drive |
| Operating Temperature | -55 to +85 °C |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 38.1 mm × 52.3 mm × 47.8 mm |
| Weight | 0.14 kg |
RF Performance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | DC to 18 GHz |
| Nominal Impedance | 50 ohms |
| Insertion Loss (DC to 12.4 GHz) | < 0.5 dB |
| Insertion Loss (12.4 to 18 GHz) | < 0.8 dB |
| Isolation (DC to 12.4 GHz) | > 50 dB |
| Isolation (12.4 to 18 GHz) | > 45 dB |
| Maximum RF Input Power - Average (CW) | 10 W (standard) / 2 W (with option 7 50-ohm termination) |
| Maximum RF Input Power - Peak | 5 kW (standard) / 100 W (with option 7 50-ohm termination) |
| RF Repeatability | 0.03 dB typical |
| VSWR (DC to 4 GHz) | < 1.15 |
| VSWR (4 to 12.4 GHz) | < 1.25 |
| VSWR (12.4 to 18 GHz) | < 1.40 |
Switching & Actuation
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Switch Configuration | SPDT (Single-Pole, Double-Throw) |
| Actuator Type | Magnetic latching solenoids |
| Termination | Unterminated (standard) / 50-ohm terminated (Option 7) |
| Switching Speed | 50 ms maximum |
| Switching Life | > 1,000,000 cycles |
| Contact Sequence | Break-before-make |
Electrical Control
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Solenoid Drive Voltage | 24 to 30 VDC |
Physical & Mechanical
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| RF Connector Options | User-specified (over 250 combinations possible) |
Electrical
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Solenoid Coil Resistance | 200 Ω |
| Solenoid Current | 120 mA @ 24 Vdc |
Environmental
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Non-Operating Temperature Range | -55 °C to +100 °C |
| Moisture Resistance | 95% RH at 40 °C |
| Shock Resistance | 50 g, 11 ms |
| Vibration Resistance | 0.06 inches double amplitude, 10 to 55 Hz |
Technology
Electromechanical Coaxial Switch
Applications
RF/Microwave Signal Routing, Automated Test Systems