The Keysight Agilent E8356A is a high-performance vector network analyzer belonging to the PNA Series platform. Operating over a frequency range of 300 kHz to 3 GHz, it delivers the speed and precision required for demanding RF component test applications. Featuring standard direct receiver access for extended dynamic range, built-in bias tees for active devices, and a four-receiver architecture enabling TRL/LRM calibration, the E8356A is highly optimized for both on-wafer and in-fixture component characterization.
Specifications
General
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Interfaces | GPIB, LAN, USB, Parallel (LPT), Serial (RS-232), PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse, VGA Out |
| Display | 8.4-inch color active-matrix LCD with touch screen |
Physical
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | 100 to 240 VAC (±10%), 50 to 60 Hz, 280 W typical (350 W maximum) |
| Operating Temperature | 5 to 40 °C |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 425 mm × 267 mm × 501 mm |
| Weight | 26.0 kg |
Frequency Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 300 kHz to 3 GHz |
| Frequency Resolution | 1 Hz |
| Number of Test Ports | 2 |
| Number of Receivers | 4 (enabled for TRL/LRM) |
| Test Port Impedance | 50 Ω nominal |
Receiver & Dynamic Range Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Direct Receiver Access Dynamic Range | 143 dB (typical @ 10 Hz IFBW) |
| Direct Receiver Access | Optional (Option 014) |
Test Port Output Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Level Resolution | 0.01 dB |
Measurement Accuracy & Calibration
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Calibration Methods Supported | TRL, LRM, SOLT, Offset Short, Response, Isolation |
| Electronic Calibration (ECal) Compatibility | Compatible with Agilent/Keysight ECal modules |
Measurement Speed & Performance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| IF Bandwidth (IFBW) Range | 1 Hz to 40 kHz |
| Number of Measurement Points per Sweep | 1 to 16001 |
Measurement Capabilities & Display
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Sweep Types | Linear frequency, log frequency, power sweep, segment sweep |
| Display Channels | Up to 32 independent channels |
| Traces per Channel | Up to 16 traces |
System & Rear Panel Interfaces
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Internal Bias Tees | Optional (Option UNL) |
| Test Port Connector Type | Type-N female (50 Ω) |
| 10 MHz Reference Input | Rear panel BNC female |
| 10 MHz Reference Output | Rear panel BNC female |
Software, Control & Storage
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows OS |
| Internal Storage | Internal Hard Disk Drive |
| Remote Control Language | SCPI / COM / DCOM |
Physical & Environmental
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature Range | -40 to +70 °C |
Source
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Source Power Range (Standard) | -15 to +5 dBm |
| Source Power Range (Option 1E1) | -85 to +5 dBm |
| Power Level Accuracy | ±1.0 dB (at -15 to +5 dBm) |
Receiver
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Test Port Input Level (Damage) | +30 dBm or 40 VDC |
Frequency
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Internal Timebase Accuracy | ±1 ppm |
| Internal Timebase Aging | ±1 ppm/year |
Speed
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Measurement Speed (201 points, 35 kHz IFBW) | 35 ms (uncorrected) |
Rear Panel Connections
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| External Trigger Input | BNC female, TTL compatible |
| External Trigger Output | BNC female, TTL compatible |
| Bias Tee Inputs | BNC female, max 500 mA, 40 VDC |
Inputs & Outputs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| USB Ports | 4 ports (Type-A, USB 1.1 compliant) |
| LAN Interface | 10/100 Base-T (RJ-45) |
| VGA Video Output | 15-pin D-sub |
| GPIB Ports | 2 ports (1 x Talker/Listener, 1 x Controller) |
| Serial Port | 9-pin D-sub (RS-232) |
| Parallel Port | 25-pin D-sub (IEEE 1284) |
| PS/2 Ports | 2 ports (1 x Keyboard, 1 x Mouse) |
Power
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Power Consumption | 350 W |
| AC Input Voltage | 100 to 240 VAC (±10%), 50 to 60 Hz |
Environmental
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating Altitude | 0 to 3,000 meters (9,842 ft) |
| Storage Altitude | 0 to 15,240 meters (50,000 ft) |
| Operating Humidity | 5% to 90% RH (non-condensing) |
Compliance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| EMC Compliance | Complies with IEC/EN 61326-1, CISPR 11 Group 1 Class A |
| Safety Compliance | Complies with IEC/EN 61010-1, CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 1010.1 |
Technology
Vector Network Analysis
Applications
RF Component Characterization and Test