Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753 Series Vector Network Analyzers
4 models with full specifications from Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP).
The Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753 family of RF vector network analyzers is an industry-standard platform designed for the complete characterization of active and passive RF components. Operating across various ranges up to 3 GHz or 6 GHz (with options for higher frequencies on specific models), this series is optimized for measuring S-parameters, magnitude, phase, group delay, and impedance. It serves design engineers and manufacturing test environments looking to evaluate reflection and transmission characteristics with precision.
- Frequency Range
- 30 kHz (300 kHz for 8753C) to 3 GHz / 6 GHz
- Impedance Options
- 50 Ohm or 75 Ohm
- Measurement Channels
- 2 independent channels
- Test Set Integration
- Built-in (except 8753C which requires an external set)
Models in this series
| Model | Type | Display | Frequency Range | Frequency Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8753ES | Vector | 8.4-inch Color LCD (640 x 480 pixels) | 30 kHz to 3 GHz / 6 GHz (frequency-option dependent) | 1 Hz |
| 8753D | Vector | Color display with 2 independent measurement channels | 30 kHz to 3 GHz (standard); 30 kHz to 6 GHz (with option) | 1 Hz |
| 8753E | Vector | Color LCD | 30 kHz to 3 GHz (standard) / 30 kHz to 6 GHz (with Option 006) | 1 Hz |
| 8753C | Vector | Color CRT | 300 kHz to 3 GHz | 1 Hz |
Evolution of the 8753 Platform
The 8753 series evolved from needing external S-parameter test sets to possessing fully integrated internal measurement sets. The Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753C represents an earlier generation that requires an external test set and operates from 300 kHz to 3 GHz. It is equipped with a color CRT display.\n\nWith the introduction of the Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753D, the S-parameter test set was integrated directly into the mainframe, allowing direct forward and reverse measurements. Additionally, the frequency range of the base model was lowered to 30 kHz (extending up to 3 GHz standard, or 6 GHz with an option), and the unit offered up to 110 dB of dynamic range.
Display and Usability Upgrades
The series modernized its display and storage interfaces over time. The Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753E features a color LCD and includes an internal 3.5-inch floppy disk drive for storage. It provides two independent measurement channels and can show up to four parameters simultaneously using split-screen or overlay formats.\n\nThe Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753ES features an 8.4-inch color LCD (640 x 480 pixels) and advanced calibration capabilities like full two-port calibration. Like the E model, the ES has a built-in test set and supports frequency extensions up to 6 GHz, with specific options allowing ranges up to 20 GHz.
Source and Calibration Capabilities
Each instrument in the 8753 series offers distinct source characteristics. The Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753C has a source output range of -5 dBm to +20 dBm with a 25 dB power sweep range and 0.1 dB resolution. In comparison, the Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753ES provides a standard output range of -5 to +10 dBm, 0.01 dB level resolution, and a typical power sweep range of 15 dB. For mixer testing, the 8753C and 8753D support frequency offset capabilities to capture conversion loss and related mixer metrics.
Frequently asked questions
- Which 8753 models have an integrated S-parameter test set?
- The Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753D, Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753E, and Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753ES feature integrated S-parameter test sets. Only the Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753C requires an external test set.
- What is the lowest frequency limit for the 8753 series?
- The Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753C has a minimum frequency limit of 300 kHz. The newer Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753D, Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753E, and Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP) 8753ES models extend down to 30 kHz.