Keysight Technologies ESA Series Spectrum Analyzers

7 models with full specifications from Keysight Technologies (Agilent HP).

The Keysight Technologies (formerly Agilent HP) ESA Series consists of benchtop spectrum analyzers split into two distinct product lines: the mid-performance ESA-E Series and the basic configuration ESA-L Series. Engineered for general-purpose RF and microwave measurements, these instruments serve laboratory, manufacturing, and field environments. The ESA-E models, which include the E4402B, E4404B, E4405B, and E4407B, offer higher performance parameters and expanded frequency options. The ESA-L models, including the E4411B-BAS, E4403B-BAS, and E4408B-BAS, provide essential spectrum analysis capabilities with standard features optimized for cost-effective benchtop or service use. Across both series, the instruments deliver rapid measurements, rugged designs, and a fast 5-minute warm-up time.

Frequency Range
100 Hz to 26.5 GHz (model dependent)
Series Split
ESA-E (mid-performance) and ESA-L (basic)
Warm-up Time
5 minutes
Standard Display
16.5 cm (6.5 in) color VGA LCD

Models in this series

ModelTypeDimensions (W×H×D)Frequency RangeOperating Temperature
E4407BAgilent416 × 222 × 4099 kHz to 26.5 GHz (100 Hz to 26.5 GHz with Option UKB)0 to 55
E4402BAgilent350 mm (W) × 222 mm (H) × 410 mm (D)100 Hz to 3.0 GHz0 to 55 °C
E4404BAgilent373 × 222 × 4099 kHz to 6.7 GHz (100 Hz optional)0 to 55
E4405BAgilent373 × 222 × 4099 kHz to 13.2 GHz0 to 55
E4411B-BASAgilent373 × 222 × 4099 kHz to 1.5 GHz0 to 55
E4408B-BASAgilent373 × 222 × 4099 kHz to 26.5 GHz0 to 55
E4403B-BASAgilent373 × 222 × 4099 kHz to 3.0 GHz0 to 55

Mid-Performance ESA-E Spectrum Analyzers

The ESA-E Series is designed for users needing advanced measurement versatility and tighter tolerances. This line includes four primary models spanning various frequency ranges: the E4402B (100 Hz to 3.0 GHz), the E4404B (9 kHz to 6.7 GHz), the E4405B (9 kHz to 13.2 GHz), and the E4407B (9 kHz to 26.5 GHz). Both the E4404B and E4407B can have their frequency ranges extended down to 100 Hz via optional configurations.

These analyzers offer excellent amplitude control, featuring an overall absolute amplitude accuracy of ±0.4 dB and an input attenuator range of 0 to 65 dB adjustable in 5 dB steps. The E4402B features a phase noise of -98 dBc/Hz at a 10 kHz offset with a 1 GHz carrier, while the E4407B, E4404B, and E4405B provide a phase noise of <= -90 dBc/Hz under the same conditions.

Basic Configuration ESA-L Spectrum Analyzers

The ESA-L product line provides core spectrum analysis capabilities for budget-conscious test environments. Key models include the E4411B-BAS (9 kHz to 1.5 GHz), the E4403B-BAS (9 kHz to 3.0 GHz), and the E4408B-BAS (9 kHz to 26.5 GHz).

While sharing the same robust housing as the ESA-E family, the ESA-L units focus on basic testing requirements. For example, the E4411B-BAS comes standard with a 75-ohm RF input impedance, making it suitable for cable television and video applications. The E4403B-BAS and E4408B-BAS provide 50-ohm RF input impedances, with the high-frequency E4408B-BAS featuring an APC-3.5 mm (male) front panel connector.

Physical and Operating Characteristics

Most models in the ESA series share physical chassis characteristics, with a standard operating temperature range of 0 to 55 °C. Weight varies slightly by model: the basic E4403B-BAS is the lightest at 13.2 kg, the E4402B weighs 15.5 kg, and the E4404B, E4405B, E4407B, and E4408B-BAS weigh 17.1 kg.

Standard power requirements accommodate worldwide AC networks, demanding less than 300 W of maximum power consumption. Interface choices across the series typically include GPIB, RS-232, and parallel printer connections, enabling integration into automated test setups.

Frequently asked questions

What is the typical warm-up time required for ESA series analyzers?
The ESA Series spectrum analyzers, including the E4407B, E4405B, E4411B-BAS, and E4408B-BAS, require a 5-minute warm-up time to achieve guaranteed measurement accuracy.
Are there any ESA models with a 75-ohm input impedance?
Yes, the E4411B-BAS spectrum analyzer is configured with a 75-ohm RF input impedance, whereas other models in the series like the E4407B and E4408B-BAS feature standard 50-ohm impedances.
How do the standard frequency references compare between models?
The standard frequency reference aging rate is ± 2 x 10^-6 / year for most models including the E4407B, E4404B, E4411B-BAS, E4408B-BAS, and E4403B-BAS. The E4402B has a standard aging rate of ± 1 x 10^-7 / year. Some models, like the E4404B, can achieve ± 1 x 10^-7 / year using Option 1D5.