Agilent / HP 54701A 2.5 GHz Active Probe

The Agilent/HP 54701A is a 2.5 GHz active probe designed for high-frequency signal integrity measurements on complex PCB circuits and high-speed digital/analog systems. It delivers minimal circuit loading through high input impedance and exceptionally low input capacitance, enabling accurate signal acquisition at internal nodes without introducing distortion. The probe’s 10:1 attenuation factor and ±0.5% DC gain accuracy support both AC and DC measurements across a dynamic range of ±5 V peak AC and ±50 V DC, with offset adjustment to ±50 V at the probe tip. Rise time under 140 ps and damped resonance at approximately 650 MHz ensure clean signal fidelity in demanding debugging applications.

– Technical Specifications

• Bandwidth: Greater than 2.5 GHz (-3 dB)
• Rise Time: Less than 140 ps
• Input Resistance: 100 kΩ ±1%
• Input Capacitance: Approximately 0.6 pF (typical)
• Attenuation Factor: 10:1
• DC Gain Accuracy: ±0.5%
• Dynamic Range: ±5 V peak AC and ±50 V DC
• Offset Adjustment Range: ±50 V (at probe tip)
• Maximum Input Voltage: ±200 V (DC + peak AC, below 20 MHz)
• ESD Tolerance: ±12 kV (150 Ω / 150 pF)
• Probe Resonance: Approximately 650 MHz (damped, no signal lead extension)

– Key Features

• Type N (female) output connector compatible with any 50-Ω measuring instrument
• Walking-stick ground design for optimal signal integrity
• Comprehensive accessory kit: Type N-to-BNC adapter, ground lead, replacement and sharp probe tips, probe tip sockets, and signal leads
• Optional Type N-to-APC 3.5 adapter (Option 001) for 54120 family compatibility
• Alternative adapters available: Type N-to-probe tip with 50-Ω termination (11880A) and BNC-to-probe tip (10218A)

– Typical Applications

High-speed digital circuit debugging, analog signal characterization, PCB-level signal integrity analysis, and complex system troubleshooting where low loading and minimal distortion are critical.

– Compatibility & Integration

Designed for HP 54700 Series oscilloscopes and any instrument with 50-Ω input. Powers directly from oscilloscope front panel connector or via the optional 1143A Probe Offset Control and Power Module, which supports two 54701A probes simultaneously.