Agilent / Keysight 8591A 9kHz-1.8GHz RF Spectrum Analyzer

The Agilent/Keysight 8591A is a portable RF spectrum analyzer covering 9 kHz to 1.8 GHz, engineered for general-purpose spectrum analysis in telecommunications, research and development, and manufacturing environments. It delivers wide dynamic range and high sensitivity across its frequency span, with amplitude measurements from -115 dBm to +30 dBm and resolution bandwidth selectable from 30 Hz to 1 MHz in 1, 3, 10 increments.

– Technical Specifications

Frequency Performance
• Frequency range: 9 kHz to 1.8 GHz
• Frequency accuracy: 7.5 ppm (standard)
• Frequency reference aging: ±1 × 10⁻⁷/day (standard); ±1 × 10⁻⁷/year (optional precision reference)
• Temperature stability: ±5 × 10⁻⁶ (standard); ±1 × 10⁻⁸ (precision reference option)
• Marker count accuracy: ±230 Hz at 1 GHz with optional precision frequency reference
• Frequency span: 0 Hz (zero span) or 10 kHz to 1.8 GHz

Amplitude Characteristics
• Amplitude range: -115 dBm to +30 dBm
• Displayed average noise level: -115 to -113 dBm
• Input attenuator: 0 to 60 dB in 10 dB steps
• Reference level: -115 to +30 dBm (50 Ω); -63 to +75 dBmV (75 Ω)
• Absolute frequency response: ±1.5 dB (referenced to 300 MHz CAL OUT)
• Relative flatness: ±1.0 dB
• Log incremental accuracy: ±0.2 dB/2 dB (0 to -70 dB from reference level)
• Linear accuracy: ±3% of reference level

Resolution Bandwidth
• Range: 30 Hz to 1 MHz in 1, 3, 10 increments
• Accuracy: ±30% and 3 MHz

– Key Features

• Built-in memory card reader for measurement storage and custom personality loading
• Zero span capability for time-domain analysis
• Dual impedance support: 50 Ω and 75 Ω inputs
• Optional precision frequency reference (Option 004) for enhanced accuracy
• Multiple amplitude scale units: dBm, dBmV, dBmicroV, Volts, Watts
• Marker readout resolution: 0.05 dB (log) or 0.07% of reference level (linear)

– Typical Applications

• RF signal characterization and troubleshooting
• Electromagnetic interference (EMI) measurement
• Transmitter and receiver testing
• Component and subsystem validation across VHF, UHF, and low microwave bands

– Compatibility & Integration

The 8591A operates as a standalone instrument with internal calibration reference and external connectivity for integration into larger test systems.