Agilent/Keysight 8720A

The Agilent/Keysight 8720A is a microwave network analyzer engineered for vector S-parameter measurements across RF and microwave frequencies. Built with an integrated swept synthesized source, switching test set, and dual independent display channels, the instrument delivers dynamic range exceeding 85 dB and frequency resolution down to 1 Hz. It serves production testing, incoming inspection, and manufacturing characterization of components and systems without requiring external modules.

– Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 130 MHz to 20 GHz
• Dynamic Range: Greater than 85 dB
• Output Power: −65 dBm to −10 dBm (nominal 10 dBm)
• Frequency Resolution: 1 Hz (with Option 001)
• Display Channels: 2 independent channels
• Test Set: Integrated switching S-parameter architecture
• Source: Swept synthesized internal oscillator

– Key Features

• Vector accuracy enhancement built into calibration workflows
• Multiple display formats including Log Magnitude, Linear Magnitude, SWR, Phase, Group Delay, Polar, Real, and Smith Chart
• Vector network measurement capability across 130 MHz–20 GHz
• 3.5 mm connectors for test port interfaces
• Time Domain option (Option 010) for impulse response analysis
• External disk drive support for direct data save and recall

– Measurement Capabilities

The 8720A performs full S-parameter characterization with selectable output power levels from −65 dBm to −10 dBm. Dual-channel independent displays enable simultaneous measurement tracking and result comparison. Format flexibility spans magnitude (log and linear), phase response, group delay, SWR, polar coordinates, real impedance, and Smith Chart representations.

– Integration & Control

Full programmability via HP-IB bus enables integration with external control systems and automated test sequences. The instrument maintains backward compatibility with legacy remote programs developed for models 8753, 8720, and 8510, reducing migration effort in established test environments.