Agilent/Keysight N1996A

The Agilent/Keysight N1996A is a portable spectrum analyzer engineered for RF and microwave signal analysis in production, laboratory, and field environments. This compact instrument combines spectrum analysis, network analysis, and power measurement capabilities in a single platform, delivering the resolution and sensitivity required for signal identification, modulation analysis, and interference characterization.

– Technical Specifications

Frequency Coverage:
• 100 kHz to 3 GHz (Option 503)
• 100 kHz to 6 GHz (Option 506)

Resolution & Video Bandwidth:
• Resolution bandwidth: 10 Hz to 5 MHz (adjustable in 10% steps from 10 Hz to 200 kHz, plus discrete steps to 5 MHz)
• Video bandwidth: 1 Hz to 8 MHz or 1 Hz to 50 MHz

Signal Sensitivity & Dynamic Range:
• Displayed average noise level (DANL): -156 dBm/Hz normalized to 1 Hz with preamp; -138 dBm/Hz without preamp
• Third order intercept: +18 dBm
• Amplitude accuracy: ±0.5 dB (20 to 30 °C, peak detector, preamp off, 10 MHz to 1 GHz)
• Input attenuator: 0–40 dB in 1 dB steps
• Maximum input: +33 dBm continuous average power (attenuator ≥19 dB)

Phase Noise:
• -85 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset (500 MHz to 2.5 GHz, typical)
• -85 dBc/Hz at 30 kHz offset
• -124 dBc at 1 MHz offset (10 MHz to 2.2 GHz, nominal)

Sweep Performance:
• Zero-span sweep time: 2 µs to 10 s

– Key Features

• 8.4-inch (21 cm) XGA TFT color display with 1024 × 768 pixel resolution
• Rechargeable Lithium Ion battery: 10.8 VDC, ~6 A, 2+ hours operation per charge
• AC/DC converter powered option: 15 VDC, 150 W external supply
• USB 1.1 and 100 Base-T LAN connectivity with SCPI remote control
• Type N female RF input (50 Ω) with tracking generator output
• Frequency reference input/output and external trigger capability
• Compact dimensions: 177 × 425 × 232 mm (25 cm depth with bumpers)
• Weight: 7.5 kg (8.5 kg with batteries)

– Typical Applications

Production testing, design validation, field service, signal surveillance, and spectrum compliance verification across RF and microwave bands.

– Compatibility & Integration

Optional stimulus/response measurement suites expand measurement capability beyond baseline spectrum analysis functionality.