HP / Agilent 11857D Test Port Cables, APC-7, 50 Ohms

The HP/Agilent 11857D is a precision test port cable set comprising two APC-7 terminated cables for RF and microwave S-parameter measurements. Operating from 300 kHz to 6 GHz, this 50 Ohm impedance cable pair extends test ports on S-parameter test sets like the Agilent 85046A, enabling flexible measurement configurations in demanding laboratory environments.

– Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 300 kHz to 6 GHz
• Impedance: 50 Ohms nominal
• Cable Length: 61 cm (24 inches) per cable
• Return Loss:
– ≥ 24 dB from 300 kHz to 3 GHz
– ≥ 20 dB from 3 GHz to 6 GHz
• Phase Match (Standard): ≤ 4 degrees at 2 GHz
• Phase Match (Optional): ± 2 degrees at 1.3 GHz
• Weight: 0.91 kg (2 lbs) for cable set

– Key Features

• APC-7 Connectors: 7 mm genderless coaxial connectors at both ends, jointly developed by Hewlett-Packard and Amphenol per IEEE 287 and IEC 60457-2 standards
• Low Reflection Coefficient: APC-7 design minimizes signal reflection and establishes a well-defined reference plane
• High Repeatability: Genderless connector geometry ensures consistent, repeatable connections critical for precision metrology and calibration
• Wide Frequency Coverage: Mode-free operation from DC to 18 GHz on APC-7 connector interface
• Phase-Matched Options: Standard 4-degree matching or optional 2-degree matching available; Option B24 deletes phase match requirement between cables

– Typical Applications

• S-parameter measurement systems requiring extended test port reach
• RF and microwave laboratory test configurations
• High-accuracy calibration and characterization measurements
• Precision network analysis applications

– Compatibility & Integration

APC-7 connectors interface directly with equipment conforming to IEEE 287 and IEC 60457-2 standards. Adapter options enable connection to SMA, N, and 2.4 mm connectors. Maintain connector cleanliness by removing dirt and metallic particles using compressed air; avoid abrasives and incompatible solvents.