HP / Agilent 8714ET 3GHz RF Network Analyzer

The HP/Agilent 8714ET is a 3 GHz RF vector network analyzer engineered for high-volume manufacturing and production testing. This compact, integrated instrument combines a synthesized source, transmission/reflection test set, multi-mode receivers, and display to measure S-parameters, impedance, gain, return loss, and isolation across RF components including filters, amplifiers, antennas, cables, and mixers. Available in both 50-ohm and 75-ohm configurations.

– Technical Specifications

Frequency & Source
• Frequency range: 300 kHz to 3 GHz
• Synthesized source with 1 Hz resolution
• Output power: up to +16 dBm
• Step attenuator option (1E1) extends minimum power setting to −60 dBm

Measurement Capabilities
• S-parameters, transmission/reflection (T/R), magnitude and phase
• Complex impedance, SWR, delay, gain/insertion loss, isolation, return loss
• Reflection coefficient, electrical length, linear group delay
• Gain compression, AM-to-PM conversion, absolute power

Performance
• Dynamic range: 100 dB
• Sweep speed: 40 ms per sweep
• Directivity: 47 dB (typical)
• Source match (reflection): 42 dB (typical)
• Reflection tracking: ±0.02 dB (typical)
• Transmission tracking (enhanced response calibration): ±0.039 dB (typical)

Test Architecture
• Two independent measurement channels with dual-mode, three-channel receivers
• Narrowband and broadband detection with vector error correction
• Maximum input: 20 dBm; input impedance: 50 Ω
• Test port: Type N Female (50 Ω)

– Key Features

• Real-time sweep capability for high-speed production testing
• Digital signal processing with microprocessor control
• Internal Agilent Instrument BASIC (IBASIC) programming with keystroke recording for test automation
• LAN (10Base-T), GP-IB, and parallel interfaces
• External VGA monitor connection for enhanced display capability

– Typical Applications

Filter and amplifier characterization, antenna impedance matching, cable loss and insertion phase measurement, mixer performance evaluation, return loss and reflection coefficient determination, structural return loss mapping (with Option 100).

– Compatibility & Integration

Code compatible with earlier 8714 family models, enabling legacy test program reuse. Programmable control via industry-standard interfaces supports integration into automated test environments and production floors.