Keysight (Agilent) 8902A Measuring Receiver

The Keysight (Agilent) 8902A Measuring Receiver is a precision signal analysis instrument that combines high-performance power measurement with modulation analysis capabilities. Operating from 150 kHz to 1.3 GHz in its base configuration, the unit extends to 26.5 GHz with the optional 11793A microwave converter. It delivers tuned RF level dynamic range from 0 dBm to -127 dBm and offers digital power meter accuracy across carrier power ranges of +30 dBm to –20 dBm using standard filters, or +30 dBm to –10 dBm with the carrier noise filter.

The instrument analyzes AM, FM, and phase modulation with documented accuracy specifications: ±1% for AM (10 MHz to 150 MHz) and FM, ±2% for FM (250 kHz to 10 MHz), and ±3% for phase modulation. A built-in microprocessor controls automatic tuning, frequency selection, power level measurement, and modulation assessment across selectable measurement modes.

– Technical Specifications

Frequency Coverage
• Base unit: 150 kHz to 1.3 GHz
• With 11722A sensor module: 100 kHz to 2.6 GHz
• With 11792A sensor module: 50 MHz to 26.5 GHz
• Extended range to 26.5 GHz available with 11793A microwave converter

Power Measurement
• Tuned RF level dynamic range: 0 dBm to -127 dBm
• Carrier power range: +30 dBm to –20 dBm (with 12.5 kHz, 25 kHz, 30 kHz filters)
• Carrier power range: +30 dBm to –10 dBm (with carrier noise filter)
• RF power resolution: 0.01% of full scale in watts or volts; 0.01 dB in dBm or dB relative mode
• Response time: <10 seconds (range 1); <1 second (range 2); <100 milliseconds (ranges 3–5)
• Zero drift (1 hour, constant temperature): ±0.1% of full scale on lowest range

Modulation Analysis
• AM accuracy: ±1% (10 MHz to 150 MHz); ±2% (additional conditions)
• FM accuracy: ±2% (250 kHz to 10 MHz); ±1% to ±5% (10 MHz to 1300 MHz)
• Phase modulation accuracy: ±3%
• Residual FM: <8 Hz rms at 1300 MHz, decreasing to 90 dB (≤35 °C) for offsets ≥1 channel spacing or 5 kHz minimum

– Key Features

• Five RF power ranges (–20 dBm to +30 dBm) with 10 µW to 1 W coverage
• RF range linearity: ±0.02 dB (ranges 2–5); ±0.03 dB (range 1)
• Automatic tuning and mode selection via built-in microprocessor control
• Multiple filter options for carrier power measurement

– Typical Applications

• RF power verification and signal characterization
• Modulation quality assessment
• Carrier and noise floor analysis
• Multiband RF system validation from VHF through microwave frequencies

– Compatibility & Integration

• 11722A sensor module: 100 kHz to 2.6 GHz coverage
• 11792A sensor module: 50 MHz to 26.5 GHz coverage
• 11793A microwave converter: Extends base unit to 26.5 GHz