Repair and Service Evaluation – HP/Agilent 8510C Network Analyzer System

The HP/Agilent 8510C Network Analyzer System is a modular instrument for two-port network characterization across microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies. It measures magnitude, phase, and group delay of linear networks, with optional time-domain response computation via inverse Fourier transform. The system architecture supports flexible configuration through selection of compatible RF sources, external S-parameter test sets, and test accessories to match specific measurement requirements.

– Technical Specifications

Frequency Coverage
• 45 MHz to 110 GHz (configuration-dependent)
• Coaxial measurements to 50 GHz in 2.4 mm connectors
• Coaxial measurements to 110 GHz in 1.0 mm connectors
• Waveguide band measurements from 33 GHz to 110 GHz

Measurement Parameters
• Two-port S-parameter magnitude and phase
• Group delay
• Time-domain response (inverse Fourier transform capability)

Dynamic Range
• System dynamic range: 68 dB to 93 dB (frequency-dependent)
• Receiver dynamic range: 85 dB to 106 dB (frequency-dependent)
• Typical operating range: 80 dB to 100 dB

Measurement Resolution
• Magnitude: 0.001 dB
• Phase: 0.01 degree
• Group delay: 0.01 ns

Output Impedance
• 50 Ohm

Display
• Four S-parameter color display

– Key Features

• Modular design with interchangeable RF sources and test set components
• Internal 3.5-inch disk drive for data storage
• IEEE-488 (GPIB) and RS-232 serial interfaces
• Compatible with HP 8360 series synthesized sweepers and HP 8340/8350 series sweep oscillators
• External S-parameter test sets (8514B, 8515A, 8517B examples) integrate for complete system
• AC power operation with three-prong grounded power cord

– Compatibility & Integration

RF sources include HP 8360 series synthesized sweepers and HP 8340/8350 series sweep oscillators. Standard S-parameter test sets such as the 8514B (45 MHz to 20 GHz), 8515A (45 MHz to 26.5 GHz), and 8517B (45 MHz to 50 GHz) are external and required for system completion. Source interconnect cables and calibration kits are typically ordered separately. HP 8510 Specifications and Performance Verification Software (part number 08510-10033) documents configuration-specific performance parameters.