RF-Microwave Laboratory

Overview

Our laboratory is equipped to perform testing of active and passive RF/microwave devices and antennas. We have has equipment that covers from DC to 26.5 GHz and in some cases as high as 50 GHz. Most equipment can be computer controlled via GPIB or RS-232 to facilitate data acquisition and automated test and measurement.

Access Policy

Clients engaged in long term contracts receive first priority lab access, but access for short term and hourly projects can often be accommodated. Call in advance to verify availability. We do not rent equipment, but we do occasionally sell excess equipment as we upgrade the laboratory.

Below is a list of some of the equipment available in the lab. We are constantly upgrading so the list may not include everything we have. If you need access to something special let us know, we may accelerate our acquisition schedule to meet your needs.

Calibration

Please note that while all our equipment is fully functional every not piece has a current calibration traceable to NIST. If you really need 100% NIST traceability we suggest that you seek out a full-service certification lab. If on the other hand you are in the test & debug phase, looking for relative performance differences, or want pre-certification tests then we most likely save you some time and a lot of money.

RF-Microwave Vector Network Analyzer

Agilent / HP 8510C Opt 010

Vector network analyzer makes broadband measurements from 45 MHz to 50 GHz in 2.4 mm coax, from 45 MHz to 110 GHz in 1.0 mm coax and from 33 GHz to 110 GHz in waveguide bands. The 8510C network analyzer measures the magnitude, phase, and group delay of two-port networks to characterize their linear behavior.

▪Thru-Reflect-Line precision two-port calibration for coaxial measurements
▪ Line-Reflect-Match calibration for on-wafer and in-fixture applications
▪ 45 MHz to 110 GHz frequency range
▪ Real-time error-corrected measurements
▪ >60 dB effective directivity and source match
▪ 80 to 100 dBm of dynamic range available
▪ >0.001 dB, 0.01 degree, 0.01 ns measurement resolution
▪ Data storage on an internal 3.5 disk drive or data output to an HP-IB or serial (RS-232) plotter or printer
▪ Four S-parameter color display

▪ Option 010 = Time Domain Capability

Agilent / HP 8515A

The S-parameter Test Set architecture is ideal for measuring two port devices where it is not convenient to reverse the device to measure the reverse parameters, or for networks that need to be adjusted while being measured with full error-correction employed.

Pasternack PE310-KIT

Microwave test cables for Agilent and Anritsu VNAs and additional test equipment with 3.5mm NMD connector ports. These highly flexible test cables have excellent electrical characteristics with outstanding phase and amplitude stability. The unique interchangeable connector head can be configured for DUT applications that require Precision 7mm (PC-7), N, 3.5mm, SMA or 2.92mm connectors.

Features:
▪ Broad VNA Coverage, Including Agilent & Anritsu
▪ DC to 26.5 GHz
▪ End A: 3.5mm NMD Connector
▪ End B: Interchangeable Connector Head
▪ A pair of Test Cables with Set

HP / Agilent 85050C

The 85050C Precision Calibration Kit contains a set of calibration standards used to calibrate the 8510 Network Analyzer for measuring devices with precision 7mm connectors. The standards are for use with the offset load and TRL calibration methods. The kit contains open and short circuits, fixed terminations, and a precision airline section (7mm long). Also included are a connector gage and tools for maintaining the connector interfaces.

Features:
▪ DC to 18 GHz frequency range
▪ Calibration standards to perform full two-port calibration
▪ Precision 50 ohm airline for Thru-Reflect-Line (TRL) calibration
▪ Torque wrenches for properly connecting standards
▪ Adapters to change the sex of the test port
▪ Standard definitions on disk

HP / Agilent 85052D

The 85050D Mechanical Calibration Kit contains a set of calibration standards used to calibrate the 8510 Network Analyzer for measuring devices with precision 3.5mm connectors.

Features:
▪ Kit also contains adapters to change the sex of the test port, connector gages for verifying and maintaining the connector interface, and a torque wrench for proper connection
▪ Included are standards definitions on disk for the 8510C
▪ 0.045 GHz to 26.5 GHz frequency range

HP / Agilent 85039A

The HP 85039A Kit contains type-F male open, short, and load standards to calibrate the 8752C, the 8753, and 75 ohm test sets for measurement of devices with 75 ohm type-F connectors. The kit also includes type-N to type-F adapters. The frequency range is DC to 3 GHz.

RF-Microwave Spectrum Analyzers

Agilent / HP 8566B

Microwave spectrum analyzer provides synthesizer accuracy from 100 Hz through 22 GHz; up to 325 GHz with external mixers. Resolution bandwidth of 10 Hz through 3 MHz. Fully GPIB programmable. This unit has been retrofitted with a color TFT screen from TestEquipmentPlus.

Agilent / HP 8569B

Microwave spectrum analyzer with GPIB interface. Covers 10 MHz through 22 GHz, up to 40 GHz and beyond with optional external mixers. Resolution bandwidth of 100 Hz through 3 MHz. Dynamic range -123 to +30dBm.

Agilent / HP 8569A

Microwave spectrum analyzer with internal comb generator option and GPIB interface. Covers 10 MHz through 22 GHz, up to 40 GHz and beyond with optional external mixers. Resolution bandwidth of 100 Hz through 3 MHz. Dynamic range -123 to +30dBm.

Agilent / HP 11970 Series Waveguide Mixers

Balanced Diode Mixers for extending the upper frequency range of the HP 8566B spectrum analyzer. Our kit consists of:
11970K - 18 to 26.5 GHz.
11970A - 26.5 to 40 GHz.
11970Q - 33 to 50 GHz.

HP 11971 Series Waveguide Mixer Kit

Balanced Diode Mixers for extending the upper frequency range of the HP8569A/B Analyzers. Kit consists of:
11971K - 18 to 26.5 GHz.
11971A - 26.5 to 40 GHz.

HP 11975A Microwave Amplifier

The 11975A Amplifier is a general-purpose, leveled microwave amplifier that has a frequency range of 2 to 8GHz and an adjustable output of +6 to +16 dBm. It has an adjustable bias current output port that supplies a maximum of +11 mA at +3 V. This bias current is needed by some external harmonic mixers. The amplifier has automatic leveling control (ALC) that can be switched on and off.

RF-Microwave Sources, Sweepers & Signal Generators

Agilent / HP 8340A

Synthesized signal generator with 1, 2, 3 or 4 Hz resolution depending on band from 10 MHz through 26.5 GHz, and output from -110 dBm to +10 dBm, AM and Pulse modulators, analog sweep and full GPIB control.

Agilent / HP 8341A Opt 001, 006, 007

Synthesized signal generator with 1, 2, or 3 Hz resolution depending on band from 10 MHz through 20.0 GHz, and output from -110 dBm to +10 dBm, AM and Pulse modulators, analog sweep and full GPIB control.

Agilent / HP 8657B Opt 022

Synthesized signal generator covers 100 KHz to 2060 MHz with 1 Hz resolution. Output power +13 to -143.5 dBm into 50.5 ohms. Low FM and SSB phase noise, level accuracy within 1 dB, carrier phase adjustment to 1 degree, AM/FM modulation, GPIB, GMSK modulation option.

Gigatronics 610 Opt 03

Synthesized signal / sweep generator with 1 kHz resolution from 10 MHz to 8 GHz and output from -110 to +10 dBm, AM, FM, Pulse modulators and full GPIB control.

Agilent / HP 3325B

Synthesized function / signal generator covers from 1 micro Hertz to 21 MHz with sine, square, triangle and ramp waveforms. AM/FM and sweep capabilities. Full GPIB control.

Agilent / HP 8444A Opt 059

Tracking generator provides leveled output (+/- 0.5 dB) from 500 kHz through 1.5 GHz when used with above HP 8569A analyzer. Auxiliary RF output provides precision frequency measurements with external counter.

Agilent / HP 938A

Frequency doubler provides 18 to 26.5GHz output with 9 to 13.5 GHz input. Output power 0.5 to 1 mW, Output monitor accuracy ±2 dB, Output attenuator 100 dB ± 2% of reading or 0.2 dB.

Agilent / HP 940A

Frequency doubler provides 26.5 to 40GHz output with 13.25 to 20GHz input. Output power 0.5 to 1 mW, Output accuracy ±2 dB, Output attenuator 100 dB ± 2% of reading or 0.2 dB.

Agilent / HP 346B

Noise source covering 10 MHz to 18 GHz with ENR between 14 and 16 dB.

HP / Symetricon 58503A

GPS Time and Frequency Reference Receiver with 10 MHz and 1 PPS Outputs. Locked frequency accuracy < 1x10 ^-12 for a one-day average, locked time accuracy < 110 ns with respect to UTC.

HP 5087A Opt 033

10 MHz Distribution Amplifier with 1 input and 12 outputs and low phase noise.

RF-Microwave Meters & Counters

Agilent / HP 436A

Digital RF power meter with GPIB Interface. Frequency coverage from 100 kHz to 110 GHz depending on sensor. Sensors listed separately below.

Agilent / HP 438A

Dual sensor digital RF power meter with GPIB Interface. Frequency coverage from 100 kHz to 110 GHz depending on sensor. Sensors listed separately below.

Agilent / HP 8481A

Power sensor covers 10 MHz to 18 GHz, 1 micro Watts to 100 mW

Agilent / HP 8481H

Power sensor coves 10 MHz to 18 GHz, 100 micro Watts to 3 Watts.

Agilent / HP 8484A

Power sensor covers 10 MHz to 18 GHz, 0.1 nano Watts to 10 micro Watts

Agilent / HP 5342A

Microwave frequency counter with high stability time base, resolution to 1 Hz from 10 Hz to 18.5 GHz (actual 26.5 GHz), programmable frequency offsets, GPIB interface.

Agilent / HP 8970A

Noise figure meter that covers RF and microwave (with external local oscillator) measurements from 10MHz to at least 26.5GHz. Any IF between 10 and 1500MHz may be used. Displays both noise figure and gain, calibrated display on oscilloscope or recorder.

Leader 941D

Battery powered analog and Digital TV and FM signal level meter.

Miscellaneous RF-Microwave Devices

Eagle Return Loss Bridge Kit

Includes precision 5 Watt 50 ohm bridge that covers 5 MHz to 3 GHz with 40 dB directivity, power splitter rated to DC to 3 GHz, low-loss cables, precision short, termination, and 6 dB fixed attenuators.

Anritsu / Wiltron 87A50

Return Loss Bridge covers 2 to 18 GHz with 36 dB directivity.

Agilent / HP 85023C

The 85023C System Verification Kit contains a set of precision components used to perform a system verification procedure. The kit is used for 50-ohm, Type-N applications. The kit includes an open, short, 10 dB fixed attenuator, 50-ohm termination, and a source to directional bridge adapter. The frequency range of the unit is dc to 18GHz.

Agilent / HP 778D

The 778D Dual Directional Coupler is ideal for swept-frequency reflectometer testing of broadband coaxial components.

▪ Frequency range: 100 MHz to 2 GHz
▪ High directivity and close tracking of the auxiliary arms are featured
▪ Handles 50 W average power and peak power of 500 W
▪ 20 dB nominal coupling
▪ Primary line connector: Type-N(M/F)
▪ Auxiliary arms connectors: Type-N(F/F)

OPTIONS
" Option 011 = Provides type APC7/N(F) (primary line) and N(F/F) (auxiliary arms) connectors " Option 012 = Provides type N(m)/N(F) (primary line) and N(F/F) (auxiliary arms) connectors

Agilent / HP 8765B Opt 015 100

The Agilent 8765B offers excellent electrical and mechanical performance with broadband operation, high isolation, low SWR, long life, and exceptional repeatability.

▪ Frequency range DC to 20 GHz
▪ Unterminated single pole double throw switch
▪ Break-before-make
▪ Isolation: 110 dB -2.25 dB/GHz
▪ Insertion loss: < 0.2 dB + 0.025 dB/GHz
▪ SMA female connectors
▪ Voltage options covering drive voltages between 4.5-32 volts dc
▪ Option 890 includes printout of test results

Oscilloscopes

Tektronix MSO2024

Mixed Signal Digital Phosphor Oscilloscope. 200 MHz Bandwitdh, 1 GS/s, 1M Record Length, 4 + 16 Channels, Color Display, Mega sample record length of all channels, 5,000 wfm/s maximum waveform capture rate, Suite of advanced triggers, Serial Bus Trigger and Decode: I2C, SPI, CAN, LIN, and RS-232/422/485/UART serial triggering, decode, and analysis options

Tektronix 7854

Digital Storage and Waveform Processing Oscilloscope Mainframe with waveform calculator and GPIB interface. 400 MHz mainframe allows digital storage and processing on all plug-in modules, sampling modules provide TDR and wide bandwidth signal acquisition on repetitive events. Plugins listed below.

Tektronix 7T11A

Sampling timebase.

Tektronix 7S11

Vertical sampling unit.

Tektronix 7S12

TDR & General Purpose Sampler

Tektronix S4

Sampling head with 25 pico-second rise time (14 GHz effective bandwidth)

Tektronix S6

Sampling head with 35 pico-second rise time (11 GHz effective bandwidth)

Tektronix S52

Pulser 35 pico-second rise time, 200 mV step.

Tektronix 7B85

Delaying time base.

Tektronix 7A26

Dual trace vertical amplifier, 200 MHz bandwidth.

Tektronix P6106

Oscilloscope probes (2)

Radio Frequency Test Chambers

Concentric Technology Solutions TC-5062A

Compact desktop UHF TEM Cell with DUT rotator. Suitable for EMI, EMS testing up to 3 GHz. VSWR < 1.7 from 100 MHz ~ 3 GHz, Path Loss 22dB typical, effecitive shielding > 80 dB up to 2 GHz, Field Strength at test point 13 dB uV/m at 1 uV input.

Antennas

Standard Gain Horns

K-Band, 18 to 26.5 GHz, 15 dB, WR-42 guide, SMA adapter.

Pair of Electrometrics RGA-60 (EM-6961)

Dual Ridge Waveguide Horn, 1 to 18 GHz, VSWR 1.5 Max, Avg Gain 10.5 dB, Avg Beamwidth E-plane 53 degrees, H-Plane 48 degrees, Type N connector.

Pair of RadioShack 20-043

Discone Antenna, 25 to 1300 MHz, Omni, SO-239 Connector.

Low Frequency Test Equipment

Fluke 8024B

Hand held Digital Multimeter

Instek GDM-8255A

Benchtop Digital Multimeter. 199999 Counts Display, VFD Two Colors Display, Auto/Manual Ranging, 2/4 Wire Resistance Measurement, Temperature Measurement, True RMS (AC, AC+DC), Selectable Measurement Rate, Frequency Measurement, Max./Min., REL, dBm, Compare,Math, Store, Recall, dB

Agilent E3631A

Triple output programmable dc power supply. Provides 0 to +25V @ 1A, 0 to -25V @ 1A, and 0 to 6V @ 5 A. Dual meters. GPIB and RS-232 interfaces.

GPIB Interface

National Instruments

GPIB-USB-HS

High speed USB to GPIB interface.

Agilent / HP 37203A

GPIB Extenders allow remote control of GPIB instruments over long distance using standard coax. We have one pair of these.

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Last updated: March 25, 2010.