Agilent Technologies has expanded its flexible PNA-X family of network analyzers and vector network analyzers with 8.5 GHz models that more economically supports lower-frequency devices used in wireless communication applications (e.g., handsets, base stations, WLAN and other mobile communication devices).
These new solutions provide engineers developing and manufacturing active devices the flexibility to select just the right frequency required for their specific application. When characterizing active devices, the right mix of speed, performance and measurement integrity is critical to gaining a competitive edge. The new 8.5 GHz PNA-X offers excellent performance and capabilities needed to deliver on all fronts. Moreover, its lower cost and frequency bring advanced measurement capabilities to the cost-sensitive wireless communication device market, where reduced test time, number of test stations and test cost are critical.
With low-noise amplifier tests there are typically multiple test stations, such as small signal gain/match, distortions and noise figure; the PNA-X integrates these test stations into one. By integrating measurements from multiple test stations into one, the PNA-X reduces the number of test stations by as much as 75 percent and reduces costs by 30 percent.
The new 8.5 GHz model also now brings the NVNA solution to engineers working in the RF and microwave frequency ranges. Agilent’s NVNA is the industry’s first measurement and simulation environment for designing nonlinear components. The result is the highest level of insight into nonlinear device behavior, making the NVNA capability especially useful for scientists researching new RF technologies and engineers involved in designing today’s high-performance active devices. Using NVNA, X-parameters are measured and then used to create X-parameter models that can be imported into Agilent’s Advanced Design System (ADS) to simulate actual linear and nonlinear component behavior.
Key features of the PNA-X Series network analyzers include:
• Single-connection, multiple measurements. The configurable 2- or 4-port network analyzers offer a unique single-connection solution for CW and pulsed S-parameter, compression, intermodulation distortion (IMD) and noise figure measurements.
• Two built-in high-performance signal sources, making the PNA-X the industry’s only 2-port network analyzer with an internal second source. Sources offer high output power (+16 dBm), low harmonics (-60 dBc) and a wide power sweep range (40 dB).
• Industry’s widest range of measurement applications for amplifiers, converters or modules with linear and nonlinear characterizations. Applications include vector noise figure, gain compression, IMD, true differential and NVNA.
• Internal signal-routing switches. Switches provide increased flexibility for adding signal conditioning hardware or additional test equipment for single connection measurements.
• Internal pulse modulators and generators for fast, simplified pulse measurements—the only network analyzer to feature them. This advanced capability enables pulse measurements up to 30 times faster compared with other analyzers that require external generators and modulators.
U.S. Pricing and Availability
Agilent’s new 8.5 GHz, 2- or 4-port PNA-X model and PNA-X NVNA option are now available. Pricing is as follows:
N5249A-200 - PNA-X network analyzer, 2-port, Single Source - $55,390
N5249A-219 - Extended power range and bias tees option for 2-port PNA-X - $6,135
N5249A-224 - Internal second source, combiner and mechanical switches for 2-port PNA-X - $14,146
N5249A-400 - PNA-X network analyzer, 4-port dual source - $67,531
N5249A-419 - Extended power range and bias tees option for 4-port PNA-X - $11,332
N5249A-423 - Internal combiner and mechanical switches for 4-port PNA-X - $6,221
The NVNA option prices start at $39,582.
