The Keysight PNA-X measurement receiver and PNA/PNA-X series network analyzers
incorporate new technologies and features to provide better performance and capabili-
ties for antenna and radar cross-section (RCS) test applications.
High sensitivity
The Keysight PNA-X measurement receiver is a direct replacement for the previous
8530A model with fast throughput and higher measurement sensitivity.
The PNA/PNA-X analyzer has a mixer-based architecture providing excellent sensitivity.
With the PNA/PNA-X Series, you have the ability to select from a minimum of 29 differ-
ent IF bandwidths. This allows you to optimize the sensitivity versus measurement speed
tradeoff to fit particular measurement and application requirements.
With the PNA/PNA-X Series analyzer, you can maximize sensitivity with remote mixing
by adding Option 020, IF Access. This option allows you to use an externally generated
IF and bypass the PNA-X’s internal first down-converter. Front loops can also improve
sensitivity by about 15 dB by bypassing the coupler.
Legacy (E836xC) PNA Series analyzers provide maximum sensitivity with remote mixing
by adding Option H11, IF Access. This option allows you to use an externally generated
8.33 MHz IF and bypass the PNA’s internal first down-converter. Option 014 can also
improve sensitivity by about 15 dB by adding reference links that allow you to bypass the
coupler.
Increased speed
Extremely fast data transfer rates with the network analyzers are accomplished using
the COM/DCOM features. LAN connectivity through a built-in 10/100 Mb/s LAN inter-
face enables the PC to be distanced from the test equipment. Together these features
provide remote testing and reduced test time.
Option 118 ads fast CW mode and provides a data acquisition speed of more than
400,000 points per second; with up to five measurement receivers simultaneously.
Flexibility and accuracy
Up to five simultaneously test receivers (A, B, C, D and R) are available in the PNA-X
measurement receiver, four receivers in PNA/PNA-X standard, and five receivers in PNA/
PNA-X Option 020; with each receiver capable of measuring up to 400,000 points of
data.
Option 080 enables the PNA/PNA-X Series analyzers to set the source frequency indepen-
dently from where the receivers are tuned. The user may enter multiplier and offset values
to describe how the instrument’s receivers track the source frequency. With Option 080,
PNA reference receiver power levels can be below the phase lock level since phase locking
is performed separately. You can attain exceptionally accurate antenna measurements
by combining Option H11, IF access, with Option 080, Frequency-offset capability and
advanced triggering.
PNA-X measurement receivers and PNA/PNA-X analyzers support synchronization with
external signal generators which can further enhance performance and greatly improve
measurement accuracy.
2. Overview of antenna applications using Keysight
PNA Series network analyzers
05 | Keysight | Antenna Test – Selection Guide