Agilent Technologies Introduces 14 FieldFox Handheld Analyzers
August 31, 2012. Agilent Technologies Inc. today announced 14 FieldFox handheld analyzers that deliver bench-top-instrument accuracy in field-test environments. Designed for harsh conditions and hard-to-reach locations, FieldFox analyzers cover satellite communications, microwave backhaul, military communications, radar systems, and a range of additional applications.
FieldFox microwave analyzers can be configured as cable-and-antenna analyzers, spectrum analyzers, vector network analyzers, or all-in-one combination analyzers. Each compact, 6.6-pound (3.0-kg) package is available in four frequencies: 9, 14, 18, or 26.5 GHz.
To ensure durability in harsh field environments, the completely sealed enclosure is compliant with U.S. MIL-PRF-28800F Class 2 requirements. To enhance ease of use, the instrument has a vertical, or “portrait,” orientation and large buttons, allowing users to easily operate the unit with their thumbs, even while wearing gloves.
“Measuring up and earning a spot in our customer’s field kit is the driving idea behind the FieldFox analyzers,” said Guy Séné, president of Agilent’s Electronic Measurement Group. “These rugged performers equip on-the-go personnel to handle routine maintenance, in-depth troubleshooting, and anything in between.”
FieldFox microwave vector network analyzers provide full two-port S-parameter measurements with a remarkably low trace noise of ± 0.004 dB and dynamic range of 94 dB (up to 18 GHz). The VNAs offer a QuickCal function, which enables hassle-free calibration without external accessories.
FieldFox microwave spectrum analyzers provide amplitude accuracy of ±0.5 dB at power-up, with no warm-up required, allowing field users to instantly and precisely characterize transmitter power. They can detect more signals in the band of interest with phase noise of -111 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset, and measure low-level signals in the presence of high-power transmitters with spur-free dynamic range of 105 dB.
The combination analyzers’ base function is cable and antenna analysis, and users can configure the instrument to do spectrum and vector network analysis as well. To further save space in a field kit, FieldFox analyzers can be ordered with a built-in power meter, independent signal generator, vector voltmeter, interference analysis, variable DC source, frequency counter and built-in GPS receiver.
Among the 14 models are two new FieldFox RF combination analyzers: the N9913A (4 GHz) and the N9914A (6.5 GHz). These models expand Agilent’s RF lineup, which already includes the highly integrated N9912A RF analyzer (4 or 6 GHz) and the highly accurate N9923A RF vector network analyzer (4 or 6 GHz).
List prices for the microwave units start at $13,000 for the 9-GHz base model.