Author Topic: HP 8505A, Agilent 8714ET...dilemma?  (Read 512 times)

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Offline wd5jfrTopic starter

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HP 8505A, Agilent 8714ET...dilemma?
« on: July 24, 2023, 11:43:00 pm »
I have one of each but I'd like to have S-parameter capability which I need to learn and use  for 440MHz and lower frequencies most likely at this time.  At 82 I'm trying to find good options to minimize expense and weight.  I don't have an HP 8503A test set and unless I find a good deal on one with APC-7 adapters with SMA or N connectors the 8505A becomes a shelf queen or back breaker until a viable option shows up.  I see HP 8712B and HP 8753D with N connectors at reasonable prices. Also might consider a nanoVNA but there are so many I don't have clue how to select the best for low frequency use and that has a big screen, low price irrelevant if it's good quality and reliable.  Any suggestions appreciated.
Thanks
Hank
 

Offline joeqsmith

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Re: HP 8505A, Agilent 8714ET...dilemma?
« Reply #1 on: July 25, 2023, 12:16:50 am »
Basic NanoVNA attached to a PC would get you a large screen but can you deal with the square wave drive and  lack of being able to set the input and out attenuation, along with no DC bias T's?   

Offline colorado.rob

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Re: HP 8505A, Agilent 8714ET...dilemma?
« Reply #2 on: July 25, 2023, 02:37:03 pm »
I agree with Joe. NanoVNA does most of what I need in a VNA. If that's not good enough, modern VNAs from Siglent weigh next to nothing and are reasonably priced. I have a number of boat anchors that I only turn on when absolutely needed because moving them to where they are needed can be so damned difficult. Maybe one day I will have a lab with enough room and bench space that it's not an issue.
 


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