Tracking Generator Solution for HP S/A

[jlmoon]

Hello all,

I am in need of a Tracking Generator solution for a Hp 8563A spectrum analyzer, does anyone know of a good match / fit for this series of equipment?  I know hp made a 85640A but that device covers up to 2.9Ghz, this seems to be a bit of a mismatch for a analyzer that is good for >20Ghz.  Any suggestions?  Trade for a new one.. , kick it to the curb...

Thanks in advance,

JLM

[cyr]

What are your requirements?

I've cobbled together something useable for the first two bands of my 8562E (0-2.9GHz and 2.7-6.5GHz) from a few ebay parts and a RF synthesizer chip.

Essentially this, but different components and two settings for the oscillator frequency:

http://www.qsl.net/n9zia/tracking/index.html

It has no ALC, level adjustment or filters for unwanted spurs - but it works reasonably well for filters and antennas etc.

[G0HZU]

I think the official solution is the 26.5GHz HP85645A tracking source and these were made in the 1990s. The HP85644A is similar but only covers to about 7GHz.

But these are rare and usually command big prices despite their age. The HP85645A cost about $30k when new. The 7GHz version cost about $23k new. They often sell for about $8k used which reflects the supply and demand situation due to the rarity.

I've got one here for my HP8566B analyser but I don't really want to sell it. You can use it as a signal generator as well as a tracking source and that's what I use it for the most. It's very accurate in terms of level from -80dBm to about +13dBm in both tracking and sig gen mode.

[G0HZU]

I think the best thing to do would be to keep the HP8563 and just keep a lookout for a decent VNA. eg a 6GHz HP8753C/D will usually cost less than the HP85644A 7GHz tracking source and a LOT less than the HP85645A tracking source. Also it will totally outclass the analyser + tracking source in terms of accuracy and versatility, especially if you get a full two port version of the 8753 VNA.

But it all depends on what you want to do and how much you want to spend.

[pe2ben]

How do you think about this tracking generator?
https://www.dsinstruments.com/product/rf-tracking-generators/12ghz-tracking-signal-generator/
Regards Ben