Wednesday, September 10, 2025

Keysight Unveils Two Frequency Extenders to Extend VNA up to 250 GHz

Keysight Technologies, announced the launch of two new millimeter-wave frequency extender modules – the NA5305A Frequency Extender up to 170 GHz and the NA5307A Frequency Extender up to 250 GHz – along with the 85065A Precision Calibration Kit 0.5 mm. These innovations expand Keysight’s broadband vector network analyzer (VNA) solutions, enabling engineers to perform fully calibrated single-sweep broadband S-parameter measurements from 100 kHz (or 10 MHz) to 170/250 GHz when paired with Keysight’s PNA/PNA-X VNAs and the N5292A Test Set Controller.

The new accessories provide a clear upgrade path for customers currently using Keysight’s 110 GHz or 120 GHz VNAs, delivering extended performance while maximizing their original investment.

The 85065A Precision Calibration Kit 0.5 mm ensures precise measurement accuracy up to 250 GHz, simplifying test setups for broadband characterization of sub-THz on-wafer and packaged components, including optical RF drivers, TIAs, PCBs, cables, packages, and passive devices. By reducing setup complexity and measurement cycles, engineers can accelerate design validation and shorten time-to-market.

As AI adoption drives demand for 1.6 Tb/s and 3.2 Tb/s data networks and wireless research advances into sub-THz frequencies, test and measurement systems must scale to meet the challenge. Keysight’s latest broadband VNA accessories address these needs, equipping engineers with the precision required to validate next-generation semiconductors, high-speed interconnects, and advanced wireless devices.

Also Read: Semtech Launches 2.5G FTTR Chipset for Next-Generation PON Networks

Key Benefits of the New Broadband VNA Accessories

  • Industry-leading dynamic range: Achieve 105 dB at 170 GHz to test lossy passive components, high-rejection filters, and active devices under varying power conditions.

  • Differential measurement capability: Validate differential active devices and ensure signal integrity in high-speed interconnects.

  • High-output power performance: Gain deeper insight into active components such as amplifiers, with maximum output power of 0 dBm at 170 GHz and –5 dBm at 220 GHz.

  • Comprehensive sub-THz test ecosystem: Support on-wafer and packaged measurements with compatible probes, adapters, and high-performance test cables.

Jens Klattenhoff, SVP and General Manager Systems Business Unit, FormFactor Inc. said: “We are proud to partner with Keysight to extend Infinity Probe Technology, WinCal, and MicroChamber® Technology and deliver a fully integrated on-wafer coaxial solution up to 250 GHz. Our new InfinityXF™ 250 GHz probe series, featuring advanced thin-film contact technology, empowers engineers to achieve fast, precise, and repeatable measurements from DC to sub-THz frequencies, driving significant time savings and simplified setup for accurate data across a wide range of next-generation semiconductor device RF applications.”

Dr. Stojan Kanev, General Manager, Advanced Semiconductor Test Division, MPI Corporation said: “This latest collaboration with Keysight marks a significant step forward, delivering a fully integrated 250 GHz solution that combines Keysight’s high-performance PNA-X platform with our advanced TITAN™ probe technology. Together with Keysight’s broadband extenders, this solution enables rapid deployment, seamless reconfiguration, and robust protection of sensitive system components, ensuring engineers achieve peak performance while safeguarding their investment.”

Joe Rickert, Vice President and General Manager, Keysight High-Frequency Measurements Center of Excellence said: “With the introduction of our 170 and 250 GHz broadband VNA extenders, we are delivering the performance engineers need to validate next-generation semiconductors and high-speed network components. By combining industry-leading dynamic range and output power with a complete 0.5 mm coaxial ecosystem, we enable a simplified, high-confidence path for their high-frequency measurements.”

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