[Test-Equipment] Opinions on HP-853A / HP-8557A Spectrum Analyzer

[David DiGiacomo]

>Here is my question:  Is this a good unit for my application?  Merits /
>flaws of the 853A?  Market value?

The main weakness of the 8557A is the switch fingers falling off.

$400 doesn't seem bad for a working system, but you could probably get
a Tek 2710 for just a little more.

>I checked out the last five years of posts on the archives before asking
>here and saw nothing .... so forgive me if this has been previously covered
>(where?).

HP equipment is usually discussed on the HP mailing list:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/hp_agilent_equipment/

Check the archives there for previous discussions.

> A good 141T system might be a better choice as plug in availability is high
> and Ive seen working ones with the .01-110MHz one included for as low as
> $250.

The digital storage of the 853A is much nicer, and the system is
smaller and lighter.
A 141T is a true boat anchor.