The E4980B and E4980BL are precision LCR meters that measure the impedance characteristics of passive components and materials using a four-terminal-pair configuration. The E4980B covers a test frequency range of 20 Hz to 2 MHz. The E4980BL provides the same core measurement architecture with an upper frequency limit set by its installed frequency option: 20 Hz to 300 kHz (option -032), 20 Hz to 500 kHz (option -052), or 20 Hz to 1 MHz (option -102).

An LCR meter applies a known test signal to a device under test and derives the component's inductance, capacitance, resistance, and related parameters from the resulting voltage and current. This series measures a broad parameter set, including Cp/Cs, Lp/Ls, D, Q, G, Rp, Rs, R-X, Z-phase, G-B, and Y-phase, with both parallel and series equivalent-circuit models selectable. A deviation measurement function can output the deviation from a reference value or the percentage of deviation from that reference.

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Brand Heritage

These instruments are manufactured by Keysight Technologies. Keysight's test and measurement heritage traces back to Hewlett-Packard, whose measurement business was spun off as Agilent Technologies in 1999; Agilent's electronic measurement division then became Keysight Technologies in 2014.

Compare Other Models in This Series

The E4980B/E4980BL series is a family of precision LCR meters built on a common four-terminal-pair measurement architecture and parameter set, differentiated primarily by test frequency coverage. The E4980B is the 20 Hz to 2 MHz model. The E4980BL is offered with frequency options that set its upper limit to 300 kHz, 500 kHz, or 1 MHz.

Across the family, the measurement functions, compensation modes, list sweep, comparator, and interface options are shared, so the choice between models is driven by the highest test frequency an application requires and by which options (such as the Power and DC Bias enhancement) are installed.

Each new model below links to its own dedicated product page with condition-matched pricing. Select the model and frequency configuration that fits your application, then review that page for its specific new availability and configuration.

The E4980B is the top-frequency member of the series, providing test frequencies up to 2 MHz with frequency resolution down to 1 kHz in the 1 MHz to 2 MHz segment and as fine as 0.01 Hz at the low end of its range.

The defining difference among these models is the upper test frequency limit: 2 MHz for the E4980B, versus 1 MHz, 500 kHz, or 300 kHz for the E4980BL depending on its installed frequency option (-102, -052, or -032). The comparison table that follows lists each model's frequency coverage alongside the shared measurement and interface specifications.

Configuration options also distinguish individual units. The Power and DC Bias enhancement (Option 001) is installable on the E4980B but is shown as not installable on the E4980BL, while the handler (Option 201) and scanner (Option 301) interfaces are installable on both. Refer to each model's row in the table to confirm which capabilities apply to that configuration.

Additional differences in specifications beyond the few shown above are not listed here — see each model's full specifications below.

Product Core & Specifications

Important: Maximum discharge withstand voltage: 1000 V (for capacitors under 2 uF). Discharge capacitors before connecting them to the UNKNOWN terminal or a test fixture to avoid damage to the instrument.

Important: Option 001 (Power and DC Bias enhancement) is installable on the E4980B only; it is not installable on the E4980BL.

Important: The Vdc-Idc measurement function is available only when Option 001 is installed.

Recommended pairing: the 16048A/D/E test leads named in the relative-accuracy conditions supply the 0 m, 1 m, 2 m, and 4 m four-terminal-pair cable lengths the specifications are based on.

ValueTronics supplies both new and used test and measurement equipment. New units ship factory-sealed, exactly as received from the manufacturer; every used unit is inspected and functionally verified in-house at our 20,000 sq ft secure facility in Elgin, Illinois before it ships. Our Test Architects can help you select the condition, calibration, and configuration that fit your application.

Please review the Manufacturer's Data Sheet to verify published specifications. Feedback on this webpage is always welcome — please reach out to your Test Architect at any time for questions or concerns. Thank you, we truly appreciate you being our customer.