The Keysight PNA-X network analyzer family — comprising the N5249B, N5241B, and N5242B — is a line of 2-port and 4-port microwave network analyzers built for characterizing the linear and nonlinear behavior of RF and microwave components. Each model measures reflection (Sii) and transmission (Sij) S-parameters at its test ports, supported by full 2-port error-corrected calibration, and is offered in a range of test-set configurations identified by option number.

Across the family, supported measurement applications include amplifier noise figure, amplifier gain compression, and amplifier swept intermodulation distortion, along with the equivalent frequency-converter measurements: converter noise figure, scalar mixer characterization with phase (SMC + Phase), converter gain compression, and converter swept intermodulation distortion. These measurement classes are enabled through dedicated measurement-application software options. Built-in pulse inputs and source modulators support point-in-pulse and pulse-profile measurements, and an external test set driver allows the analyzer to drive remote mixers.

ValueTronics supports every PNA-X order from its own 20,000-square-foot secure warehouse at 1675 Cambridge Drive in Elgin, Illinois, where we stock and hold our inventory directly. Every pre-owned unit is inspected and functionally verified in-house by our technicians before it ships, while new units leave the warehouse factory-sealed exactly as received from the manufacturer.

Brand Heritage

Keysight Technologies carries forward a test-and-measurement heritage that began at Hewlett-Packard. HP's instrument business was spun off as Agilent Technologies in 1999, and Agilent's electronic measurement division became Keysight Technologies in 2014.

Compare Other Models in This Series

The PNA-X family on this page is a single network-analyzer platform offered as three models that share architecture, option set, and front-panel layout while differing in maximum frequency. The N5249B covers to 8.5 GHz, the N5241B to 13.5 GHz, and the N5242B to 26.5 GHz, each available in 2-port or 4-port form.

Every model can be ordered with the same test-set options — extended power range via source and receiver attenuators, bias-tees, an internal second source with combiner and mechanical switches, and Option 029 for noise figure — so configuration is largely independent of which frequency model you choose.

Each model below links to its own dedicated product page with pre-owned-matched pricing. Select the model whose frequency coverage and port count fit your application, then choose the pre-owned listing for that model to see current availability and pricing.

The primary difference among the three models is upper frequency limit: 8.5 GHz (N5249B), 13.5 GHz (N5241B), and 26.5 GHz (N5242B), all sharing a 10 MHz standard low-frequency limit that the optional Low Frequency Extension lowers to 900 Hz. The comparison table below lists each model's frequency range alongside shared characteristics.

Port count is a separate axis from frequency: each model is available as a 2-port or 4-port instrument, with 4-port units carrying a higher nominal net weight (37 kg versus 27 kg for 2-port). Test-set option numbers in the 2xx range denote 2-port configurations and the 4xx range denote 4-port configurations, with matching feature content at each tier.

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

Accessories Supplied

• Bottom feet
• Handles
• Front and rear panel hardware

Product Core & Specifications

Important: All specifications and characteristics apply over a 25 °C ±5 °C temperature range (unless otherwise stated) and after the instrument has been turned on for 90 minutes.

Important: Option 029 (high-accuracy noise figure hardware) requires Option 219, 222, 224, 419, 422, or 423.

Important: Option 029 operation does not apply with LFE enabled.

Important: To measure below 10 MHz, the Low Frequency Extension (LFE) option must be enabled.

Important: Corrected System Performance and Dynamic Accuracy charts apply only to N5241B, N5242B, and N5249B models with serial numbers starting with MY5241/42/49, SG5241/42/49, and US5241/42/49, and above.

Important: A calibration kit or ECal module (e.g., 85052B, N4691B, N4691D, N4433A) is required to perform calibrated measurements and is not included; specifications also assume an N4697F flexible test port cable and a full 2-port calibration.

About this Pre-Owned unit

This pre-owned unit is inspected and functionally verified in-house before it ships and is backed by our pre-owned warranty. To confirm its exact condition, firmware revision, installed options, or included accessories for your application before ordering, contact our Test Architects.

• Warranty included
• Functional verification included
• Standard Calibration Upgrade Options: No Calibration Required, NIST Traceable, Z540.1 or ISO 17025 with Data, Z540.3 Guardbanding with Data.
• Note that unnecessary accessories may not be included (contact Test Architect to confirm).

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.