Keysight Technologies E4980 Series Precision LCR Meters: Legacy Perfection, Enhanced Performance

In the field of electronic component characterization and impedance measurement, the E4980 Series from Keysight Technologies has long been recognized as an industry benchmark. Serving applications ranging from general R&D to demanding high-volume production testing, the E4980 Series has earned extensive user trust through its exceptional accuracy, test speed and versatility. With the continuous evolution of technology requirements, the new-generation E4980B and its derivative model E4980BL are now fully available, serving as the ideal replacement for the classic E4980A and the earlier Agilent 4284A.

1. Series Model Positioning: From Flagship Full-Band to Cost-Effective Compact

The E4980 Series currently features a clear product matrix with the E4980B as the flagship core and the E4980BL as a compact low-frequency variant:

• E4980B — Full-band performance benchmark
                  As the official successor to the E4980A, the E4980B delivers a wide test frequency range from 20 Hz to 2 MHz, offers 4-digit resolution across all measurement ranges, and maintains a basic accuracy of 0.05%. It is worth noting that the E4980B is fully consistent with the E4980A in core hardware, test accuracy, measurement speed and key functions. Existing test fixtures and host software are compatible, and the firmware maintains a high level of compatibility. This means users can achieve a seamless transition to the new-generation platform at a lower upgrade cost.

• E4980BL — Cost-effective low-frequency option
                  For applications that do not require the full 2 MHz bandwidth, the E4980BL provides a more cost-effective solution. It covers 20 Hz to 1 MHz, and offers three frequency options (model suffixes -032, -052, -102) for 300 kHz, 500 kHz and 1 MHz. Its basic accuracy of 0.05% is identical to that of the E4980B, making it an ideal tool for material testing, low-frequency response analysis and conventional passive component testing.

2. Core Technical Specifications and Test Capabilities

The E4980B and E4980BL set new benchmarks for key test performance:

• Basic accuracy: Across the entire 20 Hz to 2 MHz frequency range, the basic accuracy reaches 0.05%, maintaining excellent measurement repeatability and consistency under both low-impedance conditions (such as large capacitance and low-inductance) and high-impedance conditions (such as small capacitance and high-resistance).

• Measurement speed: In the SHORT measurement time mode, the E4980B can complete a full parameter measurement within 5.6 ms, making it ideal for high-volume production testing and automated sorting applications.

• Test signal: The standard programmable level ranges from 100 μV to 2 Vrms and 1 μA to 20 mArms. Option 001 (Power and DC Bias Enhancement) supports AC test signals up to 20 Vrms and integrates a ±40 Vdc variable DC bias source, to meet the test requirements of complex scenarios such as MLCC bias characterization and inductor saturation testing.

DC Bias and Expansion Options:

• Option 001: Provides DC bias up to ±40 Vdc (max 100 mA at full current), supports C-V characteristic scanning of capacitors, and also supports AC test signals up to 20 Vrms.

• Option 200: Adds DC resistance measurement function, suitable for testing DCR of inductive coils, transformer winding resistance or contact resistance.

• Option 201: Handler interface (9-BIN sorting, optically isolated open-collector output), enables integration into automated production line sorting systems.

• Option 301: Multi-channel scanner interface, supports OPEN/SHORT/LOAD calibration data for 128 channels, improves testing efficiency for multi-device testing when used with automatic scanning test systems.

• List Sweep: Supports up to 201 user-defined test points, allows free configuration of frequency, level and bias voltage, and automatically completes multi-point parameter scanning testing.

• Interfaces: LAN, USB and GPIB are standard-equipped, compliant with LXI Class C standard, facilitating integration into automated test systems.

3. Extensive Ecosystem of Test Accessories and Fixtures

The E4980 series features a complete ecosystem of test fixtures to accommodate different types of devices under test (DUT):

• 16047E: A test fixture designed specifically for axial/radial leaded components, supports frequencies up to 120 MHz, and is equipped with a Guard Terminal to eliminate the influence of parasitic capacitance.

• 16034G: A test fixture designed specifically for SMD components, accommodates micro components as small as 0.6mm × 0.3mm.

• 16048A/E: Four-terminal pair (4TP) configuration, 1m/4m BNC test cables, used to extend the measurement ports of the instrument and supports connection to user-built fixtures. Cable length compensation is recommended before testing.

• 16048D: 2-meter BNC test cable, which also supports four-terminal pair structure and is suitable for split test fixture environments.

• 16334A: General-purpose test fixture for high and low impedance measurement.

4. E4980A → E4980B: Upgrade Guide and Key Points for Replacement

The E4980B is the complete upgraded model of the E4980A, and it is also the main model currently promoted by Keysight. Below are the key points that need to be clarified when replacing the unit:

• Compatibility Guarantee: The core hardware, accuracy specifications, measurement speed and functions of the E4980B are completely consistent with those of the E4980A. Existing host computer test programs, communication commands (SCPI) and fixtures can all be used directly without additional adaptation.

• Universal Function and Ecosystem Compatibility: The E4980B can connect to more than 20 types of standard test fixtures (16047E, 16034G, 16334A, etc.), and supports Option 201 (Handler) and Option 301 (Scanner). Integration into automated production line sorting or multi-channel scanning test does not require additional development.

• Option Purchase Recommendation: For conventional RF/wireless charging component testing, we recommend pairing with Option 001 (±40V DC Bias + 20 Vrms output) and Rdc measurement. For production line or automated test scenarios, we recommend additional installation of Option 201 or Option 301, which can be flexibly combined according to actual channel count and sorting requirements. If you need further customized selection, you can consult the configuration guide through official Keysight channels.

• Lifespan and Supply Guarantee: As the E4980A gradually enters the end-of-production and phase-out cycle, the E4980B, with the same level of accuracy, can provide a longer period of original factory calibration and maintenance support. We recommend completing the model switch during the replacement window.

• Reference Price: The quoted price of the E4980B (20Hz ~ 2MHz) on authorized distributor platforms is approximately ¥222,320.00. The actual transaction price is subject to confirmation with Keysight or its authorized agents.

5. Summary and Recommendation

In summary, the E4980B is not just a simple routine upgrade. Based on inheriting the classic core of the E4980A, it integrates modern connectivity and automation capabilities, making it a general-purpose LCR test platform that combines accuracy, flexibility and long-term investment value. It continues the consistent high precision and stability of the E4980 series, while providing richer interface options to meet the needs of modern test systems. For R&D and production teams that are looking for replacement solutions for classic models (such as the E4980A or Agilent 4284A) and expect to build a standardized impedance measurement system, the E4980B is undoubtedly the most reasonable choice currently available.

If you have any questions about specific test solutions or option configurations, please leave a message below, and we will provide you with professional one-on-one selection consultation>>