HP 8697A backward wave oscillator plug-in

Product Description

HP 8697A Backward Wave Oscillator (BWO) Plug-In – for 8690 Series Sweep Oscillators

This used HP 8697A is a backward wave oscillator (BWO) plug-in unit designed for the legendary HP 8690 series sweep oscillators . Covering the 12.4 to 18 GHz frequency range (Ku-band), it provides swept or CW microwave signals for demanding applications in radar testing, satellite communications, and microwave component characterization.

Key Features & Specifications:

Historical Context:

The HP 8690 series sweep oscillator, introduced in the 1960s, was a landmark instrument in microwave testing. It accepted interchangeable RF plug-in units (including BWOs, solid-state, and YIG-tuned oscillators) to cover frequencies from 0.1 to 40 GHz . The 8697A specifically uses a backward wave oscillator tube to generate Ku-band signals. These tubes are known for their wide bandwidth but are now considered “consumable” items with finite life.

Condition:

SOLD AS IS
USED – SHOWS NORMAL WEAR (rack marks, scuffs, cosmetic wear)
UNTESTED – BWO TUBE CONDITION UNKNOWN
NO HP 8690 SERIES MAINFRAME INCLUDED
COOLING FAN (in mainframe) REQUIRED FOR OPERATION – DO NOT POWER WITHOUT MAINFRAME AIRFLOW
PICTURE MAY NOT MATCH PRODUCT

⚠ CRITICAL NOTE: This is a plug-in unit only and requires an HP 8690 series mainframe for power, control, and cooling . It is NOT a standalone instrument. The BWO tube inside has a limited lifespan and cannot be tested without the mainframe.

Potential Applications:

• Replacement plug-in for existing HP 8690 systems

• Repair/restoration of vintage HP microwave test equipment

• Parts salvage (BWO tube, waveguide components, precision mechanics)

• Collector’s item for vintage HP enthusiasts