HP 8920 Software Control & Logger

Bring Your HP8920 Radio Test Set to a Modern Windows PC

The HP 8920A and 8920B remain useful instruments for radio testing. HP 8920 Control & Logger is an independent Windows application developed by M5URR to make their core controls and measurements accessible from a modern laptop.

Using a Prologix GPIB-USB controller, the application provides a clear desktop interface for instrument control, live measurement graphs and recording results for later analysis.

Control the Test Set from Your Laptop

Set the RF generator frequency and output level, then control the output with separate ON and OFF buttons. The Audio / FM panel lets you configure a test tone and FM deviation, enable or disable FM modulation, and select the audio analyzer input.

Additional controls provide instrument screen selection, error readout, a command/query console and return-to-local operation. Save and load presets for commonly used settings; loading a preset fills the controls without automatically applying changes.

Live Measurements and Graphs

Take a single reading or start continuous monitoring at an adjustable interval. Select from:

• RF power, RF frequency and frequency error
• FM deviation and AM depth
• SINAD and audio distortion
• Audio frequency and AC audio level

A large numeric display and live graph show the selected measurement over time, helping you observe changes during adjustments and compare results before and after a repair.

The application monitors one selected measurement at a time. Readings use the instrument’s configured GPIB units, which may differ from its screen units. Measurement routing, filters, tuning and other test conditions must be configured appropriately on the instrument.

Record Results for Excel

CSV recording saves timestamped readings with instrument and measurement details. Open the file in Excel or another analysis tool to review trends, create graphs or document a test session.

A Clear Interface and Connection Guides

The dark interface includes selectable COM ports, a Refresh button, an editable GPIB address and automatic identification of an HP 8920A or 8920B. Tabs and Previous/Next buttons provide access to the control panels and front/rear connection guides.

The included PDF explains installation, connections, operation and troubleshooting. Original decorative artwork illustrates the application; always follow the actual connector labels and ratings on your instrument.

What You Need

• A Windows 11 PC with .NET Framework 4.x components
• A Prologix GPIB-USB controller and its USB serial driver
• An HP 8920A or HP 8920B with a working GPIB interface
• Suitable RF and audio cables for your tests

The HP 8920A requires its remote-interface hardware, listed as Option 103. Available instrument functions depend on firmware and fitted options.

Download and Installation

The application is freeware, with no trial expiry. Donations help support maintenance and development, but are never required to use the included functions.

Without an unlock code, a notice appears at each startup. It starts at 10 seconds, increases by one second per complete installed day and never exceeds 30 seconds. The application opens automatically when the countdown finishes.

Reinstalling through Setup resets the countdown to 10 seconds and creates a new installation ID. A valid code issued by M5URR removes the notice for the matching PC, Windows user and installation. Users can copy their request ID from the application and contact M5URR for a code. Donations do not automatically generate code. To get an activation code follow the Activation instructions below.

Download the public user package, extract the complete ZIP and run Setup.exe. Before installation proceeds, a safety and liability disclaimer appears. Read it and tick the acknowledgement checkbox to enable Agree and continue. Cancelling exits without installing.

Choose your installation folder and whether to create a desktop shortcut. Setup also creates a Start Menu entry. Connect Prologix to the laptop by USB and to the test set’s HP-IB/GPIB port, then select the COM port and matching GPIB address in the application.

The package includes the application, artwork, connection guides, freeware licence and PDF instructions.

Activation (removing time countdown)

Use the contact form below to request an Activation code to an administrator. Make sure to indicate here the same correct email address as used in PayPal payment, because it will be used to send the code to you. A small fee based on your good heart is requested to get the activation string. It is used to keep the project alive, and finance hosting and maintenance costs. The software works fully also without donations. Once you pay securely via PayPal we will generate the code and send back to the email address indicated in this contact form.

Safety and Liability Disclaimer

HP 8920 Control & Logger is provided “as is”, without any guarantee of accuracy, reliability or suitability for a particular purpose. Users are responsible for verifying software settings, instrument responses, measurements and connections before relying on them.

Radio testing can involve hazardous RF energy, electrical shock, high voltages, stored electrical energy and hot components. Testing, adjustment and servicing must be carried out only by suitably qualified people who understand these hazards and the equipment involved. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions, grounding requirements and maximum input and output ratings. Software controls do not replace physical safety precautions.

To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, M5URR accepts no liability for damage to computers, operating systems, data, test instruments, radios, accessories or other property arising from the installation or use of this software. This includes damage or loss resulting from software faults, incorrect readings, unsuitable settings, wiring errors, operator mistakes, misuse or failure to follow the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.

To the same extent, M5URR accepts no liability for accidents, incidents, interference or other consequences arising from tests performed using the software. Users remain responsible for conducting tests safely and complying with applicable radio regulations.

Nothing in this disclaimer excludes or limits liability that cannot lawfully be excluded or limited, including liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence where applicable, or any mandatory statutory rights.

HP 8920 Control & Logger is an independent M5URR project. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by HP, Agilent, Keysight or Prologix.