The Agilent/Keysight 8487A is a coaxial power sensor for RF and microwave power measurements spanning 50 MHz to 50 GHz. Built around a thermocouple sensing element, it delivers accurate, stable measurements with low SWR across its operating range. The sensor measures power from -30 dBm to +20 dBm with excellent linearity and NIST-traceable calibration, making it ideal for precision characterization of RF and microwave systems.
Technical Specifications
• Frequency Range: 50 MHz to 50 GHz
• Measurement Range: -30 dBm to +20 dBm (1 µW to 100 mW)
• Impedance: 50 ohm
• Connector: 2.4 mm male
• Sensing Element: Thermocouple
• Maximum Power: 300 mW average, 15 W peak, 30 W µs per pulse
• Power Linearity: ±3% from +10 dBm to +20 dBm
• Calibration: NIST-traceable with typical measurement uncertainty of 1.8% at 100 MHz
– Key Features
SWR performance varies across frequency bands: 1.10 from 100 MHz to 2 GHz, rising to 1.50 at 40–50 GHz. This controlled impedance match minimizes reflection losses and measurement uncertainty. The compact form factor (38 mm × 30 mm × 95 mm, approximately 2 lb) supports portable and rack-mounted test setups. Thermocouple sensing provides broadband, modulation-independent power measurement suitable for pulsed and CW signals.
– Typical Applications
RF power characterization, gain measurement, power linearity testing, and component validation across microwave frequencies. The wide dynamic range and stable calibration support both development and manufacturing test environments.
– Compatibility & Integration
The 8487A works with Agilent/Keysight EPM Series power meters (E4418B, E4419B, E4416A, E4417A), P-Series instruments (N1911A, N1912A), and VXI module E1416A. Compatibility with older 43x series and E1416A models should be verified for the replacement N8480 Series.
