The Agilent/Keysight N8481A is a thermocouple power sensor engineered for true average power measurement of CW and complex modulated signals across microwave frequencies. It delivers measurement uncertainty of ±0.35% (typical) from -1 dBm to +20 dBm at 25°C after zero and calibration, with power linearity better than 1% across its dynamic range. The sensor integrates EEPROM calibration factor storage, eliminating manual entry and associated errors while enabling fast setup and field recalibration.
Technical Specifications
Electrical Performance
• Frequency range: 10 MHz to 18 GHz
• Dynamic power range: -35 dBm to +20 dBm
• Power linearity: < 1%
• Measurement noise: < 80 nW typical at 50 MHz (normal mode, 1 average)
• Measurement uncertainty: ±0.35% (typical) from -1 dBm to +20 dBm at 25°C after zero and calibration
• SWR: Excellent for minimized mismatch uncertainty
Physical
• Dimensions: 130 mm (length) × 38 mm (width) × 30 mm (height)
• Connector: Type-N male (standard); APC-7 available via Option 200
Environmental
• Operating temperature: 0 to 55 °C
• Built-in temperature compensation; recalibration recommended at significant temperature changes
• Frequent zeroing recommended below -1 dBm for temperature variations exceeding ±5 °C
– Key Features
• Automatic EEPROM calibration factor storage and recall
• True average power measurement for modulated signals (TDMA, GSM, W-CDMA, WiMAX)
• Legacy 8480 Series replacement (excluding D-model sensors)
• Option CFT provides SCPI compatibility with 8480 Series power sensors and E7495A/B base station test set integration
– Typical Applications
• Metrology and calibration labs
• Radar system characterization
• Mobile radio and cellular network testing
• TDMA, GSM, W-CDMA, WiMAX signal measurement
• Design and manufacturing test
– Compatibility & Integration
The N8481A operates with Keysight EPM Series (E4418B/19B, N1913A/14A), EPM-P Series (E4416A/17A), and P-Series (N1911A/12A, N8262A) power meters. Firmware upgrades may be required on some meters. Option CFT enables backward compatibility with legacy 8480 Series software environments and E7495A/B base station test sets.
