The Boonton 4242 is a dual-channel RF power meter designed for high-performance power measurements across a broad frequency spectrum. It offers accurate and reliable readings suitable for demanding applications in telecommunications, aerospace, and defense industries, as well as for general laboratory and field use. The instrument features a user-friendly interface with a clear LCD display capable of showing simultaneous numeric and bar graph information for both channels. Its robust design and operational flexibility make it a valuable tool for engineers and technicians requiring precise RF power analysis.
### Technical Specifications
* **Frequency Range:** 10 kHz to 40 GHz (sensor dependent)
* **Power Range:** -70 dBm to +44 dBm (sensor dependent)
* **Number of Channels:** Two
* **Measurement Speed:**
* 1 channel: 200 readings/sec
* 2 channels: 100 readings/sec
* **Display:**
* Menu-driven 20-character x 4-line LCD
* Simultaneous display of dual channels with bar graph proportional to data display
* **Display Units:** Absolute (watts or dBm), Relative (dBr)
* **Display Resolution:**
* 5 digits
* nW, µW, mW, and W
* 0.001 dB, dBm, and dBr
* **Instrumentation Uncertainty:** 0.2% at full scale
* **Dynamic Range:** 90 dB (sensor dependent)
* **Calibration Source:** 50 MHz step calibrator
* **Emulation Modes:** HP437, HP438, Boonton 4220A, and 4230A
### Electrical Specifications
* **Power Consumption:** 85-260 VAC, 47 to 63 Hz
### Interfaces
* **Standard Interfaces:**
* IEEE-488 (GPIB)
* RS-232
* **Optional Interfaces:** Rear panel GPIB connector
* **Recorder Output:** Rear panel BEC connector (0 to 10 VDC output)
### Physical Characteristics
* **Weight:** 5 lbs (2.3 kg)
### Sensor Compatibility
The Boonton 4242 is compatible with all Boonton CW diode, thermocouple, and waveguide sensors from 10 kHz to 40 GHz. The instrument automatically loads sensor calibration data, including high-frequency calibration factors, from a sensor data adapter.
**Example Sensor Options (Sensor dependent capabilities):**
* **Wide Dynamic Range Diode Sensors:**
* 51071A: 10 MHz to 26.5 GHz / -70 to +20 dBm
* 51072A: 30 MHz to 40.0 GHz / -70 to +20 dBm
* 51075A: 500 kHz to 18.0 GHz / -70 to +20 dBm
* 51077A: 500 kHz to 18.0 GHz / -60 to +30 dBm
* 51079A: 500 kHz to 18.0 GHz / -50 to +40 dBm
* **Thermocouple Sensors:**
* 51100(9E): 10 MHz to 18.0 GHz / -20 to +20 dBm
* 51200: 10 MHz to 18.0 GHz / 0 to +37 dBm
* **Special Purpose Sensors:**
* 51011 (EMC): 10 kHz to 8.0 GHz / -60 to +20 dBm
* 51011 (4B): 100 kHz to 12.4 GHz / -60 to +20 dBm
* 51013 (4E): 100 kHz to 18.0 GHz / -60 to +20 dBm
* 51015 (5E): 100 kHz to 18.0 GHz / -50 to +30 dBm
* 51033 (6E): 100 kHz to 18.0 GHz / -40 to +33 dBm
* 51078: 100 kHz to 18.0 GHz / -20 to +37 dBm
* **Diode Average Sensors:**
* 51085: 500 kHz to 18 GHz / -30 to +20 dBm
### Why Choose Aumictech for Boonton 4242?
At Aumictech, we specialize in supplying high-performance RF power measurement equipment. Whether you need precise RF power analysis, simultaneous dual-channel comparison, or seamless integration into automated test systems, our team ensures the Boonton 4242 delivers maximum performance for your application. We provide access to a comprehensive range of compatible sensors and offer expert support to help you select the optimal configuration for your specific requirements.
