The HP 8900B Peak Power Meter measures peak power in pulsed RF signals by demodulating the input and comparing it against an internal DC reference level displayed on an external oscilloscope. The front panel meter reads peak power in milliwatts or decibels. This instrument is essential for accurate transient power measurement in radar, communication, and electronic warfare systems where pulse characterization is critical to system validation.
## Technical Specifications
**RF Performance**
• Frequency Range: 50 MHz to 2000 MHz (extendable to 18 GHz with specific sensors such as the HP 84811A)
• Peak Power Range: 10 to 200 mW (expandable via external attenuators or directional couplers)
• Power Accuracy: ±1.5 dB (±0.6 dB achievable with custom calibration)
• Pulse Width: Greater than 0.25 µs (100 ns minimum in Compare mode)
• Repetition Rate: Maximum 1.5 MHz
• RF Impedance: 50 ohms nominal
• Maximum Input Power (direct): 2 watts peak (1 watt average)
**Measurement Architecture**
The unit employs an internal detector to demodulate pulsed RF signals. An external oscilloscope visually compares demodulated pulses with an adjustable DC reference level aligned to the pulse peak. Direct and Compare modes enable measurement flexibility across different pulse widths.
**Power Supply**
• Input: 115 V or 230 V AC, ±10%, 50–60 Hz
• Fusing: 0.3 A (115 V) / 0.15 A (230 V)
**Physical & Connectors**
• Weight: 10 lbs (4.5 kg)
• RF Input: Type N connector
• Video Output: BNC connector (to oscilloscope)
• Bolometer Output: CW Power Meter connection
• DC Reference & Monitor Output: BNC and terminal connectors
## Key Features
• Demodulated pulse comparison against stable internal DC reference
• Dual operating modes for variable pulse widths
• Direct milliwatt and decibel readout
• Extendable frequency range with compatible sensor modules
• 50 ohm input impedance for standard RF systems
## Typical Applications
• Radar system pulse power characterization
• Communication transceiver peak power validation
• Electronic warfare signal measurement
• Pulsed RF transient analysis
## Compatibility & Integration
Operation requires an HP 140A Oscilloscope or equivalent for real-time pulse visualization and reference comparison. The bolometer output terminal facilitates calibration against external CW power meters.
