The HP 8900D Peak Power Meter is a digital instrument for precise measurement of peak power in RF and microwave signals across 100 MHz to 18 GHz. Built for telecommunications, radar systems, and electronic warfare applications, it characterizes pulsed signals with industry-standard accuracy and delivers results on a high-resolution 3½-digit display calibrated in watts.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Range: 100 MHz to 18 GHz
Power Measurement: Peak power of RF pulses with 20 dB dynamic range (0 to +20 dBm)
Measurement Ranges: Two selectable ranges—10 mW and 100 mW full scale
Display: High-resolution 3½-digit digital display, watts
Pulse Response—Direct Mode
• Pulse width: 1 µs to continuous wave
• Repetition rate: 100 Hz to 100 kHz
• Accuracy: ±0.35 dB
Pulse Response—Compare Mode
• Pulse width: 100 ns (typical)
• Repetition rate: 0 Hz to 100 kHz
• Accuracy: ±0.25 dB
CW-to-Pulse Transfer Accuracy: ±0.2 dB (Direct mode); ±0.1 dB (Compare mode)
Transient Response: 75 ns rise time, 125 ns fall time
Power Input: 100/120 Vac (±5%, −10%, 48–66 Hz and 360–440 Hz) or 220/240 Vac (±5%, −10%, 48–66 Hz)
Weight: 8 lbs
– Key Features
• Dual-range measurement (10 mW / 100 mW) optimizes sensitivity and dynamic range
• Compare Mode achieves tighter accuracy (±0.25 dB) for demanding applications
• Fast rise time (75 ns) resolves narrow pulses down to 100 ns in Compare Mode
• Direct Mode handles continuous wave and long-pulse measurements (1 µs to CW)
• Compatible sensor: HP 84811A Peak Power Sensor with N-type (male) connector
– Typical Applications
• Pulsed signal characterization in telecommunications
• Radar system performance validation
• Electronic warfare signal measurement
• Peak power monitoring in microwave test environments
– Compatibility & Integration
The meter connects to the HP 84811A Peak Power Sensor via N-type male connector. Standard accessories include the HP 11730A cable (1.52 m) for sensor connection and a 2.3 m power cord. Operating and Service Manual available (Publication 08900-90249, May 1998).
