The HP/Agilent 53149A is a three-in-one microwave instrument combining a 46 GHz frequency counter, true power meter, and digital voltmeter in a single field-deployable package. Dual-channel frequency measurement extends from 10 Hz to 125 MHz on Channel 1 and 50 MHz to 46 GHz on Channel 2, with selectable resolution from 1 Hz to 1 MHz. The integrated power meter operates across −70 dBm to +44 dBm with 0.01 dB resolution and ±0.02 dB basic accuracy when paired with Keysight 8480 series sensors. A DC voltmeter function measures ±50 Vdc with 2 mV resolution, supporting antenna alignment and power supply diagnostics. GPIB and RS-232 interfaces with SCPI programmability enable integration into automated test systems. The instrument stores up to 9 complete setups, features a switchable LCD backlight, and accepts user-selectable sample rates (20 ms, 250 ms, or 1 s nominal). Optional battery, carrying case, and rubber bumpers support field operations.
Technical Specifications
Frequency Counter
• Channel 1: 10 Hz to 125 MHz; 40 mVrms sensitivity (10–30 Hz), 25 mVrms (30 Hz–125 MHz); maximum input 2 Vrms
• Channel 2 (Microwave): 50 MHz to 46 GHz; resolution selectable 1 Hz to 1 MHz
• Input connectors: BNC female (Channel 1), AC coupling
• Damage level: 120 V (dc + ac pk), linearly derated to 5 Vrms at 125 MHz
Power Meter
• Range: −70 dBm to +44 dBm (with Keysight 8480 series sensors)
• Resolution: 0.01 dB; basic accuracy ±0.02 dB
• Power reference: 1.00 mW, factory set to ±0.7%, NIST-traceable
• Reference accuracy: ±1.2% worst case (±0.9% RSS) for one year
• Graphical peaking meter for power adjustment
Digital Voltmeter
• DC measurement: ±50 Vdc range, 2 mV resolution
• Accuracy: ±0.25% of reading ±10 mV
• Damage level: ±60 Vdc; input resistance 0.5 MΩ nominal
• Connectors: 4 mm banana sockets
Interfaces & Control
• GPIB (IEEE-488.1-1987, IEEE 488.2-1987) and RS-232 (SCPI-1992.0)
• RS-232 baud rates: 2400 to 19200 selectable
• Setup storage: 9 complete instrument setups, power-loss retained
– Key Features
• Ultra-wideband microwave input (50 MHz to 46 GHz) reduces channel switching
• LCD display with user-selectable backlight
• Automatic self-test of count and power meter circuits
• Compact design with rubber bumpers for field durability
– Typical Applications
• Telecommunications frequency and power verification
• Aerospace and defense microwave measurements
• Antenna alignment and AGC monitoring
• Telecom power supply diagnostics (−48 Vdc monitoring)
– Compatibility & Integration
Supports Keysight 8480 series power sensors (8481A, 8481B, 8481H, 8485A, 8487A). SCPI command set enables remote operation and ATE system integration.
