The Keysight/Agilent/HP 8481A is a thermocouple power sensor for average power measurement across RF and microwave frequencies from 10 MHz to 18 GHz. It delivers precision measurements from 1 µW to 100 mW with low reflection coefficient and direct NIST traceability, making it ideal for demanding test environments requiring measurement uncertainty minimization. The sensor integrates with legacy and current Keysight power meters through a Type-N Male connector, with APC-7 available as an option. Its stable thermocouple sensing element and embedded EEPROM calibration data enable plug-and-play operation across compatible instrument families.
Technical Specifications
• Measurement Type: Average Power
• Sensing Element: Thermocouple
• Frequency Range: 10 MHz to 18 GHz
• Power Measurement Range: 1 µW to 100 mW (−30 dBm to +20 dBm)
• Maximum Average Power: 300 mW
• Maximum Peak Power: 15 W
• Maximum Energy per Pulse: 30 W·µs
• Nominal Impedance: 50 Ω
• RF Connector: Type-N Male (APC-7 option available)
• Physical Dimensions: 30 mm × 38 mm × 105 mm
• Weight: 0.2 kg
– Key Features
• SWR performance varies by frequency band, with maximum SWR of 1.4 at 10–30 MHz, improving to 1.10 at 50 MHz–2 GHz, and 1.28 at 12.4–18 GHz
• Calibration factor data stored in EEPROM for automatic transfer to compatible power meters
• NIST-traceable calibration for metrological confidence
• Compact form factor suitable for rack-mount and benchtop installations
– Typical Applications
• RF power verification in transmitter design and test
• Microwave component characterization up to 18 GHz
• Manufacturing power acceptance testing
• In-service power monitoring and maintenance
– Compatibility & Integration
Works with Keysight/Agilent/HP EPM Series (E4418B, E4419B), EPM-P Series (E4416A, E4417A), P-Series (N1911A, N1912A), 70100A, 435A/B, 436A, 437A, and 438A power meters. Not compatible with 43x and E1416A power meters in certain N8480 Series configurations.
