The Keysight (formerly Agilent/HP) 438A is a dual-channel power meter designed specifically for Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) systems. Its compact dual-channel design saves rack space while enabling straightforward and accurate measurements of power level ratios and differences from two separate sensors, making it well-suited for multi-port measurements and determining gain compression. The meter is compatible with the industry-standard 8480 series of power sensors and includes GPIB capability as a standard feature.
Specifications
General
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Interfaces | GPIB |
| Display | Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) |
Physical
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | 100 / 120 / 220 / 240 Vac (+5% to -10%), 48-66 Hz or 360-440 Hz, 65 VA max |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 55 |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 213 x 89 x 418 |
| Weight | 5.9 |
Measurement Characteristics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of Channels | 2 |
| Compatible Sensors | Keysight/Agilent/HP 8480 Series |
| Power Range | -70 to +44 dBm (sensor dependent) |
| Dynamic Range | 50 dB |
| Measurement Modes | A, B, A-B, B-A, A/B, B/A |
Power Reference Oscillator
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Reference Frequency | 50 MHz |
| Reference Power Level | 1.00 mW (0.0 dBm) |
| Connector Type | Type-N (female) |
Interfaces and Connectivity
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Remote Control Interface | GPIB (Standard); MATE CIIL (Option 700) |
Performance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Instrumentation Accuracy | ±0.5% (±0.02 dB) |
| Zero Set | ±0.5% of full scale on most sensitive range |
| Reference Oscillator Accuracy | ±1.2% worst case for 1 year |
| Channel Math Functions | A/B, B/A, A-B, B-A |
| Offset Range | -99.99 to +99.99 dB |
Inputs & Outputs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Recorder Outputs | 0 to 1 Vdc into ≥1 kΩ (one BNC per channel on rear panel) |
| Rear Panel Sensor Inputs | Available with Option 002 |
Environmental
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | -40 °C to +75 °C |
Technology
RF/Microwave
Applications
ATE Systems / Power Measurement