The Keysight (formerly Agilent/HP) 8481A is a thermocouple average power sensor operating from 10 MHz to 18 GHz with a power measurement range of -30 to +20 dBm. It features a Type-N (male) connector and is known for its excellent SWR, reducing mismatch uncertainty. The sensor is compatible with a wide range of legacy and modern power meters including the EPM, EPM-P, P-series, and the classic 43X series.
Specifications
Physical
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 55 °C |
Frequency Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 10 MHz to 18 GHz |
Power Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Measurement Range | -30 dBm to +20 dBm (1 µW to 100 mW) |
| Maximum Average Power (Damage Level) | 300 mW (+24.8 dBm) |
| Maximum Peak Power (Damage Level) | 15 W (pulse width ≤ 1 µs) |
| Maximum Energy per Pulse | 15 W·µs |
Impedance & VSWR
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Nominal Impedance | 50 Ω |
| Maximum VSWR (10 MHz to 30 MHz) | 1.40 |
Performance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Sensing Element | Thermocouple |
| Zero Set | ±50 nW |
| Zero Drift | ±15 nW |
| Measurement Noise | 110 nW |
Compatibility & Interface
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Compatible Power Meters | EPM, EPM-P, P-series, E1416A VXI, 70100A, 43X-series |
| RF Input Connector | Type-N (male) |
| Sensor Interface Connector | Proprietary Keysight/HP Power Sensor Cable Connector |
Environmental
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Storage Temperature | -40 to 75 °C |
Calibration
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Calibration Reference Frequency | 50 MHz |
| Calibration Reference Power | 1 mW (0 dBm) |
Technology
Thermocouple Power Sensor
Applications
RF and Microwave Power Measurement