The Keysight Technologies (formerly Agilent HP) 8482A is a highly accurate and stable thermocouple RF power sensor designed for measuring average power levels from -30 to +20 dBm (1 µW to 100 mW) over a wide frequency range of 100 kHz to 4.2 GHz. Known for its exceptional SWR characteristics, it minimizes measurement mismatch uncertainty. It is widely used across calibration labs and RF testing facilities, providing direct traceability to NIST and seamless compatibility with EPM, EPM-P, P-series, and classic 43X series power meters.
Specifications
General
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Display | None (results displayed on connected power meter) |
| Recommended Calibration Interval | 1 year |
Physical
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Power Supply | Powered via sensor cable from connected power meter |
| Operating Temperature | 0 to 55 °C |
RF Performance Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 100 kHz to 4.2 GHz |
| Power Measurement Range (dBm) | -30 to +20 dBm |
| Power Measurement Range (Watts) | 1 µW to 100 mW |
| Sensor Type | Thermocouple |
| Maximum SWR (100 kHz to 300 kHz) | 1.60 |
| Maximum SWR (2.0 GHz to 4.2 GHz) | 1.30 |
| Zero Set (Noise) | < ±50 nW |
| Measurement Noise | < 110 nW |
Power Handling and Damage Limits
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Peak Power | 15 W (for < 10 µs) |
| Maximum Pulse Energy | 30 W·µs |
Physical and Mechanical Characteristics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Input Connector Type | Type-N male |
| Weight (Net) | 0.17 kg (6 oz) |
Connectivity and Compatibility
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Compatible Power Meter Models | EPM (E4418A/B, E4419A/B, N1913A, N1914A), EPM-P (E4416A, E4417A), P-series (N1911A, N1912A), VXI E1416A, 70100A, 435A/B, 436A, 437A/B, 438A |
| Cable Interface Type | Keysight 11730 Series power sensor cables |
Environmental and Safety Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Operating Temperature Range | 0 to 55 °C |
| Storage Temperature Range | -40 to 75 °C |
Metrology and Calibration Reference
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Reference Calibration Frequency | 50 MHz |
RF Characteristics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Nominal Impedance | 50 Ω |
Performance
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Measurement Type | True average power |
Technology
Thermocouple RF Power Sensor
Applications
RF and Microwave Power Measurement