Giga-tronics 8650A Series Universal Power Meters
2 models with full specifications from Giga-tronics.
The Giga-tronics 8650A Series consists of universal power meters designed for the measurement of continuous wave (CW), peak, and average power in RF and microwave communication systems. This series includes the single-channel 8651A and the dual-channel 8652A. These instruments support critical characterization requirements, providing the speed and accuracy needed for testing complex modulated signals. This overview details the primary hardware differences, performance metrics, and application target areas for both models in the 8650A family.
- Series Name
- 8650A Series
- Channel Configurations
- 1 (8651A) or 2 (8652A)
- Measurement Modes
- CW, Peak, Average
- Measurement Units
- dBm, Watts
- Reference Power Output
- 1.00 mW (0 dBm) @ 50 MHz
Models in this series
Channel Architecture and Interface Differences
The primary differentiator between the two models in the 8650A Series is the channel count and connectivity options:
- 8651A: A single-channel universal power meter. It is optimized for straightforward power measurement applications. It supports SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) for automation and integration into standard automated test setups.
- 8652A: A dual-channel universal power meter. It features two input channels for concurrent testing of multiple paths, which is necessary for comparative measurements or multi-port device evaluation. The unit includes a standard GPIB interface for remote instrumentation control.
Measurement Capabilities and Modulated Signal Support
The 8652A features specialized measurement capabilities tailored for digital wireless communication systems. It is capable of measuring modulated signals including TDMA, GSM, and CDMA (incorporating IS-95 and 10 MHz wideband third-generation formats).
To manage these complex signals, the 8652A provides several advanced analysis tools:
- Automatic time gate setting for precise slot-based measurements.
- Direct crest factor measurement to evaluate peak-to-average power ratios.
- Statistical power measurement analysis for cumulative distribution function analysis.
Speed, Accuracy, and Sensor Compatibility
The 8652A provides high-speed automated testing over GPIB, achieving measurement speeds greater than 1,750 readings per second for CW signals, and greater than 300 readings per second for modulated signals. It features an instrumentation linearity of ±0.02 dB.
Depending on the selected sensor, the 8652A supports a power measurement range from -70 to +47 dBm. It is compatible with a wide array of Giga-tronics sensors, specifically the 80300A, 80350A, 80400A, 80500A, 80600A, and 80700A sensor series. For internal calibration verification, the meter provides a built-in 50 MHz reference source with a Type-N (female) 50 Ω connector, delivering 1.00 mW (0 dBm).
Frequently asked questions
- What programming languages and interfaces do the 8650A series meters support?
- The 8651A supports Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments (SCPI), and the 8652A features a GPIB remote control interface.
- What is the frequency and output power of the reference calibrator on these meters?
- The reference output is 1.00 mW (0 dBm) at 50 MHz, supplied via a Type-N (female) 50 Ohm connector.
- Which sensor series are compatible with the 8652A?
- The 8652A is compatible with Giga-tronics sensor series 80300A, 80350A, 80400A, 80500A, 80600A, and 80700A.