Rohde & Schwarz NRP Power Measurement Series
3 models with full specifications from Rohde & Schwarz.
The Rohde & Schwarz NRP series provides a modular platform for RF and microwave power measurements across research, development, production, and service environments. This versatile system consists of a central base unit and compatible three-path diode sensors designed to interface directly with the meter or a PC. By pairing the multi-channel base unit with specialized sensor heads, engineers and technical buyers can tailor their measurement configurations to specific frequency and power ranges. This overview covers the system architecture, individual sensor capabilities, and setup options to help you choose the correct equipment for your application.
- System Frequency Range
- DC to 110 GHz (sensor dependent)
- System Dynamic Range
- 90 dB
- Simultaneous Channels
- Up to 4
- Sensor Detection Type
- Three-path diode
Models in this series
| Model | Type | Dimensions (W×H×D) | Interfaces | Measurement Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NRP/NRP2 | Power | 258 mm × 103 mm × 300 mm (W×H×D, with handle) | USB, LAN, GPIB (optional) | High |
| NRP-Z11 | Power Sensors | 48 mm × 30 mm × 137 mm | Proprietary R&S 12-pin host interface (supports USB connection via NRP-Z3 or NRP-Z4 adapter) | Up to 1500 measurements/s (buffered mode) |
| NRP-Z21 | Power Sensors | 48 mm × 30 mm × 137 mm | Rohde & Schwarz NRP-Z host interface (compatible with PC via NRP-Z3/Z4 USB adapters, or directly with NRP/NRP2 power meters) | Up to 1500 readings/s (continuous average) |
Base Unit Architecture
The Rohde & Schwarz NRP/NRP2 serves as the central benchtop base unit for the NRP series. It supports up to four measurement channels simultaneously, rendering data on an intuitive graphic display. The unit is optimized for multiple measurement modes, including Average Power, Peak Power, and Peak-to-Average Power.
Designed for integration into diverse testing environments, the base unit features USB and LAN interfaces, with an optional GPIB interface. It relies on a fan-assisted cooling system and can be operated from standard AC utility power (100 V to 240 V, max 30 VA) or an external DC source (12 V to 30 V, max 10 W). For mounting flexibility, it includes a 1/4-20 UNC tripod thread and supports optional rack mounting using the R&S ZZA-3 rack adapter.
Diode Power Sensors
To perform measurements, the system utilizes high-precision, three-path diode power sensors. Both the Rohde & Schwarz NRP-Z11 and Rohde & Schwarz NRP-Z21 offer a 90 dB dynamic range with power measurement capabilities down to -67 dBm, an input impedance of 50 Ω, and a maximum DC input voltage of 20 V.
The sensors differ in frequency coverage and supported measurement modes:
- Rohde & Schwarz NRP-Z11: Operates from 10 MHz to 8 GHz. It features an N-type male connector and supports Continuous Average, Burst Average, and Timeslot Average measurement modes. It connects to the host via a proprietary 12-pin interface.
- Rohde & Schwarz NRP-Z21: Operates across a wider frequency range of 10 MHz to 18 GHz. It supports Continuous Average measurements and is equipped with an integrated 1.5 m cable, weighing 0.14 kg. It has a recommended 2-year calibration interval.
Frequently asked questions
- Can the NRP sensors be used without the base unit?
- Yes. Both the Rohde & Schwarz NRP-Z11 and Rohde & Schwarz NRP-Z21 can connect directly to a PC using the NRP-Z3 or NRP-Z4 USB adapters.
- How many measurement channels are available on the base unit?
- The Rohde & Schwarz NRP/NRP2 base unit supports up to four measurement channels simultaneously.
- What is the maximum continuous input power for the NRP diode sensors?
- Both the Rohde & Schwarz NRP-Z11 and Rohde & Schwarz NRP-Z21 support a maximum continuous input power of +26 dBm (400 mW).