Power Meter

A power meter is an instrument for measuring RF power. It traditionally consists of a meter and a separate power sensor at the end of a cable. In recent products a large amount of calibration data is stored directly in the sensor "head," resulting in a complete power measurement solution in the form factor of what was once just the sensor. These newer devices are usually connected via a USB port to a computer, where the data can be displayed and stored.

Fundamentals of RF and Microwave Power Measurements (Part 1)

Author: 

Keysight Technologies

Part 1 introduces the historical basis for power measurements, and provides definitions for average, peak, and complex modulations. This application note overviews various sensor technologies needed for the diversity of test signals. It describes the hierarchy of international power traceability, yielding comparison to national standards at worldwide national measurement institutes (NMIs) like the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology.

Fundamentals of RF and Microwave Power Measurements (Part 2)

Author: 

Keysight Technologies

Part 2 presents all the viable sensor technologies required to exploit the wide range of unknown modulations and signals under test. It starts with explanations of the sensor technologies, and how they came to be to meet certain measurement needs. Sensor choices range from the venerable thermistor to the innovative thermocouple to more recent improvements in diode sensors. In particular, clever variations of diode combinations are presented, which achieve ultra-wide dynamic range and square-law detection for complex modulations.

Fundamentals of RF and Microwave Power Measurements (Part 3)

Author: 

Keysight Technologies

Part 3 discusses the all-important theory and practice of expressing measurement uncertainty, mismatch considerations, signal flowgraphs, ISO 17025, and examples of typical calculations. Considerable detail is shown on
the ISO 17025, Guide for the Expression of Measurement Uncertainties, has become the international standard for determining operating specifications. Agilent has transitioned from ANSI/NCSL Z540-1-1994 to ISO 17025.

Fundamentals of RF and Microwave Power Measurements (Part 4)

Author: 

Keysight Technologies

Part 4 overviews various instrumentation for measuring RF and microwave power, including spectrum analyzers, microwave receivers, network/spectrum analyzers, and the most accurate method, power sensors/meters. It begins with the unknown signal, of arbitrary modulation format, and draws application-oriented comparisons for selection of the best instrumentation technology and products. Most of the chapter is devoted to the most accurate method, power meters

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