Agilent/Keysight U8488A

The Keysight U8488A is a USB-powered thermocouple power sensor for direct average power measurement across microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies. Built on the proven front-end architecture of the 8480 and N8480 series, it delivers measurement speeds up to 900 readings per second—22× faster than legacy designs. The compact form factor draws power directly from USB, eliminating external supplies and enabling portable field deployments without a separate power meter.

– Technical Specifications

Frequency Range
• 10 MHz to 67 GHz (standard)
• DC to 67 GHz (with Option U8488A-200)

Power Measurement
• Dynamic range: −35 dBm to +20 dBm
• Linearity: <0.80% across full range
• Measurement speed: 900 readings/second in free run or fast buffer mode

Accuracy and Calibration
• NIST/NPL-traceable calibration with real-time measurement uncertainty computation
• Internal calibration function integrates DC reference and switching circuits—no device disconnection required
• Zero set: ±25 nW; zero drift: ±5.5 nW; measurement noise: ±4.5 nW

Impedance and Correction
• S-parameter correction for insertion-loss compensation
• Gamma correction for mismatch error mitigation

Input/Output
• Connector: 1.85 mm
• Trigger: External trigger-in via BNC-to-SMB cable

Damage Levels
• RF: 25 dBm average, 4 VDC, 15 W (2 µs peak)
• DC: ±20 V (AC coupled, Option 100); ±4 V (DC coupled, Option 200)

Physical Dimensions
• 5.06 in. × 1.81 in. × 1.41 in.; 0.49 lbs
• Cable options: 5 ft (standard), 10 ft (Option 302), 16.3 ft (Option 303)

– Key Features

• Fastest USB thermocouple sensor in its class at 900 readings/second
• USB-direct power eliminates external instruments and bulk
• Integrated real-time uncertainty calculation reduces post-measurement analysis
• Wide dynamic range (−35 to +20 dBm) with linearity <0.8%

– Typical Applications

• Broadband RF power measurement (10 MHz to 67 GHz)
• Mobile and wireless device power characterization
• Component and subsystem validation
• Field service and maintenance

– Compatibility & Integration

The U8488A integrates with Keysight BenchVue software (BV0007B included) for control, automation, and data logging. Compatible with EPM power meters (N1913B/14B and N1913A/14A) and network analyzers for source power calibration.