Wavetek 8501A

The Wavetek 8501A is a single-channel peak power meter that measures both continuous wave (CW) and pulsed RF power with a single instrument. Built-in power sweep calibrator delivers NIST traceable accuracy using an ovenized thermistor for sensor calibration across 0 to 50°C ambient. The meter performs sequential sampling at over 70 measurements per second with 100 ps resolution, enabling precise characterization of pulse parameters including rise time, fall time, and pulse width on a real-time display.

– Technical Specifications

• Measurement Modes: CW power, peak power at any point on pulsed waveforms
• Power Range: Pulse mode −20 dBm to +20 dBm; CW mode −40 dBm to +20 dBm
• Frequency Coverage: 30 MHz to 40 GHz (dependent on sensor selection)
• Measurement Resolution: 100 ps
• Measurement Rate: Over 70 measurements per second
• Rise Time: Less than 15 ns (high-speed sensors)
• Accuracy: ±1.5% power uncertainty at 1 mW; ±3% linearity across power range
• Self-Calibration: Less than one minute
• Frequency Response Calibration: Automatic correction with EEPROM-stored factory calibration factors per sensor

– Key Features

• Real-time pulsed waveform display with graph mode showing pulse outline, amplitude, and timing
• Precision reference cursor and up to 4 user-positioned markers per channel plus reference power level cursor
• Automatic marker placement for pulse parameter measurements
• Compatible with interchangeable power sensors covering 30 MHz to 18.5 GHz, 750 MHz to 26.5 GHz, and 750 MHz to 40 GHz bands

– Typical Applications

• Pulsed RF power characterization across microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies
• CW and modulated signal power verification
• Pulse timing and amplitude analysis

– Compatibility & Integration

Accepts standard interchangeable power sensors with factory-calibrated EEPROM profiles for automatic frequency-dependent correction.