Agilent HP Keysight U8488A

The Agilent HP Keysight U8488A is a USB-connected thermocouple power sensor for precise RF power measurements spanning DC/10 MHz to 67 GHz. It delivers average power readings with measurement speeds exceeding 900 readings per second, making it well-suited for instrument calibration, manufacturing test, and high-speed production environments. The sensor combines fast USB connectivity with real-time measurement uncertainty computation and advanced correction algorithms to minimize systematic errors.

– Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: DC/10 MHz to 67 GHz
• Power Range: −35 dBm to +20 dBm
• Dynamic Range: 55 dB
• Measurement Principle: Thermocouple
• Measurement Type: Average/CW power
• Measurement Speed: >900 readings/second (free run/fast buffer mode)
• Power Linearity: <0.55% (−1 to +15 dBm); <0.80% (+15 to +20 dBm) at 0–55 °C ambient
• Zero Set: ±25 nW
• Zero Drift: ±10 nW
• Measurement Noise: <±45 nW
• RF Damage Level: 25 dBm average power; 15 W peak power (2 µs duration)
• DC Damage Level: 4 VDC (AC coupled Option 100); 4–20 VDC (DC coupled Option 200)
• Connector: 1.85 mm, 50 Ω
• Current Draw: 400 mA
• Operating Temperature: 0–55 °C
• Storage Temperature: −40–71 °C
• Dimensions: 128.50 mm × 4 mm × 35.90 mm
• Weight: 0.22 kg

– Key Features

• Real-time measurement uncertainty computation eliminates manual calculations and shortens test cycles
• S-parameter and gamma correction compensates for impedance mismatch and component insertion errors
• Frequency-dependent offset (FDO) with storage for 10 correction tables
• Built-in and external trigger inputs for automated measurement initiation
• Auto-calibration on power-up with NIST/NPL traceability
• Manual zeroing at test port recommended in temperature-variable environments

– Typical Applications

PNA and MXG instrument calibration; high-volume RF manufacturing test; power measurement in systems requiring sub-nanosecond noise performance and extended frequency coverage.

– Compatibility & Integration

USB interface; Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, and 10 compatible. BenchVue software support enables control, data logging, and visualization without custom programming.