Agilent/Keysight 8900C

The Agilent/Keysight 8900C is an analog peak power meter that delivers direct, real-time display of RF pulse power across a broad frequency spectrum. Purpose-built for pulsed and continuous-wave power measurement, the 8900C connects with the 84811A peak power sensor to characterize pulse widths ranging from 1 µs to CW operation, with pulse repetition rates from 100 Hz to 100 kHz. The instrument’s analog meter face is calibrated in both watts and dBm, enabling rapid field adjustment and optimization of pulsed RF systems without the complexity of digital interfaces.

– Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 100 MHz to 18 GHz
• Pulse Width Measurement: 1 µs to CW (100 ns minimum in compare mode)
• Repetition Rate: 100 Hz to 100 kHz (0 Hz in compare mode)
• Display: Analog meter, calibrated in watts and dBm
• Required Sensor: 84811A peak power sensor

– Key Features

• Direct analog display eliminates latency in power reading and response
• Wide frequency coverage from 100 MHz to 18 GHz supports multiple RF applications
• Extended pulse width range accommodates microsecond-scale pulses down to 100 ns in compare mode
• Dual-unit calibration (watts and dBm) simplifies system characterization and troubleshooting
• Compare mode operation enables static power reference measurements at 0 Hz repetition rate

– Typical Applications

• Pulsed RF power measurement in radar and communications systems
• Peak power verification during transmitter development and field service
• Pulse train characterization across L-band through microwave frequencies
• Real-time monitoring of RF amplifier output in test and production environments

– Compatibility & Integration

The 8900C operates exclusively with the 84811A peak power sensor, connecting directly to the sensor input. This dedicated pairing ensures accurate peak detection and measurement stability across the specified frequency and repetition rate ranges.