Boonton 51015 RF Power Sensor

The Boonton 51015 is a diode power sensor designed for use with Boonton RF power meters. It is engineered to provide accurate average power measurements across a broad frequency spectrum and dynamic range, making it suitable for diverse RF power measurement applications. The sensor converts incident RF or microwave power into a voltage that can be processed by a compatible power meter. It presents an impedance that is closely matched to the transmission system to ensure minimal signal reflection and loss.

### Technical Specifications

* **Manufacturer:** Boonton
* **Model:** 51015 (often specified as 51015(5E) or 51015A)
* **Type:** Diode Power Sensor for Average and CW Power
* **Frequency Range:** 100 kHz to 18 GHz
* **Power Measurement Range (Dynamic Range):** -50 dBm to +30 dBm
* **Input Impedance:** 50 Ohms
* **Connector Type:** N Type (Male)

### Electrical Characteristics

* **Average Power Overload Rating:** 2 W
* **Pulse Overload Rating:** 10 W for 1 µs
* **Insertion Loss (Example values for specific frequency bands):**
* 100 kHz – 1 GHz: 1.07 dB
* 1 GHz – 2 GHz: 1.10 dB
* 2 GHz – 4 GHz: 1.12 dB
* 4 GHz – 12.4 GHz: 1.18 dB
* 12.4 GHz – 18 GHz: 1.28 dB
* **Temperature Coefficient:** 0.015 dB per degree C (relative to 23 degrees C, for 18-28 degrees C range)

### Physical Characteristics

* **Weight:** Approximately 0.3 kg
* **Dimensions:** 6.5 × 6 × 6 in (Note: some sources list dimensions for other related sensors, e.g., 8 x 3 x 3 in for the 51033)

### Compatibility

* **Compatible Power Meters:** Compatible with most Boonton RF power meter series. Specifically, it is compatible with Boonton models such as the 4230, 4240 series, and others that accept diode average sensors. It can also emulate HP437 and HP438 power meters when used with compatible Boonton power meters.
* **Sensor Data Adapter:** Accepts sensor data adapter for full-calibration data, including high-frequency calibration factors, stored in non-volatile memory.

### Calibration and Traceability

* **Calibration:** Boonton employs both linearity calibration and frequency response calibration to maximize the performance of its diode sensors and correct for non-linearity. Linearity calibration can extend the operating range of a diode sensor or correct non-linearity across its dynamic range.
* **Traceability:** Calibration factors are NIST traceable. The 30 MHz working standard used for linearization is traceable to the 30 MHz piston attenuator at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

### Safety and Handling

* **Grounding:** The instrument chassis and cabinet must be connected to an electrical ground to minimize shock hazard. It is equipped with a three-conductor, three-prong AC power cable.
* **Servicing:** Internal adjustments and component replacement should only be performed by qualified maintenance personnel. Do not operate in explosive atmospheres or in the presence of flammable gases or fumes.

Why Choose Aumictech for Boonton 51015?
At Aumictech, we specialize in supplying high-end RF power measurement equipment. Whether you need accurate average power measurements from 4 kHz to 40 GHz, a wide dynamic range for diverse applications, or reliable performance for your lab or enterprise, our team ensures the Boonton 51015 delivers maximum performance for your application.