Giga-tronics 58542 VXIbus Universal Power Meter

The Giga-tronics 58542 is a single-slot VXIbus universal power meter engineered for precision CW and peak power measurements in automated test systems. It delivers NIST-traceable accuracy with measurement speeds exceeding 150 readings per second in standard mode, and over 5,000 readings per second in exclusive Burst Mode. The instrument captures peak power directly without duty cycle corrections and maintains accuracy across a full 90 dB dynamic range.

## Technical Specifications

**Measurement Capability**
• Continuous Wave (CW) and peak power measurement
• Standard mode: >150 readings per second
• Burst Mode: >5,000 readings per second
• Dynamic range: 90 dB
• Peak power measurement without duty cycle correction

**Power Sweep Calibrator**
• Frequency: 50 MHz nominal
• Output range: −30 dBm to +20 dBm in 1 dB increments
• Calibration reference: Internal thermistor for linearity
• Accuracy at 0 dBm (1 mW): ±0.7% (NIST traceable, factory set)
• Worst-case accuracy over one year (5°C to 35°C): ±1.2%

**Dual-Channel Operation**
Simultaneous measurement and display from both channels.

## Key Features

Built-in calibration overcomes diode sensor limitations in the square law region (below −20 dBm) through power sweep calibration with 1 dB resolution steps. The amplitude-controlled 50 MHz oscillator sweeps from −30 dBm to +20 dBm. Direct peak power measurement eliminates the need for time-consuming or unreliable duty cycle corrections.

## Typical Applications

Automated test systems requiring high-speed power measurement and capture of transient or burst signals. Radar, communications, and RF component characterization in production and laboratory environments.

## Compatibility & Integration

**VXIbus Architecture**
Single-slot module with SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments) command language support for seamless integration into VXI computer-controlled test environments.

**Sensor Support**
Compatible with Giga-tronics and Spanawave power sensors spanning 10 MHz to 40 GHz with up to 90 dB dynamic range. Supports high-power sensors (1, 5, 25, and 50 Watt ratings), true RMS sensors for quadrature modulated signals and intermodulation distortion measurement, and low VSWR sensors. Detector output provides waveform display capability via oscilloscope connection.