HP 8900C Peak Power Meter Analog RF pulses over a 100 MHz to 18 GHz

The HP 8900C Peak Power Meter is an analog instrument for measuring peak power in RF pulses across 100 MHz to 18 GHz. It delivers direct analog readout calibrated in watts and dBm, making it ideal for peaking and nulling pulsed RF systems. The meter accommodates pulse widths from 1 µs to continuous wave, with repetition rates from 100 Hz to 100 kHz. Compare mode extends capability to 100 ns pulse widths (75 ns rise time) and 0 Hz to 100 kHz repetition rates. Four measurement ranges—3 mW, 10 mW, 30 mW, and 100 mW full scale—span a 20 dB dynamic range (0 to +20 dBm). The instrument draws less than 20 VA and operates from 110–120 V or 220–240 V AC (48–66 Hz). An RF blanking output (BNC connector) provides contact closure to ground for sensor auto-zeroing. Compact dimensions of 155 mm H × 130 mm W × 279 mm D and 2.7 kg net weight enable bench and portable deployment.

– Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 100 MHz to 18 GHz
• Measurement Type: Peak power of analog RF pulses
• Pulse Width Capability: 1 µs to CW; Compare Mode: 100 ns typical
• Repetition Rate: 100 Hz to 100 kHz; Compare Mode: 0 Hz to 100 kHz
• Display: Analog, calibrated in watts and dBm
• Dynamic Range: 20 dB (0 to +20 dBm)
• Measurement Ranges: 3 mW, 10 mW, 30 mW, 100 mW full scale
• Rise Time (Compare Mode): 75 ns
• Power Consumption: < 20 VA
• Input Power: 110–120 V or 220–240 V AC, 48–66 Hz
• Dimensions: 155 mm H × 130 mm W × 279 mm D
• Net Weight: 2.7 kg (5.9 lb)

– Key Features

• Large, easily readable analog scale for intuitive system nulling and peaking
• Four selectable ranges optimize measurement resolution across the 0 to +20 dBm span
• Compare mode enables detection of narrow pulses down to 100 ns with 75 ns rise time
• RF blanking output facilitates automated sensor zeroing via contact closure
• Low power consumption supports laboratory and field measurement setups

– Typical Applications

• Pulsed RF power measurement and characterization
• System alignment and peak power optimization
• Pulse generator and transmitter validation
• Comparative power analysis in radar and communications systems

– Compatibility & Integration

The HP 8900C pairs with the HP 84811A Peak Power Sensor (0 to +20 dBm, 100 MHz to 18 GHz, N-type connector). Power sensor cables (HP 11730A and variants) accommodate nonstandard distances. The optional HP 5060-8762 rack adapter frame holds three instruments of comparable size.