HP / Agilent 8481D diode power sensor range 10 MHz to 18 GHz and power range -70 to -20 dBm

The HP/Agilent 8481D is a diode power sensor engineered for precision RF power measurement from 10 MHz to 18 GHz across the -70 dBm to -20 dBm range (100 pW to 10 µW). Its diode sensing element delivers high sensitivity and maintains measurement accuracy in multi-tone, modulated, and harmonic-rich environments. The sensor terminates at 50 ohms with a Type-N male connector and integrates with Agilent and HP power meters including the EPM series, EPM-P series, 70100A, E1416A, and legacy 43x instruments.

– Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 10 MHz to 18 GHz
• Power Range: -70 dBm to -20 dBm (100 pW to 10 µW)
• Maximum Average Power: 100 mW nominal
• Impedance: 50 ohm
• Connector: Type-N male
• SWR: 1.40 (10–30 MHz); 1.15 (30 MHz–4 GHz); 1.20 (4–10 GHz); 1.30 (10–15 GHz); 1.35 (15–18 GHz)
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 55°C
• Storage Temperature: -55°C to 85°C
• Temperature Coefficient: 0.003 dB/°C typical
• Calibration Factor Uncertainty: ±1.8% at 25°C ±10°C; ±2.2% at 0° to 55°C (10–30 MHz)
• Physical Dimensions: 102 mm L × 38 mm W × 30 mm H
• Net Weight: 0.14 kg

– Key Features

• Diode sensing element for high sensitivity and linearity across power levels
• NIST-traceable calibration with included HP 11708A 30 dB attenuator and 0 dBm, 50 MHz power reference
• Stable measurements with multi-tone signals, modulated carriers, and high harmonics
• Low temperature sensitivity with documented coefficient per degree Celsius
• Static-sensitive; requires electrostatic-safe handling

– Typical Applications

• RF power verification and validation
• Modulated signal power measurement
• Harmonic and broadband signal analysis
• Calibration and traceability to national standards

– Compatibility & Integration

The 8481D connects to Agilent and HP power meters: EPM series, EPM-P series, 70100A, E1416A, and 43x series instruments.