Keysight (Agilent) 8487D 50 MHz – 50 GHz, RF Power Sensor

The Keysight (Agilent) 8487D is a diode-based RF power sensor engineered for precise average power measurement across 50 MHz to 50 GHz. It delivers 50 dB of dynamic range and operates within -70 dBm to -20 dBm, making it suitable for telecommunications, radar, and electronic warfare applications requiring high accuracy and measurement stability.

– Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 50 MHz to 50 GHz
• Power Measurement Range: -70 dBm (100 pW) to -20 dBm (10 µW)
• Dynamic Range: 50 dB
• Input Impedance: 50 Ω
• Standing Wave Ratio (SWR): 1.19 to 1.89 across full frequency range
• Sensor Type: Diode power sensing element
• RF Connector: 2.4 mm (m) plug
• Dimensions: 38 mm W × 30 mm H × 121 mm D
• Weight: 0.2 kg

– Key Features

• Measures average power with diode-based detection technology
• Low SWR design minimizes mismatch uncertainty across the entire frequency band
• NIST-traceable calibration ensures measurement integrity and standards compliance
• Includes Keysight 11708A 30 dB attenuator for calibration at 0 dBm reference with 50 MHz power meter
• Compact form factor for bench and system integration

– Typical Applications

• Telecom RF power verification and characterization
• Radar system power measurement and validation
• Electronic warfare (EW) signal analysis and monitoring
• High-frequency component and amplifier testing

– Compatibility & Integration

The 8487D integrates with Keysight power meters across multiple product families:

• EPM Series: N1913A/14A, E4418B/19B
• EPM-P Series: E4416A/17A
• P-Series: N1911A/12A
• VXI: E1416A
• Legacy Systems: 70100A, 43X series (435A/B, 436A, 437A, 438A)