Wavetek 8501

The Wavetek 8501 is a peak power meter engineered for precise power measurements of pulsed and continuous wave (CW) RF signals from 30 MHz to 40 GHz. It captures and displays pulse profiles with critical amplitude and timing parameters, enabling detailed waveform analysis at any point with 100 ps reference cursor resolution. The instrument measures pulses as narrow as 15 ns and delivers over 70 measurements per second in fast measurement mode via GPIB control.

– Technical Specifications

Measurement Performance
• Pulse power range: −20 dBm to +20 dBm
• CW power range: −40 dBm to +20 dBm (sensor dependent)
• Linearity: ±3% from +20 dBm to −20 dBm
• Power uncertainty at 1 mW: ±1.5%
• Minimum pulse width: 15 ns
• Reference cursor resolution: 100 ps
• Measurement rate: >70 measurements/second (fast mode, GPIB control)
• Automatic self-calibration time: <1 minute

Frequency Coverage
• 30 MHz to 40 GHz (sensor dependent)
• High-speed sensors: typically 750 MHz to 40 GHz
• Example sensor 16934A: 30 MHz to 18.5 GHz, Type N connector

– Key Features

• Built-in power sweep calibrator with NIST traceable accuracy
• Ovenized thermistor calibration for high-speed diode sensors
• Pulse profile visualization on LCD showing amplitude and timing
• Displays rise time, pulse width, and fall time parameters
• Interchangeable diode power sensors with factory-programmed EEPROM frequency calibration
• Automatic calibration factor application at entered measurement frequency

– Compatibility & Integration

The 8501 accepts interchangeable diode power sensors with Type N, Type APC-7, and Type K (SMA compatible) connectors. Each sensor contains factory-measured frequency calibration factors stored in EEPROM, enabling automatic correction across the supported frequency range.