Anritsu Frequency Selectable RF Power Sensor

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Anritsu introduces the frequency selectable RF power analyser, Power Master MA24507A. The ultraportable power analyser enables simple, numeric, frequency-based measurement of RF power from 9 kHz to 70 GHz.

As signal frequency increases, attenuation due to the air or cabling grows, which can make power measurements particularly difficult at mmWave frequencies. The product’s ultraportable size overcomes this challenge by enabling users to place it directly at the signal source.

The USB-powered device is slightly bigger than a smartphone, weighs around 280 g and can make measurements as low as -90 dBm at 70 GHz. It is so small and lightweight that it can easily be used to make measurements on antenna towers or with an extension pole to measure small cell signals from the ground.

Because the unit enables frequency selective power measurements, users can differentiate intended signals from unintended signals for the first time. With spans from 1 kHz to full span over the entire frequency range, the product can zero in on a signal of interest in harsh environments, including those with unintended signals that can impact power readings. This enables measurements such as channel power and adjacent channel power to be made, while avoiding spurs and harmonics.

Unlike many other power measurement instruments, no reference calibration is required. The power analyser can stay connected to a test system constantly, eliminating the need to disconnect and reconnect it between test procedures.

The product can be controlled remotely via the USB interface or through Anritsu’s PowerXpert data analysis and control software, which now has added features to optimise the performance of the power analyser. These include a Power Hunter mode to easily identify the six highest CW amplitudes and their corresponding frequency, and a Channel Monitor mode so users can select up to six frequency channels and monitor their CW amplitude or channel power simultaneously.