Power analyser provides frequency coverage up to 70GHz

21st September 2016

Mick Elliott

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Datasheet

The newly-launched Power Master MA24507A from Anritsu is an ultraportable, millimeter wave (mmWave) power analyser that enables simple, numeric, frequency based measurement of RF power from 9kHz to 70GHz. The frequency selectable RF power analyser leverages Anritsu’s patented Shockline technology, along with its leadership in ultraportable test solution design to address the growing number of test requirements in mmWave applications, including test of 802.11ad, Wireless HD, and E-band products, at every stage of the product lifecycle.

As signal frequency increases, attenuation due to the air or cabling grows, which can make power measurements particularly difficult at mmWave frequencies.

The power analyser’s ultraportable size overcomes this challenge by enabling users to place it directly at the signal source, including on-wafer measurements.

When system losses are unavoidable, the instrument can make measurements as low as -90dBm at 70GHz, making it a superior alternative to large benchtop instruments, which can be unwieldy in the field.

USB-powered, the analyser measures approximately 6×3×1 (inches) and weighs less than 15 oz. – slightly bigger than a smartphone. It is so small and light weight 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 Power Master MA24507A enables frequency selective power measurements, users can differentiate intended signals from unintended signals for the first time.

With spans from 1kHz to full span over the entire frequency range, the analyser 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.

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.

Anritsu has added features to PowerXpert to optimise the performance of the analyser.

Included in the enhancements are 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.

Power Master MA24507A can be controlled by remotely via the USB interface or through Anritsu’s PowerXpert data analysis and control software.