Keysight 8481D Diode Power Sensor: Precision Power Measurement from 10 MHz to 18 GHz

Keysight 8481D – Diode Power Sensor (10 MHz to 18 GHz).

The Keysight 8481D Diode Power Sensor is engineered to deliver precise average power measurements across a wide frequency range of 10 MHz to 18 GHz, making it an ideal solution for RF and microwave power testing applications. With a dynamic power measurement range from -70 dBm (100 pW) to -20 dBm (10 µW), this sensor is particularly suited for low-level signal analysis in lab environments and production testing.

This model is compatible with a wide range of Keysight power meters, including EPM series (N1913A/14A, E4418B/19B), EPM-P series (E4416A/17A), P-series (N1911A/12A), the E1416A VXI module, as well as discontinued models such as the 70100A and 43X series. The 8481D includes the Keysight 11708A 30 dB attenuator, enabling accurate calibration using the 0 dBm, 50 MHz reference from compatible meters.

Thanks to its diode sensing technology and excellent SWR (Standing Wave Ratio) performance, the 8481D reduces mismatch uncertainty, which improves the reliability and repeatability of power measurements.

For engineers looking to streamline their RF measurement workflow, the RF Power Sensors category offers multiple models with varying sensitivity and frequency ranges. To better understand how power sensors contribute to measurement precision and diagnostics, read our article: Why You Should Use HART Communicators for Field Calibration: Enhancing Accuracy, Efficiency, and Device Diagnostics.

Technical Specifications

Frequency & Power

• Frequency Range: 10 MHz to 18 GHz

• Power Range: -70 dBm to -20 dBm (100 pW to 10 µW)

• Power Measurement Type: Average (True RMS not applicable)

• Sensor Technology: Diode

Compatibility

• Compatible Power Meters:

  • EPM Series: N1913A, N1914A, E4418B, E4419B

  • EPM-P Series: E4416A, E4417A

  • P-Series: N1911A, N1912A

  • Others: E1416A VXI, 70100A, 43X series (discontinued)

Mechanical & Physical

• Product Dimensions:

  • Height: 1.5 in

  • Width: 1.5 in

  • Length: 4.02 in

• Product Weight: 0.37 lbs

• Shipping Weight: 2 lbs

Additional Features

• Supplied with Keysight 11708A 30 dB attenuator

• Excellent SWR to minimize mismatch errors

• CE Safety Approval