83036C Broadband Directional Detector, 10 MHz to 26.5 GHz

The Keysight 83036C Broadband Directional Detector is a microwave power sampler that integrates directional coupling and detection into a single compact element. Operating from 10 MHz to 26.5 GHz, it eliminates the need for separate directional coupler and detector combinations while maintaining superior frequency response characteristics.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency range: 10 MHz to 26.5 GHz


• Frequency response: ±1.0 dB


• Maximum SWR (input/output): 1.7 above 50 MHz


• Directivity: 14 dB


• Maximum thru line loss: 2.2 dB


• Low level sensitivity: 18 µV/µW


• Maximum input power: 32 dBm into 50 Ω load; 21 dBm into open


• Video impedance: Approximately 8000 Ω at room temperature


• Detector risetime: Less than 2 microseconds


• Input blocking capacitors: Rated 15 Vdc maximum


• Detected voltage output connector: SMC male


• Input/output connector: 3.5 mm female

Key Features

• Resistive bridge architecture with thin-film resistors deposited on GaAs substrate


• Gallium Arsenide planar-doped barrier (PDB) detecting element with modified barrier integrated diode (MBID) process


• Square law response characteristics for linear power measurements


• Compact form factor: less than 0.47 cubic inches (<8 cm³)


• Flat frequency response across full operating range


• Superior temperature and square law stability

Typical Applications

• Broadband power monitoring across microwave and millimeter-wave bands


• Source leveling for swept frequency sources


• RF power sampling and measurement


• Replacement for bulky directional coupler-detector combinations

Compatibility & Integration The 83036C interfaces via 3.5 mm connectors for RF input/output and SMC connector for detected voltage output, enabling integration into existing test systems and measurement setups requiring broadband sampling capability.