Agilent/Keysight 8472B

The Agilent/Keysight 8472B is a low-barrier Schottky diode detector engineered for precise RF power measurements from 10 MHz to 18 GHz. Using a specially fabricated Low Barrier Schottky Diode (LBSD) with low origin resistance and low junction capacitance, it delivers superior broadband flatness and VSWR performance compared to point-contact alternatives. The detector provides high sensitivity, excellent square-law linearity, and solid burnout protection for demanding measurement environments.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 10 MHz to 18 GHz


• Detector Type: Low Barrier Schottky Diode (LBSD)


• Impedance: 50 Ω (nominal)


• Input Connector: SMA male


• Output Connector: BNC female


• Maximum Operating Input Power: 200 mW


• Typical Short-Term Maximum Input Power: 1 W (less than 1 minute)


• Rise Time: 8 to 12 ns (external 50 Ω load)


• Weight: Approximately 1 lb

Key Features

• Frequency Response: ±0.3 dB to 12.4 GHz, ±0.5 dB to 15 GHz, ±0.6 dB to 18 GHz


• Maximum VSWR: 1.15 from DC to 4 GHz; escalates to 1.7 at 18 GHz


• Low-Level Sensitivity: >0.5 mV/µW


• Noise: <50 µV


• Square-Law Region: Typically ±0.5 dB from tangential signal sensitivity (TSS) to –18 dBm; Option 002 extends to –10 dBm


• Output Polarity: Negative (standard); Option 003 provides positive polarity

Typical Applications

• RF signal detection and monitoring


• Broadband power measurement


• Automatic level control systems


• Precision detector applications requiring wide dynamic range

Compatibility & Integration The 8472B integrates directly with standard oscilloscopes and measurement instrumentation via its BNC output. Option 001 provides matched detector pairs for superior tracking performance (±0.2 dB from 10 MHz to 12.4 GHz, ±0.3 dB to 18 GHz). Option 100 supplies OSSM male output connectors for alternative interface requirements. Compatible with the broader low-barrier Schottky diode detector family including the 423B, 8470B, and 8473B/C models.