Agilent/Keysight 8487A

The Agilent/Keysight 8487A is a coaxial power sensor for RF and microwave power measurements spanning 50 MHz to 50 GHz. Built around a thermocouple sensing element, it delivers accurate, stable measurements with low SWR across its operating range. The sensor measures power from -30 dBm to +20 dBm with excellent linearity and NIST-traceable calibration, making it ideal for precision characterization of RF and microwave systems.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 50 MHz to 50 GHz


• Measurement Range: -30 dBm to +20 dBm (1 µW to 100 mW)


• Impedance: 50 ohm


• Connector: 2.4 mm male


• Sensing Element: Thermocouple


• Maximum Power: 300 mW average, 15 W peak, 30 W µs per pulse


• Power Linearity: ±3% from +10 dBm to +20 dBm


• Calibration: NIST-traceable with typical measurement uncertainty of 1.8% at 100 MHz

Key Features SWR performance varies across frequency bands: 1.10 from 100 MHz to 2 GHz, rising to 1.50 at 40–50 GHz. This controlled impedance match minimizes reflection losses and measurement uncertainty. The compact form factor (38 mm × 30 mm × 95 mm, approximately 2 lb) supports portable and rack-mounted test setups. Thermocouple sensing provides broadband, modulation-independent power measurement suitable for pulsed and CW signals.

Typical Applications RF power characterization, gain measurement, power linearity testing, and component validation across microwave frequencies. The wide dynamic range and stable calibration support both development and manufacturing test environments.

Compatibility & Integration The 8487A works with Agilent/Keysight EPM Series power meters (E4418B, E4419B, E4416A, E4417A), P-Series instruments (N1911A, N1912A), and VXI module E1416A. Compatibility with older 43x series and E1416A models should be verified for the replacement N8480 Series.