Keysight (Agilent) 8487D 50 MHz – 50 GHz, RF Power Sensor

The Keysight (Agilent) 8487D is a diode-based RF power sensor engineered for precise average power measurement across 50 MHz to 50 GHz. It delivers 50 dB of dynamic range and operates within -70 dBm to -20 dBm, making it suitable for telecommunications, radar, and electronic warfare applications requiring high accuracy and measurement stability.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 50 MHz to 50 GHz


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


• Dynamic Range: 50 dB


• Input Impedance: 50 Ω


• Standing Wave Ratio (SWR): 1.19 to 1.89 across full frequency range


• Sensor Type: Diode power sensing element


• RF Connector: 2.4 mm (m) plug


• Dimensions: 38 mm W × 30 mm H × 121 mm D


• Weight: 0.2 kg

Key Features

• Measures average power with diode-based detection technology


• Low SWR design minimizes mismatch uncertainty across the entire frequency band


• NIST-traceable calibration ensures measurement integrity and standards compliance


• Includes Keysight 11708A 30 dB attenuator for calibration at 0 dBm reference with 50 MHz power meter


• Compact form factor for bench and system integration

Typical Applications

• Telecom RF power verification and characterization


• Radar system power measurement and validation


• Electronic warfare (EW) signal analysis and monitoring


• High-frequency component and amplifier testing

Compatibility & Integration The 8487D integrates with Keysight power meters across multiple product families:

EPM Series: N1913A/14A, E4418B/19B

EPM-P Series: E4416A/17A

P-Series: N1911A/12A

VXI: E1416A

Legacy Systems: 70100A, 43X series (435A/B, 436A, 437A, 438A)