Anritsu MA2422B Fast Thermal Sensor, 10MHz to 18GHz

The Anritsu MA2422B is a fast thermal sensor for RF power measurement spanning 10 MHz to 18 GHz. It delivers true average power readings across modulated and multi-tone waveforms using Seebeck elements, with rise time under 4.0 ms for rapid measurement settlement. The sensor integrates an internal EEPROM storing calibration factors and linearity correction data as functions of frequency, power, and temperature, enabling automatic correction when connected to compatible power meters.

Class-leading SWR performance and dynamic range from −30 dBm to +20 dBm ensure accurate characterization in demanding RF test environments.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 10 MHz to 18 GHz


• Dynamic Range: −30 dBm to +20 dBm


• Rise Time: Less than 4.0 ms


• RF Connector: N (male)


• Measurement Type: Thermal power sensing via Seebeck elements


• Calibration Storage: Internal EEPROM with frequency, power, and temperature-dependent correction data

Key Features

• Rise time below 4.0 ms reduces test time by up to 10× versus earlier thermal sensor generations


• Pulse profiling captures peak power, crest factor, average power, rise time, fall time, maximum power, minimum power, and statistical metrics for wideband signals


• Automatic frequency, power, and temperature interpolation via stored calibration data ensures accuracy without manual adjustment


• Class-leading SWR performance minimizes measurement uncertainty from reflections


• Handles complex modulated and multi-tone waveforms in production and development test scenarios

Typical Applications

• RF power characterization across microwave frequencies to 18 GHz


• Modulated signal power measurement in wireless and broadband testing


• Pulse profiling and dynamic waveform analysis


• High-speed production test environments requiring rapid settling times

Compatibility & Integration The MA2422B integrates with Anritsu power meters in the ML2430A, ML2438A, ML2480, and ML2490 series, as well as the ML2408A Dual Power Meter. The matching circuit optimizes return loss performance across the entire frequency range.