Rohde & Schwarz NRP-Z23 Power Sensor

The Rohde & Schwarz NRP-Z23 is a three-path diode power sensor for accurate average power measurements across RF and microwave frequencies from 10 MHz to 18 GHz. Its patented three-path architecture uses three simultaneous diode paths with 6 dB overlap between adjacent paths, delivering high-accuracy results independent of modulation type while suppressing harmonic interference comparable to thermal sensors. Measurement range spans −47 dBm to +42 dBm (20 nW to 15 W) with an 89 dB dynamic range for both CW and modulated signals.

The sensor performs continuous average power, burst average power, timeslot average power, and gate average power measurements, plus trace and time-gating functions. Video bandwidth is 100 kHz. Automatic burst detection and acquisition are supported, with measurement speed reaching 1500 measurements/s in buffered mode.

The three-path architecture eliminates hard-switching artifacts between measurement ranges, ensuring smooth transitions and eliminating additional measurement delays and differential nonlinearity. Simultaneous measurement of all paths with weighted final results provides enhanced signal-to-noise ratio and fast acquisition in transition regions. The design exhibits low sensitivity to harmonics.

Technical Specifications

• Sensor Type: Three-path diode power sensor


• Frequency Range: 10 MHz to 18 GHz


• Measurement Range: −47 dBm to +42 dBm (20 nW to 15 W)


• Dynamic Range: 89 dB for CW and modulated signals


• Maximum Power Handling: 15 W nominal


• Video Bandwidth: 100 kHz


• Measurement Speed: Up to 1500 measurements/s (buffered mode)


• Connector Type: N connector

Key Features

• Three simultaneous diode paths with 6 dB overlap for optimized detection across the full measurement range


• Continuous parallel measurement eliminates measurement delays and differential nonlinearity during transitions


• Low harmonic sensitivity


• Automatic burst detection and acquisition


• Supports continuous, burst, timeslot, and gate average power measurements


• Trace and time-gating functions

Typical Applications

• RF and microwave communication system testing


• Radar power measurements


• Wireless technology characterization


• Modulated signal power assessment

Compatibility & Integration Operation requires the R&S NRP2 base unit or direct USB connection to laptop/PC. Remote control via GPIB, LAN, or USB when connected to the base unit. Each sensor in the NRP family functions as an independent measuring instrument via USB.