Rohde & Schwarz NRV-Z15

The Rohde & Schwarz NRV-Z15 is a high-sensitivity diode power sensor engineered for precise average power measurements across microwave and millimeter-wave frequencies. Built around zero-bias Schottky diodes, it delivers dynamic range exceeding 80 dB and extends measurement capability down to 100 pW, making it suitable for low-level signal detection and modulated signal analysis. The sensor integrates directly with Rohde & Schwarz NRVS, NRVD, URV35, and URV55 power meter base units via Type K (2.92 mm) 50 ohm connectors and stores individual calibration data internally for instrument interchangeability without accuracy degradation.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 50 MHz to 40 GHz


• Power Measurement Range: 100 pW minimum (-70 dBm) to 100 mW maximum average and peak power; typical operating floor at 400 pW with ±200 pW zero offset


• Dynamic Range: >80 dB


• Linearity Uncertainty: 0.04 dB (1.0%)


• Display Noise Floor: 80 pW


• Connector: Type K (2.92 mm), 50 ohm


• Cable Length: 1.3 m


• SWR Performance: ≤1.15 (0.070 Γ) from 50 MHz to 4 GHz; ≤1.37 (0.157 Γ) from >4 GHz to 40 GHz

Key Features

• Square-law region operation from -70 dBm to -20 dBm provides accurate RMS measurement of modulated signals with harmonic weighting


• Temperature and frequency-independent linearity within specified range


• Individually calibrated with NIST-traceable certification available


• Sensor-specific calibration data stored in device memory

Typical Applications

• Low-power signal detection and measurement


• Modulated signal analysis with harmonic content


• Microwave and millimeter-wave power characterization


• Laboratory and system integration environments

Compatibility & Integration The NRV-Z15 operates with NRVS, NRVD, URV35, and URV55 series instruments, enabling seamless integration into existing Rohde & Schwarz measurement systems.