Tektronix PSM4120 USB Power Sensor, 10 MHz – 8 GHz

The Tektronix PSM4120 is a USB-connected power sensor for RF and microwave measurements from 10 MHz to 8 GHz. This compact instrument delivers fast, accurate power analysis without requiring a separate mainframe. Connect directly to a PC or laptop via USB 2.0 and control the sensor, display readings, and log data using included Windows-based software.

The PSM4120 measures average power, pulse power, peak power, and duty cycle-corrected pulse power with measurement uncertainty as low as 2.5%. Engineered for thermal stability across its operating temperature range, it minimizes the need for frequent sensor zeroing and meter recalibration.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 10 MHz – 8 GHz


• Power Measuring Range: −60 dBm to +20 dBm (10 MHz to 6 GHz); −50 dBm to +20 dBm (6 GHz to 8 GHz)


• Measurement Speed: Up to 2000 readings/second (500 μs/measurement)


• Measurement Uncertainty: As low as 2.5% (calibration factor, 500 MHz – 8 GHz); total uncertainty as low as 2.6%


• Dynamic Range: −60 dBm minimum


• Maximum Peak-to-Average Ratio: 80 dB (10 MHz to 6 GHz); 70 dB (6 GHz to 8 GHz)


• Internal Video Bandwidth: 10 MHz (typical)


• Timebase Accuracy: ±50 ppm (typical)


• Sample Rate: 500 kS/s


• Minimum Pulse Width (Average Power): 500 ns (typical)


• Minimum Pulse Width (Peak Power): 200 ns (typical)


• Impedance: 50 Ω nominal


• Connector Type: N-Type Male


• Dimensions: 48 mm diameter × 62 mm length (plus connector)


• Weight: 149 g

Key Features

• Average power, peak power, and pulse power measurement modes


• Pulse profiling with envelope tracing and gated measurements


• Full pulse characterization: overshoot, crest factor, rise/fall time, pulse width, PRF, duty cycle


• Statistical analysis (CCDF and PDF)


• Max hold and relative measurement modes


• Frequency response, offset, and 75 Ω pad correction


• Flexible averaging and pass/fail limit modes


• TTL trigger input and output for external synchronization

Compatibility & Integration USB 2.0 connectivity enables direct PC/laptop integration. Windows-based software controls measurement parameters, displays real-time data, and enables automated logging for high-volume testing environments.