Agilent / Keysight Q8486A Thermocouple Waveguide Power Sensor

The Agilent/Keysight Q8486A is a thermocouple waveguide power sensor engineered for precision average power measurements in Q-band systems. Operating from 33 GHz to 50 GHz, it delivers accurate readings across a dynamic range of −30 dBm to +20 dBm (1 µW to 100 mW) with minimal mismatch uncertainty.

Technical Specifications

• Frequency Range: 33 GHz to 50 GHz (Q-band)


• Power Measurement Range: −30 dBm to +20 dBm (1 µW to 100 mW)


• Measurement Technology: Thermocouple on silicon chip


• Waveguide Flange: UG-383/U


• Standing Wave Ratio: Excellent - designed to minimize mismatch uncertainty


• Calibration Port: 50 MHz for simplified calibration with NIST traceability


• Weight: Approximately 5 lbs

Key Features

• Thermocouple sensing element with hot junction at resistor and cold junction at chip edge


• UG-383/U waveguide interface for direct integration into Q-band systems


• Low SWR design reduces measurement uncertainty from impedance mismatch


• 50 MHz calibration port enables traceable calibration to NIST millimeter-wave standards


• Stable, repeatable average power measurements across wide dynamic range

Typical Applications Precision power measurement in Q-band waveguide systems, including component characterization, amplifier testing, and source power monitoring in millimeter-wave applications.

Compatibility & Integration The Q8486A interfaces with Agilent/Keysight power meters including EPM Series, EPM-P Series, P-Series, 70100A, E1416A VXI, and legacy 435A/B, 436A, 437A, and 438A series instruments. Product Status: Discontinued