Rohde and Schwarz NRP40S – Three-Path Diode Power Sensor (50 MHz – 40 GHz)

Rohde and Schwarz NRP40S – Three-Path Diode Power Sensor (50 MHz – 40 GHz)

Three-path diode power sensors are suitable for numerous applications since they support continuous average, burst average, timeslot average, gate average and trace measurements. Featuring outstanding performance and unprecedented measurement speed and accuracy, the sensors can be used to perform precise average power measurements on wireless signals ranging from GSM and LTE up to 5G NR. For detailed analysis, the sensors offer additional measurement functions such as timeslot mode and trace mode with a video bandwidth of 100 kHz.

Several models available

Rohde and Schwarz offers several versions of its NRP-xxS three path diode power sensors. Several of the models shown below are also available in a LAN version, which would have the same part number but with the letter “N” on the end. For example, NRP8S and NRP8SN.

Offering a frequency range of up to 33 GHz, the R&S NRP33S(N) is ideal for use in the automotive sector, for example in the development and production of long-range and short-range anti-collision radars (24 GHz). It is also a perfect choice for installation, maintenance and remote monitoring of ground stations for satellite systems (up to 33 GHz).

The R&S NRP40S(N) and NRP50S(N) are ideal for measurements on microwave link systems operating at frequencies up to 50 GHz. The user benefits from short measurement times and the sensors’ wide dynamic range.

Connecting the sensor to your computer or instrument

The power sensors can use various, detachable cables for connection to diverse display units. A screw connection is provided on the sensor end to prevent accidental loosening of the cable.

The R&S NRP-ZKU USB interface cable can be used to connect a power sensor to a laptop/PC via the USB interface. This is an extremely space-saving and also cost-efficient solution that does not require a base unit. Two software tools – R&S Power Viewer Plus and R&S NRPV virtual power meter – are available to simplify sensor operation from a laptop/PC. These tools support all measurement functions implemented in the sensors.

The R&S NRP-ZK6 interface cable is intended for operating a power sensor on the R&S NRX base unit. It can also be used to connect the power sensor to diverse Rohde & Schwarz signal generators and signal and spectrum analyzers to enhance these instruments with a high performance power meter.

Please note, the NRP-ZKU and NRP-ZK6 are sold separately.

Multiple ways to operate the R&S NRP power sensors

93 dB dynamic range thanks to improved three-path concept

The R&S NRPxxS(N) power sensors use three separate diode paths, each operated in the optimum detector range. As a result, the average power can be determined with high accuracy irrespective of the modulation type. Measurement results are hardly affected by interfering signals or harmonics. The R&S NRPxxS(N) power sensors therefore behave similar to thermal power sensors but offer significantly higher speed. They provide up to 93 dB dynamic range with an excellent lower measurement limit of -70 dBm.

10,000 triggered measurements/s

In fast continuous average mode, the R&S NRPxxS(N) power sensors can perform up to 10000 triggered measurements/s with a minimum trigger repetition time of 100 µs without losing any measurement. This measurement speed is achieved by using the buffered mode. In buffered mode, all measured data is collected inside the sensor and transmitted in one block to the sensor’s host. By exploiting the maximum buffer size, the R&S NRPxxS(N) sensors are able to collect measured data for up to 8192 triggered measurements within 0.81 s.

Sensors for high-power applications

The R&S NRP18S-10, NRP18S-20 and NRP18S-25 high-power three-path diode power sensors consist of an R&S NRP18S and a 10/20/25 dB upstream attenuator. They are able to perform power measurements up to 2 W, 15 W and 30 W. When used with the attenuator, mismatch errors between the sensor and attenuator are automatically corrected. The S-parameters for the attenuator are determined and stored in the sensor during production. They are then automatically taken into account when performing measurements.

When used with the attenuator, mismatch errors between the sensor and attenuator are automatically corrected. The S-parameters for the attenuator are determined and stored in the sensor during production. They are then automatically taken into account when performing measurements.

LAN power sensors are ideal for remote monitoring applications, e.g. for satellite systems or particle accelerators, where sensors need to be placed at different points in the system. The LAN interface makes it easy to overcome large distances between the various test points and the control center.

In LAN operation, the sensors are powered via a PoE capable LAN interface on the power sensor. If the LAN used does not support the PoE standard, then the sensors are connected to the LAN via a PoE switch (R&S NRP-ZAP2).

NRP series overview

Rohde & Schwarz offers several varieties of its NRP power sensor. The NRPxxS(N), NRPxxT(N), NRPxxTWG, NRPxxA(N) and NRP-Zxx power sensors are immediately ready for use. In contrast to conventional power sensors, no calibration is required prior to making measurements since the sensors are fully characterized over frequency, level and temperature and feature longterm stability. All calibration data is stored in the sensors, so they function as independent measuring instruments. Usually, no zeroing is required. Users can plug in a sensor and simply start measuring.