Why Replace your RF Detector for Pulse Power Measurements?
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Abstract
Boonton 4500B - What a Single-Ended Detector Doesn't Tell You!
Boonton 4542 - The Value of a Boonton Two-Channel Peak Power Alternative.
Why Replace your RF Detector for Pulse Power Measurements?
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Boonton 4500B Peak Power Analyzer
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What a Single-Ended Detector Doesn't Tell You!
- Antenna return loss measurements can be cumbersome when using a single ended RF envelope detector. Below is a typical system block diagram:
- The system requires the detector, a digital oscilloscope, an average power meter, and assorted connectors & couplings to monitor a single output.
- Complex calibration is often required when measuring outside the linear, or square law region of the detector.
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Boonton 4542 Peak Power Meter
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The Value of a Boonton Two-Channel Peak Power Alternative:
A peak power meter provides fully calibrated measurements using an absolute reference, not just the pulse shape with a relative average power value.
A two channel meter allows the simultaneous measurement of:
- Forward and Reflected Power (Return Loss)
- Amplifier Input and Output (Gain)
Below is a typical two channel peak power setup measuring amplifier gain, or return loss.
Both envelopes are displayed on the same screen for comparison and parametric measurement.