Rohde and Schwarz NRP90TWG - Thermal Power Sensor with Waveguide Interface (60 to 90 GHz)

The R&S NRP power meter sensors have long been recognized for delivering supreme precision and speed. The R&S NRPxxT, NRPxxTN and NRPxxTWG thermal power sensors are especially used for complex measurement tasks where highest accuracy counts. They unify excellent impedance matching with a sophisticated connector concept. The internal calibration test grants reliable and stable measurements. The R&S NRP power meter sensors are available as USB sensors and can be additionally controlled via LAN with certain models. This makes the R&S NRP power meter portfolio ideal for use in production, R&D and calibration labs as well as for installation and maintenance tasks.

Several models available 

Rohde and Schwarz offers several versions of its thermal power sensor. 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, NRP18T and NRP18TN.

To achieve stable measurement results, the temperature in the thermal test cell must correspond to the applied power. When the power is increased, the sophisticated measurement cell of the R&S NRPxxT(N)/TWG thermal power sensors quickly attains a stable temperature. When the power level is decreased, the excess heat is dissipated extremely quickly. Consequently, thermal power sensors from Rohde & Schwarz are able to measure three times faster than comparable solutions on the market with triggered measurements and > 500 measurements/s in buffered mode - with top accuracy.

Excellent impedance matching

To a large extent, measurement uncertainty results from multiple reflections at the source and power sensor caused by mismatch. To minimize these reflections, all thermal power sensors in the R&S NRP family are excellently matched up to high frequencies, reducing measurement uncertainty.

Internal calibration test

Rohde & Schwarz has implemented a special verification function in the NRPxxT(N) sensor. This function covers all essential components of the signal path. Using a test routine, the sensor’s response to a highly stable applied DC power is measured and compared against the value stored during the previous calibration. The result provides information about the functionality and accuracy of the power sensor.

Connecting the sensor to your computer or instrument

These 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

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.