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Keysight Technologies
Things to Know to Achieve Optimum
Power Measurement Speed and Accuracy
Using Keysight power meters and sensors




Application Brief




Introduction
When you need to maximize
power measurement speeds,
knowing three key items can make
a significant difference. These
items include understanding your
test signal, equipment, and which
measurement technique to use.
Know Your Test Signal
Knowing the expected power level measurement of the test signal helps you determine what can be done to improve test
speed. For example, for low power test signals that fall very low in the power sensor dynamic range, little can be done to
improve speed because the noise at that level requires iterations of measurements be averaged to achieve an accurate
reading. You also need to know the power type such as CW, average, or peak power of any type of signal (AM, FM, or
modulated signal) that needs to be measured. The signal bandwidth of a modulated signal (such as GSM, WiMAXTM,
WLAN, and LTE) requires the power meter/sensor support video band bandwidth (BW) in order to measure the peak and
peak-to-average of the signal. For more details, refer to the Keysight Technologies, Inc. application note 4 Steps for Making
Better Power Measurements.


Choose the Right Power Meter and Power Sensor
Knowing the signal characteristics will help you choose the power meter or power sensor that is best suited to the
application. You may also need to know the power meter's capability, the type of power sensor, and the technology it
needs to measure the signal. For more details refer to the Keysight application note, Choosing the Right Power Meter
and Sensor.


Apply Speed Optimization Techniques
Once the power meter or sensor is selected, you may find it useful to read the application note, Practices to Optimize
Power Meter/Sensor Measurement Speed and Shorten Test Times. This application note outlines tips for using power
meters and power sensors to achieve faster test times without compromising the measurement accuracy. Alternatively,
you can refer to relevant Keysight documents such as a specific power meter's or sensor's User Guide for additional
information on speed and accuracy specific to the device.


Conclusion
Figure 1 summarizes the three key elements to maximize power measurement speeds using power meters/sensors.


Know Choose right Apply speed
your power meter & optimization
test signal power sensor technique

Power level Power meter Apply
Type of power: capability optimization
CW, average, Power sensor method for
or peak type (CW, better accuracy
Signal format: average or peak) measurement
AM, FM or Power sensor and speed
modulated signal technology
Signal bandwidth (thermocouple
or diode)



References