R&S^®NRP-Z Sensors

Innovative SMART SENSOR TECHNOLOGY^™

The Power Sensors R&S NRP-Z11, R&S NRP-Z21, R&S NRP-Z22, R&S NRP-Z23 and R&S NRP-Z24 fuse multiple-path architecture, multiple-diode technology and a simultaneously scanning multichannel measurement system into a unique high-performance concept. Multiple-path architecture means combining two or three diode detectors to obtain a large dynamic range for modulated signals. This is achieved by operating each detector exclusively in the square-law region, and only using the optimally driven detectors for the measurement. Multiple diodes comprise several zero-bias Schottky diodes connected in series and integrated on one chip. When used in an RF detector, they expand its square-law region, because the measurement voltage is split among several diodes – so that each one is driven less – while at the same time the detected voltages of the individual diodes are added.

Sensor architecture in R&S NRP-Z11/-Z21/-Z22/-Z23/-Z24

The multipath architecture, for which Rohde & Schwarz has a patent pending, has the following features:

• 3 signal paths, each fitted with triple diodes
• 6 dB wide overlap ranges, smooth transitions
• Simultaneous scanning and analysis
• Chopper stabilization of the signal paths for repetitive signals

The advantages over conventional technology are obvious: high signal/noise ratio throughout, low modulation effect, negligible delays and discontinuities when switching signal paths, and the ability to perform a time-domain analysis of the test signal within the available video bandwidth.Thus these sensors not only compete with peak power meters, they are even superior in two respects:

• No restrictions on the RF bandwidth of the test signal
• Larger dynamic range

Thus it is now already possible to analyze extremely broadband signals, such as are planned for wireless LAN, or will be created by combining several carriers in accordance with 3GPP.

The new R&S^®NRP-Z81 power sensor represents latest power measurement technology. It offers all the functionality of a conventional peak power meter, and even more, in a compact unit. It can be operated on the R&S^®NRP power meter or any Windows PC, e.g. as a cost-effective solution in production systems. No compromise was made in terms of accuracy and versatility. Therefore, this new member of the R&S^®NRP family is particularly suitable for nearly every task in the field of power measurement:

• Analysis of radar and communications signalsup to 30 MHz RF bandwidth (sensor rise time
• Accurate continuous average power measurements on modulated and unmodulated signals from -60 dBm to +20 dBm
• Ultrafast statistical analysis (1 million point CCDF in 25 ms)
• Frequency range from 50 MHz to 18 GHz (from 500 MHz with full video bandwidth)