Rohde & Schwarz, a global leader in electronics and test and measurement equipment, is set to launch the groundbreaking R&S NRP170TWG(N) thermal power sensor, offering unparalleled precision in power level measurements within the D-band. This thermal power sensor is the sole RF power sensor in the market with complete traceability to national metrology institutes (NMI) across the frequency spectrum from 110 GHz to 170 GHz, a pivotal factor for commercializing this frequency band.
The R&S NRP170TWG(N) introduces cutting-edge hardware designed to minimize measurement noise and drift, ensuring exceptional accuracy and user-friendliness. These fully calibrated plug & play devices seamlessly integrate into any measurement setup with USB or LAN connections. This innovation from Rohde & Schwarz finds applications in diverse fields such as general research and development for 6G mobile communications, sub-THz communications, sensing, and future automotive radar applications.
Accuracy is paramount in wideband measurements, and the R&S NRP170TWG(N) is calibrated for long-term stability, capable of compensating for environmental temperature influences within the specified operating range of 0°C to +50°C. With a dynamic range of –35 dBm to +20 dBm and an impressive measurement speed of up to 500 measurements per second, these sensors excel in delivering speed and outstanding performance, standing as the sole NMI-traceable RF power sensors for the D-band.
User-Friendly Operation and Connectivity
All Rohde & Schwarz power sensors, including the R&S NRP170TWG(N), prioritize ease of use, stability, and superior connectivity. These sensors offer stable power readouts even at levels below -20 dBm, exhibit no drift, and demonstrate resilience to external temperature changes and out-of-band signals like far-infrared (FIR). Fast measurement speeds and simple digital access to data output are vital in mass production facilities.
The R&S NRP170TWG(N) can be effortlessly connected via USB or LAN, operating with standard SCPI protocols. Its user-friendly design allows researchers, developers, and production engineers to focus on more complex tasks, streamlining operations in various industries.
Advancing Traceability with National Metrology Institutes
In the development of the R&S NRP170TWG(N), Rohde & Schwarz collaborated closely with Germany’s national metrology institute, the Physikalisch-Technische-Bundesanstalt (PTB), and other NMIs as part of a European Union project to extend traceability up to 170 GHz. Previously, NMI traceability was limited to 110 GHz. NMI traceability is a prerequisite for commercial and industrial utilization of a frequency band, ensuring defined power levels are maintained across the spectrum.
Daniel Blaschke, the head of RF & Microwave Power Meters development at Rohde & Schwarz, takes pride in the achievement, emphasizing that Rohde & Schwarz is the pioneer in transforming this technological breakthrough into a commercially viable and traceable RF power sensor, reaching up to 170 GHz.
Dr. Karsten Kuhlmann, leader of the High-Frequency Basic Quantities working group at PTB, underscores the importance of precise and calibrated power levels. He expresses satisfaction in contributing to the progress of commercializing and mass-producing future D-band products through collaborative efforts with the industry.
Rohde & Schwarz’s Technological Milestone
The Launch of the R&S NRP170TWG(N) marks a technological milestone in precision measurements within the D-band. Rohde & Schwarz’s commitment to innovation and collaboration with national metrology institutes positions the company at the forefront of advancing traceability and ensuring the commercial viability of products operating in the sub-THz frequency range.
The R&S NRP170TWG(N) thermal power sensor is poised to revolutionize D-band measurements, offering unprecedented accuracy, traceability, and user-friendly operation. As industries evolve towards higher frequency applications, Rohde & Schwarz’s pioneering efforts ensure that precise and reliable power measurements remain a cornerstone of technological progress.
