UNI-T USG5000-PK Power Meter Option for USG5000 Series RF Signal Generators

Overview

The USG5000-PK Power Meter Option is a software upgrade for the USG5000 series microwave signal generators, compatible with both the USG5000M (Analog) and USG5000V (Digital Vector) series. This option enables your USG5000 generator to interface with an external USB power sensor, providing accurate RF and microwave power measurement, output power control, and line loss calibration across the full frequency range of the generators. By connecting your own compatible power sensor to the front panel USB port, you can ensure that the exact power level reaches your device under test — critical for high-frequency applications where cable and connector losses can significantly impact measurement accuracy.

Key Features

• Extended Frequency Coverage: Measure power across the full frequency range of the USG5000 series using your own compatible USB power sensor
• Precision Power Measurement: Directly measure RF power at the device under test with high accuracy
• Automatic Output Control: Set the desired power at the test point and let the system compensate for all losses
• Line Loss Calibration: Create comprehensive loss profiles across frequency to ensure accurate power delivery
• Seamless Integration: Connect a compatible USB power sensor to the front panel USB port for plug-and-play operation
• Easy Operation: Intuitive controls through the signal generator's user interface

Technical Specifications

Note: Specifications are dependent on the power sensor used. Values shown are typical when used with a compatible USB power sensor.

Application Examples

Millimeter-Wave System Development

Ensure accurate power delivery in high-frequency applications:

• Compensate for significant cable losses at microwave frequencies
• Ensure precise power levels for 5G FR2 component testing
• Maintain consistent power levels during frequency sweeps up to 22 GHz
• Calibrate test setups for satellite communications in Ku, K, and Ka bands

Microwave Component Characterization

Improve measurement accuracy in component testing:

• Precisely control input power for amplifier gain and linearity measurements
• Maintain exact power levels for mixer conversion loss testing
• Ensure accurate stimulus levels for filter response characterization
• Compensate for temperature-dependent cable losses during environmental testing

Production Testing of High-Frequency Devices

Enhance manufacturing test efficiency and accuracy:

• Ensure consistent power levels reach each device under test
• Automatically compensate for test fixture and cable variations between test stations
• Create frequency-dependent compensation tables for complex test setups
• Maintain calibrated power levels throughout extended production runs

Research and Development

Support precise laboratory measurements:

• Provide accurate power control for sensitive experiments
• Document actual power levels at the device under test
• Eliminate uncertainty from cable and connector losses
• Maintain experiment repeatability through precise power calibration

Compatible USG5000 Series Models

The USG5000-PK power meter option works with all models in the USG5000 series, including both the Analog (M-series) and Digital Vector (V-series) generators:

USG5000M Analog Series

• USG5014M (9 kHz to 14 GHz)
• USG5014M-P (9 kHz to 14 GHz with mechanical attenuator)
• USG5022M-P (9 kHz to 22 GHz with mechanical attenuator)

USG5000V Digital Vector Series

• USG5014V (9 kHz to 14 GHz)
• USG5014V-P (9 kHz to 14 GHz with mechanical attenuator)
• USG5022V-P (9 kHz to 22 GHz with mechanical attenuator)

Once a compatible USB power sensor is connected, power meter functions are seamlessly integrated into the generator's user interface, with dedicated menus for measurement, calibration, and power control functions.

Key Advantages at Microwave Frequencies

• Compensate for Higher Losses: Cable and connector losses increase significantly at microwave frequencies — the USG5000-PK automatically accounts for these losses to deliver accurate power at the test point
• Frequency-Dependent Calibration: Create detailed loss profiles across the full frequency range, ensuring accuracy even when losses vary significantly with frequency
• Reduce Setup Uncertainty: Eliminate the need for separate power measurement software and manual loss calculations in high-frequency test setups
• Improve Test Throughput: Automatic power leveling reduces the time spent on manual adjustments during frequency sweeps and multi-point measurements
• Maintain Accuracy Across Temperature: Compensate for temperature-dependent cable and connector losses that are more pronounced at microwave frequencies
• Leverage Existing Equipment: Use your own compatible USB power sensor — no need to purchase a dedicated sensor

Installation

The USG5000-PK option is enabled through a license file installation procedure that can be performed by the user. No hardware modification is required.