The National Instruments 783985-01 RF Power Sensor, also known as the USB-5683, is a precision instrument designed for accurate RF power measurements across a wide frequency range of 10 MHz to 8 GHz. This true RMS power sensor is adept at measuring average power for both single-tone and multi-tone signals, making it suitable for complex digital waveforms as well. With an input range spanning from -60 dBm to +20 dBm, the device ensures reliable performance across varying signal strengths. The compact form factor of the sensor enhances its suitability for mobile and automated test setups, allowing efficient use of rack space without sacrificing measurement accuracy.

The 783985-01 supports both hardware and software triggering modes, offering flexibility for burst waveform measurements tailored to advanced communication standards such as WiMAX, LTE, GSM, and EDGE. Measurement accuracy is maintained with uncertainties as low as 0.14 dB, depending on frequency and power level, facilitated by low noise and zero drift characteristics. The sensor's measurement capabilities are enhanced by customizable averaging modes, enabling users to adjust the number of averages for optimal precision, and it supports a duty cycle correction range of 0.001% to 100% in continuous mode.

Equipped with a maximum buffer size of 8,192, the sensor achieves measurement speeds of up to 1,000 unbuffered measurements per second, exceeding 10,000 buffered measurements. The RF connector type is N-type (male), interfacing seamlessly via a USB 2.0 connection. Built for durability, the 783985-01 operates reliably within an environmental temperature range of 0 °C to 50 °C and can withstand storage conditions from -40 °C to 71 °C. It is designed to endure shocks of up to 30 g peak and vibrations within 5 Hz to 500 Hz, making it an ideal choice for demanding applications. The sensor operates off USB power, typically drawing 450 mA, and measures 110 mm x 45 mm x 25.6 mm, weighing 397 g (0.88 lb). Warranty coverage extends from 2 to 3 years, ensuring long-term support for this critical measurement tool.