Mini-Circuits PWR Series User manual

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User Guide
The PWR series covers:
9 kHz – 40 GHz
-60 to +20 dBm
50 and 75 ΩImpedance models
Peak & Average, RMS and CW models
POWER SENSORS
USB &Ethernet

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Important Notice
This guide is owned by Mini-Circuits and is protected by copyright, trademark
and other intellectual property laws.
The information in this guide is provided by Mini-Circuits as an accommodation
to our customers and may be used only to promote and accompany the
purchase of Mini-Circuits’Parts. This guide may not be reproduced, modified,
distributed, published, stored in an electronic database, or transmitted and the
information contained herein may not be exploited in any form or by any means,
electronic, mechanical recording or otherwise, without prior written permission
from Mini-Circuits.
This guide is subject to change, qualifications, variations, adjustments or
modifications without notice and may contain errors, omissions, inaccuracies,
mistakes or deficiencies. Mini-Circuits assumes no responsibility for, and will
have no liability on account of, any of the foregoing. Accordingly, this guide
should be used as a guideline only.
Trademarks
Microsoft, Windows, Visual Basic, Visual C# and Visual C++ are registered
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. LabVIEW and CVI are registered
trademarks of National Instruments Corporation. Delphi is a registered
trademark of Delphi Technologies, Inc. MATLAB is a registered trademark of
The MathWorks, Inc. Agilent VEE is a registered trademark of Agilent
Technologies, Inc. Linux is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds. Mac is a
registered trademark of Apple Inc. Python is a registered trademark of Python
Software Foundation Corporation.
All other trademarks cited within this guide are the property of their respective
owners. Neither Mini-Circuits nor the Mini-Circuits USB/Ethernet Smart RF
Power Meter are affiliated with or endorsed or sponsored by the owners of the
above referenced trademarks.
Mini-Circuits and the Mini-Circuits logo are registered trademarks of Scientific
Components Corporation.
Mini-Circuits
13 Neptune Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11235, USA
Phone: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web: www.minicircuits.com

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Table of Contents
Chapter 1 – General Information.................................................................... 5-9
1.1 Scope of the User Guide..................................................................................... 5
1.2 Warranty ............................................................................................................. 5
1.3 Definitions ........................................................................................................... 5
1.4 General Safety Precautions ................................................................................ 6
1.5 Introduction ......................................................................................................... 6
1.6 Service and Calibration ....................................................................................... 6
1.7 Contact Information............................................................................................. 6
1.8 Technical Description....................................................................................... 7-9
1.8.1 Features of Mini-Circuits power sensors.................................................................................. 7
1.8.2 Intended Applications............................................................................................................... 7
1.8.3 Conformity................................................................................................................................ 8
1.8.4 Supported software environments .......................................................................................... 8
1.8.5 Model Selection Guide ............................................................................................................. 9
Chapter 2 –Installation and Setup ............................................................. 10-16
2.1 Software Setup ............................................................................................ 10-11
2.2 Installation.................................................................................................... 12-13
2.3 Power Sensor Physical Setup...................................................................... 14-16
Chapter 3 –Using PWR Smart Power Sensors ......................................... 17-38
3.1 USB Interface............................................................................................... 17-21
3.2 Ethernet Interface (RC suffix models only) .................................................. 22-23
3.3 Main Screen................................................................................................. 24-25
3.4 Real-Time Graph................................................................................................26
3.5 Relative Frequency Points Table .......................................................................27
3.6 Creating and using Offset Files.................................................................... 28-29

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Table of Contents
3.7 Data Recording Window .............................................................................. 30-32
3.7.1 View Graph ............................................................................................................................. 31
3.7.2 View Data File ......................................................................................................................... 31
3.7.3 Create CSV File........................................................................................................................ 32
3.7.4 Use Switch Control Seq........................................................................................................... 32
3.8 Firmware Update (Supported models only).................................................. 33-34
3.9 Firmware Recovery............................................................................................35
3.10 Compact View..................................................................................................36
3.11 Working with multiple sensors.................................................................... 37-38
Chapter 4 – Peak Power and Pulse profiling.............................................. 39-43
4.1 Configuring sample period & Trigger ........................................................... 39-40
4.1.1 Trigger Mode options (Fig. 4.1) ............................................................................................. 39
4.1.2 Internal Trigger ...................................................................................................................... 39
4.1.3 External Output options (Fig. 4.1)....................................................................................... 40
4.1.4 Filter selection (Not supported by PWR-8P-RC) .................................................................... 40
4.2 Pulse Profile Analysis................................................................................... 40-43
4.2.1 Pulse profiling display options (Fig.4.2).................................................................................. 41
4.2.2 Markers for Graphs................................................................................................................. 41
4.2.3 Zoom Graph Configuration..................................................................................................... 42
4.2.4 Zoom on Pulse config window................................................................................................ 42
4.2.5 Calculated parameters ........................................................................................................... 43
Chapter 5 – Revision history..................................Error! Bookmark not defined.

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1 Chapter 1 – General Information
1.1 Scope of the User Guide
This User Guide provides general introduction, installation instructions and operating
information for Mini-Circuits PWR series of USB and Ethernet smart power sensors. For
detailed instructions on specific measurement applications using Mini-Circuits measurement
applicationssoftware see the Application Measurement guide.
1.2 Warranty
See the Mini-Circuits website http://www.minicircuits.com/support/ordering.html for warranty
information.
1.3 Definitions
Note: A note advises on important information you may need to ensure proper operation of the equipment.
There is no risk to either the equipment or the user.
A caution advises about a condition or procedure which can cause damage to the
equipment (no danger to users).
A warning alerts to a possible risk to the user and steps to avoid it. DO NOT proceed
until you are sure you understand the warning.
CAUTION
WARNING

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1.4 General Safety Precautions
Please observe the following safety precautions at all times when using Mini-Circuits
smart power sensors.
1. Note the maximum input power rating in the datasheet and the conditions
specified for it. Exceeding these values may damage the power sensor.
2. Do not exceed the operational safe power levels for extended periods of time.
1.5 Introduction
Traditionally, when you wanted to measure signal power from electronic components or circuit
boards, you’d have to connect them to a bulky and expensive bench-top power meter. Not
anymore. Mini-Circuits PWR power sensors offer a whole new approach, using a quick, simple,
USB or Ethernet connection to turn your Windows®PC or laptop into an RF/Microwave power
meter.
The PWR series offers a low-cost replacement solution for conventional RF/Microwave power
meters, but goes even further by adding portability, easy data storage, advanced data-
processing capabilities, and remote operation via Ethernet. Unlike most conventional bench-top
instruments, they’re self-calibrating and compensate automatically for temperature. They're
quick and easy to use with plug and play functionality making them perfect for field or remote
use.
1.6 Service and Calibration
The only user-performed service possible for the PWR models is external cleaning of the case
and connectors as needed. Do not use any detergents or spray cleaning solutions to clean the
PWR unit. To clean the connectors, use an alcohol solution, and to clean the PWR case, a soft,
damp cloth. The recommended calibration cycle for Mini-Circuits PWR series smart power
sensors is once a year. Calibration service is available from Mini-Circuits. For details; see
Ordering, Pricing & Availability Information link from individual model pages on the website.
1.7 Contact Information
Mini-Circuits inc.
13 Neptune Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11235
Phone: [phone]
General Fax: [phone]
Sales / Customer Service Fax: [phone]
[e-mail]
For regional offices and tech support see http://www.minicircuits.com/contact/offices.html
CAUTION

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1.8 Technical Description
1.8.1 Features of Mini-Circuits power sensors
✓Pocket-sized portability
✓Automatic frequency calibration & temperature compensation
✓Turns a laptop or PC into a low-cost replacement power meter
✓Effective, easy-to-use software
•User-friendly GUI for any Windows®32- or 64-bit computer (command-line support for
Linux®)
•Multiple data display and output options, including Excel®
•Data averaging
•Relative measurements
•Scheduled data recording with user defined spec limits
•Multi-sensor support (up to 24), display options, and management tools
•Measurement Applications suite to simplify many common test scenarios
•Remote operation via TCP/IP networks
•DLL COM objects for both ActiveX, and .NET supporting LabVIEW®, Delphi®, C++, C#,
Visual Basic®, and more (see programming handbook and application note AN-49-001
for details)
•Download and install in seconds all required software from
https://www.minicircuits.com/softwaredownload/pm.html.
For specific model features, performance data and graphs, outline drawing, ordering information
and environmental specifications, see our catalog at:
https://www.minicircuits.com/WebStore/PortableTestEquipment.html
1.8.2 Intended Applications
Mini-Circuits PWR series smart power sensors are intended for indoor use in:
- Lab and test equipment setups for both manual and automated measurements
- Remote location monitoring
- Automatic, scheduled data collection
- Evaluation of high-power, multi-port devices with built-in virtual couplers/attenuators & other
software tools
The models can be used by anyone familiar with the basics of electronics measurements.

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1.8.3 Conformity
Mini-Circuits PWR series power sensors conform to all requirements for the following
international standards:
CE –
(& UKCA)
The models meet electrical safety requirements per EN 61010-1 and EMC
requirements per EN 61326-1.
FCC –
The models comply with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation. CAN ICES-3 (A)/NMB-3(A).
RoHS –
The models comply with EU directive for Restriction of Hazardous
Substances for 6 substances.
USB 2.0 –
The models meet the specifications of the Universal Serial Bus Ver. 2.0
communication standard as described by USB-IF.
USB HID –
The models meet the requirements for Universal Serial Bus Human Interface
Devices according to USB-IF’s Device Class Definition for Human Interface
Devices firmware revision 1.11.
TCP/IP –
The RC suffix series models’ Ethernet communication complies with the
specifications of the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and Internet
Protocol (IP) as defined in RFC 791 and RFC 793.
HTTP –
The RC suffix series models’ support all requirements for communicating with
the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) as defined in RFC 1945.
Telnet –
The RC suffix series models’ support all requirements for communicating with
the Telnet protocol, as defined in RFC 854.
1.8.4 Supported software environments
Mini-Circuits PWR series power sensors have been tested in the following operating systems:
32-bit: Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7.
64-bit: Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, Linux.
The power sensors will work with almost any software environment that supports ActiveX or
.Net including: C++, C#, CVI®, Delphi®, LabVIEW®8 or newer, MATLAB®7 or newer, Python,
Agilent VEE®, Visual Basic®, AutoIT, Visual Studio®6 or newer, and more
Additionally, the HTTP and Telnet protocols can operate from almost any computer with a
network connection.
For more information see Mini-Circuits programming manual on our website.

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1.8.5 Model Selection Guide
Model
Name
Frequency Range
Impedance
(Ω)
Sensor
Type
Input Power
Measurement
Speed
(ms)
Max DC
Supply
Current
(mA)
Control
Min Max Min
(dBm)
Max
(dBm)
PWR-2.5GHS-75 100 kHz 2.5 GHz 75 CW -30 +20 30 70 USB
PWR-4GHS 9 kHz 4 GHz 50 CW -30 +20 30 70 USB
PWR-6GHS 1 MHz 6 GHz 50 CW -30 +20 30 70 USB
PWR-6LGHS 50 MHz 6 GHz 50 CW -45 +10 30 110 USB
PWR-6LRMS-RC 50 MHz 6 GHz 50 RMS -45 +10 30 300 USB &
Ethernet
PWR-6RMS-RC 50 MHz 6 GHz 50 RMS -35 +20 30 300 USB &
Ethernet
PWR-8FS 1 MHz 8 GHz 50 CW -30 +20 10 70 USB
PWR-8GHS 1 MHz 8 GHz 50 CW -30 +20 30 70 USB
PWR-8GHS-RC 1 MHz 8 GHz 50 CW -30 +20 30 250 USB &
Ethernet
PWR-8P-RC 10 MHz 8 GHz 50 Peak
& Avg -60 +20 0.002 450* USB & Ethernet
PWR-40PW-RC 0.5 GHz 40 GHz 50 Peak
& Avg -20 +20 0.00005 500** USB & Ethernet
For additional details and ordering information, click on model P/N.
*With Ethernet disabled, increases to 650mA with Ethernet control enabled.
** With Ethernet disabled, increases to 700mA with Ethernet control enabled.

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2 Chapter 2 – Installation and Setup
System requirements for the PWR models are a computer (Pentium II or better) with support for
USB HID. To run the GUI program a Windows operating system for either 32 or 64 bits is also
required.
The RC models can also be operated remotely over a network with mains power (100-220V)
supplied using the included power adaptor.
2.1 Software Setup
If you have had any problems installing the software, we’re here to help.
Try following these complete step-by-step instructions. If you still experience problems,
give us a call at Mini-Circuits Worldwide Technical support. It’s [phone] or e-mail
[e-mail] for North America, or go to minicircuits.com/contact/worldwide_
tech_support.html for other regional numbers and addresses.
2.1.1 First save all work in progress and close any other programs that may be running.
2.1.2 Next, download the full Software Package from
https://www.minicircuits.com/softwaredownload/PowerMeter_CD.zip.
Unzip the downloaded files to a suitable folder on your computer, then open the file folder you
created and double-click the “Install” icon.
Figure 2.1.2 Software Package file listing window

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2.1.3 Alternatively, you may wish to just download and open without saving the
setup files, from
https://www.minicircuits.com/softwaredownload/PowerMeter_Setup.zip
Then double click on the setup.exe icon.
Figure 2.1.3 Setup file listing window

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Figure 2.2.1 Installation window
Figure 2.2.2 License agreement
2.2 Installation
2.2.1 The installer window should now appear. Click the “Install Now” button (if you
downloaded only the setup files skip to 2.2.2).
2.2.2 The license agreement should now appear. To proceed, click “Yes" to accept
the agreement.

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Figure 2.2.3 Installation program window
2.2.3 The installation program will install (will take a few seconds). Click
the “Exit” button to close the installer.
The Power Meter program will be in “C:\Program Files (x86)\Mini-
Circuits\PowerMeter” with links on the desktop and in the start menu under “Mini-Circuits Power
Meter”.

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2.3 Power Sensor Physical Setup
2.3.1 For CW and RMS power sensors, align the red dot at the Power Sensor
USB connection with the one on the supplied cable and press in until you hear a ‘click’.
2.3.2 For Peak power sensors,simply connect the standard USB cable supplied to the
USB port.
1. Note the maximum rating power input in the datasheet and the conditions
specified for it. Exceeding these values may damage the power sensor.
2. Do not exceed the operational safe power levels for extended periods of time.
2.3.3 For USB control, connect the USB type A plug of the supplied cable to the
computer USB port and begin testing. In RC models the RJ45 connector remains unconnected
when in USB control.
Figure 2.3.1: Plug cable into unit
Figure 2.3.3a: Connections for USB control of a CW or RMS RC model
CAUTION

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2.3.4 For Ethernet control using AC/DC adaptor (CW and RMS RC models
only)
•Connect the USB type A plug of the 'Y' cable to the provided power adaptor and plug it
in to a mains power socket, note the power sensor's power indicator lights up.
•Connect the Ethernet plug to a network port and note power sensor's Ethernet status
indicators light up.
2.3.5 For Ethernet control using AC/DC adaptor (Peak power models
only)
•Connect the provided USB cable to the power adaptor and plug it in to a mains power
socket, note the power sensor's power indicator lights up.
•Connect the Ethernet plug to a network port and note the indicators at the power
sensor’s Ethernet port light up.
Note: Before connecting the power sensor for the first time you will need to enable Ethernet control. If
Ethernet control is not enabled indicator lights at Ethernet port will not light up.
Figure 2.3.4: Connections for Ethernet control with power adaptor
Figure 2.3.3b: Connections for USB control of Peak & Avg power sensor
Figure 2.3.5: Connections for Ethernet control of Peak & Avg power sensor

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2.3.6 For Ethernet control using Power Over Ethernet (RC models only)
•Mini-Circuits RC power sensor models do not directly support PoE but an external PoE
splitter could be used to enable their use on a PoE network.
•Follow the instructions from the supplier to connect the splitter’s PoE interface into an
Ethernet port supporting PoE.
•Connect the power sensor’s USB connection into the splitter’s USB / DC supply port (an
adapter may be required), ensuring the sensor’s power indicator LED turns on.
•Connect the power sensor’s Ethernet connection into the splitter’s RJ45 network port,
the sensor’s Ethernet data indicator LEDs should turn on.
Figure 2.3.6: Connections for Ethernet control using Power Over Ethernet

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3 Chapter 3 – Using PWR Smart Power Sensors
3.1 USB Interface
3.1.1 Go to the Start Menu and select All Programs>Mini-Circuits USB Power Meter
(default), or go to the other destination address you selected earlier. The “Mini-Circuits USB
Power Meter” icon should be waiting there for you. Click on it and get started!
Figure 3.1.1: Power Sensor Startup screen
3.1.2 The startup allows you to select the control method you wish to use for the PWR
units, USB or Ethernet control. All models support USB control, only models with an ‘RC’
suffix such as PWR-8GHS-RC support Ethernet control. For USB control click on the USB
button, for Ethernet control see section 3.2
3.1.3 If a single PWR power sensor is connected to the computer via USB, the
Smart RF Power meter screen will appear, already displaying your unit ready to start
measurements.
Figure 3.1.3: Main screen

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3.1.4 If multiple PWR power sensors are connected to the computer via USB, the
initial screen will show a list of S/N for connected units. You can select a single unit, or
multiple units you wish to start with – each opening in its own window. The program can
handle up to 24 units connected simultaneously.
Figure 3.1.4: Unit selection screen
#
Name
Description
1
Number of
sensors
Shows total number of power sensors detected
2
Sensor List List, by serial number of all sensors detected
3
O.K Proceed with the sensors selected
4
Select All
Marks all sensors listed
5
Deselect all Cancels selection of all sensors listed
6 Freq
Enter the frequency to be tested for best results. If multiple units are selected
all will use the compensation factor suitable for this frequency.
7
Compact View Open selected power sensors in compact view
8 Recording
Open data recording window to set data recording for one or more of the
sensors
9
Cancel Exit the program
See section 3.11 for detailed description of operating with multiple units.
3.1.5 If no PWR power sensors are connected to the computer via USB or there is
a problem with the USB connection selecting USB will cause the following alert will pop-up.
Click OK and check the USB connections before clicking the ‘reset connection’ button.
Figure 3.1.5: No USB unit found

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3.1.6 After acknowledging the alert, the main measurement screen will appear with
no unit selected and a ‘Not Connected’ notice. Click on ‘reset connection’ to try connecting
again, or close the program.
3.1.7 If there's a faulty DUT connection, no RF power or the power is below the
sensors dynamic range a ‘Power Too Low’ notice will appear.
Figure 3.1.6: No USB Unit found
Figure 3.1.7: Power too low

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3.1.8 The Ethernet Configuration (RC suffix only) screen can only be
accessed from the USB control main screen. Click on the Ethernet-Config button in the
bottom right corner of the screen, and the Ethernet configuration screen will appear.
Figure 3.1.8 Ethernet-Config button on USB main screen
3.1.9 The Ethernet Configuration screen will open showing the current
configuration. Figure 3.1.9 shows the factory default of the power sensor. If these settings fit
your local network, you do not need to access the setup before connecting the power sensor
to the network.
Figure 3.1.9: Ethernet Config. screen (showing factory default state)
Note: If you are using a proxy server for your LAN connections you may need to define a name
for the power sensor IP address, or disable the proxy server to connect to the power sensor via
Ethernet.
9
8
4
2
6
11
1
3
5
7
10
12