- Rohde & Schwarz has introduced the R&S NTS series of thermoelectric RF power transfer standards for metrology and calibration laboratories.
- Designed to replace thermistor-based power standards, these devices are intended for use as primary standards in microcalorimeters or as transfer standards in national metrology institutes (NMIs), accredited laboratories and industrial facilities.
The R&S NTS standards use an RF-to-DC substitution method based on two symmetrical heating elements, one for RF power and the other for DC power. This architecture is designed to reduce measurement uncertainty. The devices also incorporate a four-wire DC heater connection, low-impedance DC lines and an integrated temperature sensor. The maximum input power is +20 dBm.
Passive standards for calibration systems
The R&S NTS standards feature a passive analogue design and can be connected directly to calibrated DC nanovoltmeters. They do not require an additional base unit. Rohde & Schwarz also provides software support to facilitate migration from existing measurement setups.
The coaxial models cover frequencies from DC to 67 GHz, while a waveguide version extends the range up to 170 GHz using a WR-6.5 interface. Different versions are available, including open, short-circuit and mismatched configurations, to support the determination of correction factors in microcalorimeter-based measurements.
The R&S NTS series is part of Rohde & Schwarz’s RF power calibration ecosystem, which also includes the R&S NRPC calibration solution and R&S NRP power sensors.
