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Models LB480A/LB680A USB PowerSensor+™
Product Manual PPA (Pulse Profiling Application)
1. General Information
Introduction
This manual provides information about how to install and operate the LB480A/LB680A models for USB Pulse Profiling
PowerSensor+™. Information about product features, specifications, and support is also included. Use the electronic
bookmarks shown below (or the table of contents) to reference product features that include all of the toolbar functions.
Refer to the product Programming Guide for programming information. The Errata and User Update section at the end
of this document reflects recent changes in product development.
It is highly recommended that you begin with the LB480A Quick Start Guide for the Pulse Profiling Application to
quickly learn the basics of instrument operation. Alternately, if you want to use the sensor simply as a CW and pulse
power meter, refer to the LBXXXA Quick Start Guide and Product Manual for the Power Meter Application.
Description
The LB480A USB PowerSensor+™ features a compact power sensor body that connects directly to a desktop or
laptop computer using a standard USB port. A separate power meter is not required. The companion Pulse Profile
Application software provides a front panel display, or Graphical User Interface (GUI), that allows the user to make
typical CW and pulse (modulation) measurements. A programmatic interface is also available for the product.
The LB480A power sensor allows for the complete characterization of RF and microwave signals from 100 MHz to 8
GHz with a dynamic range of -60 to +20 dBm. The LB480A is specifically designed for those applications requiring a
time domain analysis of pulse and other modulated signal formats.
USB Considerations
The Universal Serial Bus (USB) provides adequate power for the sensor under normal circumstances. However, when
using a longer cable (greater than 3-5 meters), or when some laptop or portable computers are used, an active or self-
powered hub may be required. These are available at most computer stores and often sell for under $20.00. The
sensor is powered directly via the USB cable and typically draws 450 mA at 5 VDC(nominal). An active hub will
compensate for the DC voltage drop beyond approximately 3-5 meters. The reason an active hub is recommended
when using a portable computer is to conserve the battery life of the computer. PowerSensor+™ products are USB 2.0
compliant. The following information is provided for reference when selecting a hub:
Bus-powered hub: Draws a maximum of 100 mA at power up and 500 mA during normal operation.
Self-powered hub: Draws a maximum of 100 mA and must supply 500 mA to each port.
Low power, bus-powered functions: Draws a maximum of 100 mA (often applies to portable computers).
High power, bus-powered functions: Self-powered hubs: Draws a maximum of 100 mA and must supply 500 mA to
each port.
Suspended device: Draws a maximum of 0.5 mA
Revision: 08/02/11
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