How does the 4480A compare to a terminating power sensor?

Terminating power sensors are a common way of measuring RF power, but they come with limitations. Terminating sensors require either a coupler or attenuator to reduce a signals power to a manageable level. These extra components add more uncertainty into the measurement and calibration can be affected if different components are used. By utilizing a through line approach, the 4480A can be calibrated as a signal unit making it highly accurate and reliable while also holding up to real world conditions not suitable for most lab equipment.