Characteristics of broadband radiofrequency field strength meters

A number of broadband RF field strength meters or radiation hazard meters are produced commercially for the purpose of evaluating the electric or magnetic field near RF sources. Of several instruments available, a careful selection will allow most RF environments to be surveyed accurately by at least one meter. The design of these instruments determines their characteristics and limitations. The three basic design variables are the antenna, detector, and transmission line. Field and laboratory evaluation have shown that several characteristics are perceived as most important including RF potential sensitivity, nonsinusoidal response, zero stability, out-of-band response, and isotropy. Other characteristics such as absolute calibration, linearity, thermal stability, and cable flexure response (except in peak hold mode) are not usually practical concerns for well-functioning instruments.<>