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4480A Digital Wattmeter

  • Element-free. True-average RF power in seconds.
  • CW and digitally modulated signals.
  • 2 MHz–1000 MHz frequency range
  • Connect, Measure, Done.
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What the 4480A Delivers — At a Glance

Frequency Range

2 MHz to 1000 MHz

Power Measurement Range

Low band (2–30 MHz): 10 W–10 kW
High band (25–1000 MHz): 1 W–1 kW10

Signal Types

CW and digitally modulated signals (true average power)

Accuracy

±4% of reading

VSWR Measurement

Yes - automatic calculation

User Interface

3-button: Power • W/dBm + backlight • High/Low band

Display

Transflective LCD — shows readings in watts or dBm

No. of Elements

0 — completely element-free

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Choose Digital When Precision and Speed Matter

Bird's analog wattmeters like the Model 43 are trusted staples in RF testing — rugged, reliable, and field-proven for decades.

When you’re measuring digitally modulated signals or moving fast across frequency ranges without swapping elements, the 4480A is the smarter tool.

Why techs add the 4480A to their kit:

  • No elements to swap, one tool covers 2 MHz to 1000 MHz
  • Measures CW and modulated signals with true average power
  • Readouts in watts or dBm for faster decisions

Use both. Choose smart.

Your Model 43 isn’t going anywhere—but for digital signals and fast workflows, the 4480A delivers simple, confident results.

See why digital RF signals need digital solutions

4480A vs. Analog Wattmeters — Which Tool for the Job?

Feature/Use Case
4480A Digital RF Wattmeter
Traditional Analog Wattmeter
Signal Types
CW + digitally modulated (true-average)
CW only
Power Readout
Digital (watts or dBm)
Analog needle
Elements Required
No
Yes
Frequency Range
2 MHz to 30 MHz; 10 W to 10 kW
25 MHz to 1 GHz; 1 W to 1 kW
Depends on element
Best For
Fast testing, modern signals, lab or field workflows
Rugged, field-proven CW measurement
Setup Time
Instant
Manual setup (select/change element)
Built-in Data Logging
Yes
No
Display Clarity
Transflective LCD
Analog scale
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See the 4480A
in Action

Discover the key features of the 4480A in just 30 seconds. Watch how its element-free design, precision accuracy, and wide frequency range make it the ideal solution for your RF measurement needs.

4480A FAQs

Have more questions? Get Expert Help>

How does the 4480A compare to traditional wattmeters for digital signals?

Does the 4480A calculate VSWR automatically?

Can the 4480A measure digitally modulated RF signals?

Why does ±4% accuracy matter?

How often should I calibrate my 4480A wattmeter?

Need Calibration? We've Got You Covered.

Bird Calibration Services

Keeping equipment calibrated is the number one way to ensure performance and longevity. A Bird Calibration means we fully test your equipment and adjust it as needed to ensure it’s meeting specs.

Measure Smarter with the 4480A

The 4480A is a great fit if you need:

  • Portable RF measurements without swapping elements
  • ±4% of reading accuracy you can trust
  • Broad frequency coverage for modern RF workflows
  • Proven reliability for lab and field use

 

“Switching to the 4480A was a game-changer. No elements, no hassle.”

Mark T., Field Service Engineer

Get a Quote for the 4480A

Fill in the form, and we’ll send a quote within 1 business day.