Sierra 160B150 150W RF Termination Load DC-5GHz 51.7 Ohm Coaxial Dummy Load

Sierra 160B150 150W RF Termination Load DC-5GHz 51.7 Ohm Coaxial Dummy Load

The Sierra 160B150 is a high-power coaxial RF termination load rated at 150 watts continuous, covering DC through 5 GHz at a nominal impedance of 51.7 ohms. Manufactured by Sierra Electronic Division (a division of Lear Siegler, Inc.) in Menlo Park, California, it is a rugged, purpose-built dummy load designed for RF and microwave signal chains where unused ports or transmission lines must be properly terminated to prevent signal reflections. The finned aluminum heat-sink body dissipates power efficiently, and a carry handle and mounting feet are integrated into the chassis. A label on the side reads "OPERATE HORIZONTAL FEET DOWN," indicating the required operating orientation for proper thermal management.

Specifications & What's Included

• Model: Sierra 160B150
• Manufacturer: Sierra Electronic Division, Lear Siegler, Inc. — Menlo Park, CA 94025
• Code Ident: 54778
• Type: Coaxial RF Termination Load (Dummy Load)
• Power Rating: 150 Watts continuous
• Frequency Range: DC to 5 GHz
• Impedance: 51.7 Ohms
• Connector: Coaxial, female (front-mounted)
• Cooling: Finned aluminum heat-sink body
• Operating Orientation: Horizontal, feet down (per label on unit)
• Features: Integrated carry handle, mounting feet
• Country of Manufacture: United States
• Includes: Unit only — no cables or accessories

Applications

RF termination loads like the Sierra 160B150 are standard components in RF and microwave signal chains, used wherever a transmission line or port must be properly terminated to absorb power and prevent reflections that would degrade system performance. At 150 watts and DC–5 GHz coverage, this unit is suited for satellite communications (satcom) ground station equipment, radar systems, high-power signal routing test setups, and microwave amplifier test benches. Dummy loads are used during system testing and maintenance to substitute for an antenna or other load, allowing engineers to apply full RF drive power to a transmitter or amplifier without radiating a signal. The 51.7-ohm impedance is a close match to the 50-ohm standard used throughout RF/microwave engineering, making this load broadly compatible with standard 50-ohm coaxial systems. Sierra Electronic Division was a well-regarded American manufacturer of RF and microwave passive components from the mid-20th century through the 1980s–1990s, and their termination loads were commonly found in military, government, and commercial satcom ground installations of that era.