AbstractA simple method for measuring microwave power density is described. It is applicable to situations where exposure of samples in the near field of a horn is necessary. A transmitted power method is used to calibrate the power density entering the surface of the sample. Once the calibration is available, the power density is known in terms of the incident and reflected powers within the waveguide. The calibration has been carried out for liquid samples in a quartz cell. Formulas for calculating specific absorption rate (SAR) are derived in terms of the power density and the complex dielectric constant of the sample. An error analysis is also given.