[en] A prototype vaporization calorimeter has been designed and constructed for use in the assay of low power output radioisotopic samples. The prototype calorimeter design was based on that of a previous experimental instrument used by H.P. Stephens, to establish the feasibility of the vaporization calorimetry technique for this type of power measurement. The calorimeter is composed of a mechanical calorimeter assembly together with a data acquisition and control system. Detailed drawings of the calorimeter assembly are included and additional drawings are referenced. The data acquisition system is based on an HP 9825A programmable calculator. A description of the hardware is provided together with a listing of all system software programs. The operating procedure is outlined, including initial setup and operation of all related equipment. Preliminary system performance was evaluated by making a series of four measurements on two nominal 1.5W samples and on a nominal 0.75W sample. Data for these measurements indicate that the absolute accuracy (one standard deviation) is approx. = 0.0035W in this power range, resulting in an estimated relative one standard deviation accuracy of 0.24% at 1.5W and 0.48% at 0.75W