Agilent Technologies 11970 Series User Manual
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Agilent Technologies 11970 Series User Manual

Agilent Technologies 11970 Series User Manual

General-purpose harmonic mixers 11970 series
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User's Guide
11970 SERIES
HARMONIC MIXERS
(K, A, Q, U, V, and W Models)
Manufacturing Part Number: 11970-90031
Supersedes 11970-90030
Printed in USA
October 2003
© Copyright 1992, 1999, 2001 2003 Agilent Technologies, Inc.

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  • Page 1 User’s Guide 11970 SERIES HARMONIC MIXERS (K, A, Q, U, V, and W Models) Manufacturing Part Number: 11970-90031 Supersedes 11970-90030 Printed in USA October 2003 © Copyright 1992, 1999, 2001 2003 Agilent Technologies, Inc.
  • Page 2 This Agilent Technologies instrument product is warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from date of shipment. During the warranty period, Agilent Technologies will, at its option, either repair or replace products which prove to be defective.
  • Page 3 BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY. Assistance Product maintenance agreements and other customer assistance agreements are available for Agilent Technologies products. For any assistance, contact your nearest Agilent Technologies Sales and Service Office listed on page This guide uses the following conventions:...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    11970 Series Harmonic Mixers........
  • Page 6 Contents Specification ............... 68 Description .

  • Page 7: General Information

    General Information...

  • Page 8: Introduction

    11970W, the 75 - 110 GHz range. The overall local oscillator (LO) frequency range of the 11970 Series Mixers is 3.0 to 6.1 GHz. Each of the mixers employs a different LO harmonic, and as a result has a different optimum LO range within the overall LO range of the series.

  • Page 9: 11970 Series Harmonic Mixers

    • Agilent E4407B spectrum analyzers require option AYZ (LO Out and IF IN connections). • MMS analyzers using 11970 series mixers must have a front end model 70907A, 70907B, 70909A, or 70910A, as well as a 70900A/B with firmware new enough for those...
  • Page 10 General Information Introduction • PSA Series E4440A, E4446A, and E4448A spectrum analyzers require Option AYZ (LO OUT and IF IN connectors). The E4443A and E4445A do not support external mixing. Figure 1-2. Mixer Connection Kit, Option 009 Chapter 1...

  • Page 11: Specifications

    NOTE Chapter 4 ,“Service,” Environmental Limitations The 11970 Series Mixers meet or exceed the environmental requirements of MIL-T-28800C, Type III, Class 3, Style C. Specific environmental qualifications for the mixers are as follows: Temperature, Non-operating: -40 C to 75...
  • Page 12 General Information Specifications Table 1-1 11970 Series Specifications NOTE Unless otherwise stated, all specifications apply for an IF of 321.4 MHz and for RF input amplitudes of less than -20 dBm. GENERAL Bias Requirements: None LO Amplitude Range: 14 to 18 dBm...
  • Page 13 General Information Specifications Table 1-1 11970 Series Specifications NOTE Unless otherwise stated, all specifications apply for an IF of 321.4 MHz and for RF input amplitudes of less than -20 dBm. MODEL 11970K MODEL 11970A RF Frequency Range: RF Frequency Range: 26.5 - 40 GHz...
  • Page 14 General Information Specifications Table 1-1 11970 Series Specifications NOTE Unless otherwise stated, all specifications apply for an IF of 321.4 MHz and for RF input amplitudes of less than -20 dBm. MODEL 11970W MODEL 11970V RF Frequency Range: RF Frequency Range:...
  • Page 15 General Information Specifications Table 1-2 11970 Supplemental Characteristics NOTE Supplemental characteristics are included only as additional information; they are not specifications. 3 dB IF Bandwidth: DC to 1.3 GHz Odd Order Mixing Product Suppression: 11970K/A/Q/U: >20 dB 11970V/W: >15 dB Spectrum Analyzer Absolute Amplitude Gain Compression Level (<1 dB): Accuracy (using calibration data with a 14.5 to...
  • Page 16 General Information Specifications Chapter 1...

  • Page 17: Operation

    Operation...

  • Page 18: Introduction

    Operation Introduction Introduction This section provides information on how to make effective use of the 11970 mixers. Operating Precautions Refer to the sections below for specific parameters to follow prior to mixer operation. WARNING Do not exceed the maximum ratings listed below or permanent damage to the mixer will result.

  • Page 19: Getting Started

    Getting Started Getting Started The 11970 series of millimeter wave mixers have no bias or back-short adjustments. 11970 Mixers require an LO power of 14 to 18 dBm at the LO input. If the spectrum analyzer used with the 11970 does not have sufficient LO power, an 11975A Amplifier or an equivalent is required to increase this power.
  • Page 20 Operation Getting Started If you are using an 11970Q, 11970U, 11970V or 11970W Mixer, and the shoulder of its waveguide flange is not properly aligned with the flange of the device under test, amplitude measurement errors can result. To ensure proper alignment, tighten each of the four flange screws in turn by small amounts, moving clockwise around the flange.

  • Page 21: Using A Conversion-Loss Data Disk With The Esa Or Psa Series Analyzers

    Operation Using a Conversion-Loss Data Disk with the ESA or PSA Series Analyzers Using a Conversion-Loss Data Disk with the ESA or PSA Series Analyzers The conversion-loss data for your mixer can be quickly loaded in the memory of an ESA or PSA series analyzer from a floppy disk.

  • Page 22: Using The Mixers With The E4407B Spectrum Analyzer (Option Ayz)

    Using the Mixers with the E4407B Spectrum Analyzer (Option AYZ) The Agilent Technologies E4407B spectrum analyzer contains an extensive menu of functions that help with millimeter measurements. The following examples explain how to connect external mixers to the spectrum analyzer, how to choose the band of interest, how to store and activate conversion-loss factors, and how to use the signal-identification functions.
  • Page 23 Operation Using the Mixers with the E4407B Spectrum Analyzer (Option AYZ) 2. On the analyzer, press , if present. Preset Factory Preset 3. Select external mixing by pressing (Ext). Input/Output Input Mixer Input Mixer 4. The analyzer frequency band will be set to .
  • Page 24 Operation Using the Mixers with the E4407B Spectrum Analyzer (Option AYZ) Signal Identification The IF output of a harmonic mixer will contain a signal at the intermediate frequency of the analyzer whenever the harmonic frequency of the LO and the frequency of the RF differ by the intermediate frequency.
  • Page 25 Operation Using the Mixers with the E4407B Spectrum Analyzer (Option AYZ) Figure 2-4. Chapter 2...

  • Page 26: Using The Mixers With The E4440A, E4446A, Or E4448A Psa Series Spectrum Analyzer (Option Ayz)

    “Spectrum Analyzer Retrofit Requirements” on page 9 requirements for the PSA Series spectrum analyzers. The Agilent Technologies PSA Series spectrum analyzers contain an extensive menu of functions that help with millimeter measurements. The following examples explain how to connect external mixers to the spectrum analyzer, how to choose the band of interest, how to store and activate conversion-loss factors, and how to use the signal-identification functions.
  • Page 27 Operation Using the Mixers with the E4440A, E4446A, or E4448A PSA Series Spectrum Analyzer (Option AYZ) 2. On the analyzer, press , if present. Preset Factory Preset 3. Select external mixing by pressing (Ext). Input/Output Input Mixer Input Mixer 4. The analyzer frequency band will be set to .
  • Page 28 Operation Using the Mixers with the E4440A, E4446A, or E4448A PSA Series Spectrum Analyzer (Option AYZ) Signal Identification The IF output of a harmonic mixer will contain a signal at the intermediate frequency of the analyzer whenever the harmonic frequency of the LO and the frequency of the RF differ by the intermediate frequency.
  • Page 29 Operation Using the Mixers with the E4440A, E4446A, or E4448A PSA Series Spectrum Analyzer (Option AYZ) Figure 2-7. Chapter 2...

  • Page 30: Using The Mixers With The 856X Series Spectrum Analyzers

    Operation Using the Mixers with the 856X Series Spectrum Analyzers Using the Mixers with the 856X Series Spectrum Analyzers External millimeter mixers can be used to extend the frequency coverage of the 8560 E-Series and EC-Series spectrum analyzers. (The 8560E/EC Option 002 and Option 327 do not have external mixing capability.) The 8560 E-Series and EC-Series spectrum analyzers contain an extensive menu of functions that help with millimeter measurements.

  • Page 31: Select The Frequency Band

    Operation Using the Mixers with the 856X Series Spectrum Analyzers Select the Frequency Band 2. Specify unpreselected external mixing by pressing , then CONFIG EXT MXR PRE UNPR until UNPR is selected. 3. To select a frequency above 18 GHz: a.

  • Page 32: Save The Average Conversion-Loss Value

    4. Default conversion-loss values that are stored in the analyzer for each frequency band are listed in 2-1. These values approximate the values for the Agilent 11970 series Table mixers. Other conversion-loss values may be entered into the spectrum analyzer in two ways.

  • Page 33: Signal Identification

    Operation Using the Mixers with the 856X Series Spectrum Analyzers Figure 2-10 Store and correct for conversion loss. The second method for storing conversion-loss information lets you save individual conversion-loss data points at specific intervals across the harmonic band, using LOSS VS FREQ To view or enter a conversion-loss data point: a.

  • Page 34: Identify Signals With The Frequency-Shift Method

    Operation Using the Mixers with the 856X Series Spectrum Analyzers Figure 2-11 Signal Responses Produced by a 50 GHz Signal in U Band Identify signals with the frequency-shift method 6. Signal-identification routines that identify the signal and images are available on instruments with firmware revisions 920528, or with Option 008.
  • Page 35 Operation Using the Mixers with the 856X Series Spectrum Analyzers Figure 2-12 Response for Invalid Signals Figure 2-13 Response for Valid Signals Chapter 2...

  • Page 36: Identify Signals In Wide Frequency Spans

    Operation Using the Mixers with the 856X Series Spectrum Analyzers Identify signals in wide frequency spans identifies signals in wide frequency spans, using harmonic search. SIG ID AT MKR SIG ID automatically determines the proper frequency of a signal and displays its AT MKR value on the spectrum analyzer.
  • Page 37 Operation Using the Mixers with the 856X Series Spectrum Analyzers Figure 2-15 Performed on a True Signal SIG ID AT MKR Chapter 2...

  • Page 38: Using The Mixers With Mms Analyzers

    Operation Using the Mixers with MMS Analyzers Using the Mixers with MMS Analyzers Preliminary Operation NOTE This section provides information for the Agilent 70907A (or B), however the operation of the Agilent 70909A and Agilent 70910A is similar. Minor differences may be noted, but the necessary deviations from these exact instructions will be obvious.

  • Page 39: Operation

    Operation Using the Mixers with MMS Analyzers Operation Band Selection Use the following key sequence to enter the external mixing mode and to select the desired band of operation: MENU - choose external mixer input, for example: “IN 2 EM 70910A” Select Input State ext mixer...
  • Page 40 Operation Using the Mixers with MMS Analyzers General Descriptions of Agilent 71000 Series Spectrum Analyzer External-Mixing Functions Allows access to the following softkey functions that control the ext mixer measurement range when an external mixer extends the spectrum analyzer frequency range. The softkey can be ext mixer found under the...
  • Page 41 Operation Using the Mixers with MMS Analyzers CONV LOSS (conversion loss) Offsets the reference level to compensate for amplitude losses at the active input port. If necessary, use to activate the select input desired input port before specifying its conversion-loss offset. To clear the offset, enter a conversion loss of zero.
  • Page 42 Operation Using the Mixers with MMS Analyzers NOTE See the table below for available frequency ranges and related harmonic numbers. Use IMAGE N START IMAGE N STOP softkeys for the image identification only. Table 2-3 Frequency Ranges and Corresponding Harmonic Numbers Band/Range Harmonic Number and Sign of IF (N)

  • Page 43: Conversion Loss Versus Frequency Correction

    Mixer Interface Module installed has the amplitude-correction function (AMPCOR) available by remote programming. Use AMPCOR to compensate for the Agilent 11970 Series frequency-dependent conversion-loss variations. Up to 200 pairs of frequency-amplitude correction points can be entered, depending on the amount of available internal memory. The frequency values entered must be in increasing order, or an error condition results.
  • Page 44 Operation Using the Mixers with MMS Analyzers To print out an existing AMPCOR table, use the program listed below: 10 dim A$ (1:20) [30] 20 OUTPUT 718; “CONVLOSS 0DB;” 30 OUTPUT 718; “AMPCOR 50 GHZ, 46.1DB, 52GHZ, 46.7DB, 53GHZ,47.2DB;” 40 ! 50 OUTPUT 718;...

  • Page 45: Using The Mixers With The 8566B Spectrum Analyzer

    Operation Using the Mixers with the 8566B Spectrum Analyzer Using the Mixers with the 8566B Spectrum Analyzer Set up the equipment 1. Connect the external harmonic mixer to the spectrum analyzer, as shown in Figure 2-17. NOTE Good-quality shielded SMA-type cables should be used to connect the mixer to the spectrum analyzer to ensure that no signal attenuation occurs.

  • Page 46: Amplitude Calibration

    (except for use of the RF input attenuator and preselector). Amplitude Calibration Procedure Each 11970 series harmonic mixer is characterized at the factory and comes with a calibration chart (See Figure 2-19). The horizontal axis of the chart gives the frequency range of the mixer and the two vertical axis scales are calibrated in conversion loss and in reference level offset.

  • Page 47: Signal Identification

    Operation Using the Mixers with the 8566B Spectrum Analyzer Signal Identification shows a typical full-band display of a single input signal. Direct interpretation Figure 2-18 of the display is difficult because of the large number of responses produced by several local oscillator harmonics generated in the mixer.
  • Page 48 Operation Using the Mixers with the 8566B Spectrum Analyzer Figure 2-19 Sample Mixer Calibration Table Chapter 2...

  • Page 49: Performance Tests

    Performance Tests...

  • Page 50: Introduction

    Introduction Introduction This section contains instructions for testing the performance of the 11970 Series Mixers. Performance tests are used to check the mixers at incoming inspection and for periodic evaluation. The tests verify the specifications listed for the mixers in Table 1-1.

  • Page 51: Performance Test Procedures

    Performance Tests Performance Test Procedures Performance Test Procedures Description Each performance test procedure is contained in a single paragraph. The first entry in each paragraph is the specification for the parameter being measured as described in Table This is followed by a general description of the test and any special instructions or problem areas.
  • Page 52 Performance Tests Performance Test Procedures Table 3-2. Recommended Test Equipment for 11970A Instrument Critical Specifications Recommended Model Spectrum Analyzer LO and IF ranges compatible with mixer 8566B Synthesized Sweeper Frequency: 8 to 13.5 GHz 8340A Output Level: >0 dBm Amplifier Output Level: >18 dBm leveled 11975A Frequency Range: 3 to 5 GHz...
  • Page 53 Performance Tests Performance Test Procedures Table 3-3. Recommended Test Equipment for 11970Q Instrument Critical Specifications Recommended Model Spectrum Analyzer LO and IF ranges compatible with mixer 8566B Synthesized Sweeper Frequency: 11.0 to 16.7 GHz 8340A Output Level: >0 dBm Amplifier Output Level: >18 dBm leveled 11975A Frequency Range: 4 to 6 GHz...
  • Page 54 Performance Tests Performance Test Procedures Table 3-4. Recommended Test Equipment for 11970U Instrument Critical Specifications Recommended Model Spectrum Analyzer LO and IF ranges compatible with mixer 8566B Synthesized Sweeper Frequency: 13.3 to 20 GHz 8340A Output Level: > 9 dBm Amplifier Output Level: >...
  • Page 55 Performance Tests Performance Test Procedures Table 3-5. Recommended Test Equipment for 11970V Instrument Critical Specifications Recommended Model Spectrum Analyzer LO and IF ranges compatible with mixer 8566B Swept Source Compatible with V-Band Plug-In 8350B V-Band Source Plug-In Frequency Range: 50 to 75 GHz Hughes 47724H-1510 Output Level: >0 dBm...
  • Page 56 Performance Tests Performance Test Procedures Table 3-6. Recommended Test Equipment for 11970W Instrument Critical Specifications Recommended Model Spectrum Analyzer LO and IF ranges compatible with mixer 8566B Swept Source Compatible with W-Band Plug-In 8350B W-Band Source Plug-In Frequency Range: 75 to 110 GHz Hughes 47726H-1510 Output Level: >0 dBm...

  • Page 57: Conversion Loss And Frequency Response

    Performance Tests Conversion Loss and Frequency Response Conversion Loss and Frequency Response Specifications Conversion Loss: For a CW RF input power of less than -20 dBm 11970K: 24 dB maximum 11970A: 26 dB maximum 11970Q: 28 dB maximum 11970U: 28 dB maximum 11970V: 40 dB maximum 11970W: 47 dB maximum Frequency Response:...

  • Page 58: Description

    CENTER CAUTION When you are using a 11975A Amplifier with a 11970 Series Mixer, you MUST set the amplifier rear-panel ALC switch to ON before you connect the amplifier into the test setup. If the ALC switch is left in the OFF position, the amplifier output power is high enough to destroy the mixer diodes.
  • Page 59 Performance Tests Conversion Loss and Frequency Response 11970V: 50.0 GHz 11970W: 75.0 GHz Chapter 3...
  • Page 60 Performance Tests Conversion Loss and Frequency Response 9. Adjust the output power of the signal generator for a reading of approximately -10 dBm on the power meter for the 11970K, V or W and for approximately -3 dBm for the 11970A, Q or U.
  • Page 61 Performance Tests Conversion Loss and Frequency Response Then press CENTER FREQUENCY 11970K: 11970A: 11970Q: 11970U: 11970V: 0, GHz 11970W: 14.Press . If necessary, press and use DISPLAY LINE MARKER PEAK SEARCH MKR CF to find the average of the signal’s peak variations. (When testing 11970V or ENTER 11970W mixers, it is important to re-zero the power meter for each measurement.) 15.Record the following in...
  • Page 62 Performance Tests Conversion Loss and Frequency Response or Conversion Loss = (-10.03 dBm) - (-0.232) - (-39.78 dBm) - 8.93 dB = 21.05 dB 17.Record the conversion loss in Table 3-7. Chapter 3...
  • Page 63 Performance Tests Conversion Loss and Frequency Response NOTE The conversion loss indicated on the mixer calibration label includes the loss in the IF cable. If other than the specified cable is used, then the loss in that cable must be compensated for when making amplitude measurements. 18.Increment the frequency of the signal generator 500 MHz higher.
  • Page 64 Performance Tests Conversion Loss and Frequency Response Figure 3-1 Performance Test Setups (1 of 2) Chapter 3...
  • Page 65 Performance Tests Conversion Loss and Frequency Response Figure 3-2 Performance Test Setups (2 of 2) Chapter 3...
  • Page 66 Performance Tests Conversion Loss and Frequency Response Table 3-7 Conversion Loss and Frequency Response Test Record CONVERSION LOSS AND FREQUENCY RESPONSE for an LO POWER of_____________dBm Model Number____________ Date_____________ Serial Number______________Tested By _________________ Marker Marker Power Meter Power Sensor Directional Coupler Conversion Frequency Amplitude...
  • Page 67 Performance Tests Conversion Loss and Frequency Response Table 3-7 Conversion Loss and Frequency Response Test Record CONVERSION LOSS AND FREQUENCY RESPONSE for an LO POWER of_____________dBm Marker Marker Power Meter Power Sensor Directional Coupler Conversion Frequency Amplitude Readings Cal Factor Coupling Factor Loss % or dB...

  • Page 68: Average Noise Level Test

    SWEEP CONT CENTER FREQUENCY When you are using a 11975A Amplifier with a 11970 Series Mixer, you CAUTION MUST set the amplifier rear-panel ALC switch to ON before you connect the amplifier into the test setup. If the ALC switch is left in the OFF position, the amplifier output power is high enough to destroy the mixer diodes.
  • Page 69 Performance Tests AVERAGE NOISE LEVEL TEST 4. On the 11975A Amplifier, set the rear panel ALC switch to ON. Then connect the power sensor to the free end of the cable connected to the output of the amplifier. Set the power meter calibration factor to the value shown on the power sensor calibration label for 4 GHz.
  • Page 70 Performance Tests AVERAGE NOISE LEVEL TEST Make sure the 8349A Amplifier, used in the signal generator system for CAUTION 11970A, Q and U tests, is set for external leveling before you turn it on. Failure to set this amplifier for external leveling may allow the amplifier output to rise about 20 dBm, which is high enough to damage the frequency tripler.
  • Page 71 Performance Tests AVERAGE NOISE LEVEL TEST For 11970V: For 11970W: 7, 5 10.Record the center frequency in Table 3-8. 11.Set the power meter CAL FACTOR to the value shown on the sensor calibration label for the center frequency indicated on the spectrum analyzer. 12.Set the signal generator output to produce a CW signal near the center of the spectrum analyzer display.
  • Page 72 Performance Tests AVERAGE NOISE LEVEL TEST -104 dBm (for the 11970Q) -104 dBm (for the 11970U) -92 dBm (for the 11970V) -85 dBm (for the 11970W) 18.Enter the following push button commands on the 8566A/B: MARKER REFERENCE LEVEL 19.Repeat steps 9 through 17 at the following center frequencies: 11970K: 22 and 26.5 GHz 11970A: 33 and 40 GHz 11970Q: 41 and 50 GHz...

  • Page 73: Service

    Service...

  • Page 74: Maintenance

    Maintenance Maintenance The only maintenance required for the 11970 Series Mixers is preventive maintenance. When you are not using your mixer, cover its waveguide input with its waveguide cap. Also, though the 11970 Mixers can absorb more punishment than is normal for such devices, you should avoid subjecting them to unnecessary shock or vibration.
  • Page 75 Service Maintenance Figure 4-1 11970 Series Mixer Schematic Diagram Table 4-1 LPF Fco Model (GHz) 11970K 11970A 11970Q 11970U 11970V 11970W Chapter 4...
  • Page 76 Service Maintenance Table 4-2 Accessories and Replaceable Parts Part Number Description 5061-5460: Mixer Connector Kit (Option 009), includes the following three items: 5061-5458 Cable, 1 meter long, SMA male connectors (3 required) 8710-0510 Wrench, 5/16-inch, open-end 8710-1539 Ball Driver, 3/32-inch 3030-0221 Socket Head Cap Screw, 4-40 thread, .375 inches long (flange connecting screw for 11970K and 11970A)
  • Page 77 Service Maintenance Table 4-3 Agilent Technologies Sales and Service Offices UNITED STATES Instrument Support Center Agilent Technologies (800) 403-0801 EUROPEAN FIELD OPERATIONS Headquarters France Germany Agilent Technologies S.A. Agilent Technologies France Agilent Technologies GmbH 150, Route du Nant-d’Avril 1 Avenue Du Canada...
  • Page 78 Service Maintenance Chapter 4...

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