Using The Signal Generator With A Mm-Wave Source Module - Agilent Technologies E8241A User Manual

Using Sweep with the Step Attenuator (Option 1E1)
The signal generator protects the step attenuator from overuse during swept operation by
automatically switching to attenuator hold mode whenever you select an amplitude sweep
( or
Ampl Freq & Ampl
mode is activated. The usable life of the attenuator is preserved, as the amplitude sweep
range is limited to 45 dB, thereby preventing mechanical switching. The available amplitude
range is displayed in the lower right corner of the Sweep/List Status Information screen.
Changing the attenuator setting moves this range. To disable this attenuator protection, press
>
Amplitude Atten/ALC Control
be re-enabled the next time you select an amplitude sweep.

Using the Signal Generator with a MM-Wave Source Module

The RF output frequency of the signal generator can be multiplied using an Agilent 83550
Series millimeter-wave source module. The signal generator/mm-wave source module's output
is automatically leveled when the instruments are connected. The output frequency range
depends on the specific mm-wave source module.
An Agilent 8349B microwave amplifier is required for signal generators without Option 1EA.
Option 1EA signal generators can drive the output of millimeter-wave source modules to
maximum specified power without a microwave amplifier.
To ensure adequate RF amplitude at the mm-wave source module RF input
NOTE
when using an Option 1EA signal generator, maximum amplitude loss through
the adapters and cables connected between the signal generator's RF output
and the mm-wave source module's RF input should be less than 1.5 dB.
Required Equipment
• Agilent 83550 Series millimeter-wave source module
• Agilent 8349B microwave amplifier (required for signal generators without Option 1EA)
• cables and adapters as required
Chapter 2
softkeys). The ATTN HOLD annunciator appears on the display when this
>
Atten Hold On Off
until Off is highlighted. The protection will
Fundamental Operation
Configuring the RF Output
29