Knowing The Instrument Modes; Network Analyzer Mode; External Source Mode - Agilent Technologies 8753ET User Manual

Operating Concepts

Knowing the Instrument Modes

Knowing the Instrument Modes
There are five major instrument modes of the analyzer:

• network analyzer mode

• external source mode

• tuned receiver mode
• frequency offset operation
• harmonic mode operation (Option 002)
Network Analyzer Mode
This is the standard mode of operation for the analyzer, and is active after you press
or switch on the AC power. This mode uses the analyzer's internal source.
Preset
Pressing returns the analyzer
INSTRUMENT MODE NETWORK ANALYZER
System
to the "normal" network analyzer operating mode.
External Source Mode
This mode allows the analyzer to phase lock to an external CW signal. External source
mode is best used for unknown signals, or for signals that drift. If a synthesized external
source is used, the tuned receiver mode is recommended because it is faster.
Primary Applications
External source mode is useful in several applications:
• when your test device is a mixer or other frequency translation device
• in automated test applications where a source is already connected to the system, and
you do not want to switch between the system source and the analyzer's internal source.
Typical Test Setup
A typical test setup using the external source mode is shown in Figure 7-46. The same test
setup is applicable for either manual or automatic external source mode operation.
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