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Aeroflex 3250 Series Operating Manual

Spectrum analyzers
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Contents
SPECTRUM ANALYZERS
3250 Series
Operating Manual
Document part no. 46892/974

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Summary of Contents for Aeroflex 3250 Series

  • Page 1 Contents SPECTRUM ANALYZERS 3250 Series Operating Manual Document part no. 46892/974...
  • Page 2 Aeroflex Ltd. (hereafter referred to throughout the document as ‘Aeroflex’). Printed in the UK Manual part no. 46882/974...
  • Page 3 About this manual This manual explains how to use the 3250 Series Spectrum Analyzers. Intended audience People carrying out work relating to the design and manufacture of RF and microwave sub-systems and modules, or the installation and maintenance of those systems.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Contents Precautions................................iv Précautions.................................vii Vorsichtsmaßnahmen............................x Precauzioni............................... xiii Precauciones..............................xvi Chapter 1 GENERAL INFORMATION ....................1-1 Chapter 2 PREPARING FOR USE ......................2-1 Chapter 3 PANEL DESCRIPTION......................3-1 Chapter 4 MENU TREE..........................4-1 Chapter 5 OPERATING PROCEDURES ....................5-1 Instrument in spectrum analysis measurement mode.............. 5-8 Instrument in phase noise measurement mode...............

  • Page 5: Precautions

    PRECAUTIONS Precautions These terms have specific meanings in this manual: WARNING information to prevent personal injury. information to prevent damage to the equipment. important general information. Symbols The meaning of hazard symbols appearing on the equipment and in the documentation is as follows: Symbol Description...
  • Page 6 PRECAUTIONS WARNING Electrical hazards (AC supply voltage) This equipment conforms with IEC Safety Class I, meaning that it is provided with a protective grounding lead. To maintain this protection the supply lead must always be connected to the source of supply via a socket with a grounded contact. Be aware that the supply filter contains capacitors that may remain charged after the equipment is disconnected from the supply.
  • Page 7 This equipment has been designed and manufactured by Aeroflex to perform measurements on RF and microwave components and systems. If the equipment is not used in a manner specified by Aeroflex, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.

  • Page 8: Précautions

    PRECAUTIONS Précautions Les termes suivants ont, dans ce manuel, des significations particulières: WARNING contient des informations pour éviter toute blessure au personnel. contient des informations pour éviter les dommages aux équipements. contient d’importantes informations d’ordre général. Symboles signalant un risque La signification des symboles de danger apparaissant sur l'équipement et dans la documentation est la suivante: Symbole...
  • Page 9 PRECAUTIONS WARNING Sécurité électrique (tension d’alimentation alternative) Cet appareil est protégé conformément à la norme CEI de sécurité Classe 1, c’est-à-dire que sa prise secteur comporte un fil de protection à la terre. Pour maintenir cette protection, le câble d’alimentation doit toujours être branché à la source d’alimentation par l’intermédiaire d’une prise comportant une borne de terre.
  • Page 10 La protection de l'équipement peut être altérée s'il n'est pas utilisé dans les conditions spécifiées par Aeroflex. Aeroflex n'a aucun contrôle sur l'usage de l'instrument, et ne pourra être tenu pour responsable en cas d'événement survenant suite à une utilisation différente de celle prévue.

  • Page 11: Vorsichtsmaßnahmen

    PRECAUTIONS Vorsichtsmaßnahmen Diese Hinweise haben eine bestimmte Bedeutung in diesem Handbuch: dienen zur Vermeidung von Verletzungsrisiken. WARNING dienen dem Schutz der Geräte. enthalten wichtige Informationen. Gefahrensymbole Die Bedeutung der Gefahrensymbole auf den Geräten und in der Dokumentation ist wie folgt: Symbol Gefahrenart Beziehen Sie sich auf die Bedienungsanleitung wenn das...
  • Page 12 PRECAUTIONS WARNING Elektrische Schläge (Wechselspannungsversorgung) Das Gerät entspricht IEC Sicherheitsklasse 1 mit einem Schutzleiter nach Erde. Das Netzkabel muß stets an eine Steckdose mit Erdkontakt angeschlossen werden. Filterkondensatoren in der internen Spannungsversorgung können auch nach Unterbrechung der Spannungszuführung noch geladen sein. Obwohl die darin gespeicherte Energie innerhalb der Sicherheitsmargen liegt, kann ein leichter Spannungsschlag bei Berührung kurz nach der Unterbrechung erfolgen.
  • Page 13 Dieses Gerät wurde von Aeroflex entwickelt und hergestellt um Messungen an HF- und Mikrowellenkomponenten und -Systemen durchzuführen Sollte das Gerät nicht auf die von Aeroflex vorgesehene Art und Weise verwendet werden, kann die Schutzfunktion des Gerätes beeinträchtigt werden. Aeroflex hat keinen Einfluß auf die Art der Verwendung und übernimmt keinerlei Verantwortung...

  • Page 14: Precauzioni

    PRECAUTIONS Precauzioni Questi termini vengono utilizzati in questo manuale con significati specifici: WARNING riportano informazioni atte ad evitare possibili pericoli alla persona. riportano informazioni per evitare possibili pericoli all'apparecchiatura. riportano importanti informazioni di carattere generale. Simboli di pericolo Il significato del simbolo di pericolo riportato sugli strumenti e nella documentazione è il seguente: Simbolo Tipo di pericolo...
  • Page 15 PRECAUTIONS WARNING Pericoli da elettricità (alimentazione c.a.) Quest ’apparato è provvisto del collegamento di protezione di terra e rispetta le norme di sicurezza IEC, classe 1. Per mantenere questa protezione è necessario che il cavo, la spina e la presa d’alimentazione siano tutti provvisti di terra.
  • Page 16 Questo strumento è stato progettato e prodotto da Aeroflex eseguire misure su componenti o sistemi RF e microonde Se lo strumento non è utilizzato nel modo specificato da Aeroflex, le protezioni previste sullo strumento potrebbero risultare inefficaci. Aeroflex non può avere il controllo sull’uso di questo strumento e non può essere ritenuta...

  • Page 17: Precauciones

    PRECAUTIONS Precauciones Estos términos tienen significados específicos en este manual: WARNING contienen información referente a prevención de daños personales. contienen información referente a prevención de daños en equipos. contienen información general importante. Símbolos de peligro El significado de los símbolos de peligro en el equipo y en la documentación es el siguiente: Símbolo Naturaleza del peligro Vea el manual de funcionamiento cuando este símbolo...
  • Page 18 PRECAUTIONS WARNING Nivel peligroso de electricidad (tensión de red) Este equipo cumple las normas IEC Seguridad Clase 1, lo que significa que va provisto de un cable de protección de masa. Para mantener esta protección, el cable de alimentación de red debe de conectarse siempre a una clavija con terminal de masa.
  • Page 19 él. Idoneidad de uso Este equipo ha sido diseñado y fabricado por Aeroflex para realizar medidas en RF y microondas en componentes y sistemas Si el equipo fuese utilizado de forma diferente a la especificada por Aeroflex, la protección ofrecida por el equipo pudiera quedar reducida.
  • Page 20 Preselector— Option 5 ......................1-9 Versions and accessories ......................1-11 General This section outlines the 3250 Series spectrum analyzer (the ‘instrument’) and details the optional accessories and the instrument’s specifications. Product outline The instrument is a portable spectrum analyzer suited for signal analysis of high-frequency digital radio equipment.

  • Page 21: General

    GENERAL Applications This instrument is designed for use in the production and maintenance of the following: • AM/FM radio equipment • Digital cellular telephones/cordless telephones • Satellite broadcasting and TV equipment • Small capacity microwave equipment • Wireless LAN equipment. Instrument configuration Various options are available to increase the range of functions.

  • Page 22: Specifications

    GENERAL Specifications Note : Allow a thirty-minute warm-up time. Frequency 1 kHz–3 GHz / 8 GHz / 13.2 GHz / 26.5 GHz Frequency range Resolution 1 Hz Frequency reference Temperature drift ± 1 ppm (± 0.01 ppm, option) Aging per year* ±...

  • Page 23: Amplitude

    GENERAL <100 X N* Hz p-p in 1 s Residual FM *N = LO harmonic order Frequency Band 0 Hz–3 GHz 2.9 GHz–6.4 GHz 6.3 GHz–13.2 GHz 13.1 GHz–26.5 GHz Resolution bandwidth (RBW) 3 dB bandwidths 30 Hz to 5 MHz in a 1-2-3-5 sequence Bandwidth accuracy: 20–30°C 0–55°C...
  • Page 24 GENERAL 0 dB RF attenuation, 50 ohm termination Displayed average noise level (DANL) RBW 1 Hz, VBW 1 Hz, preamp OFF 20–30°C (dBm/Hz) 0–55°C (dBm/Hz) −135 −132 100 kHz to 10 MHz −143 (−145 typ) −140 (−142 typ) 10 MHz to 2 GHz −141 (−145 typ) −138 (−142 typ) 2 GHz to 13.2 GHz...

  • Page 25: Digitizer

    GENERAL Digitizer Maximum analysis bandwidth 30 MHz 14 bit ADC resolution 85 dB Dynamic range Residual FM <1% (nominal) Capture memory 128 Mbyte (32 Msample) AM/FM demodulation −60 dBm to +30 dBm, preamp OFF Input power range −80 dBm to +30 dBm, preamp ON Modulation rate range 1 kHz to 10 kHz at RBW 10 kHz to 100 kHz 1 kHz to 30 kHz at RBW 200 kHz to 500 kHz...

  • Page 26: General Specifications

    GENERAL Reference frequency output Type Rear: BNC female, same as reference input port Frequency 10 MHz Level +5 dBm nominal Reference frequency input BNC female Type Rear: BNC female, same as reference output port Frequency 10 MHz Level −5 to +15 dBm nominal GPIB Type Rear:...

  • Page 27: Ghz Tracking Generator

    GENERAL EN 61326-1 : 2006 Electromagnetic compatibility EN 55022 : 2006 EN 55024 : 1998 + A1 + A2 EN 61000 - 3 - 2 : 2000 + A2 EN 61000 - 3 - 3 : 2000 + A1 + A2 Safety EN 61010 - 1 : 2001 (2 edition)

  • Page 28: Preselector- Option 5

    GENERAL 8 GHz tracking generator Frequency range 100 kHz to 8.0 GHz 0 dBm to −20 dBm (in 0.5 dB steps) Output level Attenuator steps 0.5 dB Absolute level accuracy ±3.0 dB, 100 kHz to 3 GHz ±4.5 dB, 3 GHz to 8 GHz Frequency flatness at −10 dBm ±3.0 dB (100 kHz to 3 GHz) before normalization ±4.5 dB (3 GHz to 8 GHz) before normalization...
  • Page 29 GENERAL 0 dB RF attenuation, 50 Ω termination, zero span, sweep time Displayed Average Noise Level (DANL) 100 ms, RBW 1 kHz, VBW 10 Hz, Average detector, trace average 10, normalize to RBW 1 Hz Preselector OFF, preamp OFF −130 @ 9 kHz to 1 MHz −140, −150 typical @ 1 MHz to 10 MHz −145, −149 typical @ 10 MHz to 1 GHz −143, −147 typical @ 1 GHz to 1.5 GHz...

  • Page 30: Versions And Accessories

    CD-ROM containing operating and programming manuals Optional accessories 80027 Soft carrying case 80026 DC battery pack 80039 Connector and cable assembly 80040 Hard carrying case 80041 Rack mounting kit 46882/974 3250 Series Operating Manual (paper version) 46882/975 3250 Series Programming Manual (paper version) 1-11...
  • Page 31 Chapter 2 PREPARING FOR USE Contents Introduction ........................... 2-1 Installation site and environmental conditions ................2-2 Locations to be avoided......................2-2 Safety measures ..........................2-3 Preparations before power-on ....................2-3 Protective grounding with frame ground terminal ..............2-4 Before power-on........................2-4 Use a proper power source .....................

  • Page 32: Preparing For Use

    PREPARING FOR USE Installation site and environmental conditions Locations to be avoided The instrument operates correctly at temperatures from 0 to 50ºC. However, for best performance, avoid the following situations: • where there is severe vibration • where the humidity is high •...

  • Page 33: Safety Measures

    PREPARING FOR USE Safety measures This paragraph explains safety procedures that you must follow in all circumstances, to prevent the risk of an accidental electric shock, damage to the instrument or a major interruption to operation. Preparations before power-on The instrument operates normally when it is connected to a 100 VAC to 250 VAC 50/60 Hz power supply (voltage selected automatically).

  • Page 34: Protective Grounding With Frame Ground Terminal

    PREPARING FOR USE WARNING Protective grounding with frame ground terminal When there is no grounded AC power-supply outlet, connect the protective frame ground (FG) terminal on the rear panel directly to ground potential. WARNING If power is applied without protective grounding, there is a risk of accidental electric shock.

  • Page 35: Flammable And Explosive Substances

    PREPARING FOR USE WARNING Flammable and explosive substances Avoid using the instrument where there are flammable or explosive substances, including gases, in the immediate vicinity. WARNING Unstable location Do not place the instrument on an unstable cart, stand or table. If the instrument were to fall, it could cause serious personal injury, and serious damage to the instrument.

  • Page 36: Input Level To Rf Input

    PREPARING FOR USE Input level to RF input Frequency range: 1 kHz to 3 GHz (3251) 1 kHz to 8 GHz (3252) 1 kHz to 13.2 GHz (3253) 1 kHz to 26.5 GHz (3254) Measurement level: the maximum signal level that can be applied to the RF input connector is +30 dBm.

  • Page 37: Front Panel Power Switch

    The instrument uses the Windows operating system. Windows starts up first, before the instrument boots up. Note: if the instrument does not automatically start correctly, click the Aeroflex icon on the display twice. Supply interruption If, while the instrument is in the power-on state, the power plug is removed from the outlet and then reinserted, the power is not turned on again.

  • Page 38: Detection Mode

    PREPARING FOR USE Detection mode This instrument is a spectrum analyzer that uses a digital storage system. The instrument makes level measurements in frequency steps obtained by dividing the frequency span by the number of measurement data points (551–8192). Optimal results are obtained by using the following detector modes for the associated measurements.

  • Page 39: Introduction

    Chapter 3 PANEL DESCRIPTION Contents Introduction ..........................3-1 Front and rear panel features ....................... 3-2 I/O connectors ..........................3-6 GPIB connector ........................... 3-7 RS-232C connector ........................3-8 Ext VGA connector ........................3-8 USB connector..........................3-9 Ethernet connector........................3-10 Introduction This chapter describes the front (Fig. 3-1) and rear (Fig. 3-2) panels. The following conventions apply throughout this manual: CAPS Capitals are used to identify names of controls and panel markings.

  • Page 40: Front And Rear Panel Features

    FRONT AND REAR PANELS Front and rear panel features Table 3-1 Front and rear panel features The liquid crystal display. Displays waveforms, the parameter settings, the value of marker, the soft menu keys, etc. F1–F8, NEXT These are the soft keys for selecting the soft key menus linked to the panel key operation.
  • Page 41 FRONT AND REAR PANELS Enters the Windows menu. [File] Manages the file. [Save] Used for saving the waveforms’ status and limit lines. [Print] Used for printing. [Preset] Sets the measurement parameters to the default values. Calibration menus are also included under this key. [Tune] Used for the auto tuning function.
  • Page 42 FRONT AND REAR PANELS Fig. 3-1 Front panel...
  • Page 43 FRONT AND REAR PANELS Fig. 3-2 Rear panel...

  • Page 44: I/O Connectors

    FRONT AND REAR PANELS I/O connectors Table 3-2 I/O connectors Connector Type In/out Signal Location AC INPUT IEC 320 socket Input AC power Rear 25 RF INPUT Type N (2.92 mm Input 1 kHz– Front 9 female) 3.0/8/13.2/26.5 GHz CAL. OUT BNC female Output 40 MHz, −20 dBm...

  • Page 45: Gpib Connector

    FRONT AND REAR PANELS GPIB connector The IEEE-488 GPIB connector complies with ANSI/IEEE Standard 488.2-1987. Table 3-3 Pin-out for IEEE-488 GPIB connector Pin number Signal Pin number Signal DIO 1 DIO 5 DIO 2 DIO 6 DIO 3 DIO 7 DIO 4 DIO 8 Ground...

  • Page 46: Rs-232C Connector

    FRONT AND REAR PANELS RS-232C connector Table 3-4 Pin-out for RS-232C connector Pin number Signal Ground RI (NC) Fig. 3-4 RS-232C connector Ext VGA connector Table 3-5 Pin-out for EXT VGA connector Pin number Signal GREEN BLUE Digital GND RGND GGND BGND...

  • Page 47: Usb Connector

    FRONT AND REAR PANELS Digital GND DDC data HSYNC VSYNC DDC clock Fig. 3-5 EXT VGA connector USB connector Table 3-6 Pin-out for USB Pin number Signal USB Vcc DATA− DATA+ USB GND Fig. 3-6 USB connector...

  • Page 48: Ethernet Connector

    FRONT AND REAR PANELS Ethernet connector Table 3-7 Pin-out for ETHERNET Pin number Signal TX− RX− Fig. 3-7 ETHERNET connector 3-10...

  • Page 49: Introduction

    Chapter 4 MENU TREE Introduction In this section, soft menu functions and their hierarchy in the system are described using a menu tree. Note the following general operational points about the menu tree: • Panel Key represents a hard key on the front panel. •...
  • Page 50 MENU TREE Menu tree Panel key Soft menu 1 Soft menu 2 FREQ Center Freq Start Freq Stop Freq CF Step [Auto/Manl] Freq Offset Signal Track [OFF/ON] 10MHz Ref. [Internal/External] SPAN Span Width Full Span Zero Span Last Span Zoom In Units Zoom Out Corrections...
  • Page 51 MENU TREE Soft menu 1 Soft menu 2 Units dBmV dBuV dBmA dBuA Volts Watts Amps Previous Correction Correction Apply [No/Yes] Correction [OFF/ON] Antenna [OFF] Point Cable [OFF] Frequency Amplitude Other [OFF] Delete Point User [OFF] Find Freq. Delete All Save Delete Corr.
  • Page 52 MENU TREE Panel key Soft m enu 1 Soft m enu 2 M eas. Off M eas. Off M EAS XdB Down CCDF Adj. Channel Pwr Harm . Distortion Channel Power Spec. Em i. M ask Occupied BW Spurious Em issions Interm odulation Average Power (TOI)
  • Page 53 MENU TREE Panel key Soft m enu 1 Soft m enu 1 Span Meas. Average [OFF/ON] [Channel Pwr] CONTROL Integ. BW M eas. Avg. M ode [EXP/REP] M ax Hold [OFF/ON] Meas. Avg. Reset Meas. Avg. Count Trc Average [OFF/ON] M eas.
  • Page 54 MENU TREE Panel key Soft m enu 1 Soft m enu 1 Counts [CCDF] CONTROL [TOI] M eas. Average [O FF/ON ] Span CONTROL M eas. Avg. M ode [EXP/REP] M eas. Avg. Reset M ax H old [O FF/O N] M eas.
  • Page 55 MENU TREE Panel key Soft m enu 1 Soft m enu 1 Meas. Type Integ. BW [SEM] [PSD Ref /Total Pwr Ref] CONTROL Span Ref Channel.. Sweep Tim e Offset Table.. Radio Std. Meas. Avg. Reset Meas. Avg.. Previous Offset [A/B/C/D/E/F] M eas.
  • Page 56 MENU TREE Panel key Soft m enu 1 Soft m enu 1 R ange R estart [SE] C O N TR O L R ange Active [O FF/O N ] Stop Start Freq R ange Table.. Stop Freq R es BW Video BW Sweep Tim e M eas.
  • Page 57 MENU TREE Panel key Soft menu 1 Soft menu 2 [MCP] Meas. Average [OFF/ON] Active Channel CONTROL Meas. Avg. Mode [EXP/REP] Channel State [OFF/ON] Channel Center Meas. Avg. Reset Meas. Avg. Count Channel BW Span Meas. Avg. Reset Meas. Avg.. Previous Full Screen Screen Title..
  • Page 58 MENU TREE Panel key Soft menu 1 Soft menu 2 TRACE Select Trace [A/B/C] TraceA First Clear&Write TraceB First Max Hold TraceC First Min Hold Avg/VBW Type[Auto/Manl] View Trc Average [OFF/ON] Blank Trc Avg. Mode [Exp/Rep] Trc Avg. Reset Trc Avg. Count More 1 of 2 More 2 of 2 Avg/VBW Type...
  • Page 59 MENU TREE Panel key Soft menu 1 Soft menu 2 Up Pass Check [OFF/ON] Select [Freq/Ampl] LIMIT Low Pass Check [OFF/ON] Insert Line Make Up Line.. Delete Line Make Low Line.. Clear All Clear Alarm [OFF/ON] Previous All Auto Auto COUPLE Detector [Auto/Manl] Normal...
  • Page 60 MENU TREE Panel key Soft menu 1 Soft menu 2 Avg/VBW Auto Log-Pwr Avg Pwr Avg Voltage Avg All Auto RBW [Auto/Manl] VBW [Auto/Manl] VBW/RBW Span/RBW [Auto/Manl]...
  • Page 61 MENU TREE Panel key Soft menu 1 Soft menu 2 Am Demod. [OFF/ON] FM Demod. [OFF/ON] Audio Sound [OFF/ON] Audio Level Spectrum View [OFF/ON] Window Type AM Scale FM Scale Tracker [OFF/ON] SOURCE Output Lvl Normal [OFF/ON] Power Swp [OFF/ON]...
  • Page 62 MENU TREE Panel key Soft menu 1 Soft menu 2 Sweep Time [Auto/Manl] SWEEP Continuous Single Swp Time Acc. [Norm/Accy] X-scale Inter. [Auto/LIN/B-Spline] Points Printer Setup.. Version Info.. SYSTEM Factory Config.. GPIB Setup.. Software Config.. RS232c Setup.. KeyPad Beep [OFF/ON] Keyboard [Keypad/ TCP/IP Setup..
  • Page 63 MENU TREE Panel key Soft menu 1 Soft menu 2 RS232C Baud Rate Data Length Stop Bit Parity Bit Previous GPIB Set Address Previous OPTION Option Activate Display Option Previous...
  • Page 64 MENU TREE Panel key Soft menu 1 Soft menu 2 Load Sort key FILE Save Sort Direction [Ascend/Descend] Character Box Delete Attribute [Normal/ReadOnly] Rename Copy to SA Auto Naming Copy to USB File Type.. Default Folder All Delete Folder UP Close Folder Down More 1 of 2...
  • Page 65 MENU TREE Panel key Soft menu 1 Soft menu 2 Select Marker Readout MARKER Normal Marker Table [OFF/ON] Delta Edit Mkr Name.. Band Pair [Start/Stop] Defaurt Mkr Name Span Pair [Span/Center] Mkr Average [OFF/ON] Mkr Avg. Mode [Exp/Rep] Marker Trace [A/B/C] Mkr Avg.
  • Page 66 MENU TREE Panel key Soft menu 1 Soft menu 2 Next Peak Run Multi Peak PEAK Next Pk Left Multi Peak Number Next Pk Right Multi Pk Trace [A/B/C] Min Search Pk-Pk Search Signal Track [OFF/ON] Pk Excursion Continuous [OFF/ON] Pk Threshold Marker->CF Pk Method [Param/Max]...
  • Page 67 Chapter 5 OPERATING PROCEDURES Contents Screen layout ..........................5-5 Selecting parameters with touch screen..................5-6 Toggling values ..........................5-6 Control using keyboard and mouse ....................5-6 Keyboard ..........................5-6 Mouse ............................. 5-6 Selecting spectrum analysis or phase noise measurement mode ........... 5-7 Instrument in spectrum analysis measurement mode ..............
  • Page 68 OPERATING PROCEDURES Annotation ..........................5-35 Dual Window ........................5-35 Text Position......................... 5-35 Auxiliary Level Display ....................... 5-35 Screen Note Display ......................5-35 Trace function..........................5-36 Select trace ........................... 5-36 Clear & Write ........................5-36 Max Hold..........................5-36 Min Hold ..........................5-36 View .............................
  • Page 69 OPERATING PROCEDURES Save parameters and waveform .................... 5-57 File management ........................5-57 Start key..........................5-58 Marker function ........................... 5-59 Selecting and changing marker position................5-59 Normal marker ........................5-60 Delta marker ......................... 5-60 Band Pair ..........................5-60 Span Pair..........................5-61 Marker off in reverse order....................
  • Page 70 OPERATING PROCEDURES Preset ............................ 5-78...

  • Page 71: Screen Layout

    OPERATING PROCEDURES Screen layout This is the initial screen that you see at start-up. Title window Manufacturer, display model Upper display window Displays screen subject, reference level, scale, attenuation and marker parameter Parameter window Displays current active menu parameter Wave display window Displays current active waveform Left display window Displays information about trigger and operating mode...

  • Page 72: Selecting Parameters With Touch Screen

    OPERATING PROCEDURES Selecting parameters with touch screen Because this instrument has a touch-sensitive screen, you can select parameters by pressing either a soft key (F1–F8, NEXT) or touching the associated screen area. Toggling values To toggle between values (for example, [Max Hold] OFF/ON), either press the soft key repeatedly to toggle, or touch the [OFF] or [ON] box on the associated screen area.

  • Page 73: Selecting Spectrum Analysis Or Phase Noise Measurement Mode

    OPERATING PROCEDURES Selecting spectrum analysis or phase noise measurement mode By default, the instrument starts up in spectrum analysis mode. To toggle between spectrum analysis and phase noise measurement modes, do the following: MODE Spectrum Mode Phase Noise Select the [MODE] hard key on the front panel of the signal analyzer, and then press the [Spectrum Mode] or [Phase Noise] soft key to select the appropriate operating mode.

  • Page 74: Instrument In Spectrum Analysis Measurement Mode

    Instrument in spectrum analysis measurement mode Freq/span functions Frequency is set in either of two modes: • Center-span mode • Start-stop mode The lower and upper span limits are 1 kHz to 3 GHz (3251) / 8 GHz (3252) / 13.2 GHz (3253) / 26.5 GHz (3254).

  • Page 75: Center-Span Mode Frequency Data Entry

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Center-span mode frequency data entry Setting the center frequency To set the center frequency, do the following: Press number and ENTER ← key. To correct, press key. FREQ Center Freq Numeric key Step key Scroll knob The step size of the step up/down key is 1/10 of the current frequency span (CF Step mode set to MANL, page 5-11).

  • Page 76: Start-Stop Mode Frequency Data Entry

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Start-stop mode frequency data entry Setting the start frequency To set the start frequency, do the following: FREQ Start Freq Numeric key Step key Scroll knob The step size of the step up/down key is 1/10 of the current frequency span. The step size of the scroll knob is 1/500 of the current frequency span.

  • Page 77: Setting Center Frequency Step

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Setting center frequency step To set the start frequency, do the following: FREQ CF Step [Auto/Manl] Numeric key Step key Scroll knob Change the CF Step mode from AUTO to MANL mode by pressing [CF Step]. In CF Step MANL (Manual) mode, the step size can be set by the data entry section (numeric keys, step keys or scroll knob).

  • Page 78: Setting Signal Tracking

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Setting signal tracking The maximum level point always moves to the center position of the horizontal axis when signal tracking is on. FREQ Signal Track [OFF / ON] Signal tracking is ON or OFF. Note: the span changes to minimum span in the following cases: if the center frequency is less than the minimum frequency (0 Hz) or is greater than the maximum frequency (3/8/13.2/26.5 GHz)

  • Page 79: Zoom In/Zoom Out

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Zoom in/zoom out The Zoom In function changes the span from the current span to 1/2 of the current span. The Zoom Out function changes the span from the current span to 2 times the current span. The center frequency does not change.

  • Page 80: Amplitude Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Amplitude function The [AMPL] hard key displays soft keys for setting the amplitude. Setting reference level Set the reference level (top graticule) by doing the following: AMPL Ref. Level Numeric key Step key Scroll knob The step size is one division of the current scale (see on page 5-15).

  • Page 81: Setting Amplitude Scale

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Setting amplitude scale In log scale, this instrument provides 0.1 to 20 dB/div scales. In linear scale, the instrument uses the full scale. To set the amplitude scale, do the following: • Log Scale Mode AMPL Scale / Div Numeric key...

  • Page 82: Setting Internal Amp

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Setting internal amp Set the internal amp to operate by doing the following: AMPL Internal Amp [OFF / ON] This function is usable from 1 MHz to 3 GHz. An input signal level greater than −20 dBm will damage the instrument. Setting MW amp Set the MW amp to operate by doing the following: AMPL...

  • Page 83: Setting Amplitude Units

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Setting amplitude units In log scale, this instrument provides eight reference level units: dBm (dBmW), dBmV, dBμV, dBmA, dBμA, Volts, Watts, Amps. In linear scale, the only reference level unit is V. To select one of the reference level units, do the following: AMPL Units..

  • Page 84: Setting Amplitude Correction

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Setting amplitude correction Setting an amplitude correction allows you to specify a correction to the measurement environment. The instrument provides four types of amplitude correction. • Antenna correction • Cable correction • Other correction •...

  • Page 85: Selecting Input Impedance

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Selecting input impedance To select the input impedance, do the following: AMPL Input Z [50 ohm / 75 ohm] The [Input Z [50/75]] soft key sets input impedance to 50 or 75 ohm. Input attenuator To set the input attenuator, do the following: AMPL Attenuation [AUTO/MANL]...
  • Page 86 OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Manual setting When you want to measure a low-level signal by raising the sensitivity, set the input attenuator manually as shown in the table below: Reference level range Attenuation Manual +30 dBm to −170 dBm +30 dBm to −170 dBm +30 dBm to −170 dBm +30 dBm to −170 dBm...

  • Page 87: Measurement Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Measurement function The instrument provides the following measurements: • X dB Down • Adjacent Channel Power • Channel Power • Occupied Bandwidth • Harmonic Distortion • CCDF • Intermodulation (TOI) • Total Power • Spectrum Emission Mask •...

  • Page 88: Adjacent Channel Power Measurement

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Adjacent channel power measurement The ACP measurement function measures the center of the signal (designated by three marker lines) and the power of adjacent channels. MEAS Adj. Channel Pwr CONTROL Span: set basic span bandwidth Main Ch.

  • Page 89: Channel Power Measurement

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Channel power measurement Measures the power and power spectral density in the channel bandwidth specified. MEAS CONTROL Channel Power Span: set reference span Integ. BW: set measurement bandwidth Max Hold [OFF/ON]: set Max Hold on or off Trc Average [OFF/ON: initiate averaging routine to smooth trace Meas.

  • Page 90: Occupied Bandwidth Measurement

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Occupied bandwidth measurement Measures the occupied bandwidth of the signal being displayed on the screen. The instrument has an OBW (occupied bandwidth) measurement function that uses the measurement data displayed on the screen. It calculates the frequency band that contains a specified percentage of the total power.

  • Page 91: Intermodulation (Toi) Measurement

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Intermodulation (TOI) measurement Measures the IP3 in the span specified. MEAS Intermodulation CONTROL Span: set reference span Max Hold [OFF/ON]: set Max Hold on or off Trc Avg [OFF/ON]: initiate averaging routine to smooth trace Meas.

  • Page 92: Total Power Measurement

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Total power measurement Measures the power and power spectral density in the span specified.. MEAS Total Power CONTROL Span: set reference span Max Hold [OFF/ON]: set Max Hold on or off Trc Avg [OFF/ON]: initiate averaging routine to smooth trace Meas.

  • Page 93: Ccdf Measurement

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE CCDF measurement This function measures the CCDF (complementary cumulative distribution function) of the present center frequency at a span of 5 MHz. The horizontal axis shows the dB value above average power and the vertical axis shows the time percentage value above the assigned value.

  • Page 94: Spectrum Emission Mask Measurement

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Spectrum emission mask measurement Measures the pass/fail state according to the reference channel mask. MEAS Spec. Emi. Mask CONTROL Meas. Type set measurement type Ref. Channel.. set the value of reference channel, mask Offset Table.. set the value of reference channel, mask Radio Std.

  • Page 95: Spurious Emissions Measurement

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Spurious emissions measurement Measures the pass/fail state of spurii according to the Range Table. MEAS Spurious Emissions CONTROL Restart: restart search for spurious emissions Stop: stop measurement Range Table: set values in Range Table Meas.

  • Page 96: Average Power Measurement

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Average power measurement Measures the average power of the burst signals at the frequency specified. MEAS CONTROL Average Power Meas Method: set measure method to meas or threshold Rel. Threshold: set relative threshold level Sweep Time: set sweep time for displayed span Meas.

  • Page 97: Averaging Measurement

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Averaging measurement A measurement is averaged the designated number of times and then a stable measurement result is displayed. To set the averaging measurement, do the following: CONTROL sets Average on or off. Meas. Average [OFF / ON]: Meas.

  • Page 98: Display Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Display function The instrument provides the following functions related to the screen display: Full Screen Displays the maximum enlarged graticule Display Line Displays the horizontal line at the top of the graticule Threshold Line Displays the horizontal line at the bottom of the graticule Zoom Display Displays the enlarged part of the signal waveform under the screen...

  • Page 99: Threshold Line

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Threshold Line The threshold line is a horizontal line above which the waveform is displayed. [Threshold Value] allows you to set it between the reference level and the lowest level, using the numeric keys, step keys or scroll knob.

  • Page 100: Screen Title

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Screen Title You can label the current screen displaying the spectrum, or the waveform, with this function. You can use the screen title as a filename for a printer and file function (see Filename page 5-58).

  • Page 101: Annotation

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Annotation This key selects removes or displays all on-screen annotation. When annotation is OFF, the display is enlarged. Annotation DISPLAY More 1 of 3 [OFF/ON] Dual Window This key divides the display into two. It fixes the signal waveform on the lower screen and displays the progress of the signal waveform on the other screen.

  • Page 102: Trace Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Trace function The [TRACE] hard key displays the menu for the trace function. Select trace The instrument provides three trace memories, A, B and C. TRACE Select Trace [A / B / C] Clear & Write To change the waveform to Clear &...

  • Page 103: View

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE View When [View] is pressed, it saves the current trace signal waveform and displays the stored trace on the screen. The signal waveform is fixed. TRACE View View is displayed in the status display window. To return to the normal write mode, press [Clear &...

  • Page 104: Averaging Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Averaging function The averaging function calculates the average data at each vertical axis point for each sweep, and displays the results. It improves the S/N ratio, depending on the averaging rate and the number of sweep repetitions.

  • Page 105: Limit Line Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Limit line function The [LIMIT] hard key displays the menu for the limit line function, which displays two lines that can be set to show permissible upper and lower bounds on the spectral waveform. Comparison of measured data with the limit lines is then easy.

  • Page 106: Setting The Pass/Fail Mode

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Setting the PASS/FAIL mode The Pass/Fail result window is displayed at the top right of the screen. When the spectral waveform falls between the upper and lower limit lines, PASS is displayed on the screen; if not, FAIL is displayed.

  • Page 107: Trigger Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Trigger function The [TRIG] hard key displays the menu for using the trigger function. Trigger source The trigger mode of the instrument is generally set to Free Run. In the Triggered mode, Video, External or RF Burst can be selected as the trigger source. TRIG Free Run Video...

  • Page 108: Selecting Trigger Edge

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Selecting trigger edge Select the type of trigger edge. There are two trigger edge types: Positive and Negative. TRIG Trig Slop [Pos/Neg] Trigger delay When the trigger mode is set to Triggered mode (trigger source is selected as Video or External only), the trigger point is usually positioned at the left side of the screen.

  • Page 109: Coupled Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Coupled function The [COUPLE] function sets the signal detection mode and the Avg/VBW type of the instrument. Modes are: All Auto function, Detector Mode and the Set Averaging method. All Auto [All Auto] optimizes the coupling of the instrument for the measurement environment by setting the detector mode to Normal.

  • Page 110: Setting Averaging Method

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Mode Contents Normal The Normal detection mode is used to detect the maxima and minima of noise-type signals and the peaks of CW-type signals. Odd-number points on the horizontal axis display the minimum value of oversampling data for each display point, and even-number points on the horizontal axis display the maximum value.

  • Page 111: Setting Fft & Sweep

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Setting FFT & Sweep The instrument uses the FFT sweep method below the 30 MHz RBW. You can also use this key below 30 MHz RBW in the general sweep method. FFT & Sweep [FFT/Sweep] COUPLE Note: RBW is limited to a minimum of 30 MHz in the general sweep method.

  • Page 112: Bw (Bandwidth) Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE BW (bandwidth) function So that the instrument can automatically select the optimum setting, RBW, VBW, Sweep Time and Input Attenuation are initially set to Auto mode. The bandwidth function has three hard keys: • [BW] Bandwidth function •...

  • Page 113: Setting The Resolution Bandwidth

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Setting the Resolution Bandwidth Auto Mode If the frequency span varies, the RBW is automatically set by setting the value of the [Span/RBW] soft key (the standard setting value of [Span/RBW] = 96). The VBW, Sweep Time, and Input Attenuator values are automatically set. The respective parameters are set to the optimum values by the following: For Span/RBW = a, VBW/RBW = b: If Span >...

  • Page 114: Setting The Video Bandwidth

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Setting the Video Bandwidth Auto Mode When the VBW is set to Auto Mode, the VBW is set according to the RBW value. Manual Mode To set the VBW, do the following: VBW [Manl] Numeric key Step key Scroll knob...

  • Page 115: Aux Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Aux function The instrument provides analog demodulation and audio monitor functions: • AM demodulation • FM demodulation • Audio ON/OFF, audio level control • Frequency spectrum view AM demodulation The AM demodulation function displays the amplitude-demodulated waveform. By pressing this key, the horizontal axis changes to a time axis.

  • Page 116: Audio Monitor

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Audio monitor The instrument has an internal speaker and phone jack on the front panel. [Audio Sound] is used to turn on the internal speaker. Audio Sound [ON/OFF] [Audio Level] controls the audio level, which can be adjusted by the data entry keys and knob. The possible audio level is 1–100.

  • Page 117: Sweep Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Sweep function The Sweep function is associated with Sweep Time, Sweep Mode, and values for the instrument’s display data. • Sweep time • Continuous sweep mode • Single sweep mode • The number of display points Setting the sweep time To set the sweep time in Manual mode, do the following: SWEEP...

  • Page 118: Single Sweep Mode

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Single sweep mode When the trigger source is set to Free Run, the sweep executes once, immediately after [Single] is pressed. When the trigger source is not set to Free Run, the sweep executes only once when the trigger conditions are met.

  • Page 119: System Configuration

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE System configuration Set the system parameters of the instrument according to your requirements. The [SYSTEM] hard key displays soft keys that set the system configuration. The instrument supports the spectrum analyzer mode, Phase Noise, CDMA, EMI and CATV modes.

  • Page 120: Tcp/Ip Configuration

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE TCP/IP configuration The system can be controlled using an Ethernet. SYSTEM TCP/IP Setup Port: sets the access port WebServer [OFF/ON]: sets the function on or off Web password: sets the WebServe access password Connection test: checks the connection network System information [Option Info..] displays the current option specifications.

  • Page 121: Preset Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Preset function The [PRESET] hard key displays soft keys for preset and calibration functions. • Preset • Last State • Save User State • Load User State • Boot On [Last/System/Macro] • Auto Alignment [OFF/ON] Preset Pressing [PRESET] returns all of the analyzer parameters to the factory initial setup values.

  • Page 122: Save/Load User State

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Save/Load User State Pressing [Save User State] saves the current settings of User State into the current parameters. PRESET Save User State Press [Load User State] to read the User State saved in the current settings. If there is no saved record, an error message is displayed.

  • Page 123: File And Save Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE File and save function The instrument can save system parameters, limit line data, and waveform data (Trace) to the internal hard disc or a removable storage device. This data can be recalled and used. Internal memory The internal memory uses a hard disk in the instrument The internal memory can save the data and waveforms given in...

  • Page 124: Start Key

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Load Loads the selected file with the system Save Saves the file into the selected file type Delete Accesses menu keys that allow you to delete selected files File Type Selects the file type for display in the file directory window. Also decides the file type for saving when the [SAVE] hard key is pressed.

  • Page 125: Marker Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Marker function Keys related to the [MARKER] hard key are the [MKR >] and [FUNC] keys. Up to nine markers can be set. Selecting and changing marker position ◊ Press [MARKER], which activates Marker 1 as the default. A single marker is indicated by the waveform.

  • Page 126: Normal Marker

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Normal marker ◊ A normal marker is indicated by on the waveform. The frequency and level of the marker position are shown in the upper display window. The normal marker is initially set ON. When the current state is another marker mode, or when the normal marker is set OFF, do the following to set the normal marker ON.

  • Page 127: Span Pair

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Span Pair Use [Span Pair] to move the normal marker and delta marker together, maintaining a constant spacing between them; or to move them apart or together equally about a common frequency. Select [Span Pair [Span]] to move the normal and delta markers apart or together about their common frequency.

  • Page 128: Setting The Marker Readout Mode

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Setting the marker readout mode The following menu keys allow you to change the active marker readout: MARKER More 1 of 2 Readout [Frequency/Period/Time/Inverse Time] Frequency: sets the marker readout to frequency. Period: sets the marker readout to period (inverse of frequency) Time: sets the marker readout to time (range: within sweep time) Inverse Time:...

  • Page 129: Setting Parameters Using Marker Values

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Setting parameters using marker values The marker value can be set as the parameter value of the observed frequency/span function, reference level, and so on. This facilitates observation of the desired waveform. To set parameters using the marker value, the following settings are possible: •...

  • Page 130: Dmarker-> Span

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Dmarker-> Span In the delta marker mode, this operation sets the difference frequency between the reference and current marker frequencies to span frequency. MKR > dMarker-> Span Setting marker function You can set the marker function to provide information about noise and frequency/amplitude at the current marker’s location: FUNC Marker Noise...

  • Page 131: Peak Search Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Peak search function The instrument has the following marker search functions: • Peak Search • Next Peak Search • Next Left Peak Search • Next Right Peak Search • Minimum Search • Peak to Peak Search Peak search Peak search detects the maximum level point in the entire trace and moves a marker to that point.

  • Page 132: Peak To Peak Search

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Peak to Peak search Finds and displays the frequency (or time, if in zero span) and amplitude differences between the highest and lowest trace points. PEAK Pk-Pk Search If you search Peak to Peak again, you should set the current activated marker off. Continuous Peak search When the [Continuous] soft key status is ON, the instrument continuously searches for the peak on the screen trace.
  • Page 133 OPERATING PROCEDURES — SPECTRUM ANALYSIS MODE Sets the number of search markers in the multi peak search. Multi Pk Number [n] n = 1–9. This function is used for multiple peak searching. Multi Peak The set number of markers position in order of level of peak on one sweep waveform.

  • Page 134: Tracking Generator (Option)

    Tracking generator (option) The instrument has an optional tracking generator. To set up the tracking generator, do the following: turns the tracking generator on. Tracker [OFF/ON]: controls the power level, which can adjusted Output Level [value]: using the data entry keys. The power level is adjustable from 0 to –70 dBm in 0.1 dB steps.

  • Page 135: Instrument In Phase Noise Measurement Mode

    Instrument in phase noise measurement mode Freq/span function Frequency is set in either of two modes: • Carrier frequency • Carrier search The lower and upper span limits are 1 KHz to 3 GHz (3251) / 6.2 GHz (3252) / 13.2 GHz (3253) / 26.5 GHz (3254).

  • Page 136: Span Menu

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — PHASE NOISE MODE SPAN menu The [SPAN] hard key allows you to set the span of the Log Plot measurement of phase noise. Start Offset SPAN Stop Offset Start Offset Allows you to specify the offset frequency at which your Log Plot measurement starts. Stop Offset Allows you to specify the offset frequency at which your Log Plot measurement stops.

  • Page 137: Ampl Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — PHASE NOISE MODE AMPL function The [AMPL] hard key displays soft keys for setting the amplitude. These keys are used for setting functions that affect the way data on the vertical axis is displayed or corrected. Ref.Value AMPL Scale/Div Ref.Value...

  • Page 138: Measurement Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — PHASE NOISE MODE Measurement function MEASURE menu Log Plot MEAS Log Plot Displays a logarithmic plot of the measured phase noise over a range of frequency offsets. MEASURE Control menu Press [MEAS] followed by [CONTROL] to display the measurement control menu, which allows you to enter custom setup parameters for measurement.
  • Page 139 OPERATING PROCEDURES — PHASE NOISE MODE Decade Table Allows you to toggle the Decade Table on and off. The Decade Table is a table of measurements that shows, for each of the analyzer’s two traces (raw and smoothed), the value in dBc/Hz at the point where the traces cross each decade line on the display.

  • Page 140: Marker Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — PHASE NOISE MODE Marker function Select Marker MARKER Normal Delta RMS Noise .. Residual FM Marker Trace Marker Table All OFF Select Marker Allows you to select one of the four possible markers. Having selected one of the markers, use the other soft keys on this menu to specify the type of marker or measurement.

  • Page 141: Residual Fm

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — PHASE NOISE MODE [RMS Noise [Jitter] ]: RMS jitter between these two points is calculated, and is displayed in units of time, typically in picoseconds (ps). Residual FM A residual FM marker is actually a pair of markers. By pressing [Residual FM] , you set a pair of markers at your current frequency offset.

  • Page 142: Display Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — PHASE NOISE MODE Display function The instrument provides functions related to the screen display. Full Screen Displays the maximum enlarged graticule Graticule Sets the graticule on or off Annotation Displays information about the waveform in the annotation window at bottom left of the screen White Mode Economy mode for screen save and printing...

  • Page 143: Sweep Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — PHASE NOISE MODE Sweep function The Sweep function lets you choose the Sweep Mode. • Single sweep mode • Continuous sweep mode SWEEP Single Continuous Single The analyzer performs one single measurement and then stops. Press [Restart] every time you want to make another measurement.

  • Page 144: Preset Function

    OPERATING PROCEDURES — PHASE NOISE MODE Preset function The [Preset] hard key is the header key for preset and calibration functions. • Preset • Last State • Save User State • Load User State • Select User State [Usr1/Usr2/Usr3] • Boot On [Last/System] PRESET Preset Last State...
  • Page 145 Chapter 6 PERFORMANCE TESTS Contents Introduction ..........................6-3 Requirement for performance tests....................6-3 Instruments required for performance test................... 6-4 Test precautions........................... 6-5 Frequency span readout accuracy....................6-6 Specification......................... 6-6 Test instrument ........................6-6 Setup............................. 6-6 Procedure..........................6-7 Reference oscillator frequency stability ..................6-9 Specification.........................
  • Page 146 PERFORMANCE TESTS Test instruments ......................... 6-31 Setup........................... 6-31 Procedure..........................6-32 Spurious response........................6-34 Specification........................6-34 Test instruments ......................... 6-34 Setup........................... 6-34 Procedure..........................6-35 Second harmonic distortion ....................... 6-36 Specification........................6-36 Test instruments ......................... 6-36 Setup........................... 6-36 Procedure..........................6-37 Third-order intermodulation ...................... 6-38 Specification........................

  • Page 147: Introduction

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Introduction This chapter describes setup and operation procedures necessary for conducting performance tests. Requirement for performance tests Performance tests are used as preventive maintenance to prevent degradation of equipment performance before it occurs. Use the performance tests whenever necessary such as at acceptance and periodic inspection to verify performance after repair.

  • Page 148: Instruments Required For Performance Test

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Instruments required for performance test Recommended Required performance Test item instrument Item Specification (Model number) Signal generator Frequency range 250 kHz–26.5 GHz Frequency-span readout accuracy (Agilent E8257D) Resolution 1 kHz Frequency counter accuracy Output level range −130 to +18 dBm Resolution bandwidth, selectivity Output level...

  • Page 149: Test Precautions

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Frequency counter Resolution 0.1 Hz–1 MHz Reference oscillator frequency accuracy (HP 5328B) Network analyzer Frequency range 10 MHz–40 GHz Input VSWR (Agilent E8363B) Arbitrary wave Frequency range 0.01 Hz–16 MHz Trigger response generator (Tektronix AFG310) Test precautions For tests other than for oscillator frequency stability, warm up the equipment for at least fifteen minutes and test the performance after the equipment stabilizes completely.

  • Page 150: Frequency Span Readout Accuracy

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Frequency span readout accuracy Using the setup shown in Fig. 6-1, set the frequencies corresponding to the first and ninth vertical divisions from the left side of the screen scale with the signal generator. The frequency difference between the peak levels at the first and ninth vertical division is equal to the frequency span x 0.8. Specification Frequency span accuracy: ≤±1% Test instrument...

  • Page 151: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Set the power switch on the equipment front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set the equipment as follows: Center frequency: 1500 MHz Span: 10 MHz RBW: Auto VBW: Auto Reference level: −10 dBm Sweep time: 50 ms (Span<5 GHz), 200 ms (Span>5 GHz) Set the signal generator output frequency equal to the center frequency as follows: Frequency: 1500 MHz Power: −15 dBm...
  • Page 152 PERFORMANCE TESTS Table 6-1 Frequency span accuracy Equipment Signal generator (MHz) Specification (±1 %) Center Span Accuracy frequency 1500 MHz 10 MHz 50 MHz 2000 MHz 3000 MHz 4700 MHz 10 MHz 50 MHz 2000 MHz 3000 MHz 9700 MHz 10 MHz 40 MHz 80 MHz...

  • Page 153: Reference Oscillator Frequency Stability

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Reference oscillator frequency stability Frequency stability is tested by measuring the 10 MHz reference oscillator. Stability is determined by measuring frequency variation at ambient temperatures of 0°C and 50°C. Specification Frequency: 10 MHz Aging rate: ≤±1 ppm (±0.1 ppm with HSO Option) After 24 hour warm-up at 25°C ±...

  • Page 154: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Temperature stability Test condition: test this performance in a vibration-free variable-temperature chamber. Set up the equipment in a constant-temperature chamber at 25°C. Set the line and power switches on the equipment to ON and wait until the equipment’s internal temperature stabilizes (approx.

  • Page 155: Frequency Counter Accuracy

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Frequency counter accuracy Examine the frequency counter accuracy. Specification Accuracy: ± [(Reference frequency accuracy x Marker frequency accuracy) ± (counter resolution x 1 LSB)] Resolution: 1 Hz, 10 Hz, 100 Hz, 1000 Hz −45 dBm @ 2 MHz < frequency < 13.2 GHz (span<3 MHz) Sensitivity: −40 dBm @ 13.2 GHz <...

  • Page 156: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Set the power switch on the equipment front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 2.9 GHz Span: 200 kHz Reference level: −20 dBm ATT: 0 dB RBW: Auto VBW: Auto Set the signal generator as shown below: Frequency: 2.9 GHz...

  • Page 157: Resolution Bandwidth (Rbw) And Selectivity And Switching Error

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Resolution bandwidth (RBW) and selectivity and switching error Resolution bandwidth (RBW) When there are two input signals with a frequency difference corresponding to the 3 dB bandwidth of the IF final stage, the signals can be resolved as two waveforms. This is called resolution bandwidth.

  • Page 158: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure RBW accuracy Set the power switch on the equipment front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 1101 MHz Span: 15 MHz Reference level: −10 dBm RBW: 5 MHz VBW: Auto Scale: 2 dB/div Sweep time: 50 ms...
  • Page 159 PERFORMANCE TESTS Table 6-3 RBW accuracy Equipment Marker Δ 3 dB bandwidth Accuracy Remark Center Span Minimum Measure Maximum 1 kHz 3 kHz 2 kHz 6 kHz 3 kHz 9 kHz 5 kHz 15 kHz 10 kHz 30 kHz 20 kHz 60 kHz 30 kHz 90 kHz...
  • Page 160 PERFORMANCE TESTS Equipment Marker Δ 3 dB bandwidth Accuracy Remark Center Span Minimum Measure Maximum 1 kHz 3 kHz 2 kHz 6 kHz 3 kHz 9 kHz 5 kHz 15 kHz 10 kHz 30 kHz 20 kHz 60 kHz 20001 MHz 30 kHz 90 kHz 50 kHz...

  • Page 161: Rbw Selectivity

    PERFORMANCE TESTS RBW selectivity Set the power switch on the equipment’s front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 108 MHz Span: 5 MHz Reference level: −10 dBm ATT: Auto RBW: 1 MHz VBW: Auto Sweep time: 50 ms Set the signal generator as shown below:...

  • Page 162: Rbw Switching Error

    PERFORMANCE TESTS RBW switching error Set the power switch on the equipment front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 100 MHz Span: 9 MHz Reference level: −10 dBm ATT: Auto RBW: 3 kHz VBW: Auto Scale: 10 dB/div Sweep time: 100 ms...
  • Page 163 PERFORMANCE TESTS Equipment 3 dB BW 60 dB BW Center Span 1 kHz 3 kHz 2 kHz 6 kHz 3 kHz 9 kHz 5 kHz 15 kHz 10 kHz 30 kHz 20 kHz 60 kHz 30 kHz 90 kHz 9000 MHz 50 kHz 150 kHz 100 kHz...

  • Page 164: Phase Noise

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Phase noise Sideband noise measures the noise of a local oscillator signal at an offset from the carrier frequency. It is important to use a signal source with sideband noise performance 10 dB or better than the equipment. Sideband noise Specification −92 dBc/Hz @ frequency = 1 GHz, 1 kHz offset...

  • Page 165: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Set the power switch on the equipment front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 1 GHz Span: 100 kHz Reference level: −10 dBm ATT: 0 dB RBW: 1 kHz VBW: Auto Scale: 10 dB/div Sweep time: Auto...

  • Page 166: Residual Fm Noise

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Residual FM noise Measures the purity of frequency. Specification ≤ 100 x N Hz p-p, 1 s, RBW 1 kHz, VBW 1 kHz (N: LO harmonic mixing mode) Test instruments Signal generator: E8257D RF cable: SMA (male)–SMA (male) Adapter: N (male)–SMA (female) (Reference) use additional adapter: 3.5 mm (male)–N (female) (3254...

  • Page 167: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Set the power switch on the equipment front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 3 GHz Reference level: −20 dBm Span: 10 kHz RBW: 1 kHz VBW: 1 kHz Sweep time: 500 ms Log Scale: 1 dB/div Set the signal generator 83650B as shown below:...

  • Page 168: Average Noise Level

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Average noise level This test measures the internal noise of the instrument. Specification Average noise level: (RBW: 1 Hz, VBW: 1 Hz) ≤ −143 dBm 10 MHz–2 GHz ≤ −135 dBm 100 kHz–10 GHz ≤ −143 dBm 10 MHz–2 GHz ≤...

  • Page 169: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Set the power switch on the equipment front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 2.91 GHz Span: zero Reference level: −40 dBm ATT: 0 dB RBW: VBW: 3 Hz Detector mode: Average Sweep time: Average Terminate the RF input with a 50 Ω...
  • Page 170 PERFORMANCE TESTS Table 6-6 Average noise level Center frequency Span Average noise level Remark 501 Hz 1 kHz <10 MHz 11 MHz 50 MHz 101 MHz 201 MHz >10 MHz 301 MHz 1 kHz (3251) … 2.9 GHz 3.0 GHz 6.6 GHz 6.4 GHz >10 MHz...

  • Page 171: Input Attenuator Switching Error

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Input attenuator switching error This test measures the switching error when the amount of attenuation in the RF input section is switched. Specification Input attenuator switching error: ±0.5 dB by steps at 100 Hz (3281 only) ±0.5 dB by steps at frequencies less than 13.2 GHz ±0.8 dB by steps at 13.2 GHz–26.5 GHz Test instruments Signal generator:...

  • Page 172: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Set the power switch on the equipment front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 100 MHz Span: 50 kHz Reference level: −10 dBm ATT: 0 dB RBW: 3 kHz VBW: 3 kHz Sweep time: 50 ms Average: ON...
  • Page 173 PERFORMANCE TESTS Center Input attenuator Delta marker level Spec frequency (MHz) Before After changing changing ATT 0 dB 5 dB 5 dB 10 dB 10 dB 15 dB 15 dB 20 dB 20 dB 25 dB 2900 25 dB 30 dB ±0.5 dB 30 dB 35 dB...
  • Page 174 PERFORMANCE TESTS Center Input attenuator Delta marker level Spec frequency (MHz) Before After changing changing ATT 0 dB 5 dB 5 dB 10 dB 10 dB 15 dB 15 dB 20 dB 20 dB 25 dB 26500 25 dB 30 dB ±...

  • Page 175: Frequency Response

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Frequency response When one or more signals with a different frequency but the same amplitude are applied to the unit, the instrument should display the same amplitude for each signal on the screen. Specification Frequency response: ±0.5 dB from 1 MHz to 3.0 GHz ±1.0 dB from 3.0 GHz to 8 GHz ±1.5 dB from 8 GHz to 13.2 GHz ±2.0 dB from 13.2 GHz to 22.0 GHz...

  • Page 176: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Calibrate the power meter to the power sensor. Connect the power sensor to the signal generator with the RF cable and adapter as shown in Fig. 6-9. Set the signal generator as shown below: Frequency: 300 kHz Power: 0 dBm Set the power meter to measure frequency 10 MHz.
  • Page 177 PERFORMANCE TESTS Table 6-8 Frequency response Signal Frequency Power Meter Marker peak value Error Remark generator value (dBm) (dBm) 300 kHz 1 MHz 10 MHz 50 MHz E8257D 100 MHz 3251 200 MHz … 2.9 GHz 3.0 GHz 3.1 GHz 6.4 GHz E8257D 3252...

  • Page 178: Spurious Response

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Spurious response This test measures spurious frequency levels in the equipment. The RF input is terminated and 0 dB input attenuation is selected. Specification ≤−90 dBm (input terminated, 0 dB attenuation) Test instruments 50 ohm termination: 909F Setup 50 ohm termination 909F...

  • Page 179: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Set the power switch on the equipment front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 10 MHz Span: 10 MHz Reference level: −30 dBm ATT: 0 dB RBW: 10 kHz VBW: 1 kHz Sweep Time: Auto Terminate the RF input with a 50 Ω...

  • Page 180: Second Harmonic Distortion

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Second harmonic distortion The main point of the test is to apply a signal with harmonic distortion that is at least 20 dB lower than the equipment’s internal harmonic distortion to the equipment, and to measure the level difference between the fundamental signal and the second harmonic.

  • Page 181: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Set the power switch on the equipment front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 95 MHz Span: 10 kHz Reference level: −10 dBm ATT: 0 dB RBW: 1 kHz VBW: 30 Hz Sweep time: Auto Set the signal generator as shown below:...

  • Page 182: Third-Order Intermodulation

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Third-order intermodulation Two signal generators provide the signals required for measuring third-order intermodulation. It becomes difficult when the input level is –30 dBm, as the intermodulation signal is very close in level to the noise. Specification (IP3: Third Order Intercept Point, −15 dBm input) ≥+8 dBm, 10 MHz–200 MHz ≥+12 dBm, 200 MHz–26.5 GHz Test instruments...

  • Page 183: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Power meter calibration Set up synthesized signal generators as shown in Fig. 6-12. Signal generator 1: Frequency: 10 MHz Power: −5 dBm Signal generator 2: Frequency: 10.1 MHz Power: −5 dBm Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 100 MHz Reference level: −10 dBm Span: 500 kHz...

  • Page 184: Spurious Relating To Input

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Spurious relating to input This test measures the spurious frequency level relating to the input of the equipment. Specification ≤−55 dBc Δf>100 kHz (input level –30dBm, 0 dB attenuation) Test instruments Signal generator: E8257D RF cable: SMA (male)–N (female) BNC cable: BNC (male)–BNC (male) LPF:...

  • Page 185: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Set the power switch on the equipment front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 100 MHz Span: 50 MHz Reference level: −20 dBm ATT: 0 dB RBW: 10 kHz VBW: 1 kHz Set the signal generator as shown below: Frequency: 100 MHz...

  • Page 186: Input Vswr

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Input VSWR This test verifies the input VSWR of the equipment. Specification 10 MHz–3.0 GHz ≤1.5: 1 @ 10 dB attenuation 3.0 GHz–13.2 GHz ≤1.8: 1 @ 10 dB attenuation 13.2 GHz–26.5 GHz ≤2.0: 1 @ 10 dB attenuation Test instruments Network analyzer: E8363B...

  • Page 187: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Set the power switch on the equipment front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 100 MHz ATT: 10 dB Reference level: −10 dBm Span: Zero span Set up the network analyzer (E8363B) as shown below: Start frequency: 10 MHz Stop frequency: 3.0 GHz Output level: −20 dBm...

  • Page 188: Trigger (Ext, Video, Line)

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Trigger (EXT, Video, Line) This test tests standard operation of the equipment’s trigger. Specification EXT, Video Test instruments Arbitrary function generator: AFG310 RF cable: SMA (male)–BNC (male) BNC cable: BNC (male)–BNC (male) Adapter: N (male)–SMA (female) (Reference) use additional adapter: 3.5 mm (male)–N (female) (3254 model) Setup BNC cable External...

  • Page 189: Procedure 2 (Video Trigger)

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure 2 (Video Trigger) The following is a procedure for examining the Video Trigger. Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 10 MHz Span: Zero span Reference level: 0 dBm ATT: Auto RBW: 30 kHz VBW: 30 kHz Sweep time: 2 ms Trigger: Free Run Trig Slop: Pos...

  • Page 190: Preamplifier

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Preamplifier Checks the preamplifier for normal operation. Specification Peak: < ±1 dBm (1 MHz–3.0 GHz) Test instruments Signal generator: E8257D RF cable: SMA (male)–N (male) BNC cable: BNC (male)–BNC (male) Adapter: N (male)–N (male) (Reference) use additional adapter: 3.5 mm (male)–N (female) (3254 model) 10 dB attenuator: SMA (female)–SMA (female) LPF:...

  • Page 191: Procedure

    PERFORMANCE TESTS Procedure Set the power switch on the equipment front panel to ON. Press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set up the equipment as shown below: Center frequency: 100 MHz Reference level: −40 dBm ATT: Auto Span: 10 MHz RBW: Auto VBW: Auto Sweep Time: Auto Average: On Set the signal generator as shown below:...
  • Page 192 Chapter 7 STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION Contents Introduction ..........................7-1 Cleaning............................7-1 Storage precautions ........................7-2 Precautions before storage....................7-2 Recommended storage precautions ..................7-2 Repacking and transportation ...................... 7-2 Repacking..........................7-2 Transportation ........................7-2 Service ............................7-2 Introduction This section describes the long-term storage, repacking and transportation of the instrument as well as regular care procedures and their timing.
  • Page 193 STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION Storage precautions This paragraph describes the precautions to take for long-term storage of the instrument. Precautions before storage Before storage, wipe dust, finger marks, and other dirt off the instrument. Avoid storing the instrument where: • it may be exposed to direct sunlight or high dust levels •...
  • Page 194 Chapter 8 SYSTEM RESTORATION Contents Introduction ..........................8-1 Operating system ......................... 8-1 Recovering the booting system....................8-1 Phoenix Recover Pro 6 ......................8-1 System restoration using Recover Pro.................. 8-1 Steps for system restoration ..................8-1 Virus elimination ......................... 8-3 Introduction This section contains information about restoring the system if errors occur in the software.
  • Page 195 STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION Fig. 8-1 Recover Pro initial screen If Fig. 8-1 appears in the display window, press [ESC] and press F4 several times. When the booting sequence display appears, select Hard Disk. A display about Phoenix Always should appear. If the Windows booting display appears instead, press the power button to put the instrument into the stand-by state and repeat steps 3 and 4.
  • Page 196 • Vaccine activation code: included in packing. Note: a license is supplied with the instrument, if bought through Aeroflex or one of its agents. This license is valid for 1 year. If you want to extend the period, visit the web site...
  • Page 197 Contents Appendix A MEASUREMENT GUIDE Contents Introduction ..........................A-1 Comparing signals ........................A-1 Example: delta marker function ..................A-1 Resolving signals of equal amplitude ..................A-3 Example: selection RBW ....................A-3 Resolving small signals hidden by large signals ................ A-5 Example: selection RBW ....................
  • Page 198 Measurement guide Connect 10 MHz REF OUT from the rear panel of the signal generator to the spectrum analyzer’s front-panel RF INPUT. Set the center frequency to 30 MHz and the span to 50 MHz by pressing [FREQ] 30 MHz, [SPAN] 50 MHz.

  • Page 199: Resolving Signals Of Equal Amplitude

    Measurement guide Resolving signals of equal amplitude Two equal-amplitude input signals that are close in frequency can appear as one on the analyzer’s display. Responding to a single-frequency signal, a swept-tuned analyzer traces out the shape of the selected internal IF (intermediate frequency) filter. As you change the filter bandwidth, you change the width of the displayed response.
  • Page 200 Measurement guide On the analyzer, press [PRESET], [Preset]. Set the center frequency to 300 MHz, the span to 1 MHz, and the resolution bandwidth to 300 kHz by setting [FREQ] 300 MHz, [SPAN] 1 MHz, then [BW], [RBW Manl], [RBW] 50 kHz. A single signal peak is visible. Note: if the signal peak cannot be found, increase the span to 10 MHz by pressing [SPAN] 10 MHz.

  • Page 201: Resolving Small Signals Hidden By Large Signals

    Measurement guide Resolving small signals hidden by large signals When dealing with the resolution of signals that are close together and not equal in amplitude, you must consider the shape of the IF filter of the analyzer, as well as its 3 dB bandwidth (see Resolving signals of equal amplitude on pageA-3 for more information).
  • Page 202 Measurement guide Fig. A-5 Signal resolution with a 10 kHz resolution bandwidth Set the 300 MHz signal to the reference level by pressing [PEAK], then [MKR >], [Marker→Ref]. If a 10 kHz filter with a typical shape factor 15:1 is used, the filter will have a bandwidth of 150 kHz at the 60 dB point, the half-bandwidth (75 kHz) is narrower than the frequency separation, so the input signals will be resolved: see Fig.

  • Page 203: Making Better Frequency Measurements

    Measurement guide Making better frequency measurements A built-in frequency counter increases the resolution and accuracy of the frequency readout. Example: marker counter function Increase the resolution and accuracy of the frequency readout on the signal of interest. Connect CAL. OUT to RF INPUT with BNC-BNC cable and N-BNC adapter in front panel.

  • Page 204: Decreasing The Frequency Span Around The Signal

    Measurement guide Decreasing the frequency span around the signal Using the analyzer signal tracking function, you can quickly decrease the span while keeping the signal at center frequency. This is a fast way to take a closer look at the area around the signal to identify signals that would otherwise not be resolved.

  • Page 205: Tracking Drifting Signals

    Measurement guide Tracking drifting signals The signal tracking function is useful for tracking drifting signals that drift relatively slowly. [PEAK], [Signal Track] may be used to track these drifting signals. Use [PEAK] to place a marker on the signal you wish to track. Pressing [PEAK], [Signal Track ON] brings that signal to the center frequency of the graticule and adjusts the center frequency every sweep to bring the selected signal back to the center.

  • Page 206: Example 2: Max Hold Function

    Measurement guide Example 2: max hold function The analyzer can measure the short-and long-term stability of a source. The maximum amplitude level and the frequency drift of an input signal trace can be displayed and held by using the maximum-hold function. You can also use the maximum hold function if you want to determine how much of the frequency span a signal occupies.

  • Page 207: Measuring Low-Level Signals

    Measurement guide Measuring low-level signals The ability of the analyzer to measure low-level signals is limited by the noise generated inside the analyzer. A signal may be masked by the noise floor so that it is not visible. This sensitivity to low-level signals is affected by the measurement setup.
  • Page 208 Measurement guide Fig. A-11 Using 0 dB attenuation ▲ Press [AMPL], [Attenuation Manl]. Press the step-up key ( ) to select 10 dB attenuation. Increasing the attenuation moves the noise floor closer to the signal. See Fig. A-12. A ‘*’ appears next to the ATT annotation at the top of the display, indicating that the attenuation is no longer coupled to other analyzer settings.

  • Page 209: Example 2: Selection Rbw

    Measurement guide Example 2: selection RBW The resolution bandwidth can be decreased to view low-level signals. As in the previous example, set the analyzer to view a low-level signal. Connect a signal generator to the analyzer RF INPUT. Press [PRESET], [Preset] on the analyzer. Set the signal generator frequency to 300 MHz with an amplitude of –60 dBm.

  • Page 210: Example 3: Selection Vbw

    Measurement guide Example 3: selection VBW Narrowing the video filter can be useful for noise measurements and observation of low-level signals close to the noise floor. The video filter is a post-detection low-pass filter that smoothes the displayed trace. When signal responses near the noise level of the analyzer are visually masked by the noise, the video filter can be narrowed to smooth this noise and improve the visibility of the signal.

  • Page 211: Example 4: Video Average Function

    Measurement guide Example 4: video average function If a signal level is very close to the noise floor, video averaging is another way to make the signal more visible. Note: the time required to construct a full trace that is averaged to the desired degree is approximately the same when using either the video bandwidth or the video averaging technique.

  • Page 212: Identifying Distortion Products

    Measurement guide Identifying distortion products Distortion from the analyzer High-level input signals may cause analyzer distortion products that could mask the real distortion measured on the input signal. Example: delta marker function Using a signal from a signal generator, determine how many harmonic distortion products are generated by the analyzer.

  • Page 213: Third-Order Intermodulation Distortion

    Measurement guide Third-order intermodulation distortion Two-tone, third-order intermodulation distortion is a common test in communication systems. When two signals are present in a non-linear system, they can interact and create third-order intermodulation distortion products that are located close to the original signals. These distortion products are generated by system components such as amplifiers and mixers.
  • Page 214 Measurement guide Fig. A-18 Measuring the distortion product A-18...

  • Page 215: Making Noise Measurements

    Measurement guide Making noise measurements There are a variety of ways to measurement noise power. The first decision you must make is whether you want to measure noise power at a specific frequency or the total power over a specified frequency range, for example over a channel bandwidth. Example 1: MKR noise function Using the marker function, MKR Noise, is a simple method to make a measurement at a single frequency.

  • Page 216: Example 2: Video Filtering/Average

    Measurement guide Fig. A-20 Activating the noise marker function Video filtering can be introduced to reduce the variations of the sweep-to-sweep marker value. Set the video filter by pressing [BW], [VBW Manl], [VBW], 100 Hz. Note that these variations are expected, due to the nature of the signal. We can reduce the variations by introducing video filtering.

  • Page 217: Example 3: Channel Power Measurement

    Measurement guide Example 3: channel power measurement You may want to measure the total power of a noise-like signal that occupies some bandwidth. For example, you may want to determine the power in a communications channel. If the signal is noise and is flat across the band of interest, you can use the noise marker as described in example 1 and add 10×log (channel BW).

  • Page 218: Demodulating Am Signals

    Measurement guide Demodulating AM signals The zero span mode can be used to recover amplitude modulation on a carrier signal. The analyzer operates as a fixed-tuned receiver in zero span to provide time domain measurements. The center frequency in the swept-tuned mode becomes the tuned frequency in zero span. The horizontal axis of the screen becomes calibrated in time only, rather than both frequency and time.
  • Page 219 Measurement guide Fig. A-22 Measuring modulation using AM demodulation function Another method to demodulate the AM signal is to use zero span by repeating steps 1 to 4 and performing the following: Set the span to 20 MHz by pressing [SPAN] 20 MHz. Set the resolution bandwidth to 1 MHz by pressing [BW], [RBW Manl], [RBW] 1 MHz.
  • Page 220 Measurement guide Fig. A-24 Measuring modulation in zero span Use markers and delta markers to measure the time parameters of the waveform. A-24...

  • Page 221: Demodulating Fm Signals

    Measurement guide Demodulating FM signals As with amplitude modulation you can utilize zero span to demodulate a FM signal. However, unlike the AM case, you cannot simply tune to the carrier frequency and widen the resolution bandwidth. The reason is that the envelope detector in the analyzer responds only to amplitude variations, and there is no change in amplitude if the frequency changes of the FM signal are limited to the flat part of the resolution bandwidth.
  • Page 222 Measurement guide Fig. A-25 Determining the offset Press [Delta] to make the active marker the reference marker. Press [PEAK] to move the delta marker to the peak. The delta value is the desired offset, for example 130 kHz. A-26...

  • Page 223: Example 2: Fm Demod. Function

    Measurement guide Example 2: FM demod. function Connect a signal generator output to the analyzer RF INPUT. Set a source frequency to 300 MHz, amplitude to 0 dBm, FM deviation to 75 kHz, and FM rate to 1 kHz. Reset the analyzer by pressing [PRESET], [Preset]. Tune the analyzer to 300 MHz by pressing [FREQ] 300 MHz.
  • Page 224 Measurement guide Fig. A-27 Measure the demodulation in zero span A-28...
  • Page 225 PXI Software Licensed Software specific to Aeroflex’s 3000 Series PXI product range 2. LICENSE FEE The Licensee shall pay the License Fee to Aeroflex in accordance with the terms of the contract between the Licensee and Aeroflex. 3. TERM This Agreement shall be effective from the date of receipt or download (where applicable) of the Licensed Software by the Licensee and shall continue in force until terminated under the provisions of Clause 8.
  • Page 226 6.3 If during the appropriate Warranty Period the Licensed Software does not conform substantially to the Software Product Descriptions, Data Sheets or Product Specifications Aeroflex will provide: 6.3.1 In the case of Embedded Software and at Aeroflex’s discretion either a fix for the problem or an effective and efficient work-around.
  • Page 227 Licensed Software at the commencement of this Agreement. 7.3 Aeroflex shall not be liable to the Licensee for any loss of use or for loss of profits or of contracts arising directly or indirectly out of any such infringement of patent, registered design, trademark or copyright. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement...
  • Page 228 As we are always seeking to improve our products, the information in this document gives only a general indication of the product capacity, performance and suitability, none of which shall form part of any contract. We reserve the right to make design changes without notice. web www.aeroflex.com Email info-test@aeroflex.com November 2008...

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