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HP 53151A Operating Manual

HP 53151A Operating Manual

Microwave frequency counter
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HP 53150A/151A/152A
Microwave Frequency Counter
Operating
Guide

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  • Page 1 Operating Guide HP 53150A/151A/152A Microwave Frequency Counter...
  • Page 3 Operating Guide This guide describes how to use the HP 53150A, 53151A, and 53152A Microwave Frequency Counters. The information in this guide applies to instruments having the number prefix listed below, unless accompanied by a “Manual Updating Changes” package indicating otherwise.
  • Page 4 HP receives notice of such from the mains power source to defects during the warranty the product’s ground circuitry. period, HP will, at its option, either repair or replace products WARNING Indicates earth (ground) which prove to be defective.
  • Page 5 Hardware Support Accessories Supplied and Available Accessories Supplied Accessories Available Manuals Supplied HP 53150A/151A/152A Quick Reference Guide xvii Getting Started The Front Panel at a Glance The Front Panel Indicators at a Glance The Front Panel Menus at a Glance...
  • Page 6 Contents Operating the Counter Turning the Counter On 1-10 Turning the Display Backlight Off or On 1-11 Using the Menu 1-12 Displaying the Menu 1-12 Navigating in the Menu and Changing Settings 1-12 Setting the Serial Port Baud Rate (Menu Example) 1-15 Selecting the Input Channel...
  • Page 7 Contents Using the Clear and Reset/Local Keys Acknowledging Messages Other Function Selection Keys 2-10 Measuring Frequency 2-12 Setting the Resolution and the Measurement Rate 2-14 Setting the Resolution 2-14 Resolution Setting Example 2-15 Setting the Measurement Rate 2-16 Rate Setting Example 2-16 Setting the Number of Averages 2-17...
  • Page 8 Contents Model Number, Firmware Version, Serial Number, and Option Codes 2-44 Preset 2-45 RS-232 Serial Port Data Rate (BAUD) 2-46 Frequency Modulation (FM) 2-46 Channel 1 Low-Pass Filter (CH1 LPF) 2-46 Recall User Settings (RECALL) 2-46 Save User Settings (SAVE) 2-46 Power Correction (PWR CORR) 2-46...
  • Page 9 Contents Charging the Batteries Precautions Index Operating Guide...
  • Page 10 Contents viii Operating Guide...
  • Page 11 In This Guide This book is the operating guide for the HP 53150A (20 GHz), 53151A (26.5 GHz), and 53152A (46 GHz) Frequency Counters. It consists of a table of contents, this preface, a quick reference guide, three chapters, three appendices, and an index.
  • Page 12 In This Guide Operating Guide Contents and Organization Table of Contents. The Quick Reference Guide consists of a Menu Tree (tear-out sheet) that serves as a tool to trigger your memory or get you quickly reacquainted with the instrument. Chapter 1 (Getting Started) is a quick-start guide that gives you a brief overview of the Counter’s keys, indicators, menus, display, and connectors.
  • Page 13 Related Documents For more information on frequency counters refer to the following Series 200 Application Notes: • Fundamentals of Electronic Frequency Counters, Application Note 200—HP part number 02-5952-7506. • Understanding Frequency Counter Specifications, Application Note 200-4—HP part number 02-5952-7522. •...
  • Page 14 Types of Service Available if Your Instrument Fails If your Counter fails within one year of original purchase, HP will repair it free of charge. If your instrument fails after your one-year warranty expires, HP will repair it, or you can repair it yourself.
  • Page 15 Counter to the designated HP Service Center, using the instrument’s original shipping carton (if available). HP notifies you when your failed instrument is received. If the instrument is to be shipped to HP for service or repair, be sure you do the following: •...
  • Page 16 The HP 53150A, 53151A, and 53152A Microwave Frequency Counters are capable of measuring frequencies from 10Hz to 125 MHz on Channel 1 and from 50 MHz to 20 GHz (53150A), 26.5 GHz (53151A), and 46 GHz (53152A) on Channel 2. These frequency counters are also capable of measuring power on Channel 2 (in the same frequency ranges).
  • Page 17 Chapter 3, “Specifications.” Options ordered with the Counter are installed at the factory and are ready for operation on delivery. Refer to the "Retrofitting Options" chapter in the HP 53150A/151A/152A Assembly-Level Service Guide for information on installing options in the field.
  • Page 18 Accessories Supplied and Available Accessories Supplied • Power cord, 2.3 meters (Part number dependent upon destination country.) Accessories Available • Automotive Power Adapter (HP P/N 53150-60214) Battery (HP P/N 53150-80010) • • Battery Charger (HP P/N 53150-60217) (Includes Automotive Power Adapter) •...
  • Page 19 Counter. It is intended to be used as a tool to trigger your memory. If you are using the Counter for the first time, HP recommends that you at least read Chapter 1, “Getting Started,” first. The Quick Reference Guide, which follows this page, consists of a menu tree that may be torn out of the guide for external use.
  • Page 20 Quick Reference...
  • Page 21 Local REF OSC > INT PRESET REF OSC > < 00-111-222 > < SN 999999 > HP 53150A > <OPTNS -- -- -- -- > SAVE > 0 to 9 OP 9999 HRS RECALL > 0 to 9 BATT VOLTAGE CH1 LPF >...
  • Page 22 Quick Reference...
  • Page 23 Getting Started...
  • Page 24 Chapter 1 Getting Started The Front Panel at a Glance The Front Panel at a Glance 53150A 20 GHz Counter CHANNEL 1 10 Hz to 125 MHz POWER Ch 12 Rel Freq 1M W Offset Ext Rel Hold Avg On Rate Rmt SRQ Watts Rel Pwr...
  • Page 25 Chapter 1 Getting Started The Front Panel Indicators at a Glance The Front Panel Indicators at a Glance The front panel includes three LED indicators. These are listed and described in the following table. Indicator Description The Standby indicator is lit whenever the Main ~ Power switch on the rear panel is turned ON, POWER and the POWER switch on the front panel is OFF...
  • Page 26 Local REF OSC > INT PRESET REF OSC > < 00-111-222 > < SN 999999 > HP 53150A > <OPTNS -- -- -- -- > SAVE > 0 to 9 OP 9999 HRS RECALL > 0 to 9 BATT VOLTAGE CH1 LPF >...
  • Page 27 Indicates the Counter is in Hold (single-measurement) mode. Rmt, SRQ Shows the current state of the HP-IB interface (Rmt = Remote operation via HP-IB; SRQ = Service ReQuest). Error Indicates that a front-panel key command is unacceptable in the current context.
  • Page 28 Chapter 1 Getting Started The Display Special Characters at a Glance The Display Special Characters at a Glance Special Description Characters Points to the current value for a Menu setting. Indicates that the value for the current Menu setting can be changed using the selection (arrow) keys.
  • Page 29 EXT DC RS-232 1 AC Input/Power module (Senses 5 Battery compartment (optional) or cover plate incoming voltage and adjusts 6 HP-IB (IEEE-488.1) Interface connector automatically) 7 RS-232 Interface connector (RJ12) 2 External Reference connector (BNC) 8 Main AC Power On indicator...
  • Page 30 Operating the Counter The procedures in this section are designed to familiarize you with the Frequency Counter’s features and controls. HP suggests that you follow the steps for each of these procedures, even if you do not presently need to make any measurements or to adjust any of the Counter’s settings.
  • Page 31 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter The following legend defines the meanings of the icons used throughout this chapter. Legend Press key one Result Indicator off time and release Auto operation Indicator on Multiple key Connect signal Indicator flashing presses Disconnect signal Operating Guide...
  • Page 32 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Turning the Counter On To turn on the Counter, turn on the Main ~ Power switch on the rear panel (see page 1-7), and then press and release the POWER button on the front panel.
  • Page 33 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter NOTE If a signal was applied to the Channel 2 input connector prior to turning on the Counter, CH2 NO SIGNAL is displayed momentarily. As soon as the Counter acquires the input signal, it displays the signal’s value. The internal Reference Oscillator requires 10 to 15 minutes to reach a NOTE stable operating temperature.
  • Page 34 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Using the Menu The HP 53150A/151A/152A Counter has one menu that you use to control a number of the Counter’s features and functions. Displaying the Menu To display the Menu, press the Shift key and then the Menu (Reset/Local) key, as shown below.
  • Page 35 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Ch 2 Freq Shift Shift Menu Reset/ Local Ch 2 Enter Ext Ref When you select the Menu, the indicator between the arrow keys flashes to indicate that the arrow keys are now active. Since the Reference Oscillator setting is the first one displayed when you invoke the Menu (unless you’ve used the Menu to change another setting since you turned the Counter on), you don’t have to use the...
  • Page 36 (no settings are required [or possible] for these), such as Battery Voltage, Operation Hours, and information that identifies the Counter (HP model number, firmware version number, serial number, and installed option codes). These menu options and the ones described below are shown in “The Front Panel Menus at a Glance”...
  • Page 37 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Setting the Serial Port Baud Rate (Menu Example) Ch 2 Freq Shift Shift Menu Reset/ Local Ch 2 Freq Enter Operating Guide 1-15...
  • Page 38 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Selecting the Input Channel You can toggle between Channels 1 and 2 by pressing the Chan Select key. Ch 1 Freq Chan Select Ch 2 Freq Chan Select 1-16 Operating Guide...
  • Page 39 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Measuring Frequency The following diagram shows the basic sequence to use to make a frequency measurement using Channel 1. This example assumes that the Counter is on and has completed the Self Test. For the purposes of this example, use the 10 MHz reference output on the Counter’s rear panel as a signal source for input to Channel 1.
  • Page 40 CAUTION The 2.9 mm Planar Crown* connector used for the Channel 2 input on the HP 53152A must be handled with care to prevent damage and/or contamination, especially since it acts as a wave guide as well as an electrical connection. Observe the following precautions when handling this connector: 1.
  • Page 41 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Measuring Relative Frequency You can measure the difference in frequency from one measurement to another (drift) using the Relative Frequency function. You do this by pressing the Shift and Rel Freq (Offset On/Off) keys as shown in the diagram below (this example assumes that a signal is currently applied to Channel 1).
  • Page 42 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Offsetting a Frequency Measurement You can use the Frequency Offset (Freq Offset) function to add or subtract a constant value to/from a frequency measurement. For example, you can use an offset to compensate for a systematic error or to display the difference in frequency between two signals.
  • Page 43 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Ch 2 Freq Ch 2 Freq Offset Offset On/Off Ch 2 Freq Shift Offset Shift Freq Offset Freq Rate Offset Freq Offset Freq Offset Ch 2 Freq Enter Offset Operating Guide 1-21...
  • Page 44 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Measuring Power (Channel 2 Only) The HP 53150A/151A/152A Counter can measure signal power (in the same frequency ranges as for frequency measurements) on Channel 2. The example procedure for measuring power in the following diagram assumes that the Counter has previously been set up to measure a 25 GHz input on Channel 2.
  • Page 45 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Selecting the Unit of Measurement for Power The Counter’s power-measurement function can display values in either of two sets of units of measurement—dB and dBm or W, mW, and µW (the Counter automatically selects the most appropriate unit when either set of units is selected).
  • Page 46 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Measuring Relative Power You can measure the difference in power from one measurement to another (drift) using the Relative Power function. You do this by pressing the Shift and Rel Pwr (Offset On/Off) keys, as shown in the diagram below (this example assumes that a signal is currently applied to Channel 2).
  • Page 47 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter following diagram, the Power Offset function is enabled first, and the offset value is then entered. However, the order doesn’t matter, so you can also enter the offset value first, and then turn the offset function on. Ch 2 Freq Rel Pwr...
  • Page 48 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Using Power Correction The Power Correction function in the main Menu allows you to set the Counter to automatically compensate for power loss (or gain) that occurs in the test configuration, such as attenuation resulting from cable impedance. You can choose from nine power-correction profiles that are stored in nonvolatile memory, and you can modify the contents of these profiles.
  • Page 49 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter As the graph shows, the Counter never computes power-correction values NOTE for loss above the zero axis. Conversely, corrections are never computed for gain below the zero axis. Once the correction value reaches the zero axis, no further corrections are applied.
  • Page 50 0.0 dB loss at the highest frequency the Counter can measure (20 GHz for the 53150A, 26.5 GHz for the 53151A, or 46 GHz for the 53152A). The remaining eight data points contain values of 0.0 dB loss at 0.0 GHz.
  • Page 51 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Ch 2 Freq Ch 2 Freq Shift Shift Menu Reset/ Local Ch 2 Freq Enter Shift NOTE When Power Correction is enabled, a lower-case letter “c” is displayed in the hundredths position of the power display. Operating Guide 1-29...
  • Page 52 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter 1-30 Operating Guide...
  • Page 53 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter • Pressing the Enter key after entering values exits the Menu and NOTES restores the measurement display. To remain in the Power Correction menu so you can enter or change values in another data point in the currently selected, press the left-arrow key repeatedly (after entering the values for a data point) until “PWR CORR”...
  • Page 54 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Setting the Measurement Rate The measurement rate determines how frequently the Counter takes measurements. You can set the measurement rate to FAST, MED (medium), SLOW, or HOLD (single measurement taken each time you press the Reset/Local key).
  • Page 55 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Setting the Number of Averages You can set the number of measurements the Counter takes and averages before displaying the result. The default setting is one (no averages are performed), and the maximum setting is 99. Note that the tens position (10 through 90) and the units position (0 through 9) are adjusted separately, and that you cannot set the number of averages to zero.
  • Page 56 “rolls over” to the value at the opposite end of the range. For example, if the HP-IB address is set to 31, and you press the up-arrow key, the value changes to one.
  • Page 57 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter Ch 2 Freq Resol Ch 2 Freq Enter Operating Guide 1-35...
  • Page 58 Chapter 1 Getting Started Operating the Counter 1-36 Operating Guide...
  • Page 59 Operating Your Frequency Counter Operator’s Reference...
  • Page 60 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Introduction Introduction This chapter contains information and usage procedures for the front-panel keys, operating functions, and menus of the HP 53150A/151A/152A Microwave Frequency Counter. Chapter Summary How this Counter Works for You pg. 2-3 •...
  • Page 61 • The Counter’s Menu key and other front-panel keys allow you to select such things as the timebase source, the HP-IB address, and the RS-232 serial-port baud rate. The Counter also allows you to store your selections in non-volatile memory; thus, these settings are not lost when power has been off or after a remote-interface reset.
  • Page 62 Power Correction, and/or to select a previously saved set of user settings. 9. If you intend to operate the counter remotely using the HP-IB, use the HP-IB (Shift + Resol) key to configure the HP-IB. 10.If you intend to operate the counter remotely using the serial interface, use the Menu (Shift + Reset/Local) key to adjust the serial port Baud rate.
  • Page 63 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using the Selection Keys Using the Selection Keys There are six Selection keys—four “arrow” keys, the Enter key, and the sign (+/–) key. The functions of the arrow keys depend on the Counter’s operating mode (i.e., sequencing through choices in the Menu, numeric entry, state change, etc.).
  • Page 64 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using the Selection Keys Numeric Entry Several menu functions, and several functions that have dedicated keys on the front panel, require you to enter numeric values. Press the (left-arrow) and (right-arrow) keys to move left and •...
  • Page 65 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using the Selection Keys Changing States Several menu functions, and several functions that have dedicated keys on the front panel, require you to choose from a list of available states. These functions and the states you can choose for each of them are: •...
  • Page 66 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using the Selection Keys Use the Selection keys as described below to change the state of these functions: • When the annunciator ( ) in the display flashes, press the right-arrow key to move the focus from the displayed menu function (or front- panel-key function) to the setting for that function.
  • Page 67 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using the Clear and Reset/Local Keys Using the Clear and Reset/Local Keys The Clear key and the Reset/Local key have similar functions in the Menu and in other front-panel-key function settings, but their effects vary with the Counter’s state and condition.
  • Page 68 Clear Enter • HP-IB Address (HPIB key) Use the Selection keys in the manner described earlier in this chapter (see “Numeric Entry” and “Changing States”) to adjust the settings for these functions. Detailed procedures for using the Rate, Avg, Resol, and HPIB keys are provided later in this chapter.
  • Page 69 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Other Function Selection Keys • Relative power measurement (Rel Pwr). Press Shift, and then press the Rel Pwr (Offset On/Off) key to measure the difference in power between the current measurement and the measurement taken at the time you pressed the Rel Pwr key.
  • Page 70 If the Counter passes all of the tests, SELF TEST OK is displayed, and the Counter then displays its model number, firmware version number, HP-IB address, and CH2 NO SIGNAL. The Standby Counter is now ready to measure the frequency of a signal applied to the Channel 2 input.
  • Page 71 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Measuring Frequency When the frequency of a signal applied to the Channel 2 input exceeds the NOTE maximum rated frequency for the instrument, the Counter displays CH2 TOO HIGH. To measure the frequency of a signal applied to the Channel 1 input, press the Chan Select key.
  • Page 72 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Setting the Resolution and the Measurement Rate Setting the Resolution and the Measurement Rate The number of measurements the Counter makes in a given amount of time is affected by the Rate setting, the Resolution setting, and the quality of the input signal (signal quality affects the amount of time the Counter requires to determine an accurate measurement).
  • Page 73 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Setting the Resolution and the Measurement Rate Resolution Setting Example For the following example, use the 10 MHz output from the reference timebase as the input to Channel 1. Press the Resol key to enter the resolution-setting mode. HPIB The current resolution setting is displayed (the current value and the Resol...
  • Page 74 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Setting the Resolution and the Measurement Rate Setting the Measurement Rate The measurement Rate setting determines how frequently the counter initiates measurements. Since the actual measurement rate is also affected by the resolution setting and the signal quality, as mentioned earlier, the available rate settings (FAST, MED, and SLOW) do not equate to a fixed number of measurements in a given amount of time.The HOLD setting turns off automatic measurements, so that a single measurement...
  • Page 75 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Setting the Number of Averages Setting the Number of Averages You can set the counter to take a variable number of measurements and average them mathematically before displaying the result (the Counter computes a running average). This feature can be used to determine the effective frequency of a signal that is fluctuating and to retain some of the precision of a maximum-resolution measurement of a fluctuating signal.
  • Page 76 “rolls over” to the value at the opposite end of the range. For example, if the HP-IB address is set to 31, and you press the up-arrow key, the value changes to one.
  • Page 77 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Setting the Number of Averages Counter remains in this state until you press the Reset/Local key to initiate another set of measurements, change the value for averages back to one, or change the setting for the measurement rate to SLOW, MED, or HIGH.
  • Page 78 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Measuring Relative Frequency Measuring Relative Frequency You can measure the difference in frequency from one measurement to another (frequency drift) or between two separate input signals using the Relative Frequency function. Relative Frequency Example Press the Shift key, and then press the Rel Freq (FREQ Offset On/Off) key.
  • Page 79 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Offsetting a Frequency Measurement Offsetting a Frequency Measurement You can use the Frequency Offset (Freq Offset) function to add or subtract a constant value to/from a frequency measurement. For example, you can use an offset to compensate for a systematic error or to display the difference in frequency between two signals.
  • Page 80 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Offsetting a Frequency Measurement Use the left- and right-arrow keys to move the focus to the digit(s) in the frequency-offset display that you need to adjust to enter the offset value, and then use the up- and down-arrow keys to adjust the value for each digit.
  • Page 81 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Offsetting a Frequency Measurement Press the Offset On/Off key. The Freq Offset annunciator is activated, and the value of the display is adjusted to reflect the value and sign of the offset entered in Steps 2 and 3. The display should look like this: Ch 1 Freq...
  • Page 82 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Measuring Power Measuring Power The HP 53150A/53151A/53152A Microwave Frequency Counter can also measure signal power (in the same frequency ranges as for frequency measurements) on Channel 2. The power measurement, which is shown in a dedicated area of the display, includes a digital readout and an analog representation that is useful when peaking signals.
  • Page 83 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Measuring Power Press the Shift key, and then press the dBm/W (Display Power) key. When you press the Shift key, the Shift annunciator is activated. When you press the dBm/W (Display Power) key, the Shift annunciator goes off, and the units of measurement annunciator group to the right of the digital power measurement changes from dB or dBm to W, mW, or µW, as shown below:...
  • Page 84 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Measuring Relative Power Measuring Relative Power You can measure the difference in power from one measurement to another or between two separate input signals using the Relative Power function. Relative Power Example Press the Shift key, and then press the Rel Pwr (PWR Offset On/Off) key. The Shift annunciator activates when you press the Shift key.
  • Page 85 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Offsetting a Power Measurement Offsetting a Power Measurement You can use the Power Offset (Pwr Offset) function to add or subtract a constant value to/from a power measurement. For example, you can use an offset to compensate for a systematic error, to display the difference in power between two signals, or to compensate for losses and attenuation in cables or components that are between the signal source and the Counter.
  • Page 86 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Offsetting a Power Measurement Press the Shift key, and then press the Pwr Offset (Avg) key. The Shift annunciator activates when you press the Shift key. When you press the Pwr Offset key, the Shift annunciator and the frequency display disappear, the Pwr Offset annunciator at the left side of the display activates, and the power offset value is set to 00.00, as shown below: Ch 12...
  • Page 87 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Offsetting a Power Measurement Press the Enter key to confirm the offset value and exit the offset- entry display. The Pwr Offset annunciator is deactivated, and the measurement display returns. Press the Offset On/Off key (in the POWER area of the front panel). The Pwr Offset annunciator is activated, and the value of the display is adjusted to reflect the value and sign of the offset entered in Steps 3 and 4.
  • Page 88 0.0 dB loss at 1 GHz, and 0.0 dB loss at the highest frequency the Counter can measure (20 GHz for the 53150A, 26.5 GHz for the 53151A, or 46 GHz for the 53152A). The remaining eight data points contain values of 0.0 dB loss at 0.0 GHz.
  • Page 89 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using Power Correction Power Correction Theory of Operation When the Counter interpolates between data points to determine the amount of correction to apply to the current measurement, it computes the correction based on a straight line plotted between the frequency values in the two closest data points.
  • Page 90 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using Power Correction change in the loss or gain values once the zero axis is reached, no power corrections are applied when the input frequency reaches or passes a point in the profile that intersects the zero axis. Effectively, the Counter computes only loss-correction values or gain-correction values—never both within the same profile.
  • Page 91 1 GHz and 0.0 dB loss at the highest frequency the Counter can measure (20 GHz for the 53150A, 26.5 GHz for the 53151A, or 46 GHz for the 53152A). The remaining eight data points in each of the profiles initially contain values of 0.0 dB loss at 0.0 GHz.
  • Page 92 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using Power Correction Press the Enter key to select profile number 3. Power Correction is enabled using profile number 3, and the measurement display returns. The power reading now includes an adjustment for the loss incurred at the measured frequency.
  • Page 93 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using Power Correction Power Correction Example: Editing Data Point Values Select a power-correction profile using the up- and/or down-arrow keys (as shown in steps 1 through 4 in the previous example). For this example, choose profile number 3. Press the right-arrow key.
  • Page 94 00.0 dB loss at 1.0 GHz and 00.0 dB loss at the highest frequency the Counter can measure (20 GHz for the 53150A, 26.5 GHz for the 53151A, or 46 GHz for the 53152A). The remaining data points contain values of 00.0 dB loss at 00.0 GHz. In profiles that have...
  • Page 95 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using Power Correction Use the right-arrow key to move to each of the remaining digits in the frequency setting, and use up- and down-arrow keys to adjust their values, if necessary. The currently selected digit flashes to indicate that it is the one that changes when you press the up- and down-arrow keys.
  • Page 96 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using Power Correction To add or adjust the values in another data point, press the left-arrow key repeatedly until “PWR CORR” is re-displayed, and repeat steps 2 through 10. To edit data points within another power-correction profile, press the left-arrow key repeatedly until “PWR CORR”...
  • Page 97 Using the Menu Using the Menu The HP 53150A/151A/152A Counter’s Menu makes it easy to control a number of the Counter’s features and functions. You use the Selection (arrow) keys to navigate to the setting you want to change and then to actually make the changes.
  • Page 98 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using the Menu Press the Enter key to activate the setting and exit the Menu. The setting you chose is put into effect, and the Menu closes. If you need to exit the Menu without changing any of the settings, press the Clear key.
  • Page 99 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using the Menu • SAVE — Saves a copy of the current user settings in non-volatile memory. Nine sets (0 – 8) can be saved, and Set 0 is automatically read on startup. • PWR CORR —...
  • Page 100 (no settings are required [or possible] for these), such as Battery Voltage, Operation Hours, and information that identifies the Counter (HP model number, firmware version number, serial number, and installed option codes). These menu options are described in the remainder of this chapter and also in “The Front Panel Menus at a...
  • Page 101 Counter has been in operation since its last calibration. This value does not include Standby hours. This information is useful for scheduling routine maintenance and calibration. For additional information on maintenance and calibration, see the HP 53150A/151A/152A Microwave Frequency Counter Assembly-Level Service Guide. Operating Guide 2-43...
  • Page 102 These are in the following pattern: VVV is the version number of the Counter’s firmware, and XX, YYY, and ZZZZ are other numerical codes that are reserved for HP internal use. The flashing annunciators at either end of the first line of the display indicate that you can use the equivalent arrow key to scroll left and/or right to the next field of information.
  • Page 103 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using the Menu Preset When PRESET is displayed, pressing the Enter key loads the default settings for most of the Counter’s functions. These functions and their default settings are listed in the following table: Table 2-1.
  • Page 104 Chapter 2 Operating Your Frequency Counter Using the Menu RS-232 Serial Port Data Rate (BAUD) The Baud rate for the RS-232 serial port is configurable at 2400, 4800, 9600, 14,400, and 19,200 bps. The default setting is 9600 bps. Frequency Modulation (FM) The Counter can measure signals that are modulated in frequency, such as a microwave radio carrier.
  • Page 105 Specifications...
  • Page 106 Chapter 3 Specifications Introduction Introduction The specifications of the HP 53150A, 53151A, and 53152A Microwave Frequency Counters are provided in this chapter. Operating Guide...
  • Page 107 Chapter 3 Specifications Measurement Specifications and Characteristics All measurement specifications are over the full signal and temperature ranges unless otherwise noted. Input Characteristics HP 53150A HP 53151A HP 53152A Frequency Range 10 Hz–125 MHz 10 Hz–125 MHz 10 Hz–125 MHz Channel 1 (Normal mode) 10 Hz–50 kHz...
  • Page 108 Chapter 3 Specifications Input Characteristics HP 53150A HP 53151A HP 53152A Acquisition Time (1 MHz FM rate) Channel 1 125 ms/100 ms 125 ms/100 ms 140 ms/115 ms Channel 2 (FM Auto/FM Off) Resolution 1 Hz to 1 MHz 1 Hz to 1 MHz...
  • Page 109 Chapter 3 Specifications Typical* power measurement uncertainty at 25°C for various input levels Graph 1. −10 dBm input level at 25°C. Graph 2. 0 dBm and −20 dBm input level at 25°C. *Typical means approximately 2/3 of all units will meet these characteristics. Operating Guide...
  • Page 110 Chapter 3 Specifications Typical* power measurement uncertainty at −25 dBm input level Graph 3. −25 dBm input level at 25°C. Graph 4. −25 dBm input level from 0 to 55°C. *Typical means approximately 2/3 of all units will meet these characteristics. Operating Guide...
  • Page 111 Opt 001 Oven Timebase Warranty: 1 year Opt 002 Battery and dc input Programming: HP-IB (IEEE-488.1-1987, Opt 1BP Mil-Std-45662A Calibration with data IEEE 488.2-1987) or RS-232C Opt W30 Three Years of Return Repair Service Language: SCPI-1992.0 (Standard Commands...
  • Page 112 Chapter 3 Specifications Operating Guide...
  • Page 113 Rack Mounting the Counter...
  • Page 114 You can mount the Counter in a standard 19-inch cabinet using one of two optional kits available from HP: • Option 1CM Rack Mount Kit (HP 53150-67001 Rack Adapter Kit) for single instrument (Half Module) rack mounting. Instructions and mounting hardware are included with the rack-mounting kit.
  • Page 115 To rack-mount the Counter by itself, perform the steps shown in the following illustration. (Refer to the instructions that are provided with the Rack Adapter Kit for details.) 1 Rack Flange 3 HP 53150A/151A/152A Counter 2 Handle Pivot 4 Panel Filler (Adapter) Assembly Operating Guide...
  • Page 116 5061-9694 Lock Link Kit. (Refer to the instructions that are provided with the Lock Link Kit for details.) 1 Lock Links 4 HP 531501A/151A/152A Counter 2 Rack Flange 5 Second HP 531501A/151A/152A Counter 3 Handle Pivot or other half-rack-size instrument Operating Guide...
  • Page 117 Messages...
  • Page 118 Self-Test procedure or during normal operation. NOTE All messages sent over the RS-232 interface are also available via HP-IB. However, these messages are not automatically sent over the HP-IB interface. For information on retrieving messages over the HP-IB interface, see the HP 53150A/151A/152A Programming Guide.
  • Page 119 EEPROM FAIL - SAVED SETTINGS; The checksum of one set of user settings (1 – 9) Invalid EEPROM SAV n Data. stored in EEPROM is bad. HPIB FAIL; Conf. Test The HP-IB hardware failed its confidence test. Operating Guide...
  • Page 120 Appendix B Messages Error Messages Error Messages Table 3-3 lists and describes messages that are generated by the Counter during Self-Test or during operation to indicate that a problem has been detected. These messages are displayed on the Counter’s front-panel display and are also sent via the RS-232 serial output (note that, in many cases, the exact message text that is displayed on the the front panel is a condensed form of the message that is sent via RS-232).
  • Page 121 FPANEL FAIL connected. FPGA FAIL A failure was detected in the FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). HPIB FAIL A failure was detected in the HP-IB hardware. HETERODYNE PATH A failure was detected in the FAIL heterodyne-path circuit. HET PATH FAIL...
  • Page 122 Appendix B Messages Error Messages Operating Guide...
  • Page 123 Using the Battery Option...
  • Page 124 Standby mode.) You can also charge the batteries outside the Counter using an AC or suitable DC power source and the optional External Charger (HP P/N 53150-60217). Operating the Counter from the Batteries When the Counter is powered from the internal batteries, it operates in...
  • Page 125 Counter can operate from the batteries. When operating from battery power, the Counter automatically turns the backlight off after five minutes if no front-panel keys are pushed, no HP-IB commands are received, and/or no signal is applied to either input during that period.
  • Page 126 Replacing the Batteries Counters equipped with the Battery option use sealed lead-acid VHS camcorder batteries. You can obtain additional batteries of this type from HP (HP P/N 56150-80010) and from other suppliers who carry test-equipment and/or video-camera accessories. Removing the Batteries...
  • Page 127 Appendix C Using the Battery Option Replacing the Batteries The thumbscrews require a considerable amount of turning force, since NOTE they pull the battery sled partially out of the Counter and also extract the battery terminals from the battery connector as you turn them. To prevent the battery sled from binding and increasing the force necessary to turn the thumbscrews, either turn both thumbscrews simultaneously, or alternately turn the thumbscrews one-half turn each, until both...
  • Page 128 Appendix C Using the Battery Option Replacing the Batteries fe re w it ti c d fo x il la re ig te n a tt e ry o ld e le t re c tr e r- L IN ll s rv ic e rv...
  • Page 129 Appendix C Using the Battery Option Replacing the Batteries Holding one of the batteries so the battery terminals are to your right and the plus sign at the terminal end is facing away from you, insert the left-hand end of the battery into the taller end of the battery sled with the far side of the battery against the far side of the sled.
  • Page 130 Counter and two and one half hours to charge each battery using the external charger. When using the external charger that is available from HP or another charger intended for use with this type of battery, follow the instructions provided with the charger.
  • Page 131 Appendix C Using the Battery Option Precautions Precautions Observe the following precautions when handling and charging the batteries: • Do not attempt to use or charge the batteries when they are exposed to temperatures below –10º C (15º F) or above 40º C (105º F). (Most batteries of this type have an internal safety device that prevents them from operating outside of this temperature range.) •...
  • Page 132 Appendix C Using the Battery Option Precautions C-10 Operating Guide...
  • Page 133 Index (Freq Offset) 1-20 averages-setting mode 2-17 2-18 (Resol key) 2-45 AVERAGING 2-18 Avg key 2-10 2-17 2-45 AC Input/Power module Avg On 2-18 Accessories Available Supplied backlight 1-11 Supplied and Available BATT VOLTAGE 2-40, 2-43 Acknowledging Messages batteries 2-41 analog battery annunciator analog power display...
  • Page 134 Index operating the Counter from a DC Clear / Backlight On/Off key power source Clear key 1-14 2-40 operating the Counter from the Connector batteries External Reference rechargeable batteries Contents and Organization removing the batteries cooling fan replacing the batteries battery sled data points 2-30...
  • Page 135 Index electro-static discharge prevention procedure 1-17 Factory Default Function Enter key 1-14 Settings 2-45 Error factory default settings 2-40 Error Messages –12V FAIL FAST 2-16 12V FAIL firmware 2-44 –5V FAIL Firmware Version 2-44 ADC FAIL firmware version number 1-14 2-12 EEP WRT FAIL 2-40...
  • Page 136 How this Counter Works for You HP-IB Offset On/Off keys HP-IB addres 2-12 POWER Offset On/Off key 2-10 HP-IB Address 2-10 Power/Standby switch HP-IB Interface connector Pwr Offset key HPIB key 2-10 Rate / Frequency Offset key Rate key 2-10 icons Rel Freq key 2-10...
  • Page 137 Index Legend menu function icons Menu key 2-39 1-23 menu options 2-40 Lock Link Kit messages LOSS 2-35, 2-36 minimum battery voltage 2-41 loss value 2-30 minimum effective charge Low-Pass Filter 2-40, 2-46 Model Number 1-14, 2-12, 2-40, 2-42, 2-44, Main Power On indicator Main Power switch Navigating in the Menu and Changing...
  • Page 138 Index Operation Options acknowledging messages Battery changing states Hardware displaying the Menu 1-12 Oven Timebase 2-42 function selection keys 2-10 Support measuring frequency 1-17 2-12 OPTNS 2-40 measuring power 1-22 Other Function Selection Keys 2-10 measuring relative frequency 2-20 Oven Timebase 2-42 measuring relative power 1-24...
  • Page 139 1-14 2-16 EXT DC power-input connector 2-18 External Reference connector Resol Fuse Holder Resol key 2-10 2-15 2-45 HP-IB Interface connector Resolution 1-19 2-10 Main Power On indicator resolution 2-14 Main Power switch Resolution (Resol) key 2-45 RJ12 connector Resolution / HPIB key...
  • Page 140 Index Resolution setting 2-14 Shift annunciator 2-21 resolution setting 2-14 2-15 2-16 Shift key Resolution Setting Example 2-15 side-by-side rack mounting right pointer Sign (+/–) key 2-28 RJ12 sign (+/–) key Sign key routine maintenance 2-43 signal quality 2-14 2-16 RS-232 2-40 SLOW...
  • Page 141 For more information about Hewlett-Packard test and measurement products, applications, and services, visit our web http://www.hp.com/go/tmdir site at: HP’s Test and Measurement Fax Service for United States and Canada: Technical information for test and measurement products and services is available 24 hours a day, 1-800-800-5281...
  • Page 143 PARTICULAR PURPOSE. for servicing are for use by trained-personnel only. To avoid dangerous electric shock, do not HP will be liable for damage to perform such adjustments or tangible property per incident servicing unless qualified to do up to the greater of $300,000 or...
  • Page 144 Product Name: CW Microwave Frequency Counter Model Number: 53150A, 53151A, 53152A Product Options: This declaration covers all options of the product. conforms to the following Product Specifications: Safety: IEC 1010-1: 1990 + A1 / EN 61010-1: 1993...
  • Page 145    Manual Part Number 53150-90001 Printed in U.S.A, MAY 1999...

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