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AEA VIA Echo 1000 Operating Manual

Vector impedance analyzer / network analyzer
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OPERATING MANUAL
VIA Echo
Vector Impedance Analyzer / Network Analyzer
VIA Echo 1000 – 4MHz to 1.0GHz
VIA Echo 2500 – 4MHz to 2.5GHz
VIA Echo MRI – 4MHz to 1.0GHz
(Pictured on inside cover)
www.valuetronics.com

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  • Page 1 OPERATING MANUAL VIA Echo Vector Impedance Analyzer / Network Analyzer VIA Echo 1000 – 4MHz to 1.0GHz VIA Echo 2500 – 4MHz to 2.5GHz VIA Echo MRI – 4MHz to 1.0GHz (Pictured on inside cover) www.valuetronics.com...
  • Page 2 VIA Echo MRI - 4MHz to 1.0GHz or 0.1 to 20 Tesla www.valuetronics.com...

  • Page 3: Proprietary Information

    © 2007-2012 by AEA Technology, Inc. All rights reserved. his document and all software or irmware designed by AEA Technology, Inc. is copyrighted and may not be copied or altered in any way nor may it be marketed, sold or distributed without the written consent of AEA Technology, Inc.
  • Page 4 www.valuetronics.com...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents 1. Introduction VIA Echo Highlights ..................... 1 Vector Impedance Analyzer vs Scalar Technology ..........1 Unpacking your new VIA Echo ................2 VIA Echo Models with Accessories ................ 3 Echo 1000, 1000SF, and 2500 Physical Description..........4 Echo MRI Physical Description ................
  • Page 6 4. Spectrum Analyzer and Power Meter Operations Preliminary Spectrum Analyer ................52 Attenuators, Fliters and Pre-Ampliiers ..............52 Preliminary Power Meter ..................52 Measurement Setups ..................... 53 Measurement Screen Direct Controls ..............58 Measurement Screen Direct Control of Frequency ..........61 5.

  • Page 7: List Of Figures

    Figure # 1. Introduction List of Included Accessories ................... 1-1 VIA Echo 1000/2500 with Accessories ..............1-2 VIA Echo Front and Side Views with call outs ............1-3 VIA Echo MRI with Accessories ................1-4 VIA Echo Front Panel Call Outs ................1-5 2.
  • Page 8 External Modules Screen ..................4-1C CW/SWEEP key – Measurement Presentations ............ 4-2 Spectrum Analyzer Screen-Sweep Presentation ............4-3 Spectrum Analyzer Screen-Freeze Presentation ............4-4 ENTER key – Measurement Modes ..............4-5 Spectrum Analyzer Screen-CF & Cursor Indications ..........4-6 Frequency Entry Screen ..................4-7 5.

  • Page 9: Introduction Via Echo Highlights

    Echo MRI which is also rechargeable battery powered and only 9.5 pounds (4.3Kg) in its rugged carrying case. Our hand-held models are: VIA Echo 1000 (4MHz to 1.0GHz) VIA Echo 1000SF (4MHz to 1.0GHz) with Spectrum Analyzer, Power Meter and FDR VIA Echo 2500 (4MHz to 2.5GHz) with Spectrum Analyzer, Power Meter and FDR...

  • Page 10: Unpacking Your New Via Echo

    Power Meter Frequency Domain Relectometer Refer to AEA Technology Application Note AN100 “What a Scalar Does Not Show” for more detailed information concern the beneits of Vector Impedance Analyzers over Scalars. Application Note AN100 and a long list of other application notes are available on our web page at www.aeatechnology.com.

  • Page 11: Via Echo Models With Accessories

    Part Accessory Qty included Qty included Qty included Number with 1000 & with 2500 with MRI 1000SF models model models 0010-0218 8 pack of NiMH AA Batteries (installed) 0010-0012 Sealed lead acid battery, 12volt 5001-0202 Battery Charger/AC Wall adapter 100- 240VAC/50-60 Hz 0070-1200 Charger/Adapter...

  • Page 12: Echo 1000, 1000Sf, And 2500 Physical Description

    If any of the listed items are missing or appear to be inoperative, please contact AEA Technology. See our contact information on the back cover. In addition to our standard accessories AEA Technology carries a complete line of optional accessories including hard shell kit carrying cases and SMA adapter kits. See appendix A for a list of available optional accessories.
  • Page 13 Physical Description N type Connector Ports Quarter VGA Backlit LCD Stand bail and batteries enclosure on the back Weather resistant keypad Input DC Power Jack USB 2.0 Jack LED Charging Indicator Cooling fan intake vent Figure 1-3 www.valuetronics.com...

  • Page 14: Echo Mri Physical Description

    VIA Echo MRI’s form factor is obviously diferent than the other VIA Echo models. However, it operates nearly identical to the VIA Echo 1000 described in this Manual. he manual will address any menu or operational diference in the applicable section. A quick...

  • Page 15: Using This Manual

    Model Frequency Range VIA Echo 1000 4MHz to 1.0GHz VIA Echo 1000SF 4MHz to 1.0GHz with Spectrum Analyzer, Power Meter, and FDR VIA Echo 2500 4MHz to 2.5GHz with Spectrum Analyzer, Power Meter, and FDR...

  • Page 16: Via Echo Quick Start Guide

    Quick Reference Guide. If you have a suggestions or comments about the printed material supplied with your VIA Echo or any other AEA Technology instrument please feel free to contact us. Our toll free line , other telephone numbers and web address are shown on the back cover.
  • Page 17 Linear Gain – S11 to S21 ports path gain (loss) expressed in volts per volt. Log Gain – S11 to S21 ports path gain (loss) expressed in dB. Phase Gain – S11 to S21 port path phase delay in degrees. Power Meter –...

  • Page 18: Via Echo Setup And Operation

    NiCd LiOn VIA Echo 1000/2500 units should be charged in a non-operational state for 6-10 hours prior to use. his will ensure a good initial charge on the NiMH batteries. Per the nature of NiMH batteries it will require three to four uses and full recharging cycles before the NiMH batteries reach their maximum operational capacity.

  • Page 19: Pre-Ampliier Power

    2. Use only AEA Technology supplied power packs; AC-to-DC Universal Adapter P/N 5001-0202 or DC-to-DC Vehicle Adapter P/N 6025-0250. If a substitute is used ensure the DC plug is the correct size and polarity – Center positive. Minimum requirements 13.3VDC and 600mA. (15VDC @ 600mA for MRI model) 3.

  • Page 20: Battery Charger Status Led

    Battery Charger Status LED A battery charger status LED installed on the top panel of the VIA Echo 1000/2500 and front panel of the VIA Echo MRI uses two colors and lashing/steady modes to indicate the charger status. he F4: BATTERY MENU statuses are still available in the instrument. he LED provides a more readily available status even while the VIA Echo is turned of.

  • Page 21: Powering On

    For more information concerning rechargeable battery operation, see the F4 Menu’s BATTERY MENU in this section and/or Section 8 Maintenance, Service and Warranty. For in-depth information refer to AEA Technology’s Application Note 150 “Using Batteries in AEA Instruments” available on the enclosed CD and our web site at www.aeatechnology.com.

  • Page 22: Powering On With Soft Reset

    Figure 2-2 Powering ON with Soft Reset In the rare event that the VIA Echo powers on, but the display screen does not appear correct (i.e. information located incorrectly) or the unit’s keys do not respond in the manner described, the VIA Echo’s irmware may require a soft reset. his would also be required if the cursor arrows in the Function Menus do not appear or do not respond to the qp keys.

  • Page 23: Function Keys And Menus

    AEA recommends taking a few minutes before going on the irst job site and customize the options you need the most. his will make the VIA Echo easier to use and improve eiciency for obtaining the measurements required.
  • Page 24 F1 menu Help Screen – VIA Mode F1 User Notes (Same for all Modes) F1 menu Help Screen – SA Mode F1 menu Help Screen – FDR Mode Figure 2-3 www.valuetronics.com...

  • Page 25: F2 Unit Settings

    F2 – Audio/Video Menus for the all three modes are shown in Figure 2-4. Use the SCALE Key’s qp arrows to move the cursor the desired menu items and either u key to activate that item’s options or turn the menu item ON. F2 Menu –...
  • Page 26 GRIDS – Grid lines can be added to the plots to enhance the horizontal reference points. Use either u arrow key to toggle Grid Lines ON or either t arrow key to toggle OFF. Press ENTER to exit back to the Measurement Mode. AUDIO VOLUME –...

  • Page 27: F3 Plot Settings

    F3 – Plot Settings Menus for the all three modes are shown in Figure 2-5. Use the SCALE Key’s qp arrows to move the cursor the desired menu items and either u key to activate that item’s options or turn the menu item ON. F3 Menu –...
  • Page 28 F3 Menu – VIA Mode INSTRUMENT MODE – his menu item permits selecting the Vector Impedance Analyzer (VIA), Spectrum Analysis (SA) or Frequency Domain Relectometer (FDR) Mode of operation. Changing the mode will change some F Key menu items and the display plot automatically.
  • Page 29 F3 Menu - SA Mode Differences REF LEVEL - he Reference Level is the point of reference for the Vertical Scale on the Spectrum Analyzer plot and is at the top. Reference Level selection is detailed in Figure 4-1A. RESOLUTION BW - he Resolution Bandwidth provides a horizontal menu of selectable bandwidths –...
  • Page 30 F3 Menu – FDR Mode Differences CENTER FREQ – Press any u key to go to a Center Frequency numeric entry screen. Use the numeric key pad to enter the desired Center Frequency, then press enter to accept and return to the F3 Menu. If you make an error during the numeric selection, press the F1 key to erase the last digit entered.

  • Page 31: F4 Special Functions

    See explanation in Application Note “AN205 FDR Comparison to TDR” on the enclosed CD or AEA Teechnology’s web site. he minimum distances shown in the chart above are based diferential frequencies programmed in the VIA Echo.
  • Page 32 F4 Menu – Special Functions Menus for the all three modes are shown in Figure 2-7. Use the SCALE Key’s qp arrows to move the cursor the desired menu items and either u key to activate that item’s options or turn the menu item ON.
  • Page 33 SEARCH MODE – his menu item turns on – Peak, + Peak or Zero Crossing, or turns it of. he unit will change to cursor 1 active and cursor 1 will track the peak or crossing. Manually pressing either cursor key will cancel the search mode. 3RD CURSOR VALUE –...
  • Page 34 Battery Saver: Has two settings, ON or OFF. Use any tu key to switch between the settings. On will power down the VIA Echo if no key is pressed in approximately 5 minutes. Battery Type: Permits selecting between NONE, ALKALINE or NIMH NICD cells. “Alkaline”...
  • Page 35 CHARGER STATUS: IDLE – Same as the OFF (dark) LED conditions BATT CHK – Charger is checking the battery condition CHARGING – Normal charging FLOAT – Battery is nearly at full charge, current is reduced to 100mA to “Top Of” the battery DATE/TIME –...

  • Page 36: F5 Memory Operations

    F4 Menu – FDR Mode Differences Same as F4 Menu-SA Mode less DEMODULATOR. All other menu items work identical to those in SA Mode. F5 –Memory Operations Menus for the all three modes are shown in Figure 2-10. Use the SCALE Key’s qp arrows to move the cursor the desired menu items and either u key to activate that item’s options or turn the menu item ON.
  • Page 37 Description the Echo will save the Date, Frequency and Plot Mode (VIA, SA or FDR), which can be used later to recall the plot. NOTE: DATA RECALL will reset the Echo to all the testing parameters saved with the recalled plot. his will over ride any current settings. If you wish to return to the current settings use the SAVE SETTINGS now and the RECALL SETTING when you are inished with recalled plots.
  • Page 38 Figure 2-13 Note the F1 through F5 keys now have action items in the LCD. Refer to Figure 2-13. F1 – ESC – Press to Escape back to the Sorting List with no selections F2 – <= – Press to select frequencies less than or equal to the one highlighted (153MHz). his will reduce the number of saved tests displayed to only those frequencies.

  • Page 39: Via Echo's 3 Instrument Modes

    VIA Echo’s 3 Modes he VIA Echo can operate as a Vector Impedance Analyzer, Spectrum Analyzer or Frequency Domain Relectometer. To change the modes, press F3 and press u at “INSTRUMENT MODE.” hen press the u to select the mode and press ENTER to return to the new measurement screen for that mode.

  • Page 40: Vector Impedance Plot

    Vector Impedance Plot he screen shown in Figure 2-15 will appear after the splash screen if the VIA Echo is in the Vector Impedance Analyzer mode or if the Vector Impedance Analyzer mode is selected. LEFT Plot Operating RIGHT Plot Parameter Mode Parameter...

  • Page 41: Frequency Domain Relectometer Plot

    Frequency Domain Reflectometer (FDR) Plot he screen shown in Figure 2-17 will appear after the splash screen if the VIA Echo is in the Frequency Domain Relectometer (FDR) mode or if the FDR mode is selected. F r e quency Dom a i n R e f l e c to me t e r m ode Center Frequency of FDR Sweep...

  • Page 42: Frequency (Cursor 2)

    range of frequencies. In the F key or Menu Mode, either arrow lets the user cycle through lists of options or push into a new menu. CURSOR 2 / FREQ key is a shared function key. In the Cursor Display Mode, pressing the t or u arrow keys will move Cursor 2 left or right and the cursor readings in the display will be for Cursor 2.

  • Page 43: Sweep/Cw

    CW / SWEEP key, Figure 2-20 is a cyclic action key. Successive presses will cycle the VIA Echo through Sweep, Freeze Plot and Continuous Wave (CW) modes. If the Echo is in a numeric entry operation, this key toggles the numbers between positive and negative (+ or -) if negative entries are valid.

  • Page 44: Vector Impedance Analyzer Operations

    If you are new to using a vector impedance analyzer, AEA Technology recommends starting with the Reactance (Total Z) in the left plot and Impedance (phase) Angle in the right plot. A perfectly tuned antenna will show the reactance peaking at or near 50 Ohms at center frequency and the impedance angle crossing zero at center frequency as depicted in igure 3-1.

  • Page 45: Measurement Setups

    here are two types of reactance, inductive and capacitive. Inductive is denoted by a positive reactance, and capacitive is denoted by a negative reactance. Impedance – Measured in Ohms. he impedance of the antenna or device under test should match the design of the system at the center or resonant frequency. Impedance is the combined efect of resistance and reactance.

  • Page 46: Measurement Screen Direct Controls

    and 100MHz as the Sweep Span, you would display a plot from 450MHz to 550MHz. A 100MHz span centered on 500MHz. B. If you desire to set a frequency span other than the ones listed in the menu, complete the other F3 menu settings, return to the Measurement Screen and use the Alpha-Numeric keypad to enter the Sweep Span directly.
  • Page 47 Measurement Presentation + / - Sweep CW / SWEEP Freeze Plot Figure 3-2 Sweep Mode Screen set to Center Frequency (CF) and no Cursors ON Figure 3-3 Freeze Mode screen. Note the screen title at the top changes to “FREEZE” indicating this is not a live plot any more.
  • Page 48 Continuous Wave (CW) Mode Screen Figure 3-5 + / - CW / SWEEP When the has the Measurement Presentation set to Sweep or Freeze, the ENTER key can cycle the Measurement Mode between Center Frequency, Cursor1, Cursor 2 or Cursors ∆. When operating in CW mode the ENTER key toggles between the Center Frequency and Cursor 1.
  • Page 49 Measurement Screen in Sweep Presentation and Cursors Mode. he readings on the bottom CURSOR 1 WIDTH line “C1” are at Cursor 1’s position. he key is now in control of Cursor 1 and the data will change with it’s movement. Figure 3-8 CURSOR 2 FREQ...

  • Page 50: Measurement Screen Direct Control Of Frequency

    he Step is used while in the Measurement Screen, and CF Mode. Pressing the CURSOR 2 FREQ key will jump the Center Frequency higher or lower by the Step size. he Step size can set by the user. See “Measurement Screen Direct Controls of Frequencies” next in this section.

  • Page 51: Tuning An Antenna

    Steps Up to 1.1GHz Range = Any multiple of 1KHz Greater than 1.1GHz Range = Any multiple of 10KHz Sweep Span Width VIA Echo 2500 Range 0Hz to 2.5GHz VIA Echo 1000SF Range 0Hz to 1.0GHz VIA Echo MRI Range 0Hz to 1.0GHz NOTE: Setting Sweep Span to zero changes the display the Continuous Wave (CW) Presentation.
  • Page 52 (or reactance). Tune for zero reactance or impedance angle. If the combinations of adjustments are unable to do this, a tuning stub may be required. See AEA Technology’s Application Note on Stub Tuning. 2. Tune the antenna for best match, while maintaining resonance. Set the other plot of the network analyzer to Total Z.

  • Page 53: Cable Nulling

    Figure 3-11 Concentrate on just two of the igures, Impedance (Z) and Phase Angle (A). Tune the Phase Angle irst, getting as close to zero as possible, then tune Impedance getting as close to 50 Ohms as possible. Repeat both tunings until optimum balance between both is reached.

  • Page 54: Measuring Isolation Between Antennas

    NOTE. he higher the frequency of the antenna the more important cable nulling is to eliminate skewed measurements. Even short cables should be nulled from the measurements. Cable Nulling Steps: 1. Set up the VIA Echo for the antenna to be measured or tuned per the instructions earlier in this section.
  • Page 55 INSTRMENT MODE: VIA, CENTER FREQ and SWEEP SPAN as desired. 3. Select and set the LEFT PLOT as desired (AEA recommends setting to GAIN DB as this is the primary isolation measurement and the left plot’s scale is keypad adjustable).
  • Page 56 B. Press the key and select CABLE NULLING. C. Perform the Open, Short and Load (matched terminator) portion of Cable Nulling on just the one cable from the S11 port to the transmit antenna’s cable, less the antenna. See igure 3-13A. D.
  • Page 57 Figures 3-14 A and B show the correct connections for the terminators supplied in AEA Technology’s optional N-to-SMA Adapter Kit (Part Number 6025-0260). his kit contains two SMA-to-N adapters, two short terminators, male and female, and two 50_ (matched) terminators, male and female.
  • Page 58 N-to-SMA Adapter Kit Part Number 6025-0260 Figure 3-15 www.valuetronics.com...

  • Page 59: Other Applications For Vector Impedance Analysis

    Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Coil Testing & Tuning – he hand-held VIA Echo 1000 and the VIA Echo MRI operate very similar. However, the VIA Echo MRI is ultra-low magnetic and safe to use in MRI rooms or near NMR’s.

  • Page 60: Spectrum Analyzer And Power Meter Operations

    4. Spectrum Analyzer and Power Meter Operations Preliminary -Spectrum Analyzer he VIA Echo’s Spectrum Analyzer is designed to provide full spectrum (4MHz to 1.0GHz or 2.5GHz) or partial spectrum (any frequency range between 4MHz and 1.0 GHz or 2.5GHz) All frequency selection is similar to that in the VIA. First choose a Center Frequency (CF) then a Span to view centered on that frequency.

  • Page 61: Measurement Setups

    Signals not displayed on the spectrum analyzer are not included in the measurement. his makes it important to set up the Center Frequency and Sweep Span correctly then select the Power Meter using the F3 menu’s DISPLAY FORMAT. he Power Meter can be set for digital power using GSM-PCM-NOISE PWR, or analog power using AM-FM-CW PWR.
  • Page 62 NOTES: A. Sweep Span is the entire frequency range to be displayed centered on the Center Frequency. Example: If you entered 500MHz as the Center Frequency and 100MHz as the Sweep Span, you would display a plot from 450MHz to 550MHz.
  • Page 63 You must physically add or remove the external attenuator or pre-ampliier to match the setting displayed on the menu in order for the plot scales to match the actual signal levels. Also, failure to add the attenuator when the input power exceeds +20dBm can cause damage to the Echo.
  • Page 64 SEARCH MARKER – his menu item turns ON or OFF a marker for locating the highest positive peak or lowest negative in the selected frequency span. Use any t u arrow to toggle between OFF, -PK, and +PK. DEMODULATOR – his menu item selects AM, NBFM or WBFM demodulation to listen to signals carried on either the Center Frequency or the frequency marked by Cursor 1.
  • Page 65 manufacturer’s packaging and should be set to exactly what the manufacturer states. Setting the capacity higher or lower than the manufacturer’s speciications will degrade performance rather than enhance it. To set the mAhrs, press any tu until the reading matches the manufacturer’s speciication.

  • Page 66: Measurement Screen Direct Controls

    Measurement Screen Direct Controls he direct controls refers to managing the Measurement Screen without having to go to the menus. he VIA Echo has been designed to place as much control as possible at the user’s inger tips while in the Measurement Screen. To accomplish this, the Action Key group all have multiple functions as described in Section 2.
  • Page 67 Figure 4-4 + / - CW / SWEEP When the has the Measurement Presentation set to Sweep or Freeze, the ENTER key can cycle the Measurement Mode between Center Frequency, Cursor 1, Cursor 2 or Cursors ∆. See igure 4-5 for the cycle sequence. Measurement Mode Change Display Reading By Cycling...
  • Page 68 ENTER key cycles to the Cursors and pressing CURSOR 1 will change the reading to that at Cursor 1’s position on the Span. See igure 4-6. Cursor 1 indicator and cursor line Figure 4-6 Measurement Screen in Sweep Presentation and Cursors Mode. he readings on the bottom CURSOR 1 WIDTH line “C1”...

  • Page 69: Measurement Screen Direct Control Of Frequency

    Measurement Screen Direct Controls of Frequencies Whenever the Measurement Screen is present, the VIA Echo permits changing the Center Frequency (CF), Frequency Steps, and Sweep Span Width via the Alpha-Numeric keypad and the use of the ENTER, WIDTH and FREQ keys. % &...
  • Page 70 Once the desired frequency value has been entered, press one of the following: to set the new Center Frequency (CF) CURSOR 1 WIDTH to set the new Sweep Span Width CURSOR 2 FREQ to set the new Step size NOTE: he Center Frequency (CF) and Sweep Span can be initially set in the F3 menu, but the Step size can only be set by using the Measurement Screen Direct Controls.

  • Page 71: Frequency Domain Reflectometer Operations

    5. Frequency Domain Reflectometer (FDR) he Frequency Domain Relectometer (FDR) is designed to provide the user with information concerning the electrical length of a cable and distance to relective events. he user enters the center frequency (CF), the total distance to display and the velocity factor of the cable.
  • Page 72 NOTE: Always set this length longer than the cable’s estimated length. If you are too short or too long the cable length display can be changed using the WIDTH key on the keypad. It is better to be longer than the cable than shorter. See “Frequency Folding Afect” note. VERTICAL SCALE: tu to a preset dB level or preset SWR ratio CABLE Z0: Press any tu key to go to the Cable Z 0 numeric entry screen.
  • Page 73 Figure 5-2 In the second example, igure 5-3, the Span length has been set too short for the 46 foot (14 meters ) cable being measured. he FDR will produce an end-of-cable relection positioned 21 feet (6.4 meters) backward from the Span’s maximum range setting 25 feet (7.6 meters). |<–––––21 ft (6.4m) Folding–––––>| Figure 5-3 Obviously, the end-of-cable and the known estimated length vary too widely for the display to...
  • Page 74 AVERAGING FLTR – his menu item sets the level of the Averaging Filter in dB. he range is from 0 (OFF) to the settings in the following table shown below. Use either tu key to navigate the levels, then press ENTER to activate and exit to the Measurement Screen. 1= 3dB 2= 6dB 3= 9dB...

  • Page 75: Measurement Screen Direct Controls

    Est. Run Time: Calculated by the charger based on amount of charge in cells. New cells may require several charging/discharge cycles for charger to synchronize with the cells and make the estimate accurate. Battery Status: Displays the voltage and charging (positive) or discharging current (negative). Normal voltages for the cells will range from 8.8 to 12.5.
  • Page 76 CW/SWEEP Key – In the Frequency Domain Relectometer’s Measurement Screen, this key controls the Measurement Presentation by cycling between Sweep and Freeze Plots. See igure 5-4. he selected Measurement Presentation can be identiied by looking at the Measurement Screen. See igures 5-5 and 5-6. Measurement Presentation Sweep...
  • Page 77 When the plot is in FREEZE mode the plot name, FDR, will be replaced by the word FREEZE. he cursors can still be used to display data about the plot, but the plot itself is locked as what is being displayed. + / - CW / SWEEP...

  • Page 78: Measurement Screen Direct Control Of Frequency

    Measurement Screen in Sweep Presentation and Cursors Mode. he readings on the bottom CURSOR 1 WIDTH line “C1” are at Cursor 1’s position. he key is now in control of Cursor 1 and the data will change with it’s movement. CURSOR 2 FREQ Pressing...
  • Page 79 Figure 5-9A Figure 5-9B Use the Alpha-Numeric keypad to enter either a new Center Frequency. he frequencies numeric values will displayed in MHz (.500 = 500KHz, 1.000 = 1MHz, 1000.000 = 1GHz, etc.). Distance entries are in feet or decimal meters. Distance entries may be modiied by the Echo due to synthesize timing limitations.
  • Page 80 Center Frequency vs Plot Length Refer to the chart, igure 5-10, on the following page. he chart plots the maximum cable length being tested to the minimum Center Frequency (CF) that can be used for that length of cable. he Center Frequency range and Plot Lengths permitted are limited by the upper and lower frequency limits of the VIA Echo.
  • Page 81 See explanation in Application Note “AN205 FDR Comparison to TDR” on the enclosed CD or AEA Teechnology’s web site. he minimum distances shown in the chart above are based diferential frequencies programmed in the VIA Echo.

  • Page 82: Saving And Recalling Plots From Memory

    250 plots or traces. When all 250 memory slots are used the VIA Echo will overwrite the oldest plot or trace stored. NOTE: AEA Technology uses a non-volatile memory to save plots and ofer the highest degree of their protection in the event of battery failure. However, whether you save plots frequently or occasionally, it is highly recommended to make regular uploads to a PC using Echo PC Vision software.
  • Page 83 Figure 6-1 Next press any u key to enter the Data Save Screen shown in igure 6-2. Figure 6-2 Next enter a title for the plot you are about to save using the keypad similar to text entry on a cell phone. Press the desired key once for the number shown on the key, press the key twice for irst character above the key, three times for the second character, etc.

  • Page 84: Recalling A Plot

    Recalling Saved Plots NOTE: When recalling a saved plot all the instrument settings you are currently using will be changed to the instrument settings used when the plot was saved. If you wish to return to your current settings, save the current plot and recall it after you are done reviewing the saved plot.

  • Page 85: Memory List Screen's Soft Keys

    Figure 6-5 CENTER FREQ – Press either u key to view the list of stored plots by Center Frequency (CF) with the lowest frequency plot saved at the top and the highest frequency plot saved at the bottom of the list. Once the list is presented you will be given sorting options using the F2 through F5 keys.

  • Page 86: Deleting Saved Plots

    >= - Equal to or greater than. his option appears in the Frequency and Date/Time sorting screens to permit reducing the list to be viewed. By highlighting the lowest Frequency or earliest Date/Time on the list you wish to look for and pressing the F4 key, the list will be reduced to only those Frequencies or Date/Times equal to or greater than the plot highlighted.

  • Page 87: Echo Pc Vision™ Software

    “DOTNETFX.EXE” application. his application is included on the CD in the Echo PC Vision folder or can be downloaded directly from Microsoft’s web site. DOTNETFX is not on AEA’s web site as part of the download because it is a very large ile that most people will not require.
  • Page 88 ì ì Run to start Run only if Installation required Figure 7-1 3. Double-click on the Setup ile shown in igure 7-1. (Optional is to copy the contents of the “Echo PC Vision” folder or to a directory on your PC hard drive and start the installation from that directory.
  • Page 89 Figure 7-3 5. AEA Technology recommends accepting the default installation folder (Figure 7-3), however the Select Installation Folder dialog box ofers an option to select a diferent folder for installation. Enter a folder or click on “Browse” to choose a folder for installation.

  • Page 90: Getting Started

    PC, it can be created by using Windows Explorer to locate and open the application in folder: C:\Program Files\AEA-Technology\Echo PC Vision ver x.x. Right click on the ile “Echo Vision.exe.” In the menu presented position the mouse on “Send To” and in the sub-menu select “Desktop (create shortcut).”...

  • Page 91: Vector Impedance Analysis (Via) Mode Screen

    PC or a CD. All the plot saved in original format will be labeled as .EPV iles. AEA Technology iles (AEA or EPV) can only be opened using AEA Technology’s appropriate PC Vision software. his is dependent on the instrument used. Use Bravo PC Vision to open VIA Bravo iles.
  • Page 92 numerical data. To change the actual Center Frequency or Sweep Frequency use the “Modify Sweep” button. Z:Mag(Z) – Impedance. Measured in Ohms. he impedance of the antenna or device under test should match the design of the system at the center or resonant frequency. Impedance is the combined efect of resistance and reactance.

  • Page 93: Graphical Data

    Graphical Data he graph is capable of displaying from 1 to 12 plot parameters each with their own color code. See the legend at the right of the graph for color translation. To select the parameter(s) to be plotted, click the blank button(s) to the right of the desired parameter(s) located between the numerical data and the graph.

  • Page 94: Data Acquisition

    Data Acquisition he buttons shown in Figure 7-8 determine how the data will be uploaded to the PC and presented. Figure 7-8 Single – When the Single button is pressed the Echo PC Vision will upload one snap-shot of the data from the VIA Echo. he button will turn green indicating the presentation is a single look at the sweep data.

  • Page 95: Data Source

    Data Source he two buttons shown in Figure 7-9 are used to determine if the data being presented will be Active data from a current instrument reading or Memory data from a plot stored in the VIA Echo’s memory. Figure 7-9 Active –...

  • Page 96: Filters

    Figure 7-10B he irst time the VIA Echo’s memory list is uploaded to Echo PC Vision it will remain temporarily saved in Echo PC Vision. Successive pressing of the “MEMORY” key will recall the uploaded list. Either of two actions will clear the list and require it be reloaded: 1.

  • Page 97: Pull Down Menus

    Figure 7-12 Filters Menu – his menu serves two purposes: 1. When the Data Source is Active and Single or Continuous Data Acquisition is to be selected Filters can be selected in this menu and can be applied at the VIA Echo or in the PC Vision plot only by user selection under Scope.

  • Page 98: Chart Menu

    (*.EPV) extension unless otherwise speciied. he default folder for AEA Technology demo iles and saving plots is My Documents\AEA Echo Data for both XP and Vista operating systems. CAUTION: Only the last plot read is available for saving. If you desire to archive a plot, this MUST be accomplished prior to reading another plot from the VIA Echo.

  • Page 99: Settings Menu

    Figure 7-15 Legend Of/On – Permits hiding or exposing the plot legend. Hiding the legend will make the chart larger. Maximize/Minimize Plot – Maximizing the plot will cover the numerical data display to the left of the chart. In minimize, both the numerical display and the chart will be displayed. Default to SWR –...

  • Page 100: Unit Menu

    Save StartUp Settings – Permits saving all the current setting in the VIA Echo so they can be recalled and reloaded into the Echo the next time Echo PC Vision is started. Recall StartUp Settings – Click on this feature restores all the settings saved with “Save StartUp Settings”...

  • Page 101: Help Menu

    Help he Help menu, igure 7-18, does not have any operator information. All operating information is contained in this section of the manual. he “About” shows current version number and date produced Figure 7-18 MODE: VIA/Spectrum Analyzer/FDR he MODE: indicator, also shown in igure 7-18, is not a menu item, but does indicate Echo PC Vision’s operating which changes with the tab selected.

  • Page 102: Cw Control

    Center Frequency CF crossing the horizontal center-line at 1.0 or Z 0 and even amounts of the arc above and below the center line. For more information about Smith Charts see AEA Technology’s Application Note AN-104 “Smith Charts 101”...
  • Page 103 S11 and S21 – Plots for either or both S11 and S21 are color coded black and red respectively. he plots can be turned on by clicking the check boxes next to the their labels. A check mark will appear when they are active. Click the check mark to hide the plot. Control Buttons –...

  • Page 104: Spectrum Analyzer Tab

    SWR Marker – he SWR Marker box at the bottom displays the SWR reading and frequency at the marker and permits control of the marker via the slide bar or Marker Action box. Marker Action – Permits automatic movement of the marker to the maximum reading, minimum reading, or manual control of the marker across the plot’s band using the slide bar at the bottom of the box.

  • Page 105: Frequency Domain Relectometer (Fdr) Tab

    Resolution BW – he Resolution Band Width sets the IF bandwidth of the Spectrum Analyzer. Total (dBm) – his is the total power across the selected bandwidth. Default display is digital power (GSM, PCM, Noise). Click on the CW or FM to select analog power. Markers –...
  • Page 106 use. he Modify Sweep button has been altered Modify Parameters as the FDR has some diferent entries, but it operates in a similar manner. FDR Graph – he FDR Graph plots the swept frequency relections and displays Return Loss or SWR on the vertical axis in dB or ratio and the range of the event on the horizontal axis in feet or meters.

  • Page 107: Maintenance Service And Warranty Operating Precautions

    External DC Power If you wish to power the VIA Echo from an external DC source (other than the AEA’s AC-1 wall adapter), ensure that it meets the following requirements : • 2.1 mm (+) center pin DC power connector.
  • Page 108 NiCd LiOn VIA Echo 1000/2500 units should be charged in a non-operational state for 6-10 hours prior to use. his will ensure a good initial charge on the NiMH batteries. Per the nature of NiMH batteries it will require three to four uses and full recharging cycles before the NiMH batteries reach their maximum operational capacity.

  • Page 109: Cleaning

    If the VIA Echo 1000/2500 is to be stored for more than 30 days, the batteries should be removed. Battery leakage can seriously damage the VIA Echo’s battery compartment and other circuits. Damage from battery leakage is not a factory workmanship issue and therefore not covered under warranty.

  • Page 110: Specifications

    WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY. Remedies for any breach of warranty, either express or implied, are limited to repair, replacement, or return of the instrument, at the option of AEA Technology. Any warranty is valid for the original purchaser only.

  • Page 111: Operation Troubleshooting Guide

    User Troubleshooting Guide Some problems may be identiied and solved by the operator. More involved problems will require factory service. To try to solve a problem yourself, refer to the chart below: Operation Troubleshooting Guide Symptom Possible causes Solutions On power up there is no visible Display contrast 1) Press F2 twice display...

  • Page 112: Battery/Recharger Troubleshooting Guide

    4. External power may not be properly 4. Check external power (wall connected. switch off, bad plug, broken 5. Non-AEA recommended power pack cord, etc.) 6. Cells may be alkaline or carbon 5. Use correct power pack 7. Deeply depleted cells may take longer 6.
  • Page 113 Appendix A AEA Technology’s Included Testing Accessories INCLUDED ACCESSORIES/REPLACEMENT ITEMS Each model has diferent included accessories suited to that model. Refer to Section 1, Accessory Matrix for identifying which accessories are included with which VIA Echo model. Items like PC Vision software, Operation Manual, Quick Start Guide and Application Notes are listed on our web site for download.
  • Page 114 USB Cable 15 feet (4.6 meters) A-to-A Connectors P/N 0070-1207 Included with Echo MRI Model Universal Power Adapter 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz to 15VDC P/N 5001-0202 USB Cable 10 feet (3 meters) A-to-A Extender Cable P/N 0070-1210 Included with Echo MRI model DC Power Cable Extension 20 ft ( 6 meters) Included with MRI Models only...
  • Page 115 OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES Available from AEA Technology or through your local AEA Rep or Distributor N-to-TNC Adapter P/N 0070-1134 Hard Carrying Case Rugged weather tight with closed cell foam insert, padlock holes & pressure vent P/N 6015-1003 N-to-SO-239 (UHF) P/N 0070-1195 “N”...
  • Page 116 SMA-to-N Adapter Kit P/N 6025-0260, INCLUDES: 2 – SMA-to-N style adapters 2 – SMA Male terminators - 1 short, 1-50 Ohm 2 – SMA Female terminators - 1 short, 1-50 Ohm DC Vehicle Adapter P/N 6025-0250 BNC Style Terminators Shorting P/N 0070-1140 Matched P/N 0070-1150 Set of Both P/N 6015-1303 30dB Attenuator...
  • Page 117 Pre-Ampliier P/N 0070-0290 Speciications Gain 44 dB nominal Bandwidth 2.2GHz nominal Noise Figure 3.5 dB nominal Power 7-15 VDC, 60mA Size including N connectors 3.75 x 1.375 x 1.375 in (94x33x33mm) Weight 4.5 oz (126 grams) NOTE: Pre-Ampliier applicable with Echo Version 2.2.12 and higher. www.valuetronics.com...
  • Page 118 www.valuetronics.com...
  • Page 119 Appendix B Speciications  Characteristic Frequency Range 4MHz to 1.0GHz & 4MHz to 2.5GHz models Frequency Stability 2PPM + 1PPM/year Tuning/Display Resolution 1KHz up to 1.1GHz 10KHz for ~1.1GHz-2.5GHz Connector Types N female, single or dual ports (S11 & S21) SMA optional connector kit Vector Impedance Analyzer All models Accuracy Measured RL...
  • Page 120 Return Loss Range: 0 to 80 dB Resolution 0.1 dB Gain/Loss Formats (S21) Linear Gain Range: 0 to 3.0 Resolution 0.0001 Log Loss Range: 0 to 20dB Resolution 0.1 dB Phase Delay Range: 0º to + 180º Resolution 0.1º Group Delay Range: 0 to 30 microseconds Resolution 0.1 nanosecond...
  • Page 121 +20dBm to -75dBm without Pre-Ampliier Input Range or attenuator. See Section 4-1A for reference and ranges with Pre-Ampliier and /or attenuator attached Input Sensitivity -75dBm @ 50KHz Resolution Bandwidth Frequency Domain Relectometer (FDR) Selected Models only Range @ .66c VF Echo 2500 15 ft (4.6m) min. Echo 1000SF 40 ft (12.2m) min.
  • Page 122 www.valuetronics.com...
  • Page 123 Appendix C Tesla-to-Frequency Table Tesla Frequency Tesla Frequency 29.75 467.5 42.5 510.5 63.75 552.5 127.5 595.0 199.75 637.5 212.5 680.0 255.0 722.5 297.5 765.0 340.0 807.5 382.5 850.0 425.0 www.valuetronics.com...
  • Page 124 5933 Sea Lion Place, Suite 112 Carlsbad, California 92010 Tel: 1-800-258-7805 or +1-760-931-8979 Fax: +1-760-931-8969 www.aeatechnology.com www.valuetronics.com...

This manual is also suitable for:

Via echo 1000sfVia echo 2500

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