Agilent 83623L Users Guide

HP 8360 L-Series Swept CW Generator (Including Options 001, 004, and 008)

User’s Guide

SERIAL NUMBERS

This manual applies directly to any swept CW generator with the model and serial number prefix combination shown below. You may have to modify this manual so that it applies directly to your instrument version. Refer to the “Instrument History” chapter.

83623L/3OL/4OL/5OL

3844A and below

HEWLETT

Pii

HP Part No. 08380-90134

Printed in USA

PACKARD

February 1999 Supersedes: September 1997

Notice

The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice.

Hewlett-Packard makes no warranty of any kind with regard to this material, including but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Hewlett-Packard shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this material.

Restricted Rights

Legend

Use, duplication, or disclosure by the U.S. Government is subject to restrictions as set forth in subparagraph (c) (1) (ii) of the Rights of Technical Data and Computer Software clause at DFARS

252.227-7013 for DOD agencies, and subparagraphs (c) (1) and (c) (2) of the C clause at FAR 52.227-19 for other agencies.

ommercial

Computer Software Restricted Rights

Copyright Hewlett-Packard Company 1996, 1997, 1999 All Rights Reserved. Reproduction, adaptation, or translation without prior written permission is prohibited, except as allowed under the copyright laws. 1400 Fountaingrove Parkway, Santa Rosa, CA 95403-1799, USA

Certification

Hewlett-Packard Company certifies that this product met its published specifications at the time of shipment from the factory. Hewlett-Packard further certifies that its calibration measurements are traceable to the United States National Institute of Standards and Technology, to the extent allowed by the Institute’s calibration

facility, and to the calibration facilities of other International

Standards Organization members.

Warranty

This Hewlett-Packard instrument product is warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from date of shipment. During the warranty period, Hewlett-Packard Company will, at its option, either repair or replace products which prove to be defective.

For warranty service or repair, this product must be returned to a service facility designated by Hewlett-Packard. Buyer shall prepay shipping charges to Hewlett-Packard and Hewlett-Packard shall pay shipping charges to return the product to Buyer. However, Buyer shall pay all shipping charges, duties, and taxes for products returned to Hewlett-Packard from another country.

Hewlett-Packard warrants that its software and firmware designated

by Hewlett-Packard for use with an instrument will execute its programming instructions when properly installed on that instrument. Hewlett-Packard does not warrant that the operation of the instrument, or software, or firmware will be uninterrupted or error-free.

LIMITATION OF WARRANTY

The foregoing warranty shall not apply to defects resulting from improper or inadequate maintenance by Buyer, Buyer-supplied software or interfacing, unauthorized modification or misuse, operation outside of the environmental specifications for the product, or improper site preparation or maintenance.

NO OTHER WARRANTY IS EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. HEWLETT-PACKARD SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES

THE REMEDIES PROVIDED HEREIN ARE BUYER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES. HEWLETT-PACKARD SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY.

. . .

III

Assistance

Product maintenance agreements and other customer assistance agreements are available for Hewlett-Packard products. For any assistance, contact your nearest Hewlett-Packard Sales and Service

Ofice.

Safety Notes

WARNING

CAUTION

The following safety notes are used throughout this manual. Familiarize yourself with each of the notes and its meaning before operating this instrument.

Warning denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure which, if not correctly performed or adhered to, could result in injury or loss of life. Do not proceed beyond a warning note until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

Caution denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure that, if not correctly performed or adhered to, would result in damage to or destruction of the instrument. Do not proceed beyond a caution sign until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

General Safety Considerations

WARNING

No operator serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified

personnel. To prevent electrical shock, do not remove covers.

For continued protection against fire hazard replace line fuse only with same type and rating (F 5A/250V). The use of other fuses or material is prohibited.

This is a Safety Class I product (provided with a protective earthing

ground incorporated in the power cord). The mains plug shall only be inserted in a socket outlet provided with a protective earth contact. Any interruption of the protective conductor, inside or outside the instrument, is likely to make the instrument dangerous. Intentional interruption is prohibited.

If this instrument is used in a manner not specified by Hewlett-Packard Co., the protection provided by the instrument may be impaired. This product must be used in a normal condition (in

which all means for protection are intact) only.

Position the instrument according to the enclosure protection

provided. This instrument does not protect against the ingress of water. This instrument protects against finger access to hazardous parts within the enclosure.

CAUTION

n Before switching on this instrument, make sure that the line

voltage selector switch is set to the voltage of the power supply and the correct fuse is installed.

n Always use the three-prong ac power cord supplied with this

instrument. Failure to ensure adequate earth grounding by not using this cord may cause instrument damage.

n Before switching on this product, make sure that the line voltage

selector switch is set to the voltage of the power supply and the correct fuse is installed. Assure the supply voltage is in the specified range.

n Ventilation Requirements: When installing the instrument in a

cabinet, the convection into and out of the instrument must not be restricted. The ambient temperature (outside the cabinet) must be less than the maximum operating temperature of the instrument by 4 “C for every 100 watts dissipated in the cabinet. If the total power dissipated in the cabinet is greater than 800 watts, then

forced convection must be used.

n This product is designed for use in Installation Category II and

Pollution Degree 2 per IEC 1010 and 664, respectively.

Note

The detachable power cord is the instrument disconnecting device. It disconnects the mains circuits from the mains supply before other parts of the instrument. The front panel switch is only a standby switch and is not a LINE switch.

PREFACE

This manual provides user information for the HP 8360 L-Series

Swept CW Generator.

Instruments Covered By This Manual

This manual applies to instruments having a serial number prefix listed on the title page (behind the “Documentation Map” tab). Some changes may have to be made to this manual so that it applies directly to each instrument; refer to Chapter 5, “Instrument History”, to see what changes may apply to your instrument.

A serial number label (Figure O-l) is attached to the instrument’s rear panel. A prefix (four digits followed by a letter), and a suffix (five digits unique to each instrument), comprise the instrument serial number.

INSTALLED

OPTIONS

SERIAL NUMBER

I \

-A

SER

PREFIX

1234A 12345

SUFFIX

Figure O-l. Typical Serial Number Label

User’s Guide Organization

HP 8360 L-Series Documentation

Tabs divide the major chapters of this manual. The contents of each chapter is listed in the Table of Contents.

Documentation Map

For a pictorial representation of the HP 8360 L-Series documentation,

see the ‘Documentation Map” at the front of this manual.

Ordering Manuals

A manual part number is listed on the title page of this manual. You may use it to order extra copies of this manual. See

“Replaceable Parts” in HP 8360 B-Series Swept Signal Generator/

HP 8360 L-Series Swept CW Generator Service Guide for a complete

list of HP 8360 documentation and ordering numbers.

vii

Typeface Conventions

The following conventions are used in the HP 8360 L-Series documentation:

Italics Italic type is used for emphasis, and for titles of manuals and

other publications. Computer Computer type is used for information displayed on the

instrument. For example: In this sequence, POWER LEVEL is displayed.

Regulatory

Information

(Hardkeys)

instructed to press a

Softkeys

functions depend on the current display. These keys are represented

in “softkey.” You are instructed to select a softkey.

This product has been designed and tested in accordance with IEC

Publication 1010, Safety Requirements for Electronic Measuring Apparatus, and has been supplied in a safe condition. The instruction documentation contains information and warnings which must be followed by the user to ensure safe operation and to maintain the instrument in a safe condition.

Instrument keys are represented in “key cap.” You are

hardkey.

Softkeys are located just below the display, and their

VIII

. . .

Manufacturer’s Declaration

Note

This is to certify that this product meets the radio frequency interference requirements of Directive FTZ 1046/1984. The German Bundespost has been notified that this equipment was put into circulation and has been granted the right to check the product type for compliance with these requirements.

Note: If test and measurement equipment is operated with unshielded cables and/or used for measurements on open set-ups, the user must insure that under these operating conditions, the radio frequency interference limits are met at the border of his premises.

Model HP 8360 L-Series Swept CW Generator

Hiermit wird bescheinigt, dass dieses

fibereinstimmung

funkentst”rt

Der Deutschen Bundespost wurde das Inverkehrbringen dieses

Gerates/Systems

der Serie auf Einhaltung der Bestimmungen Zustzinformation fiir Mess-und Testgerate:

Werden Mess- und Testgerate mit ungeschirmten Kabeln in offenen Messaufbauten verwendet, so ist vom Betreiber sicherzustellen, dass die Funk-Entst”rbestimmungen unter

Betriebsbedingungen an seiner Grundstiicksgrenze eingehalten

werden.

mit den Bestimmungen von

ist.

angezeight und die Berechtigung

Gerat/System

Postverfiigung

eingeraumt.

1046/84

zur Uberpriifung

und/oder

Declaration of

Conformity

hanufacturetis lanufactureh

declares

that the products

Name: Address:

Product Name: Model Numbers:

Product Options:

:onform

to the following Product specifications:

Safety: IEC

348:1978/HD

CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 231 (Series M-89)

EMC:

CISPR 11:1990/EN 55011:1991

IEC

801-2:1984/EN

IEC

801-3:1984/EN

IEC

801-4:1988/EN

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

aomrding

lSO/lEC

Guide 22 and EN 45014

Hewlett-Packard Co. Microwave Instruments

1400 Fountaingrove Parkway Santa Rosa, CA 95403-1799 USA

Synthesized Sweeper

HP 83623L, HP

8363OL,

HP 83650L

This declaration covers all options of the above products.

401

S1:1981

Group I, Class A

50082-1:1992

4 kV

CD, 8

V/m, 27-500

50082-I:1992 0.5 kV Sig. Lines, 1 kV Power Lines

MHz

Division

HP 836401.

IEC

555-2:1982

IEC

555-3:1982

Al:1985 I

Al:1990 /

60555-2:1987

60555-3:1987

+ Al:1991

Supplementary Information:

-hese

products herewith comply with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive

‘3/23/EEC and the EMC Directive 89/336/EEC and carry the CE-marking accordingly.

Voduct safety qualification testing for these products was performed prior to 1

December 1993.

Santa

Rosa, California, USA

European Contact: Your local Hewlett-Packard Sales and Service Office or Hewlett-Packard

Herrenbarger

19 Dec. 1996

Slrasse

130, D-71 034 BBblingen. Germany (FAX +497031-l 4-3143)

GmbH.

Deparlment HQ-TRE.

Manager

Compliance with German Noise Requirements

This is to declare that this instrument is in conformance with the German Regulation on Noise Declaration for Machines (Laermangabe

nach

der Maschinenlaermrerordnung -3.GSGV Deutschland).

Acoustic Noise Emmission/Geraeuschemission

Instrument Markings !

“ISMl-A”

LpA <70 dB

Operator position Normal position

per IS) 7779

The instruction documentation symbol. The product is marked with this symbol when it is necessary for the user to refer to the instructions in the documentation.

The CE mark is a registered trademark of the European

Community.

The CSA mark is a registered trademark of the Canadian Standards Association.

This is a symbol of an Industrial Scientific and Medical Group 1 Class A product.

LpA <70 dB

am Arbeitsplatz normaler Betrieb

nach

DIN 45635 t.19

This is an ON symbol. The symbol ON is used to mark the position of the instrument power line switch.

This is a STANDBY symbol. The STANDBY symbol is used to mark the position of the instrument power line switch.

This is an OFF symbol. The OFF symbol is used to

mark the position of the instrument power line switch.

This is an AC symbol. The AC symbol is used to indicate the required nature of the line module input power.

Table O-l. Hewlett-Packard Sales and Service Offices

Instrument Support Center

Hewlett-Packard Company (800) 403-0801

UNITED STATES

EUROPEAN FIELD OPERATIONS

Headquarters

Hewlett-Packard S.A. Hewlett-Packard France 150, Route du Nant-d’Avri1 1217 Meyrin a/Geneva Switzerland (41 22) 780.8111

France

1 Avenue Du Canada Zone

D’Activite

F-91947 Les Ulis France (33 1) 69 82 60 60

De Courtaboeuf

Cedex

Great Britain

Hewlett-Packard Ltd. Eskdale Road, Winnersh Triangle Wokingham, Berkshire RG41 5DZ England (44 734) 696622

Headquarters

Hewlett-Packard Company 3495 Deer Creek Road Palo Alto, California, USA 94304-1316 (415) 857-5027

China

China Hewlett-Packard Company 38

Bei

San

Huan

Xl Road Shuang Yu Shu

Hai

Dian District Beijing, China (86 1) 2566888

INTERCON

Australia

Hewlett-Packard Australia Ltd.

31-41 Joseph Street

Blackburn, Victoria 3130 (61 3) 895-2895

Japan

Hewlett-Packard Japan, Ltd

9-1

Takakura-Cho, Hachioji Tokyo 192, Japan (81 426) 60-2111

FIELD OPERATIONS

Germany

Hewlett-Packard GmbH Hewlett-Packard Strasse 61352 Bad Homburg v.d.H Germany (49 6172) 16-O

Canada

Hewlett-Packard (Canada) Ltd. 17500 South Service Road Trans-Canada Highway Kirkland, Quebec Canada (514) 697-4232

H9J

2X8

Singapore

Hewlett-Packard Singapore (Pte.) Ltd. 150 Beach Road #29-00 Gateway West Singapore 0718 (65) 291-9088

xii

Taiwan

Hewlett-Packard Taiwan 8th Floor, H-P Building 337 Fu Hsing North Road Taipei, Taiwan (886 2) 712-0404

1. Getting Started

What Is In This Chapter How To Use This Chapter

Equipment Used In Examples

Introducing the HP 8360 L-Series Swept CW

Generators Display Area Entry Area CW Operation and Start/Stop Frequency Sweep . .

CW Operation

Start/Stop Frequency Sweep Center Frequency/Span Operation Power Level and Sweep Time Operation

Power Level Operation

Sweep Time Operation Continuous, Single, and Manual Sweep Operation Marker Operation Saving and Recalling an Instrument State Power Sweep and Power Slope Operation

Power Sweep Operation

Power Slope Operation Getting Started Advanced Externally Leveling the Swept CW Generator ...

Leveling with Detectors/Couplers /Splitters ...

External Leveling Used With the Optional Step

Attenuator Leveling with Power Meters Leveling with MM-wave Source Modules

Working with Mixers/Reverse Power Effects ....

Working with Spectrum Analyzers/Reverse Power

Effects

Optimizing Swept CW Generator Performance ...

Creating and Applying the User Flatness Correction

Array

Creating a User Flatness Array Automatically,

Example 1

Creating a User Flatness Array, Example 2

Swept mm-wave Measurement with Arbitrary

Correction Frequencies, Example 3 ....

Scalar Analysis Measurement with User Flatness

Corrections, Example 4

Using Detector Calibration

.................

..................

................

...............

...................

..................

...............

............

.........

..........

........

......

............

.....

............

..........

.....

.........

..........

. .

l-l l-2 l-2

1-3 l-4 1-5 1-6 l-6 l-6

l-8 l-10 l-10 l-10

l-12 1-14 1-16 1-18 1-18 1-19 l-21 l-23 l-23

l-26 l-27 l-28 l-30

l-32

l-33

l-34 1-36

1-39

l-43 l-47

Contents-l

Using the Tracking Feature ..........

Peaking ..................

Tracking .................

ALC Bandwidth Selection ............

Using Step Sweep ...............

Creating and Using a Frequency List .......

Using the Security Features ...........

Changing the Preset Parameters .........

Getting Started Programming ..........

HP-IB General Information ...........

Interconnecting Cables ............

Instrument Addresses .............

HP-IB Instrument Nomenclature ........

Listener ..................

Talker. ..................

Controller .................

Programming the Swept CW Generator .....

HP-IB Command Statements .........

Abort ...................

Remote ..................

Local Lockout ...............

Local ...................

Clear ...................

output ..................

Enter ...................

Getting Started with SCPI ...........

Definitions of Terms ..............

Standard Notation ..............

Command Mnemonics ...........

Angle Brackets ...............

How to Use Examples .............

Command Examples ............

Response Examples .............

Essentials for Beginners .............

Program and Response Messages .......

Forgiving Listening and Precise Talking ....

Types of Commands ............

Subsystem Command Trees ..........

The Command Tree Structure ........

Paths Through the Command Tree ......

Subsystem Command Tables ..........

Reading the Command Table ........

More About Commands ...........

Query and Event Commands ........

Implied Commands ............

Optional Parameters ...........

Program Message Examples .........

Parameter Types ..............

Numeric Parameters ...........

Extended Numeric Parameters .......

Discrete Parameters ...........

l-49 l-49 1-49 l-50 1-51 l-52 l-53 l-54 l-55 l-56 1-56 1-56 1-56 l-56 l-56 l-56 l-56 l-57 l-57 l-58 l-58 l-59 l-59 l-60 1-61

1-63 l-63 l-64 l-64 l-64 1-64 l-64 l-65 l-66 l-66 l-66 l-67 l-68 l-68 l-68 1-71 1-71 l-72 l-72 l-72 l-72 l-72 l-73 l-73 l-74 l-75

Contents-2

Boolean Parameters Reading Instrument Errors Example Programs

Example Program

Description

Program Listing

Program Comments

Details of Commands and Responses

In This Subsection Program Message Syntax

Subsystem Command Syntax

Common Command Syntax Response Message Syntax SCPI Data Types

Parameter Types

Numeric Parameters

Extended Numeric Parameters

Discrete Parameters Boolean Parameters

Response Data Types

Real Response Data Integer Response Data Discrete Response Data String Response Data

Programming Typical Measurements

In This Subsection Using the Example Programs

Use of the Command Tables

HP-IB Check, Example Program 1

Program Comments

Local Lockout Demonstration, Example Program 2

Program Comments

Setting Up A Typical Sweep, Example Program 3

Program Comments

Queries, Example Program 4

Program Comments

Saving and Recalling States, Example Program 5 .

Program Comments

Looping and Synchronization, Example Program 6

Program Comments

Using the

Program Comments

Using the User Flatness Correction Commands,

Example Program 8

Programming the Status System

In This Subsection General Status Register Model

Condition Register Transition Filter Event Register

Enable Register

*WA1

..............

...............

..............

Command, Example Program 7 .

..............

...............

..............

...........

..........

.............

...........

.......

...........

........

.........

...........

.......

...........

............

...........

..........

...........

.......

.........

.......

............

..........

............

.........

.............

l-75 l-76

1-77

l-77

l-77 l-77 l-78 l-80 l-80 l-80 1-81 1-81 l-82 l-83 l-83 l-83 l-84 l-85 l-85 l-85

l-85

1-86

l-86 l-86 1-87 l-87 l-87 l-88

l-90 l-90

l-91

l-92

l-93 l-93 l-95 l-95 l-97 l-97 l-99

1-99 l-101 l-101

l-103 l-106

l-106 l-106

l-106 l-107 l-107 l-107

Contents-3

An Example Sequence ...........

Programming the Trigger System

In This Subsection ..............

Generalized Trigger Model ...........

Overview .................

Details of Trigger States ...........

Inside the Idle State ...........

Inside the Initiate State ..........

Inside Event Detection States .......

Inside the Sequence Operation State ....

Common Trigger Configurations ........

The

INIT

Configuration ...........

The TRIG Configuration ..........

Description of Triggering in the HP 8360 L-Series

Swept CW Generators ...........

Advanced Trigger Configurations .......

Trigger Keyword Definitions ..........

ABORt

IMMediate

ODELay

SOURce ..................

Getting Started

What Is In This Chapter

This chapter contains information on how to use the HP 8360 L-Series Swept CW Generator. The information is separated into three sections.

Basic For the novice user unfamiliar with the

HP 8360 L-Series Swept CW Generator. This section describes the basic features of the swept CW generator.

Advanced

Programming

For the user familiar with swept CW generators, but not necessarily familiar with how to use the special features of the HP 8360 L-Series Swept CW Generator.

For the user wishing to program an HP 8360 L-Series Swept CW Generator. This section contains an introduction to Standard Commands

for Programmable Instruments language

(SCPI), Hewlett-Packard’s implementation of IEEE-488.2-1987, and an introduction to the Analyzer programming language.

Note

If you are unpacking a new swept CW generator, refer to the installation suggestions provided in Chapter 3, “Installation”.

Getting Started Introduction

l-1

How To Use This Chapter

To use this chapter effectively, refer to the tabbed section “Menu Maps”. Menu maps can be folded out to be viewed at the same time as the Getting Started information, as illustrated.

tl-

Equipment Used In

Examples

The following table lists the equipment used in the operation examples shown in this chapter. You can substitute equipment, but be aware that you may get different results than those shown.

Equipment Used In Examples

Equipment

Power Meter

Power Sensor

Oscilloscope mm-Wave Source Module HP 83556A Power Amplifier

Detector

Recommended

Model Numbers

436A/437B

HP 8485A

HP 8349B

HP 8474D

I I

1-2 Getting Started Introduction

Getting Started Basic

Introducing the HP 8360 L-Series Swept CW Generators

HEWLETT PACKP

.MENU

SELECT

rR0

The HP 8360 L-Series Swept CW Generators are high performance, broadband frequency swept CW generators.

,,-ENTRY-

IzEJm

SYSTEM

[YM]

cEil

USER

@1Lalc*l

DrnNED

%I@ pJ(TJm@J rmrm

PRESET

Figure l-l. The HP 8360 L-Series Swept CW Generator

(PRESET) initializes the front panel settings and runs the swept CW

generator through a brief self-test. In the following examples, unless stated otherwise, begin by pressing (PRESET).

Getting Started Basic l-3

Display Area

ACTIVE ENTRY AND

DATA DISPLAY AREA

MESSAGE LINE

SOFTKEY

LABEL AREA

SOFTKEYS

Figure l-2. Display

Active Entry and Data Display Area: This area typically displays

the frequency and power information of the current instrument state. When data entry is expected, the swept CW generator uses

all or part of this area to record the entries. The active entry

-->)

arrow (

value.

Message Line: This line is used to display:

ALC level status. Unlock information.

Timebase

RF output status.

Softkey

directly below it.

indicates the active entry function and its current

status.

Label Area: This area displays the name of the softkey

l-4 Getting Started Basic

Softkeys: These keys activate the functions indicated by the labels

directly above them.

Entry Area

All function values are changed via the rotary knob and/or keys of the entry area.

ENTRY

ON/OFF

ENTRY KEYS

NUMkIC

ENTRY ON

LED

NEGAti

BACKSPACE

ARROW KEYS

ROTARY KNOB

SIGN/

Figure l-3. Entry Area

The following are active only when the swept CW generator expects an input.

(ENTRY ON/OFF): This key lets you turn off or on the active entry

area. Turning off the entry area after a value is entered prevents accidental changes.

ENTRY ON LED: This LED lights when the entry area is active. Arrow Keys: The up/down arrow keys let you increase or decrease

a numeric value. The left/right arrow keys choose a significant digit indicated by an underline.

Rotary Knob: The rotary knob increases or decreases a numeric

value. The rotary knob can be used in combination with the

left/right arrow keys to change the increment size.

Terminator Keys: After the numeric entry keys are used to enter a

value, these keys define the units.

Negative Sign/Backspace Key: If a data entry is in progress, this

key backspaces over the last digit entered, otherwise a negative sign is entered.

Numeric Entry Keys: These keys enter specific numbers in the

active entry area and must be followed by one of the terminator keys before the function value changes.

Getting Started Basic

l-5

CW Operation and Start/Stop Frequency Sweep

CW Operation

Start/Stop Frequency

Sweep

CW operation is one of the major functions of the swept CW

generator, and is easy to do using front panel keys. In CW operation,

the swept CW generator produces a single, low-noise, synthesized frequency. Try this example: Press

@J.

Check the active entry area. It indicates:

-->

cw:

The data display area indicates CW operation and the frequency that you entered. The ENTRY ON LED is lit and the green SWEEP LED is off.

Try other frequencies. Experiment with the rotary knob and the arrow keys as alternate methods of data entry.

The swept CW generator can sweep a frequency span as wide as the frequency range of the instrument, or as narrow as 0 Hz (swept

CW).

In start/stop sweep operation, the swept CW generator produces a sweep from the selected start frequency to the selected stop frequency. For example:

12345.678000 MHz

m (i-J @ (J @ @ (?J @ 0 @

Press

[START) @ (J @ @ [GHz).

Press

ISTOP) 0 0 @ @ LGHz).

The data display area indicates the start frequency and the stop

frequency. The green SWEEP LED is on (periodically off when sweep is retracing). Because this is the active function, the active entry area indicates:

-->

STOP

Any subsequent entries change the stop frequency. To change the

start frequency, press

you press a different function key.

FREqUENCY:

7890.000000 MHz

[START),

which remains the active function until

1-6 Getting Started Basic

IMENU

HEWLETT PACKARD

SELECT

FREQUENCY

SWEEP LED

CW Operation

1. Press

[cw).

2. Enter value.

3. Press terminator key.

START

STOP

Figure 1-4. CW Operation and Start/Stop Frequency Sweep

start/stop Frequency Sweep

1. Press

2. Enter value.

3. Press terminator key.

4. Press (STOP).

5. Enter value.

6. Press terminator key.

@iZF).

Getting Started Basic 1-7

Center

- ------

Frequency/Span dperation

Center frequency/span is another way of establishing swept operation. This is just a different way of defining sweep limits. As an example of center frequency/span operation:

Press

(GHz).

Press (SPAN)

The swept CW generator is now sweeping from 3.5 to 4.5 view these figures, press either (START) or (STOP), then

data display area indicates the center frequency, as well as, the span.

Notice that the green SWEEP LED is on. While span is the active function, try the rotary knob and arrow

keys. This symmetrical increase or decrease of the frequency span

about the center frequency is one reason that center frequency/span

swept operation is used instead of start/stop frequency sweep.

Another example illustrates the subtleties of center frequency/span.

Press (CENTER) @ Press (SPAN @

Notice that the center frequency changed. This is because the center frequency could not accommodate a span of 8 GHz without exceeding

the lower frequency limit of the swept CW generator’s specified frequency range. If the low or high frequency range limits are exceeded, the inactive (center or span) function is reset. Experiment

with the rotary knob and the arrow keys as alternate methods of

data entry.

(iJ IGHz).

(GHz)

IGHz)

ml).

GHz

(to

The

1-8 Getting Started Basic

1 y[!&i$i--

:ARO

’

SWEEP LED

Center Frequency Operation

1. Press

2. Enter value.

3. Press terminator key.

@?TiiFj,

FREQUENCY

SOURCE MOWLE INTERFACE

CENTER

Figure 1-5. Center Frequency and Span Operation

SPAN

Span Operation

1. Press

2. Enter value.

3. Press terminator key.

m).

Getting Started Basic 1-9

Power Level and Sweep Time Operation

Power Level Operation

Sweep Time Operation

The swept CW generator can produce leveled power for CW, swept frequency, or power sweep operation. The selected power level can range from -20 generators) to -l-25

For practice: Press [POWER LEVEL] I-) @ @ area shows:

-->

POWER LEVEL: -20.00

If the selected power level is beyond the range of the swept CW generator, the closest possible power is shown in both the data display area and the active entry area. If the selected power level exceeds the maximum leveled power the swept CW generator is able to produce, the unleveled message UNLVLED appears on the message line. Experiment with the rotary knob and the arrow keys as alternate methods of data entry.

In typical applications the sweep time can vary tremendously, from milliseconds in a network analyzer system, to more than a minute in thermistor-based power meter systems.

Press (START) @ Press (STOP) @

Press

lsWEEP

dBm

(-110

dBm.

IGHz).

(GHz).

(Y?J 0 @ (,,,I.

dBm

for Option 001 swept CW

dBm

The active entry

Watch the green SWEEP LED, it blinks every 2.5 seconds. The LED blinks at each retrace.

For the fastest sweep speed for which all specifications are guaranteed, the swept CW generator must be in automatic sweep time selection.

Refer to menu map 7, SWEEP. Press SWEEP

Select more Select

Notice that the active entry area indicates:

When the swept CW generator is in automatic sweep time selection, the active entry area displays AUTO along with the current sweep time. Faster sweep speeds than this are possible, turn the rotary knob counter-clockwise until the display no longer changes. Notice that AUTO is no longer displayed.

SwpTime

-->

SWEEP TIME:

I=).

l/3.

Auto .

100.0

mSec

AUTO

l-10 Getting Started Basic

HEWLETT PACKARO

se..Ecr’l

SWEEP TIME

Power Level

Operation

Press ~POWER

Enter value.

Press

INSTRUMENT SrATE -

SWEEP LED

LEVEL].

POWER LEVEL

Figure 1-6. Power Level and Sweep Time Operation

Sweep Time Operation

1. Press

2. Enter

3. Press

SWEEP TIME

value.

terminator key.

IF OUTPVT

Getting Started Basic l-11

Continuous, and Manual Operation

Single, Sweep

Continuous sweep is the operation mode set when the swept CW generator is preset. It simply means that when the swept CW generator is performing a swept operation, the sweeps will continuously sweep-retrace-sweep-retrace until a different sweep mode is selected. To choose this sweep mode, press

To change from continuous sweep to single sweep operation, press (SINGLE). This causes the swept CW generator to abort the sweep in progress and switch to the single sweep mode. This initial keystroke causes the swept CW generator to switch sweep modes, but it does

not initiate a single sweep. A second keystroke (press (SINGLE)) initiates a single sweep. When the swept CW generator is in single sweep operation, the amber LED above the key lights. When the swept CW generator is actually performing a sweep in single sweep mode, the green SWEEP LED lights.

The manual sweep mode lets you use the rotary knob to either sweep from the start frequency to the stop frequency or to sweep power.

Refer to menu map 7, SWEEP. Press

(PRESET).

Press SWEEP (MENU). Select Manual Sweep.

(CONT).

The active entry area displays:

-->

SWEPT MANUAL: XXXXXXXXX MHz

Use the rotary knob to sweep from the start to the stop frequency. The green SWEEP LED is off in manual sweep mode because the sweeps are synthesized.

1-12 Getting Started Basic

SWEEP

LED ----

SINGLE

LED

HEWLETT PACKARD

LMENU m.ECT.,

Single Sweep

1. Press

@iETQ

SINGLE CONT

Figure 1-7. Continuous, Single, and Manual Sweep Operation

SWEEP MENU

Continuous Sweep

1. Press

ICONT).

Manual Sweep

1. Press SWEEP

IrV1ENU_).

2. Press Manual Sweep.

3. Use the rotary knob to adjust frequency.

Getting Started Basic 1-13

Marker Operation

The swept CW generator has five frequency markers that can be used as fixed frequency “landmarks,” on a CRT display. To view the marker features of the swept CW generator on a CRT, connect the swept CW generator as shown in

Figure l-8.

Refer to menu map 3, MARKER.

Press

[m).

Press (START) @ Press

ISTOP) @ (GHz).

Press [MARKER). Select Marker Ml and enter @

The swept CW generator is sweeping from 3 to 7 GHz, with a 100 ms sweep speed. A frequency marker is set at 4 GHz, which causes an intensified dot to appear on the CRT. To obtain an amplitude spike at that frequency, select amplitude of the spike with the rotary knob or entry keys. To return to the intensified dot representation, select off).

(GHzl.

Amp1

or as variable frequency pointers

LGHz).

Markers . Notice that you can set the

Amp1

Markers (asterisk

Caution

Amplitude markers increase the output power at the marker frequency. Provide protection to devices that could be damaged.

For a second marker, select Marker M2 and enter @ 0 @ This process can be continued for all five markers. Note that the

marker displayed in the active entry area is “active” and can be controlled by the rotary knob, arrow keys, and numeric entry keys.

Once the Ml and M2 markers are established, the marker sweep

function,

start/stop frequencies to those of markers Ml and M2. Select

Ml--M2 Sweep.

sweeping from 4 to 5.5 GHz. Use this function to focus in on a selected portion of the frequency sweep. Select Ml--M2 Sweep again.

This turns the function off and returns the swept CW generator to its original sweep parameters. To change the start/stop frequencies for the swept CW generator, not just temporarily, use the softkey

Start=Ml Stop=M2.

As an example of the delta marker function:

Select

softkey

Marker

Ml--M2 Sweep, temporarily changes the original

Notice that the swept CW generator now is

and enter @ 0

am.

(GHz).

1-14 Getting Started Basic

Select

Delta Marker.

The frequency difference between marker 3 and marker 1 is displayed, and the CRT trace is intensified between the two markers. The active entry area displays:

-->

DELTA MKR (3-l) : 2700.000000 MHz

Marker 1 was chosen because it is selected as the delta marker

reference. To change reference markers, select Delta Mkr Ref .

Select M2 as the reference. Watch the display change to indicate:

-->

DELTA MKR

(3-2)

: 1200.000000 MHz

You can choose any of the five markers as a reference, but when delta marker is on, if the reference marker has a frequency value higher

than the last active marker, the difference between the frequencies is

negative and is displayed as such by the swept CW generator. The

CRT display continues to intensify the difference between the two

markers. When delta marker is showing in the active entry area, the ENTRY

area is active. Rotate the rotary knob and watch the frequency

difference change. The last active marker (in this case, marker 3) changes frequency value, not the reference marker.

OSCILLOSCOPE

Marker Operation

1. Press

2. Select a marker key (Ml .

3. Enter value.

4. Press terminator key.

(jiXi?K).

Figure 1-8. Marker Operation

Delta Marker

Operation

1. Press

2. Select a marker key (MI

3. Enter value.

4. Press terminator key.

5. Select a different marker key ( Mi M5 ).

6. Enter value.

7. Press terminator key.

8. Select Delta

9. Select one of the previously chosen markers.

10. Press

11. Select Delta Marker

($iZKKj.

IPRIOR).

Hkr

~5).

Ref.

Getting Started Basic l-15

Saving and Recalling an

Instrument State

The save/recall registers store and access a previously set instrument state.

For example, set the swept CW generator to sweep from 3 to 15

GHz at a -10 dB power level, with markers 1 and 2 set at 4.5 and

11.2 GHz. Press (START)

Press

LSTOP) (iJ @ (GHz).

Press (POWER LEVEL)

(MARKER).

Press Select Marker Ml

Select Marker M2

To save this instrument state in register 1, press that the swept CW generator has saved this state:

[PRESET).

Press Press

IRECALL] 0.

(MARKER).

Press

The active entry area displays:

-->

RECALL REGISTER: 1 RECALLED

Notice the sweep end points, power level, and the asterisks next to the marker 1 and 2 key labels.

You can save instrument states in registers 1 through 8. Register 0 saves the last instrument state before power is turned off. When power is turned on, register 0 is automatically recalled.

(?J LGHz).

(-) (iJ (TJ IdBo).

@ 0 @ IGHz).

(iJ 0 0 @ LGHz).

(SAVE]

(iJ. To verify

1-16 Getting Started Basic

SAVE

RECALL

HEWLETT PACK

IlMENU SELPX

IARC

Figure 1-9. Saving and Recalling an Instrument State

Save

1. Set up swept CW generator as desired.

2. Press

3. Press a number

ISAVE).

through 8.

\ /II

USER

DEWED

Recall

1. Press

IjZKiJ.

Press a number0through

ENrRRy -

Getting Started Basic l-17

Power Sweep and Pow& Slope

Operation

Power Sweep Operation

The power sweep function allows the power output to be swept (positive or negative) when the swept CW generator is in the CW

frequency mode. The power output of the swept CW generator

determines the maximum leveled power sweep that can be accomplished. For this example, refer to the “Menu Map” section.

Zero and calibrate the power meter. Connect the instruments as shown in Figure l-10. Press

Icw @ IGHz).

Press (POWER LEVEL) Press (SWEEP

TIME) (TJ (,,,)

@ m.

(SINGLE).

Set the power meter to dB[REF] mode.

The swept CW generator is ready to produce a 4 GHz CW signal

at 0

dBm

power out, with a 2 second sweep rate whenever a single sweep is executed. The power meter is ready to measure the power level relative to a starting point of 0

Press

POWER,[jKQ

Select Power Sweep and enter 0

dBm.

(dB(m))

(asterisk on).

Press (SINGLE).

Watch the relative power indication on the power meter. At the end of the sweep the power meter indicates +7 dB. The active entry area on the swept CW generator indicates:

-->

POWER SWEEP:

Now enter @ @

7.00 dB/SWP

(dB(mLj)

ower sweep is still the active entry

function). Press [SINGLE).

This time the power meter indicates less than the power sweep requested. Note that the swept CW generator is unleveled, UNLVD. This happens because the swept CW generator’s output power at the start of the sweep is 0 dB and the requested power sweep takes the swept CW generator beyond the range where it is able to produce leveled power. The range of the power sweep is dependent on the ALC range and can be offset if a step attenuator (Option 001) is present.

Select Power Sweep to turn this function off (no asterisk).

Press

(POWER LEVEL)

I-] @

On the power meter, press dB[REF] to reset the reference level.

1-18 Getting Started Basic

Select power Sweep (asterisk on). Press

@GE).

The swept CW generator performs a power sweep beginning at

-20

dBm

+25

and ending at +5

dB.

dBm.

The power meter indicates

Power Slope Operation

SUEPT

GENERFITOR

This function allows for compensation of high frequency system or cable losses by linearly increasing the power output as the frequency

increases. For this example, refer to the “Menu Map” section.

Press Power Slope, the active entry area displays:

-->

RF SLOPE:X. XX

Power slope is now active, notice that an asterisk is next to the key

label.

Use the entry keys, rotary knob, or arrow keys to enter a value for the linear slope.

Press Power Slope again to turn this feature off.

RF OUTPUT

dB/GHz,

where X is a numeric value.

POUER HETER

Power Sweep

1. Press POWER

2. Select Power Sweep.

3. Enter a value.

4. Press terminator key.

(jj).

AGAPTER

POWER SENSOR

Figure l-10. Power Sweep and Power Slope Operation

Power Slope

1. Press POWER

2. Select Power Slope.

3. Enter a value.

4. Press terminator key.

(&ii@.

Getting Started Basic 1-19

Advanced

Getting Started Advanced

This section of Chapter 1 describes the use of many of the unique features of the HP 8360 L-Series Swept CW Generators. The format used is similar to the one used on the previous pages. When referred to a menu map number, go to the Menu Map tab and unfold the menu map so that you can view it together with the text.

Some menus have more than one page of softkeys. Select the

m/n softkey

to view the next page of softkeys. more m/n is

not included in the keystrokes given in these procedures.

Table l-l. Keys Under Discussion in This Section

Paragraph Heading Keys

Externally Leveling the Swept CW Generator Leveling Point ExtDet

Coupling Factor POWER LEVEL Set

Atten

Leveling Point

Pwr Mtr Range

Leveling Point Module Mdl Lev Menu

Working with Mixers/Reverse Power Effects

Working with Spectrum Analyzers/ Reverse Power Effects “Optimizing Swept CW Generator Performance” Fltness Menu

Uncoupl Atten

Leveling Mode Normal Leveling Mode ALCoff Leveling Mode Search

Delete Menu Auto Fill Start Auto Fill Stop Auto Fill Mtr

Meas

PwrMtr

Incr

FLTNESS ON/OFF

Enter Freq Enter Corr Freq Follow List Menu Copy List Sweep Mode List

Ext Det Cal

Getting Started Advanced 1-21

Advanced

Table 1-1.

Keys Under Discussion in This Section (continued)

Paragraph Heading

‘Optimizing Swept CW Generator Performance” Auto Track

:ontinued Peak RF Always

Jsing Step Sweep

>reating and Using a Frequency List

Jsing the Security Features

2hanging the Preset Parameters

Keys

Peak RF Once

Sup

Span Cal Once

Sup

Span Cal Always

FullUsr

USER DEFINED MENU ASSIGN

Step List Menu Delete Menu Enter List Freq Enter List Offset Enter List Dwell

Pt Trig Menu

Sup

Cal

Zero Freq

Save Lock Clear Memory Blank Display

Save Usr Preset Preset Mode User PRESET

1-22 Getting Started Advanced

For more information, each of these keys has a separate entry in Chapter 2.

Externally Leveling the Swept CW Generator

In externally leveled operations, the output power from the swept CW generator is detected by an external sensor. The output of this detector is returned to the leveling circuitry, and the output power

is automatically adjusted to keep power constant at the point of

detection.

Leveling with

Detectors/Couplers

/Splitters

Figure l-11 illustrates a typical setup for external leveling. When externally leveled, the power level feedback is taken from the external negative detector input rather than the internal detector. This feedback voltage controls the ALC system to set the desired RF output. Refer to Figure A-l in Chapter 2 for a block diagram of the swept CW generator’s ALC circuitry.

SUEPT CU

GENERATOR

ALC

RF OUTPUT

Figure l-l 1. ALC Circuit Externally Leveled

Getting Started Advanced 1-23

To level externally:

1. Set up the equipment as shown. For this example, the detector/coupler setup is used.

2. Refer to menu map 1.

3. Press

Select Leveling Point

Set the coupling factor. Select Coupling Factor I-) @

(ALC).

(dB(m)).

ExtDet

Note

Hint

Power splitters have a coupling factor of 0 dB.

Figure 1-12 shows the input power versus output voltage characteristics for typical HP diode detectors. From the chart, the leveled power at the diode detector input resulting from any external level voltage setting may be determined. The range of power adjustment is approximately -30

Automatically characterize and compensate for the detector used by performing a detector calibration. Refer to “Using Detector Calibration” in the “Optimizing Swept CW Generator Performance” section.

dBm

+18 dBm.

1-24 Getting Started Advanced

100

+20 dBV

+lO

- +6

-10

-20

-30

dBV

-30 -20

DETECTOR INPUT POWER, dBm

Figure 1-12. Typical Diode Detector Response at 25°C

-10

+10 +20

+30

-40

-50

-60

--66

-70

-80

dBV

Getting Started Advanced 1-25

External Leveling Used With the Optional Step Attenuator

Some external leveling applications require low output power from the swept CW generator. The swept CW generator automatically uncouples the attenuator from the ALC system for all external leveling points.

Press (POWER LEVEL). Note the display. It shows:

Hint

--> ATTEN

For example, leveling the output of a 30 dB gain amplifier to a level of -10 to be around -40 level is beyond the range of the ALC modulator alone. If so, the LOW UNLVLED warning message is displayed. Inserting 40 dB of attenuation results in an ALC level of 0 the range of the ALC. At 20 GHz, 30 dB attenuation is a better choice as it results in an ALC level of -10 for AM or other functions that vary the power level.

For optimum display accuracy and minimum noise, the ALC level should be greater than -10 attenuation equal to the tens digit of output power. Example: desired output power = -43 dBm; use:

--> ATTEN:

1. Press POWER

2. Select Set

To obtain flatness corrected power, refer to “Creating and Applying the User Flatness Correction Array” in the “Optimizing Swept CW Generator Performance” section.

0 dB, POWER LEVEL: 0.00

dBm

requires the output of the swept CW generator

dBm

when leveled. At some frequencies this

dBm,

dBm.

This is achieved by using

dB,

ALC -3

[MENU).

Atten @ @ [my).

dBm

which is well within

dBm.

This gives a margin

1-26 Getting Started Advanced

Leveling with Power

Meters

Leveling with a power meter is similar to leveling with a diode detector. Figure 1-13 shows the setup for power meter leveling.

SUEPT

GENERATOR

LEVELED OUTPUT

POUER SPLITTER

DlRECllONAl COUPLER

Figure 1-13. Leveling with a Power Meter

Hint

1. Set up the equipment as shown. Be sure to set the power meter to manual range mode and note the range.

2. Refer to menu map 1.

3. Press

Select Leveling Point PwrMtr .

Select Pwr Mtr Range . Enter the range value set for the power

LALC).

meter as noted in step 1.

6. Select Coupling Factor, press @

(dB(mZ).

Unlike detector leveling, power meter leveling provides calibrated power out of the leveled RF port.

To obtain flatness corrected power, refer to “Creating and Applying the User Flatness Correction Array” in the “Optimizing Swept CW Generator Performance” section.

Getting Started Advanced 1-27

Leveling with MM-wave

Source Modules

Millimeter-wave source module leveling is similar to power meter leveling. The following figures illustrate the setups for leveling with a mm-wave source module.

WEPT

Cl4

GENERIWOR

RDAPTER (IF REQUIRED)

Figure 1-14. MM-wave Source Module Leveling

High power model swept CW generators can externally level mm-wave source modules to maximum specified power without a

microwave amplifier.

l-28

Getting Started Advanced

WEPT

GENERRTOR

tlICROUAVE AflPLIFIER

Ml-UAVE

SOURCE

LEVELED OUTPUT

Figure 1-15. MM-wave Source Module Leveling Using a Microwave Amplifier

1. Set up the equipment as shown.

2. Refer to menu map 1.

3. Select Leveling Point Module.

Select Module Menu.

Select Module Select Auto or Front or Rear, depending on

where the interface connection is made.

All of the ALC data necessary to communicate properly with the swept CW generator is exchanged via the SOURCE MODULE INTERFACE.

Hint

To obtain flatness corrected power, refer to “Creating and Applying the User Flatness Correction Array” in the “Optimizing Swept CW

Generator Performance” section.

Getting Started Advanced 1-29

Working with

Mixers/Reverse

Power Effects

Note

Uncoupled operation applies to Option 001 swept CW generators

only.

Uncoupled operation is useful when working with mixers. Figure 1-16 shows a hypothetical setup where the swept CW generator is providing a small signal to a mixer. The swept CW generator output is -8

dBm,

which in Leveling Mode Normal results in 0 dB, ALC Level = -8

+lO dBm,

feedthrough of -5 port, goes through the attenuator with no loss, and arrives at the internal detector. Depending on frequency, it is possible for most of this energy to enter the detector. Since the detector responds to its total input power regardless of frequency, this excess energy causes the leveling circuit to reduce its output. In this example the reverse power is actually larger than the ALC level, which may result in the swept CW generator output being shut off.

Figure 1-17 shows the same setup, with uncoupled operation used to

produce the same -8 ALC Level = +2

attenuator reduces the LO feedthrough by 10 dB. Thus the detector

sees a +2 signal. This 17 dB difference results in a maximum 0.1 shift in the swept CW generator output level. To set the swept CW generator to the attenuator uncoupled mode as discussed in this example, do the following:

and has LO to RF isolation of 15 dB. The resulting LO

dBm.

dBm

desired signal versus a possible -15

dBm.

The mixer is driven with an LO of

dBm

enters the swept CW generator’s OUTPUT

dBm

output. In this case,

The ALC level is 10 dB higher, and the

ATTEN

ATTEN =

= -10 dB,

dBm

undesired

l-30 Getting Started Advanced

1. Press POWER (MENU).

Select Set

things, it uncouples the attenuator from the rest of the ALC system, and it lets you set an attenuator value, in this case, 10 dB.

3. Press [POWER LEVEL) @

dBm.

For more information on the ALC or setting power level, refer to

(ALC)

or [POWER LEVEL) in Chapter 2.

Atten

and press

[dB(m)).

(iJ @ IdBo).

This sets the ALC level to

This step does two

I\1

LLVLL

r-n*monl

LUIY

ITVL

DETECTOR

MEASURES -8

ALC LmEL

Figure 1-16. Reverse Power Effects, Coupled Operation with -8dBm Output

SwmEslfER WITH

-0

dBm

OPnON

Do1

I-II ILI.“T\I”I

DETECTOR

LO FEED-

THROUGH

5dBm

+lO

dBm

r-~-------------------------

I I

MEASURES +2

swmiEsl2ER

dBm

Figure 1-17. Reverse Power Effects, Uncoupled Operation with -8dBm Output

WITH

OPnON

F+j ““:o”“goR

001

I I

DETECTOR MEASURES -15

dBm

REVERSE POWER

p-f

RF OUTPUT

g-y-

-5dBm

MIXa

LO LEVEL

+lO

dBm

Getting Started Advanced

1-3 1

Working with Spectrum Analyzers/Reverse Power Effects

Reverse power is a problem with spectrum analyzers that do not have preselection capability. Some analyzers have as much as

+5 dBm

frequencies. The effects of reverse power are less in the heterodyne band (0.01 to 2.0 GHz) where the power amplifier provides some broadband matching. Similarly, at frequencies above 2.0 GHz, reverse power that is within 10 MHz of the swept CW generator’s frequency may be partially absorbed by the YIG filter. If the frequency difference is small enough to be within the leveling system bandwidth (typically 10 kHz CW, 200 kHz sweep or AM), the effect of reverse power is amplitude modulation of the swept CW generator’s output. The AM rate equals the difference in RF frequencies. Reverse power problems may be treated by using the unleveled mode. There are two unleveled modes, ALC off and search.

To set the swept CW generator to the ALC off mode:

2. Press

Select Leveling Mode

In this mode, the swept CW generator provides RF power with no ALC correction and therefore requires a power meter to set a particular power.

LO feedthrough coming out of their RF input, at some

Refer to menu map

IALC).

ALCoff.

To set the swept CW generator to the search mode:

1. Press

Select Leveling Mode Search.

In this mode, the swept CW generator is in the normal ALC mode until the desired power level is reached, then the ALC is disconnected.

1-32 Getting Started Advanced

Optimizing Swept CW Generator

Performance

Creating and Applying

the User Flatness

Correction Array

The following examples demonstrate the user flatness correction

feature:

1. Using an HP 437B power meter to automatically enter correction data for a swept 4 to 10 GHz measurement.

2. Manually entering correction data for a stepped (List Mode) measurement.

3. Making swept mm-wave measurements, automatically entering

correction data for an arbitrary list of correction frequencies.

4. Making scalar analysis measurements with automatically-entered correction data that compensates for power variations at the output of a directional bridge.

Each example illustrates how to set up correction tables for a different measurement requirement. Modify the instrument setups shown to suit your particular needs. Completed correction tables may be easily edited if more correction data is required for your measurement. Additional correction frequencies may be added by using the auto fill feature or by entering correction frequencies individually. The auto fill feature adds but does not delete correction frequencies.

There are two basic front-panel methods of creating a flatness correction array. The first and quickest method is to use an HP 437B power meter. Refer to Figure 1-18 for the setup. The second method is just as accurate, but requires a little more interaction between the operator and the instruments. Figure 1-19 shows the setup for the second method.

Getting Started Advanced l-33

Creating a User Flatness Array Automatically, Example 1

In this example, a flatness array containing correction frequencies from 4 to 10 GHz at 1

GHz

intervals is created. An HP 438B power meter controlled by the swept CW generator through the interface bus

is used to enter the correction data into the flatness array.

For

this example, refer to menu map 5, POWER. The equipment setup shown in Figure 1-18 assumes that if the

1. setup has an external leveling configuration, the steps necessary to correctly level have been followed. If you have questions about external leveling, refer to “Externally Leveling the Swept CW Generator”.

Set up Power Meter

Zero and calibrate the power meter/sensor.

Enter the appropriate power sensor calibration factors into the

power meter. Enable the power meter/sensor cal factor array. For operating

information on the HP 437B power, refer to its operating and service manual.

Connect the power sensor to the point where corrected power is

desired.

HP-IE

I RND OTHER I

DEVICES ,

-I--

1 FLATNESS

I CORRECTED , OUTPUT PORT

------

POUEMEt&OR

“q-p!--------A

DEVICE

UNDER

TEST

B-B

Figure l-18. Creating a User Flatness Array Automatically

HP 4378 POUER NE

TER

Note

1-34 Getting Started Advanced

No other devices can be connected to the HP-IB cable.

Set up Swept CW Generator Parameters

On the swept CW generator, press (PRESET).

FREQUENCY (START) @

(POWER LEVEL) @

Access User Flatness Correction Menu

(dB0).

LGHz),

(STOP) 0 @

(GHz).

Press POWER

10.

Select Delete Menu Delete All . This step insures that the

(MENU).

Select

Fitness

Menu.

flatness array is empty.

11.

Press

(K).

softkey

12.

Enter the frequency points at which the correction information

menu.

Leave the delete menu and return to the previous

will be taken. Choose either the point-by-point entry method

Enter Freq or the automatic frequency point generation

Auto Fill Start. For this example, select Auto Fill Start

@[GHz).

13.

Select Auto Fill Stop 0 @

(GHz),

Auto Fill

Incr @ IGHz).

Notice that a frequency list starting at 4 and ending at 10 GHz with an increment value of 1 GHz is created.

Enter Correction Data into Array

14.

Select Mtr

Meas

Menu Measure

Gorr

All . The power meter is now under swept CW generator control and is performing the sequence of steps necessary to generate the correction information at each frequency point.

If an HP-IB error message is displayed, verify that the interface connections are correct. Check the HP-IB address of the power meter and ensure that it is the same address the swept CW generator is using (address 13 is assumed). Refer to the menu map 8, System, for the key sequence necessary to reach

Meter Adrs .

Enable User Flatness Correction

When the operation is complete, (a message is displayed) the

15.

flatness correction array is ready to be applied to your setup. Disconnect the power meter/sensor and press (FLTNESS ON/OFF) (amber LED on). Thep

ower produced at the point where the power meter/sensor was disconnected is now calibrated at the frequencies and power level specified above.

Getting Started Advanced 1-35

softkey

Creating a User Flatness Array, Example 2

This example shows how to use the swept CW generator and a power meter in manual entry mode. This example also introduces two features of the swept CW generator. The

simplifies the data entry process and the a list of arbitrary test frequencies.

The frequency follow feature automatically sets the source to a CW test frequency equivalent to the active correction frequency in the user flatness correction table. The front panel arrow keys are used to move around the correction table and enter frequency-correction pairs. Simultaneously, the swept CW generator test frequency is updated to the selected correction frequency without exiting the correction table.

To further simplify the data entry process, the swept CW generator allows you to enter correction data into the user flatness correction table by adjusting the front panel knob until the desired power

level is displayed on the power meter. The user flatness correction

algorithm automatically calculates the appropriate correction and enters it into the table. If you already have a table of correction data prepared, it can be entered directly into the correction table using the front-panel keypad of the swept CW generator.

softkey

Freq Follow

List Mode sets up

With the list mode feature, you may enter the test frequencies into

a table in any order and specify an offset (power) and/or a dwell time for each frequency. When list mode is enabled, the swept CW generator steps through the list of frequencies in the order entered.

The user flatness correction feature has the capability of copying and entering the frequency list into the correction table. Since the offset in the list mode table is not active during the user flatness correction data entry process, the value of the correction data is determined as if no offset is entered. When user flatness correction and list mode (with offsets) are enabled, the swept CW generator adjusts the output power by an amount equivalent to the sum of the correction data and offset for each test frequency. You must make sure that the resulting power level is still within the ALC range of the swept CW generator.

1-36 Getting Started Advanced

SUEPT

GENERATOR

POUER METER

2iTl-LL

, AND OTHER

B-B

DEVICES ,

-----

-1--

FlATNE!is

I CORRECTED

, OUTPUT

----

PORT

-P~ER%h&OR

I I

DEVICE

UNDER

TEST

Figure 1-19. Creating a User Flatness Array

For this example, refer to menu map 5, POWER.

1. The equipment setup shown in Figure 1-19 assumes that if your setup has an external leveling configuration, the steps necessary

to correctly level have been followed. If you have questions about external leveling, refer to “Externally Leveling the Swept CW

Generator”.

Set up Power Meter

2. Zero and calibrate the power meter/sensor.

3. Connect the power sensor to the point where flatness corrected power is desired.

)

Set up Swept CW Generator Parameters

4. On the swept CW generator, press (PRESET).

5. [POWER LEVEL]

dBm (PO max - Ppath loss>.

Create A Frequency List

6. On the swept CW generator, press FREQUENCY

Select List Menu Enter List Freq

@ 0).

This sets the test port power to

(MENU).

@m.

This enters

5 GHz as the first frequency in the list array. Entering a

frequency automatically sets the offset to 0 dB and the dwell to

10 ms.

8. Enter 18, 13, 11, and 20 GHz to complete this example array.

Getting Started Advanced 1-37

Access User Flatness Correction Menu

9. Press POWER

10.

Select Delete Menu Delete All . This step insures that the

(E).

Select

Fitness

Menu.

flatness array is empty.

11. Press

(El.

Leave the delete menu and return to the previous

soft key menu.

12. Select Copy List This step copies the frequency list into the correction table in sequential order.

13.

Select Freq Follow.

This sets the swept CW generator to CW

frequency mode to facilitate taking correction information. As

you scroll through the correction cells, the swept CW generator produces the corresponding CW frequency at 0 dBm.

14. Select Enter Corr . This

15. Press

[FLTNESS

ON/OFF). This step enables user flatness correction.

allows correction value entry.

16. For 5 GHz, set the appropriate power sensor cal factor on the power meter.

17. Use the swept CW generator rotary knob to adjust for a measurement of 0.00

dBm

on the power meter. Notice that a

correction value is entered at 5 GHz.

18. Use the up arrow key to increment to the next correction cell.

19. For 11 GHz, set the appropriate power sensor cal factor on the power meter.

20. Use the swept CW generator rotary knob to adjust for a measurement of 0.00

dBm

on the power meter.

21. Repeat this sequence of steps until all the frequency points have a correction value entered.

Activate List Mode

22. Press SWEEP

(j).

Select Sweep Mode List .

23. The flatness correction array is ready to be applied to your setup. Disconnect the power meter/sensor. The power produced at the point where the power meter/sensor was disconnected is now calibrated at the frequencies and power level specified above.

1-38 Getting Started Advanced

Swept mm-wave Measurement with Arbitrary Correction Frequencies, Example

The focus of this example is to use user flatness correction to obtain flat power at the output of the HP 83550 series mm-wave source modules. In this case we will use non-sequential correction frequencies in a swept 26.5 to 40 GHz measurement with an HP 83554 source module.

The time it takes for a large quantity of power meter measurements can be long, therefore, we selected non-sequential correction frequencies to target specific points or sections of the measurement range that we assume are more sensitive to power variations. This greatly expedites setting up the user flatness correction table. The amount of interpolated correction points between non-sequential correction frequencies varies. This example uses the HP 437B to automatically enter correction data into the array.

Note

Turn off the swept CW generator before connecting to the source module interface (SMI) cable, or damage may result.

Getting Started Advanced 1-39

WEPT ELI

GENERRTOR

HP 4378

POUER

METER

SUJRCE MODULE

INTERFACE

SUEPT

GENERATOR

FF OUT

IIll-URVE

NICROUAVE

SOURCE

RNPLIFIER

POUER SENSOR

DUT

-m

-------

POWER

HP 4378

flEfER

Creating Arbitrarily Spaced Frequency-Correction Pairs in a Swept mm-wave

l-40 Getting Started Advanced

Figure l-20.

Environment

For this example, refer to menu map 5, POWER.

1. The equipment setup shown in Figure l-20 assumes that you have followed the steps necessary to correctly level the

configuration. If you have questions about external leveling, refer

to “Externally Leveling the Swept CW Generator”.

Set up Power Meter

2. Zero and calibrate the power meter/sensor.

3. Connect the power sensor to test port.

4. Enter and store in the power meter, the power sensor’s cal factors for correction frequencies to be used.

Note

U, V, and W-band power sensors are not available from

Hewlett-Packard. For these frequencies use the Anritsu ML83A Power Meter with the MP715-004 (40 to 60 GHz), the MP716A (50 to 75

the Anritsu model ML83A Power Meter is not capable of internally

storing power sensor cal factors, you must manually correct the data entry. Refer to example 2 for information on manual entry of correction data.

GHz),

Set up Swept CW Generator Parameters

or the

MPSlB

(75 to 110 GHz) power sensors. Since

5. Turn on the swept CW generator and press The following occurs:

The source module’s frequency span is displayed on the swept CW generator. The swept CW generator’s leveling mode is automatically changed from internal to “module leveling.” The source module’s maximum specified power is set and displayed.

6. Press FREQUENCY [START) @ @ 0 @

IGHz).

The frequency sweep is set from 26.5 to 40 GHz.

7. Press (POWER LEVEL) 0

+7 dBm

Access User Flatness Correction Menu

8. Press POWER (MENU). Select Fltness Menu.

Select Delete Menu Delete All. This step insures that the

flatness array is empty.

10. Press (PRIOR). Leave the delete menu and return to the previous soft key menu.

for maximum power to the device under test.

The source module power is set to

(j).

IGHz),

(STOP) @

11. Select Enter Freq @ @ 0 @ the first correction frequency. Enter 31, 32.5, and 40 GHz to complete the list. Notice that the frequencies are arbitrarily spaced.

Enter Correction Data into Array

12.

Select Mtr

is now under swept CW generator control and is performing the sequence of steps necessary to generate the correction information at each frequency point.

If an HP-IB error message is displayed verify that the interface connections are correct. Check the HP-IB address of the power meter and ensure that it is the same address the swept CW

Meas

Menu Measure Corr All . The power meter

(GHz),

to enter 26.5 GHz as

Getting Started Advanced l-41

generator is using (address 13 is assumed). Refer to the menu map 8, System, for the key sequence necessary to reach softkey

Meter

Enable User Flatness Correction

Adrs

13. When the operation is complete, (a message is displayed) the flatness correction array is ready to be applied to your setup.

14. To save the swept CW generator parameters including the correction table in an internal register, press (SAVE)

(n = number 1 through 8).

15. Disconnect the power meter/sensor and press (FLTNESS ON/OFF) (amber LED on). Thep

ower produced at the point where the power meter/sensor was disconnected is now calibrated at the frequencies and power level specified above.

1-42 Getting Started Advanced

Scalar Analysis Measurement with User Flatness Corrections, Example 4

The following example demonstrates how to set up a scalar analysis measurement (using an HP 8757 Scalar Network Analyzer) of a 2 to 20 GHz test device such as, an amplifier. User flatness correction

is used to compensate for power variations at the test port of a

directional bridge. Follow the instructions to set up the swept CW

generator, then configure the system as shown in Figure 1-21.

Note

The swept CW generator’s rear panel language and address switches must be set to 7 and 31 (all l’s), to change the language or address of the swept CW generator from the front panel. The programming language must be set to Analyzer. Refer to menu map 8, System, to find the location of softkey Programming Language Analyzer (asterisk on = active language).

SUEPT

GENERATOR NETUORK RNRLYZER

POUER UETER

RF OUT

SCRLRR

,--JIKf’“““’

-‘-‘;,--ws&GR

EST ‘PORT

Figure l-21. Scalar System Configuration

Getting Started Advanced 1-43

Example Overview

In this example, you use an HP 437B power meter to automatically enter correction data into the array. It is necessary to turn off the HP 8757 System Interface (controlled from the front-panel of the analyzer) so that the swept CW generator can temporarily control the power meter over HP-IB. When the correction data entry process is complete, enable user flatness correction and set the desired test port power level. Then store the correction table and swept CW generator configuration in the same register that contains the analyzer configuration. Re-activate the HP 8757 System Interface and recall the stored register. Make sure that user flatness correction

is still enabled before making the measurement. When an HP 437B power meter is used to automatically enter the

correction data, the correction calibration routine automatically turns off any active modulation, then re-activates the modulation upon the completion of the data entry process. Therefore, the scalar pulse modulation that is automatically enabled in a scalar measurement system is disabled during an HP 437B correction calibration.

Note

The user flatness correction array cannot be stored to a disk. You must make sure that the array is stored in one of the eight internal registers. Recalling a file from an HP 8757 disk will not erase the current array; therefore you may recall an array from an internal register, then recall an associated file from a disk.

For this example, refer to menu map 5, POWER.

1. The equipment setup shown in Figure 1-21 assumes that you have followed the steps necessary to correctly level the configuration. If you have questions about external leveling, refer to “Externally Leveling the Swept CW Generator”.

2. On the analyzer, press [PRESET).

Reset the analyzer and swept

CW generator to a known state.

Set up System Parameters

3. On the swept CW generator, press FREQUENCY

(GHz), -0

(GHzl.

Set the swept CW generator for a

LSTART) @

frequency sweep of 2 to 20 GHz.

4. Press [POWER LEVEL) 0

(dBm).

Where n = maximum available

power.

1-44 Getting Started Advanced

5. On the analyzer, set up the appropriate measurement

(i.e. gain for an amplifier). Calibrate the measurement (thru and short/open calibration). Press

ISAVE) 0

to store the analyzer’s configuration and swept CW generator parameters in storage register 1.

6. Turn off the HP 8757 System Interface. Use the analyzer SYSINTF ON OFF

softkey

found under the SYSTEM menu to

deactivate the system interface.

Access User Flatness Correction Menu

7. On the swept CW generator, press POWER

[MENU).

Select

Fltness Menu.

Select Delete Menu Delete All . This step insures that the

flatness array is empty.

9. Press (PRIOR). Leave the delete menu and return to the previous soft key menu.

10. Select Auto Fill Start

(?J IGHz).

Set the first frequency in

correction table to 2 GHz.

11. Auto Fill Stop @ @

[GHz).

Set the last frequency in

correction table to 20 GHz.

12. Auto Fill

Incr @ @ @

(MHz. Set the frequency increment to

every 100 MHz from 2 to 20 GHz.

Set up Power Meter

13. Zero and calibrate the power meter/sensor.

14. Connect the power sensor to test port.

15. Enter and store in the power meter, the power sensor’s cal factors for correction frequencies to be used.

Enter Correction Data into Array

16. Select Mtr

Meas

Menu Measure Corr All. The power meter

is now under swept CW generator control and is performing the sequence of steps necessary to generate the correction information at each frequency point.

If an HP-IB error message is displayed verify that the interface connections are correct. Check the HP-IB address of the power meter and ensure that it is the same address the swept CW generator is using (address 13 is assumed). Refer to the menu map 8, System, for the key sequence necessary to reach softkey

Meter Adrs .

Getting Started Advanced l-45

Enable User Flatness Correction

17. When the operation is complete, (a message is displayed) the flatness correction array is ready to be applied to your setup.

18. Disconnect the power meter/sensor.

19. On the swept CW generator, press [POWER LEVEL)

0 (dBm).

Where

n = PO max - Ppath

for maximum leveled power at the test

loss

port.

20. To save the swept CW generator parameters including the

correction table in an internal register, press (SAVE)

(n = number 1 through 8).

Reactivate the HP 8757 System Interface

21. Set the analyzer to SYSINTF ON, the analyzer and swept CW generator preset.

22. Press (RECALL) 0. Recall the swept CW generator parameters from storage register 1

23. On the swept CW generator, press (FLTNESS ON/OFF] (amber LED on). The power produced at the point where the power meter/sensor was disconnected is now calibrated at the

frequencies and power level specified above.

1-46 Getting Started Advanced

Using Detector

Calibration

Detector calibration is useful for characterizing and compensating for negative diode detectors used in external leveling. Detectors may be characterized by three operating regions as shown in Figure l-12: the square law, the linear, and the transition region. The following steps use an HP 437B to automatically characterize the operating regions and use this information to automatically compensate for the detector being used. The equipment setup shown in Figure 1-22 assumes that the steps necessary to correctly externally level have been followed.

Refer to menu map 9, USER CAL.

HP-16

/&]

:Kz.iR

POUER

SENSOR

Figure l-22. Automatically Characterizing and Compensating for a Detector

1. Connect the power meter as shown.

2. Zero and calibrate the power meter/sensor.

3. Enter the appropriate power sensor calibration factors into the

power meter.

4. Enable the power meter/sensor cal factor array. For operating information on the HP 437B power meter, refer to its operating and service manual.

5. Connect the power sensor to the output of the coupler

(or splitter).

6. On the swept CW generator, set the power level and start/stop frequency information as desired.

7. Press (USER).

Select Ext

Det

Cal . The power meter is now under swept CW generator control and is performing the sequence of steps necessary to generate the compensation information.

Getting Started Advanced 1-47

If an HP-IB error message is displayed verify that the interface

connections are correct. Check the HP-IB address of the power meter and ensure that it is the same address the swept CW generator is using (address 13 is assumed). Refer to the menu map 8, System, for the key sequence necessary to reach softkey

Meter Adrs.

9. When the operation is complete, (a message is displayed) disconnect the power meter/sensor. The swept CW generator has

stored the compensation information in its memory and is using it to calibrate the detector’s output voltage relative to power.

1-48 Getting Started Advanced

Using the Tracking

Feature

Peaking

Peaking is the function that aligns the output filter (YTM) so that

its

passband

mode. Use peaking to obtain the maximum available power and spectral purity, and best pulse envelopes, at any given frequency above 2.0 GHz. The YTM is inactive for the low band frequencies (10 MHz to 2.0 GHz).

To peak at the present CW frequency:

Press Select Tracking Menu Peak RF Once.

This causes an instantaneous execution of the peaking function. This

is a one-time implementation of the peaking, where the function is

turned on and then turned off. To peak at the present CW frequency, and continue to peak at new

frequencies as they are entered:

Press

Select Tracking Menu Peak RF Always.

If “peak always” is on (denoted by an asterisk next to the key

label) for an extended period of time, the peaking function will

automatically repeak every seven minutes.

is centered on the RF output, in CW or manual-sweep

(USER).

Note

Tracking

Auto track is a more extensive version of peaking. It causes all of the YTM tracking calibration constants to be aligned and requires

approximately 40 to 90 seconds to complete. Tracking is performed

from 2.0 GHz to the end of the specified frequency range.

If the swept CW generator does not have a step attenuator,

terminate the RF OUTPUT with a good as a 10 dB attenuator or a power sensor to prevent mistracking.

To enhance the power output and spectral purity of swept modes, and to improve tracking performance (especially in harsh environments having wide temperature variations):

Press (USER).

Select Tracking Menu Auto Track.

500

impedance match such

Getting Started Advanced 1-49

ALC Bandwidth Selection

The ALC bandwidth defaults at factory preset to the auto selection

ALC Bandwidth Select Auto

bandwidth [high or low) for each application. To make the bandwidth functions are activated and uses the decision tree shown in

Figure l-23.

sel&tion,

Low’

thk swept CW generator determines which

Smrch?

-or-

uat

F~UNlcy?

-or-

SOP

sweep?

Low

which selects the appropriate

High

=-b High BW

Figure l-23. Decision Tree for ALC Bandwidth Selection

l-50 Getting Started Advanced

Using Step Sweep

1. Refer to menu map 2.

2. Press FREQUENCY [MENU).

3. Select

Step Swp Menu.

Select Select Step Points . Enter the number of points desired. Determine the dwell time desired, select Step Dwell and enter

Determine the triggering scheme, select

Step Size.

a value, or choose the dwell time determined by the ramp mode sweep time, select

Enter the desired increment value.

Dwell Coupled.

Step Swp Pt Trig Auto ,

Bus,or

8. Press SWEEP (MENU_).

Select Sweep Mode Step, to activate the step frequency mode.

Ext.

Getting Started Advanced 1-51

Creating and Using a Frequency List

1. Refer to menu map 2.

2. Press FREQUENCY

Select List Menu.

To use the frequency points of a frequency list to create the

frequency portion of the user flatness correction array:

(MENU).

1. Refer to menu map 5.

2. Press POWER

Select

Select Copy List .

Fitness

(=I.

Menu.

1-52 Getting Started Advanced

Using the Security Features

To access the security menu:

1. Refer to menu map 8.

2. Press SYSTEM

Select Security Menu.

(MENU).

Getting Started Advanced

l-53

Changing the Preset Parameters

1. Set up the swept CW generator in the desired operation state to be used as the preset state.

2. Refer to menu map 8.

3. Press SYSTEM (MENU).

Select Save User Preset .

Select Preset Mode User.

Whenever the return to the operation state setup and saved in steps 1 and 4. The swept CW generator displays:

***

USERDEFINEDPRESETRECALLED *** and also gives you the option of selecting the factory preset state by creating a factory preset softkey.

(w]

key is pressed, the swept CW generator will

1-54 Getting Started Advanced

Programming

Getting Started Programming

Modulation Commands

HP-IB, the Hewlett-Packard Interface Bus, is the

instrument communication system between the swept CW generator

and up to 14 other instruments. Any instrument having HP-IB capability can be interfaced to the swept CW generator, including non-HP instruments that have “GPIB,” “IEEE-488,” “ANSI MC1.l,” or “IEC-625” capability (these are common generic terms

for HP-IB; all are electrically equivalent although IEC-625 uses a

unique connector). This portion of the manual specifically describes interfacing the swept CW generator to one type of instrument: a computer.

The first part of this section provides general HP-IB information. Later, the Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments

language (SCPI)

For information on programming in the Control Interface Intermediate Language (CIIL), supplement.

When programming commands relating to modulation are sent to the HP 8360 L-Series swept CW generator, the commands are parsed but no action is taken on the command. Also, no error message is generated.

is introduced, and example programs are given.

refer to a separate option 700 manual

instrument-to-

Getting Started Programming l-55

HP-IB General Information

Interconnecting Cables

Instrument Addresses

HP-18

Instrument

Nomenclature

Figure C-2 shows the swept CW generator rear-panel HP-IB connector and suitable cables, and describes the procedures and

limitations for interconnecting instruments. Cable length restrictions,

also described in Figure C-2, must be observed.

Each instrument in an HP-IB network must have a unique address, ranging in value from 00-30 (d

the swept CW generator is 19, but this can be changed using the

ecimal).

The default address for

My Adrs softkey or rear panel switch as described in the reference

chapter (Chapter 2) under the “8360 Adrs” entry (the examples

in this section use 19 as the address for the swept CW generator).

Other instruments use a variety of procedures for setting the address, as described in their operating manuals, but typically either a rear

panel switch or a front panel code is used.

An HP-IB instrument is categorized as a “listener,” “talker,” or

“controller,”

Listener

A listener is a device capable of receiving data or commands from other instruments. Any number of instruments in the HP-IB network

can be listeners simultaneously.

depending on its current function in the network.

Programming the Swept

CW Generator

Talker

A talker is a device capable of transmitting data or commands to other instruments. To avoid confusion, an HP-IB system allows only one device at a time to be an active talker.

Controller

A controller is an instrument, typically a computer, capable of managing the various HP-IB activities. Only one device at a time can be an active controller.

The swept CW generator can be controlled entirely by a computer

(although the line POWER switch must be operated manually).

Several functions are possible only by computer (remote) control. Computer programming procedures for the swept CW generator involve selecting an HP-IB command statement, then adding the specific swept CW generator (SCPI, Analyzer, or CIIL) programming codes to that statement to achieve the desired operating conditions. The programming codes can be categorized into two groups: those that mimic front panel keystrokes; and those that are unique, and have no front panel equivalent.

l-58 Getting Started Programming

In the programming explanations that follow, specific examples are

included that are written in a generic dialect of the BASIC language.

BASIC was selected because the majority of HP-IB computers have BASIC language capability. However, other languages can also be

used.

HP-IB Command

Statements

Command statements form the nucleus of HP-IB programming; they are understood by all instruments in the network and, when combined with the programming language codes, they provide all management and data communication instructions for the system.

An explanation of the fundamental command statements follows. However, some computers use a slightly different terminology, or support an extended or enhanced version of these commands.

Consider the following explanations as a starting point, but for detailed information consult the BASIC language reference manual, the I/O programming guide, and the HP-IB manual for the particular computer used.

Syntax drawings accompany each statement: All items enclosed by a circle or oval are computer specific terms that must be entered exactly as described; items enclosed in a rectangular box are names of parameters used in the statement; and the arrows indicate a path that generates a valid combination of statement elements.

The seven fundamental command statements are as follows:

Abort

Abort abruptly terminates all listener/talker activity on the interface bus, and prepares all instruments to receive a new command from the controller. Typically, this is an initialization command used to place

the bus in a known starting condition. The syntax is:

interface

select

code

where the interface select code is the computer’s HP-IB I/O port, which is typically port 7. Some BASIC examples:

ABORT7

V>20

100

THEN ABORT 7

Related statements used by some computers: ABORT10 (used by HP-80 series computers) HALT RESET

Getting Started Programming 1-57

Remote

Remote causes an instrument to change from local control to

remote control. In remote control, the front panel keys are disabled

(except for the

(LOCAL)

key and the POWER switch), and the amber

REMOTE annunciator is lighted. The syntax is:

where the device selector is the address of the instrument appended to the HP-IB port number. Typically, the HP-IB port number is 7, and the default address for the swept CW generator is 19, so the device selector is 719. Some BASIC examples:

REMOTE 7

which prepares all HP-IB instruments for remote operation (although nothing appears to happen to the instruments until they are addressed to talk), or

REMOTE 719

which affects the HP-IB instrument located at address 19, or

which

REMOTE719, 721, 726,

effects four instruments

715

have addresses

that

19,

21, 26,

and Related statements used by some computers: RESUME

Local Lockout

Local Lockout can be used in conjunction with REMOTE to disable the front panel (LOCAL) key. With the (LOCAL) key disabled, only the controller (or a hard reset by the POWER switch) can restore local control. The syntax is:

interface

select

code

A BASIC example:

15.

1-58 Getting Started Programming

REMOTE719 LOCAL LOCKOUT 7

Local

Local is the complement to return to local control with

REMOTE, causing an instrument to a fully enabled front panel. The syntax

is:

device

selector

Some BASIC examples:

LOCAL 7

which effects all instruments in the network, or

LOCAL 719

for an addressed instrument (address 19).

Related statements used by some computers: RESUME

Clear

Clear causes all HP-IB instruments, or addressed instruments, to assume a “cleared” condition, with the definition of “cleared” being unique for each device. For the swept CW generator:

1. All pending output-parameter operations are halted.

2. The parser (the software that interprets the programming codes)

is reset, and now expects to receive the first character of a

programming code.

The syntax is:

Getting Started Programming 1-59

Some BASIC examples:

CLEAR 7

to clear all HP-IB instruments, or

CLEAR 719

to clear an addressed instrument. Related statements used by some computers: RESET CONTROL SEND The preceding statements are primarily management commands

that do not incorporate programming codes. The following two statements do incorporate programming codes, and are used for data communication.

Output is used to send function commands and data commands from

the controller to the addressed instrument. The syntax is:

where USING is a secondary command that formats the output in a particular way, such as a binary or ASCII representation of numbers. The USING command is followed by “image items” that precisely define the format of the output; these image items can be a string of code characters, or a reference to a statement line in the computer program. Image items are explained in the programming codes where they are needed. Notice that this syntax is virtually identical to the syntax for the ENTER statement that follows.

l-60 Getting Started Programming

A BASIC example:

devicedevice

selectorselector

100 OUTPUT719;

“programming codes”

The many programming codes for the swept CW generator are listed

in the “SCPI Command Summary” in Chapter 2.

Related statements used by some computers: CONTROL

CONVERT IMAGE IOBUFFER TRANSFER

Enter

Enter is the complement of OUTPUT, and is used to transfer data from the addressed instrument to the controller. The syntax is:

line

number

ENTER is always used in conjunction with OUTPUT, such as:

100

OUTPUT 719;

110

ENTER719;

”

. . . programming codes . . .

‘I

. . . response

data...

‘I

ENTER statements are commonly formatted, which requires the secondary command USING and the appropriate image items. The most-used image items involve end-of-line (EOL) suppression, binary

inputs, and literal inputs. For example:

100 ENTER719USING

suppresses the EOL sequence

"#,B";

A, B, C

and indicates that variables A, B,

(#),

and C are to be filled with binary (B) data. As another example,

100 ENTER719 USING

"t, 123A";

suppresses EOL, and indicates that string variable A$ is to be filled with 123 bytes of literal data (123A).

Getting Started Programming

l-6

Note

Be careful when using byte-counting image specifiers. If the requested number of bytes does not match the actual number available, data might be lost, or the program might enter an endless wait state.

The suppression of the EOL sequence is frequently necessary to prevent a premature termination of the data input. When not specified, the typical EOL termination occurs when an ASCII LF (line feed) is received. However, the LF bit pattern could coincidentally occur randomly in a long string of binary data, where it might cause a false termination. Also, the bit patterns for the ASCII CR (carriage return), comma, or semicolon might cause a false termination. Suppression of the EOL causes the computer to accept all bit patterns as data, not commands, and relies on the HP-IB EOI (end or identify) line for correct end-of-data termination.

Related statements used by some computers:

CONVERT IMAGE IOBUFFER ON TIMEOUT SET TIMEOUT TRANSFER This completes the HP-IB Command Statements subsection. The

following material explains the SCPI programming codes, and shows how they are used with the OUTPUT and ENTER HP-IB command statements.

1-62 Getting Started Programming

Getting Started with SCPI

This section of Chapter 1 describes the use of the Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments language (SCPI). This section explains how to use SCPI commands in general. The

instrument command summary (at the end of this chapter) lists

the specific commands available in your instrument. This section presents only the basics of SCPI. If you want to explore the topic in

greater depth, see the paragraph titled, “Related Documents.”

Definitions of Terms

This section defines most terms when they are first used, you need a general understanding of the terms listed below before you continue.

controller

instrument

program message

response message

A controller is any computer used to communicate with a SCPI instrument. A controller can be a personal computer, a minicomputer, or a plug-in card in a card cage. Some intelligent instruments can also function as controllers.

An instrument is any device that implements SCPI. Most instruments are electronic measurement or stimulus devices, but this is not a requirement. Similarly, most instruments use an HP-IB interface for communication. The same concepts apply regardless of the instrument function or the type of

interface used. A program message is a combination of one

or more properly formatted SCPI commands.

Program messages always go from a controller to an instrument. Program messages tell the instrument how to make measurements and output signals.

A response message is a collection of data in specific

SCPI formats. Response messages always go from an instrument to a controller or listening instrument. Response messages tell the controller about the

internal state of the instrument and about measured

values.

command

query

A command is an instruction in SCPI. You

combine commands to form messages that control

instruments. In general, a command consists of

mnemonics (keywords), parameters, and punctuation. A query is a special type of command. Queries

instruct the instrument to make response data available to the controller. Query mnemonics always end with a question mark.

Getting Started Programming 1-63

Standard Notation

This section uses several forms of notation that have specific meaning.

Command Mnemonics

Many commands have both a long and a short form, and you must use either one or the other (SCPI does not accept a combination of the two). Consider the FREQuency command, for example. The short form is FREQ and the long form is FREQUENCY (this notation style is a shorthand to document both the long and short form of commands). SCPI is not case sensitive, so as FREQUENCY, but FREQ and FREQUENCY are the only valid forms of the FREQuency command.

Angle Brackets

Angle brackets indicate that the word or words enclosed represent something other than themselves. For example, <new line> represents the ASCII character with the decimal value 10. Similarly,

<-END>means

in angle brackets have much more rigidly defined meaning than

words used in ordinary text. For example, this section uses the word “message” to talk about messages generally. But the bracketed words <program message> indicate a precisely defined element of SCPI.

If you need them, you can find the exact definitions of words such as

<program message> in a syntax diagram.

that EOI is asserted on the HP-IB interface. Words

fREquEnCy

is just as valid

How to Use Examples

It is important to understand that programming with SCPI actually requires knowledge of two languages. You must know the programming language of your controller (BASIC, C, Pascal) as well as the language of your instrument (SCPI). The semantic requirements of your controller’s language determine how the SCPI commands and responses are handled in your application.

Command Examples

Command examples look like this:

:FREQuency:CW?

This example tells you to put the string : FREQuency : CW? in the output statement appropriate to your application programming language. If you encounter problems, study the details of how the output statement handles message terminators such as If you are using simple OUTPUT statements in HP BASIC, this is taken care of for you. In HP BASIC, you type:

OUTPUT Source ; ” : FREQuency :

Command examples do not show message terminators because they are used at the end of every program message. “Details of

CW?”

<new

line>.

1-64 Getting Started Programming

Commands and Responses,”

discusses message terminators in more

detail.

Response Examples

Response examples look like this:

1.23

These are the characters you would read from an instrument after sending a query command. To actually pull them from the

instrument into the controller, use the input statement appropriate

to your application programming language. If you have problems,

study the details of how the input statement operates. In particular, investigate how the input statement handles punctuation characters such as comma and semicolon, and how it handles <new

line>

and

EOL.

To enter the previous response in HP BASIC, you type:

ENTER

Source;CW-frequency

Response examples do not show response message terminators because they are always <new line>

<-END>.

These terminators are typically automatically handled by the input statement. The paragraph titled “Details of Commands and Responses” discusses message terminators in more detail.

Getting Started Programming 1-65

Essentials for Beginners

This subsection discusses elementary concepts critical to first-time users of SCPI. Read and understand this subsection before going on to another. This subsection includes the following topics:

Program and Response

Messages

Program and Response Messages

Subsystem Command Trees

Subsystem Command Tables

Reading Instrument Errors

Example Programs

To understand how your instrument and controller communicate using SCPI, you must understand the concepts of program and response messages. Program messages are the formatted data sent

from the controller to the instrument. Conversely, response messages

are the formatted data sent from the instrument to the controller. Program messages contain one or more commands, and response

messages contain one or more responses.

These paragraphs introduce the basic types of messages sent between

instruments and controllers.

These paragraphs describe the tree structure used in subsystem commands.

These paragraphs present the condensed tabular format used for documenting subsystem commands.

These paragraphs explain how to read and print an instrument’s internal

error messages. These paragraphs contain two simple

measurement programs that illustrate basic SCPI programming principles.

The controller may send commands at any time, but the instrument sends responses only when specifically instructed to do so. The special type of command used to instruct the instrument to send a response message is the query. All query mnemonics end with a

question mark. Queries return either measured values or internal instrument settings. Any internal setting that can be programmed with SCPI can also be queried.

Forgiving Listening and Precise Talking

SCPI uses the concept of forgiving listening and precise talking outlined in IEEE 488.2. Forgiving listening means that instruments are very flexible in accepting various command and parameter formats. For example, the swept CW generator accepts either

: POWer : STATe ON or : POWer : STATe 1 to turn RF output on. Precise

talking means that the response format for a particular query is

always the same. For example, if you query the power state when it is on (using :POWer:STATe?), the response is always 1, regardless of whether you previously sent

1-66 Getting Started Programming

:POWer

: STATe 1 or : POWer : STATe ON.

Types of Commands

Commands can be separated into two groups, common commands and subsystem commands. Common commands are generally not measurement related. They are used to manage macros, status registers, synchronization, and data storage. Common commands are easy to recognize because they all begin with an asterisk, such as *IDN?, by IEEE 488.2. Subsystem commands include all measurement

functions and some general purpose functions. Subsystem commands

are distinguished by the colon used between keywords, as in

FREQuency

that roughly corresponds to a functional block inside the instrument. For example, the generation, while the STATUS subsystem contains commands for accessing status registers.

*OPC,

and *RST. Common commands are defined

:CW?. Each command subsystem is a set of commands

POWer

subsystem contains commands for power

SPCI

l-l

Common

Commands

“FIST *IDN?

Figure l-24.

The remaining paragraphs in this subsection discuss subsystem commands in more detail. Remember, some commands are implemented in one instrument and not in another, depending on its measurement function.

SCPI

Command Types

Subsystem

Commands

:MEAS:VOLT?

:FREQ 1KHz

Do75b

Getting Started Programming 1-67

Subsystem Command

Trees

The Command Tree Structure

Most programming tasks involve subsystem commands. SCPI uses a hierarchical structure for subsystem commands similar to the file systems on most computers. In SCPI, this command structure is called a command tree.

root

I I

level 1

rtl

level 2 EE FF GG

Figure l-25. A Simplified Command Tree

In the command tree shown in Figure l-25, the command closest to the top is the root command, or simply the root. Notice that you must follow a particular example, if you wish to access the GG command, you must follow the path

GG.

Paths Through the Command Tree

To access commands in different paths in the command tree, you

must understand how an instrument interprets commands. A special part of the instrument firmware, a parser, decodes each message sent to the instrument. The parser breaks up the message into component commands using a set of rules to determine the command tree path used. The parser keeps track of the current path, the level in the command tree where it expects to find the next command you send. This is important because the same keyword may appear in different paths. The particular path you use determines how the keyword is interpreted. The following rules are used by the parser:

path

to reach lower level subcommands. For

rtl

Power On and Reset

After power is cycled or after root.

n Message Terminators

A message terminator, such as a <new line> character, sets the current path to the root. Many programming languages have output statements that send message terminators automatically. The paragraph titled, discusses message terminators in more detail.

1-68 Getting Started Programming

*RST,

the current path is set to the

“Details of Commands and Responses,”

Colon

When it is between two command mnemonics, a colon moves the current path down one level in the command tree. For example, the colon in

MEAS:VOLT

specifies that VOLT is one level below When the colon is the first character of a command, it specifies that the next command mnemonic is a root level command. For example, the colon in : INIT specifies that

INIT

is a root level

command.

Semicolon

A semicolon separates two commands in the same message without changing the current path.

Whitespace

MEAS.

White space characters, such as <tab> and

<space>,

are generally ignored. There are two important exceptions. White space inside a keyword, such as :FREQ uency, is not allowed. You must use white space to separate parameters from commands. For example, the

<space> between LEVel and 6.2 in the command

POWer

: LEVel 6.2 is mandatory. White space does not affect the

current path.

Commas

If a command requires more than one parameter, you must separate adjacent parameters using a comma. Commas do not affect the current path.

Common Commands

Common commands, such as

*RST,

are not part of any subsystem. An instrument interprets them in the same way, regardless of the current path setting.

Figure l-26 shows examples of how to use the colon and semicolon to navigate efficiently through the command tree.

Getting Started Programming 1-69

;

r-L

:&KC

vu??

:M:BB:EE;FF;GG

:AA:DD:HH;JJ

~~WfT

:AA:BB:EE;

:M:DD:JJ

Figure l-26. Proper Use of the Colon and Semicolon

r-L

In Figure l-26, notice how proper use of the semicolon can save typing.

Sets current path

to ROOT

NO change to

current path

Set current path

DOWN one level

Sending this message:

Is the same as sending these three messages:

l-70 Getting Started Programming

:AA:BB:EE; FF; GG

:AA:BB:EE

:AA:BB:FF

:AA:BB:GG

Subsystem Command

Tables

These paragraphs introduce a more complete, compact way of documenting subsystems using a tabular format. The command table contains more information than just the command hierarchy shown in a graphical tree. In particular, these tables list command parameters for each command and response data formats for queries. To begin this exploration of command tables, consider a simplified SWEep subsystem for the swept CW generator in both the graphical and tabular formats.

SWEep

:SWEep

:DWELl

:AUTO :GENeration :MANual

:POINt

[:RELative]

DWELI

AUTO

GENeration

POlNt

MANuaI

RELative

Figure l-27. Simplified SWEep Command Tree

Table 1-2. SWEep Command Table

Command

Parameters

state

Parameter

BooleanlONCE

Type

Reading the Command Table

Note the three columns in the command table labeled Command,

Parameters, and Parameter Type. Commands closest to the root

level are at the top of the table. Commands in square brackets are implied commands, which are discussed in later paragraphs. If a command requires one or more parameters in addition to the keyword, the parameter names are listed adjacent to the command. Parameters in square brackets are optional parameters, which are discussed in later paragraphs. If the parameter is not in square brackets, it is required and you must send a valid setting for it with

Getting Started Programming 1-71

the matching command. The parameter type is listed adjacent to each named parameter.

More About Commands Query and Event Commands. Because you can query any value that

you can set, the query form of each command is not shown explicitly in the command tables. For example, the presence of the swept CW generator : SWEep :

DWELl

command implies that a : SWEep :

DWELl?

also exists. If you see a table containing a command ending with

a question mark, it is a query only command. Some commands are

ewents,

and cannot be queried. An event has no corresponding

setting if it causes something to happen inside the instrument at a particular instant. For example,

INITiate:

IMMediate causes a certain trigger sequence to initiate. Because it is an event, there is no query form of :

INITiate

IMMediate.

Implied Commands. Implied commands appear in square brackets

in the command table. If you send a subcommand immediately

preceding an implied command, but do not send the implied command, the instrument assumes you intend to use the implied command, and behaves just as if you had sent it. Note that this

means the instrument expects you to include any parameters required by the implied command. The following example illustrates equivalent ways to program the swept CW generator using explicit and implied commands.

Example swept CW generator commands with and without an

implied commands:

: SWEep :

:SWEep:MANual

MANual

: RELat ive 6

using explicit commands

6 using implied commands

Optional Parameters. Optional parameter names are enclosed in square brackets in the command table. If you do not send a value for an optional parameter, the instrument chooses a default value. The instrument’s command dictionary documents the values used for optional parameters.

Program Message Examples

The following parts of the swept CW generator SCPI command set will be used to demonstrate how to create complete SCPI program messages:

:FREQuency

[:CWl

:MULTiplier

: STATE

: POWER

[

: LEVEL]

1-72 Getting Started Programming

Example 1:

“FREQuency : CW 5 GHZ ;

MULTiplier

2”

The command is correct and will not cause errors. It is equivalent to

sending:

“FREQuency : CW 5 GHZ ;: FREQuency :

MULTiplier 2”.

Example 2: “FREQuency 5 GHZ;

MULTiplier 2”

This command results in a command error. The command makes use of the default

[:CW]

node. When using a default node, there is

no change to the current path position. Since there is no command

“MULT” “FREQ

Example 3:

FREQuency : CW 5

at the root, an error results. A correct way to send this is:

5 GHZ; FREQ :MULT 2” or as in example 1.

“FREQuency:MULTiplier

2; MULTiplier:STATE ON;

GHZ”

This command results in a command error. The FREQ:CW portion of the command is missing a leading colon. The path level is dropped at each colon until it is in the FREQ:MULT subsystem. So when the FREQ:CW command is sent, it causes confusion because no such node occurs in the FREQ:MULT subsystem. By adding a leading colon, the current path is reset to the root. The corrected command

is:

“FREQuency:MULTiplier2;

GHZ”.

Example 4:

“FREQ

5 GHZ; POWER 4

MULTiplier:STATE ON; :FREQuency:CW

DBM”

Notice that in this example the keyword short form is used. The

command is correct. It utilizes the default nodes of

[:CW]

and

[:LEVEL]. Since default nodes do not affect the current path, it is

not necessary to use a leading colon before POWER.

Parameter Types

As you saw in the example command table for

SWEep,

there are several types of parameters. The parameter type indicates what kind of values are valid instrument settings. The most commonly used parameter types are numeric, extended numeric, discrete, and Boolean. These common types are discussed briefly in the following paragraphs. The paragraph titled “Details of Commands and Responses” explains all parameter types in greater depth.

Numeric Parameters. Numeric parameters are used in both subsystem commands and common commands. Numeric parameters accept all commonly used decimal representations of numbers

including optional signs, decimal points, and scientific notation. If an instrument accepts only specific numeric values, such as integers, it

automatically rounds numeric parameters to fit its needs.

Getting Started Programming 1-73

Examples of numeric parameters:

100

100.

-1.23

4.56e<space>3

-7.89E-01 +256

Examples of numeric parameters in commands:

100 OUTPUT @Source;": 110 OUTPUT @Source;":

Extended Numeric Parameters.

subsystems use extended numeric parameters to specify physical quantities. Extended numeric parameters accept all numeric parameter values and other special values as well. All extended

numeric parameters accept

special values, such as Up and DOWN may be available as documented

in the instrument’s command summary. Some instruments also let you to send engineering units as suffixes to extended numeric parameters. The SCPI Command Summary lists the suffixes available, if any. Note that extended numeric parameters are not

used for common commands or

no decimal point required

fractional digits optional

leading signs allowed space allowed after e in exponents use either E or e in exponentials leading + allowed digits left of decimal point optional

FREQuency:STARt LIST:FREQuency

Most measurement

MAXimum

and

MINimum

l.OE+09"

lO.Oe+9,le+7"

as values. Other

STATUS subsystem commands.

Examples of extended numeric parameters:

100.

-1.23

any simple numeric values largest valid setting

4.56e<space>3

-7.89E-01

+256

MAX

MIN

Examples of extended numeric parameters in commands:

100 OUTPUT 110 OUTPUT

valid setting nearest negative infinity

OSource;":FREQuency:STOP QSource;":LIST:FREQuency

MAX"

MAX,MIN"

1-74 Getting Started Programming

Agilent 83623L Users Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Notice

Certification

Warranty

Assistance

Safety Notes

General Safety Considerations

PREFACE

Instruments Covered By This Manual

HP 8360 L-Series Documentation

Typeface Conventions

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Compliance with German Noise Requirements

Instrument Markings !

Contents

Getting Started

What Is In This Chapter

How To Use This Chapter

Equipment Used In Examples

Introducing the HP 8360 L-Series Swept CW Generators

Display Area

Entry Area

CW Operation and Start/Stop Frequency Sweep

CW Operation

Power Level and Sweep Time Operation

Power Level Operation

Sweep Time Operation

Marker Operation

Power Sweep Operation

Power Slope Operation

Getting Started Advanced

Externally Leveling the Swept CW Generator

Working with Spectrum Analyzers/Reverse Power Effects

ALC Bandwidth Selection

Using Step Sweep

Creating and Using a Frequency List

Using the Security Features

Changing the Preset Parameters

Getting Started Programming

Modulation Commands

HP-IB General Information

Interconnecting Cables

Instrument Addresses

Getting Started with SCPI

Definitions of Terms

Standard Notation

How to Use Examples

Essentials for Beginners

Program and Response Messages