Agilent 8712ES User Manual

User’s Guide

Agilent Technologies

8712ES and 8714ES

RF Network Analyzers

Part No. 08714-90012

Printed in USA

Print Date: June 2000

Supersedes: October 1999

© Copyright 1998–2000 Agilent Technologies, Inc.

Notice

Softkey

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

Key Conventions

This manual uses the following conventions:

FRONT PANEL KEY

This represents a key physically located on the instrument (a “hardkey”).

This indicates a “softkey,” a key whose label is determined by the
instrument’s firmware, and is displayed on the right side of the
instrument’s screen next to the eight unlabeled keys.

Screen Text

This indicates text displayed on the instrument’s screen.

Safety Information

For safety and regulatory information see Chapter 10, “Safety and

Regulatory Information.” For warranty and assistance information see
Chapter 9, “Specifications.”

Firmware Revision

This manual documents analyzers with firmware revisions E.06.00 and
above.

ii ES User’s Guide

Acknowledgments

Lotus® 1-2-3® are U.S. registered trademarks of Lotus Development
Corporation.

Windows, Word97, and Excel97 are registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corp.

Portions of the software include source code from the Info–ZIP group.
This code is freely available on the Internet by anonymous ftp
asftp.uu.net:/pub/archiving/zip/unzip51/.tar.Z, and from CompuServe
asunz51.zip in the IBMPRO forum, library 10, (data compression).

ES User’s Guide iii

Introducing the Analyzer

The 8712ES and 8714ES are easy-to-use RF network analyzers
optimized for production measurements of S-parameters. The
instrument integrates an RF synthesized source, S-parameter test set,
multi-mode receivers, and display in one compact box.

The source features 1 Hz resolution, 40 ms (or faster) sweep time, and up
to +13 dBm output power.

S-parameter test sets provide the capability to measure reflection and
transmission characteristics of two-port devices in either the forward or
reverse direction with a single connection. RF power can come out of
either the analyzer’s port 1 or port 2, and either port can be connected to
a receiver. S-parameter test sets also allow full two-port (12 term) error
correction, which is the most accurate form available.

The three-channel, dual mode receivers provide dynamic range of
greater than 100 dB in narrowband-detection measurement mode. For
measurements of frequency-translating devices, the network analyzer
features broadband internal detectors and external detector inputs. The
receivers incorporate digital signal processing and microprocessor
control to speed operation and measurement throughput.

Two independent measurement channels and a large display show the
measured results of one or two receiver channels in several
user-selectable formats. An external VGA monitor can be connected to
the rear panel for enhanced measurement viewing in color.

Measurement functions are selected with front panel hardkey and
softkey menus. Measurements can be printed or plotted directly with a
compatible peripheral. Instrument states can be saved to the internal
floppy disk, internal non-volatile memory, or internal volatile memory.
Built-in service diagnostics are available to simplify troubleshooting
procedures.

Measurement calibrations and data averaging provide performance
improvement and flexibility. Measurement calibrations consist of
normalizing data, utilizing the internal factory calibration, or calibrating
with external standards. Measurement calibration reduces errors

iv ES User’s Guide

associated with crosstalk, directivity, source and load match, and
frequency response. Refer to Chapter 9, “Specifications,” for error
correction specifications.

How to Use This Guide

The first 6 chapters of this guide explain how to perform measurements,
calibrate the instrument, and use the most common instrument
functions.

Chapters 7 through 11 are reference material. Use these chapters to look
up information such as front panel features, specific key functions, and
specifications.

ES User’s Guide v

8712ES and 8714ES
Network Analyzer
Documentation Map

The CDROM provides the contents of all of the documents
listed below.

The User’s Guide shows how to make measurements,
explains commonly-used features, and tells you how to get
the most performance from the analyzer.

The LAN Interface User’s Guide Supplement shows
how to use a local area network (LAN) for programming and
remote operation of the analyzer.

The Automating Measurements User’s Guide
Supplement provides information on how to configure and
control test systems for automation of test processes.

The Programmer’s Guide provides programming
information including GPIB and SCPI command references,
as well as short programming examples.

The Example Programs Guide provides a tutorial
introduction using BASIC programming examples to
demonstrate the remote operation of the analyzer

.

vi ES User’s Guide

The Service Guide provides the information needed to
adjust, troubleshoot, repair , and verify analyzer conformance
to published specifications.

The HP Instrument BASIC User’s Handbook describes
programming and interfacing techniques using
HP Instrument BASIC, and includes a language reference.

The HP Instrument BASIC User’s Handbook
Supplement shows how to use HP Instrument BASIC to
program the analyzer.

The Option 100 Fault Location and Structural Return
Loss Measurements User’s Guide Supplement provides
theory and measurement examples for making fault location
and SRL measurements. (Shipped only with Option 100
analyzers.)

The CATV Quick Start Guide provides abbreviated
instructions for testing the quality of coaxial cables.
(Shipped only with Option 100 analyzers.)

The Cellular Antenna Quick Start Guide provides
abbreviated instructions for verifying the performance of
cellular antenna systems. (Shipped only with Option 100
analyzers.)

ES User’s Guide vii

Contents

1. Installing the Analyzer

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Step 1. Check the Shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

Step 2. Meet Electrical and Environmental Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Step 3. Check the Analyzer Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

Step 4. Configure the Analyzer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-10

Connecting Peripherals and Controllers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11

Installing the Analyzer in a Rack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16

Preventive Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

Clean the CRT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

Check the RF Front Panel Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

2. Getting Started

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Front Panel Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Entering Measurement Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4

Presetting the Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

Entering Frequency Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Entering Source Power Level. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Scaling the Measurement Trace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6

Entering the Active Measurement Channel and Type of Measurement. . . . . . . . . . 2-7

Viewing Measurement Channels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8

Performing the Operator's Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Equipment List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Make S21 and S12 Transmission Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

Make a Broadband Power Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Make S11 and S22 Reflection Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14

If the Analyzer Fails the Operator's Check. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

3. Making Measurements

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

The Measurement Display Icon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

Measuring S-Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

Attenuation and Amplification in a Measurement Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11

When to Change the System Impedance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12

Contents-i

Contents

The Typical Measurement Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-13

Using the BEGIN Key to Make Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-14

BEGIN Key Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-15

Using the BEGIN Key to Configure Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-16

AUTOST files. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-18

The User BEGIN Function. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-18

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-19

Enter the Measurement Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-20

Perform a User Two-Port Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-20

View and Interpret the S-Parameter Measurement Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-40

Measuring S21 Forward Transmission using an Enhanced Response Calibration . .3-41

Enter the Measurement Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-42

Perform an Enhanced Response Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-42

Connect the DUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-45

View and Interpret the S21 Measurement Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-46

Measuring S11 Reflection Port 1 using a One-Port Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-48

Enter the Measurement Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-49

Perform a User One-Port Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-49

Connect the DUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-52

View and Interpret the S11 Measurement Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-54

Making a Power Measurement using Broadband Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-56

Enter the Measurement Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-56

Perform a Normalization Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-57

Connect the DUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-58

View and Interpret the Power Measurement Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-59

Measuring Conversion Loss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-61

Enter the Measurement Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-62

Perform a Normalization Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-62

Connect the DUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-64

View and Interpret the Conversion Loss Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-65

Making Measurements with the Auxiliary Input. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-67

Auxiliary Input Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-68

Measuring Group Delay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-69

Enter the Measurement Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-70

Perform a User Two-Port Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-71

Connect the DUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-71

View and Interpret the Group Delay Measurement Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-71

Contents-ii

Contents

Measuring Impedance using the Smith Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-73

Enter the Measurement Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-74

Perform a User Two-Port Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-74

Connect the DUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-75

View and Interpret the Impedance Measurement Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-76

Measuring Impedance Magnitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-80

How the Reflection Measurement Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-80

How the Transmission Measurement Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-81

4. Using Instrument Functions

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Using Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

To Activate Markers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

To Turn Markers Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-6

To Use Marker Search Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7

To Use Marker Math Functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18

To Use Delta (∆) Marker Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24

To Use Other Marker Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26

To Use Polar Format Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27

To Use Smith Chart Markers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27

Using Limit Testing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-28

To Create a Flat Limit Line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29

To Create a Sloping Limit Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-30

To Create a Single Point Limit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-32

To Use Marker Limit Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-32

To Use Relative Limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-36

Other Limit Line Functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-37

Additional Notes on Limit Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-39

Using Reference Tracking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-42

To Track the Peak Point. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-43

To Track a Frequency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-44

Customizing the Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-45

Using the Split Display Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-46

Enabling/Disabling Display Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-47

Modifying Display Annotation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-48

Expanding the Displayed Measurement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-52

Contents-iii

Contents

Using Memory Traces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-55

To Store a Data Trace to the Display Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-55

To View the Measurement Data and Memory Trace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-55

To Divide Measurement Data by the Memory Trace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-56

Saving and Recalling Measurement Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-57

Saving Instrument Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-59

To Recall from a Floppy Disk or Internal Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-62

Other File Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-65

To Use Directory Utilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-67

Formatting a Floppy Disk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-69

Connecting and Configuring Printers and Plotters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-70

Select a Compatible Plotter or Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-70

Select an Appropriate Interface Cable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-71

Connect the Printer or Plotter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-72

Configure the Hardcopy Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-73

Define the Printer or Plotter Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-75

Printing and Plotting Measurement Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-80

To Select the Copy Port. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-80

To Define the Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-81

Using a Keyboard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-85

To Connect the Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-85

To Use the Keyboard to Edit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-86

Front Panel Control using a Keyboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-86

Using an External VGA Monitor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-89

Customizing Color on an External Monitor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-89

Synchronizing and Positioning the Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-91

5. Optimizing Measurements

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-2

Increasing Sweep Speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-3

Select the Appropriate Calibration Type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-3

To Increase the Start Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-4

To Set the Sweep Time to AUTO Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-4

To Widen the System Bandwidth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-4

To Reduce the Amount of Averaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-5

To Reduce the Number of Measurement Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-5

Contents-iv

Contents

To View a Single Measurement Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

To Turn Off Alternate Sweep. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

To Turn Off Markers and Marker Tracking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

To Turn Off Spur Avoidance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8

To Avoid Frequency Bandcrossings by Minimizing the Span (8714ES only) . . . . . . 5-8

Increasing Network Analyzer Dynamic Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

To Increase the Receiver Input Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

To Reduce the Receiver Noise Floor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10

Reducing Trace Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-12

To Activate Averaging for Reducing Trace Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12

To Change System Bandwidth for Reducing Trace Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12

To Eliminate Receiver Spurious Responses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13

Reducing Mismatch Errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15

Reducing Mismatch Errors in a Reflection Measurement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15

Reducing Mismatch Errors in a Transmission Measurement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16

Reducing Mismatch Errors when Measuring Both Reflection and

Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17

Compensating for Phase Shift in Measurement Setups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-18

Port Extensions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-18

Electrical Delay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-20

Measuring Devices with Long Electrical Delay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21

6. Calibrating for Increased Measurement Accuracy

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

Measurement Calibration Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

The Calibration Reference Plane. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

Default versus User-Defined Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

When to Use a Default Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

When to Perform a User-Defined Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8

Calibration Choices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-9

Retrieving Previous User-Defined Calibrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12

Presetting the Analyzer: How Calibration Is Affected. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13

To Perform a Normalization Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-14

To Perform a Transmission Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-15

To Perform a Reflection Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-19

To Perform a Conversion Loss Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-22

Contents-v

Contents

Calibration Kits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-23

Selecting a Calibration Kit Stored in the Analyzer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-23

Creating a User-Defined Calibration Kit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-25

Saving and Recalling the Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-33

Saving the Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-33

Recalling the Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-34

7. Front/Rear Panel

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-2

Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3

BNC Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-4

Multi-pin Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-7

RF Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-15

Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-16

Knob . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-18

Power Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-19

Display Intensity Control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-20

Disk Drive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-21

Line Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-22

Power Cables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-22

The Line Fuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-24

The Voltage Selector Switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-25

8. Hardkey/Softkey Reference

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-2

Numeric Entries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-3

A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-6

B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-12

C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-15

D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-21

E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-28

F. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-31

G . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-36

H . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-39

I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-42

K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-45

Contents-vi

Contents

L . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-46

M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-52

N . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-60

O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-63

P . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-64

R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-69

S . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-75

T . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-89

U . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-94

V . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-97

W. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-99

X . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-100

Y . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-101

Z . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-103

9. Specifications

Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2

System Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3

Test Port Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-23

Test Port Input. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-29

General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-39

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-45

Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-45

Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-47

Data Hardcopy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-47

Automation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-48

Measurement Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-50

Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-53

Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-55

Limitation of Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-56

Exclusive Remedies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-56

Agilent Technologies Sales and Service Offices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-57

Contents-vii

Contents

10. Safety and Regulatory Information

Safety and Regulatory Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2

Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3

Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3

Cautions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-4

Statement of Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-4

Cleaning Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-4

Shipping Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-4

Instrument Markings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-5

Regulatory Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-6

Notice for Germany: Noise Declaration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-6

Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-6

11. Factory Preset State and Memory Allocation

Factory Preset and Peripheral States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-2

Factory Preset State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-2

Peripheral State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-8

Volatile Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-12

Save/Recall Memory Allocation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-13

Types of Storage Disks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-13

Types of Storable Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-15

How to Determine the Size of Disk Files. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-16

Memory Usage Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-18

Contents-viii

1 Installing the Analyzer

ES User’s Guide 1-1

Installing the Analyzer

Introduction

Introduction

This chapter will guide you through the four steps needed to correctly
and safely install your network analyzer. The four steps are:

1. Check the Shipment

2. Meet Electrical and Environmental Requirements

3. Check the Analyzer Operation

4. Configure the Analyzer

1-2 ES User’s Guide

Installing the Analyzer

Step 1. Check the Shipment

Step 1. Check the Shipment

After you have unpacked your instrument, it is recommended that you
keep the packaging materials so they may be used if your instrument
should need to be returned for maintenance or repair.

NOTE The packaging material is designed to protect the analyzer from damage

that can happen during shipping. Returning the analyzer in anything
other than the original packaging may result in non-warranted damage.

Check the items received against the Product Checklist (included in your
shipment) to make sure that you received everything.

Inspect the analyzer and all accessories for any signs of damage that
may have occurred during shipment. If your analyzer or any accessories
appear to be damaged or missing, call your nearest Agilent Technologies
sales or service office. Refer to Table 9-10, “Agilent Technologies Sales

and Service Offices,” in Chapter 9 for the nearest office.

ES User’s Guide 1-3

Installing the Analyzer

Step 2. Meet Electrical and Environmental Requirements

Step 2. Meet Electrical and
Environmental Requirements

1. Set the line voltage selector to the position that corresponds to the ac
power source you will be using.

CAUTION Before switching on this instrument, make sure that the line voltage

selector switch is set to the voltage of the mains supply and the correct
fuse (T 5 A 250 V) is installed. Assure the supply voltage is in the
specified range.

NOTE The working fuse and a spare are located in the power cable receptacle.

See Figure 7-12, “Location of Line Fuses,” in Chapter 7.

Figure 1-1 Voltage Selector Switch Location

1-4 ES User’s Guide

Installing the Analyzer

Step 2. Meet Electrical and Environmental Requirements

2. Ensure the available ac power source meets the following
requirements:

Nominal

Setting

115 V
230 V

If the ac line voltage does not fall within these ranges, an
autotransformer that provides third-wire continuity to ground should
be used.

3. Ensure the operating environment meets the following requirements
for safety:

• indoor use

• altitude up to 15,000 feet (4,572 meters)

• temperature 0 °C to 55 °C

• maximum relative humidity 5 to 95 percent relative at +40 °C

(non-condensing)

CAUTION This product is designed for use in Installation Category II and Pollution

Degree 2 per IEC 1010 and 664 respectively.

NOTE The above requirements are for safety only. Separate conditions that

must be met for specified performance are noted in Chapter 9.

AC Line Power

90 to 132 Vac (47 to 63 Hz)

198 to 264 Vac (47 to 63 Hz)

ES User’s Guide 1-5

Installing the Analyzer

Step 2. Meet Electrical and Environmental Requirements

4. V erify that the power cable is not damaged, and that the power source
outlet provides a protective earth ground contact. Note that the
following illustration depicts only one type of power source outlet.
Refer to Figure 7-11 in Chapter 7 to see the different types of power
cord plugs that can be used with your analyzer.

Figure 1-2 Protective Earth Ground

WARNING 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
product dangerous. Intentional interruption is prohibited.

1-6 ES User’s Guide

Installing the Analyzer

Step 2. Meet Electrical and Environmental Requirements

WARNING If this instrument is to be energized via an external

autotransformer for voltage reduction, make sure that its
common terminal is connected to a neutral (earthed pole) of the
power supply.

5. Install the analyzer so that the detachable power cord is readily
identifiable and is easily reached by the operator. 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 not a
LINE switch. Alternatively, an externally installed switch or circuit
breaker (which is readily identifiable and is easily reached by the
operator) may be used as a disconnecting device.

6. Install the analyzer according to the enclosure protection provided.
This instrument does not protect against the ingress of water. It does
protect against finger access to hazardous parts within the enclosure.

7. Ensure there are at least two inches of clearance around the sides
and back of either the stand-alone analyzer or the system cabinet.

Figure 1-3 Ventilation Clearance Requirements

ES User’s Guide 1-7

Installing the Analyzer

Step 2. Meet Electrical and Environmental Requirements

8. Set up a static-safe workstation. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can
damage or destroy components.

• table mat with earth ground wire:
part number 9300-0797

• wrist-strap cord with 1 Meg Ohm resistor:
part number 9300-0980

• wrist-strap:
part number 9300-1367

• heel straps:
part number 9300-1308

• floor mat

1-8 ES User’s Guide

Installing the Analyzer

Step 3. Check the Analyzer Operation

Step 3. Check the Analyzer Operation

1. Turn on the line switch of the analyzer. After approximately 30
seconds, a display box should appear on the screen with the following
information:

• the model number of your analyzer (either 8712ES or 8714ES)

• the firmware revision

• the serial number of your analyzer

• installed options

2. Verify that the serial number and options displayed on the screen
match the information on the rear panel serial label.

3. The operator's check should be performed on the analyzer to provide a
high degree of confidence that the analyzer is working properly. Refer
to Chapter 2, “Getting Started,” for instructions on how to perform
the operator's check.

ES User’s Guide 1-9

Installing the Analyzer

Step 4. Configure the Analyzer

Step 4. Configure the Analyzer

You can begin making measurements by simply connecting your
analyzer to an appropriate power source and turning it on. This section,
however, will explain how to connect common peripherals and
controllers, and how to install your analyzer into a rack system.

1-10 ES User’s Guide

Installing the Analyzer

Step 4. Configure the Analyzer

Connecting Peripherals and Controllers

Figure 1-4 Analyzer Rear Panel Line Module and Selected Connectors

Refer to Figure 1-4:

• The GPIB port is for use with computers and peripherals (printers,
plotters, etc.).

• The parallel and RS-232 (serial) ports are also for peripherals. The
parallel and serial ports can also be programmed via IBASIC for
general I/O control. See the HP Instrument BASIC User's Handbook
for information on using IBASIC.

ES User’s Guide 1-11

Installing the Analyzer

Step 4. Configure the Analyzer

• The VIDEO OUT COLOR VGA port allows you to connect a color
VGA monitor for enhanced viewing. See “Using an External VGA

Monitor” in Chapter 4 for more information.

• The LAN ETHERTWIST connector is for connecting your analyzer to
a LAN (local area network) for control and access. See The LAN
Interface User’s Guide Supplement for information on how to use your
analyzer in a LAN.

GPIB Connections A GPIB system may be connected in any configuration as long as the

following rules are observed:The total number of devices is less than or
equal to 15.

• The total length of all the cables used is less than or equal to 2 meters
times the number of devices connected together up to an absolute
maximum of 20 meters. For example, the maximum cable length is 4
meters if only 2 devices are involved. The length between adjacent
devices is not critical as long as the overall restriction is met.

See Figure 1-5 for different connection configurations.

1-12 ES User’s Guide

Figure 1-5 GPIB Connection Configurations

Installing the Analyzer

Step 4. Configure the Analyzer

ES User’s Guide 1-13

Installing the Analyzer

Select Copy Port

Select

Print/Plot GPIB Addr

Enter

Select Copy Port

Select

Step 4. Configure the Analyzer

Table 1-1 Maximum GPIB Cable Lengths

Instruments/Peripherals
in System

Two

Fifteen (max)

Parallel and Serial
Connections

Other Connections If you plan to use a keyboard, barcode reader, external video monitor, or

To Set GPIB
Addresses

Parallel and serial devices often require specific cables—check their
manuals for details. Parallel cable length should not exceed 25 feet. The
analyzer may experience problems talking to a printer if this length is
exceeded. Connect the required control cables and secure them. (Tighten
the knurled screws or comparable fasteners.)

external detectors, connect them to the appropriate rear panel
connectors. See Figure 1-4, “Analyzer Rear Panel Line Module and

Selected Connectors.” Also see Chapter 7, “Front/Rear Panel,” for more

information on front and rear panel connectors.
To communicate via GPIB, each external device must have a unique

address and the network analyzer must recognize each address. T o check
or set each external device's actual address, refer to the device's manual
(most addresses are set with switches).The following are examples of
how to check or set the device's recognized address on the network
analyzer:

Maximum GPIB Cable
Length between Each Pair
of Devices

4 m

20 m (total)

Printer: Press . Use the

front panel knob to highlight the line that reads HP
Printer PCL HP-IB. Press . The second line
of the screen displays settings: in this case the address.
The default address is 5, however most printers are
factory set to address 1 (one). To change the recognized
address, press

Plotter: Press . Use the

front panel knob to highlight the line that reads HP
Plotter HPGL HP-IB. Press . The second
line of the screen displays settings: in this case the
address. The default address is 5 and most plotters are
factory set to address 5, so changing the address is

1-14 ES User’s Guide

HARDCOPY

number

.

HARDCOPY

Installing the Analyzer

Print/Plot GPIB Addr

Enter

GPIB

8712ES Address

8714ES Address

Enter

Select Copy Port

Select

Select Copy Port

Select

Select Copy Port

Select

LAN Printr IP Addr

Select Copy Port

Step 4. Configure the Analyzer

probably not necessary. To change the recognized
address, press

.

NOTE Only one hardcopy GPIB address can be set at a time. Changing the

printer address, for example, changes the plotter to the same address.

number

To Configure
Peripheral
Settings

Analyzer: Press ,

network analyzer's address will appear (the default is

16). To change the address, press .

If your system uses serial or parallel peripherals, follow the guidelines
below to configure the system. Refer to the peripheral's manual for
correct cables and settings. The parallel and serial ports have standard
Centronics DB-25 and RS232 pinouts respectively as explained in

Chapter 7.

Serial
Devices: Press . Use the

entry controls to highlight your type of printer or
plotter, and press . If the baud rate or
handshake at the top of the screen are incorrect, use
the softkeys to change them.

Parallel
Devices: Press . Use the

entry controls to highlight your type of printer or
plotter, and press .

LAN
Printer: Press . Use the

entry controls to highlight HP LaserJet PCL5/6
PCL5 LAN, and press . If the printer IP

address at the top of the screen is incorrect, press

SYSTEM OPTIONS

, or . The

number

HARDCOPY

HARDCOPY

HARDCOPY

to enter the correct IP address.

NOTE When is selected, the first two lines in the box at

NOTE Use a PCL5 printer for fastest hardcopies. See “Configure the Hardcopy

the top of the display screen show the current settings.

Port” on page 4-73for more information.

ES User’s Guide 1-15

Installing the Analyzer

Step 4. Configure the Analyzer

Installing the Analyzer in a Rack

Use only the recommended rack mount kit (Option 1CM when ordered
with the analyzer or part number 08712-60036 when ordered separately)
with this instrument; it needs side support rails. Do not attempt to
mount it by the front panel (handles) only. This rack mount kit allows
you to mount the analyzer with or without handles.

To install the network analyzer in an 85043D rack, follow the
instructions in the rack manual.

CAUTION To install the network analyzer in other racks, note that they may

promote shock hazards, overheating, dust contamination, and inferior
system performance. Consult your Agilent customer engineer about
installation, warranty, and support details.

CAUTION VENTILATION REQUIREMENTS: When installing the product 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.

Place other system instruments (computer, printer, plotter) where
convenient, within the GPIB cable length limits (see Table 1-1) or other
interface cabling limits.

1-16 ES User’s Guide

Installing the Analyzer

Preventive Maintenance

Preventive Maintenance

Preventive maintenance consists of two tasks. It should be performed at
least every six months—more often if the instrument is used daily on a
production line or in a harsh environment.

Clean the Display Use a soft cloth and, if necessary, a mild cleaning solution to clean the

display.

Check the RF Front Panel Connectors

Figure 1-6 Maximum and Minimum Protrusion of Center Conductor from

Visually inspect the front panel connectors. The most important
connectors are those to which the DUT is connected, typically the RF
cable end or the PORT 1 and PORT 2 connectors. All connectors should
be clean and the center pins centered. The fingers of female connectors
should be unbroken and uniform in appearance. If you are unsure
whether the connectors are good, gauge the PORT 1 and PORT 2
connectors to confirm that their dimensions are correct.

Mating Plane

ES User’s Guide 1-17

2 Getting Started

ES User’s Guide 2-1

Getting Started

Introduction

Introduction

The 8712ES and 8714ES are easy-to-use, fully integrated RF component
test systems. Each instrument includes a synthesized source, a wide
dynamic range receiver, and a built-in test set. Controls are grouped by
functional block, and settings are displayed on the instrument screen.
This section familiarizes new users with the layout of the front panel and
the process of entering measurement parameters into the analyzer.

Figure 2-1 Network Analyzer Front Panel Features

2-2 ES User’s Guide

Getting Started

Softkeys

Sweep Time

Front Panel Tour

Front Panel Tour

1 The CRT Display The analyzer's large CRT displays data, markers, limit lines, Instrument BASIC

(IBASIC) programming code, softkey menus and measurement parameters quickly and
clearly. Refer to “Display” on page 7-16 in for more information.

2 The key simplifies measurement setups. The key allows quick

BEGIN BEGIN BEGIN

and easy selection of basic measurement parameters for a user-specified class of devices
(e.g., filters, amplifiers, or mixers). For example, when making an S

transmission measurement or an S
Filter as your device type puts the analyzer into narrowband detection mode,

maximizing measurement dynamic range. In comparison, selecting Mixer as your device
type puts the analyzer into broadband detection mode, enabling frequency translation
measurements. This capability allows new users to start making measurements with as
few as four keystrokes.

3 MEAS The measure keys select the measurements for each measurement channel. The

analyzer's measurement capabilities include S11 (reflection port 1), S21 (forward
transmission), S12 (reverse transmission), S22 (reflection port 2), power, conversion loss,
and multiport selection (for use with multiport test sets).

4 SOURCE The source keys select the desired source output signal to the device under test, for

example, selecting source frequency range or output power. The source keys also control
sweep time, number of points, and sweep triggering.

5 CONFIGURE The configure keys control receiver and display parameters. These parameters include

receiver bandwidth and averaging, display scaling and format, marker functions, and
instrument calibration.

6 SYSTEM The system keys control system level functions. These include instrument preset,

save/recall, and hardcopy output. GPIB parameters and IBASIC are also controlled with
these system keys.

7 The Numeric Keypad Use the number keys to enter a specific numeric value for a chosen parameter. Use the

key or the softkeys to terminate the numeric entry with the appropriate

.

8

HARDKEYS

9

ENTER

units. You can also use the front panel knob for making continuous adjustments to
parameter values, while the keys allow you to change values in steps.
Hardkeys are front panel keys physically located on the instrument front panel. In text,

these keys will be represented by the key name with a box around it such as:

PRESET

Softkeys are keys whose labels are determined by the analyzer's firmware. The labels are
on the screen next to the 8 blank keys, which are located along the right edge of the
analyzer’s display. In text, these softkeys will be represented by the key name with

shading behind it such as: .

reverse transmission measurement, selecting

12

forward

21

ES User’s Guide 2-3

Getting Started

42.5

.

Entering Measurement Parameters

Entering Measurement Parameters

This section describes how to input measurement parameter information
into the network analyzer.

NOTE When entering parameters, you can use the numeric key pad, as

described in each example, or you can use the keys or the
front panel knob to enter data.

NOTE When you are instructed to enter numeric values in this manual, it often

can get cluttered and confusing to depict each key stroke. So in this
manual, numbers (no matter how many characters) are depicted inside
one keycap. F or example, if you are instructed to enter the number−42.5,
it will be depicted inside one keycap like this: . To enter this
number , the following keys need to be pressed in succession:

.

5

You can follow along with these examples by connecting the filter and
cable that were supplied with your instrument as shown in Figure 2-2.

−

− 4 2

Figure 2-2 Connect the Filter to the Analyzer

2-4 ES User’s Guide

Getting Started

User Preset

Factory Preset

User Preset

Factory Preset

Entering Measurement Parameters

Presetting the Analyzer

Press the key and then press either or

PRESET

. The key returns the analyzer to
user-defined preset settings you may have saved as file UPRESET.STA.
If this file doesn’t exist, you can create it by following the instructions in
the pop-up message that appears when the key is pressed. When the

key is pressed, the following major default conditions
apply:

Frequency range (8712 ES) 0.3 to 1300 MHz
Frequency range (8714 ES) 0.3 to 3000 MHz
Power level
Measurement Channel 1

1

0 dBm
S21 Forward Transmission

measurement
Measurement Channel 2

Off

measurement
Format Log Magnitude
Number of points 201
Sweep time Auto

NOTE The measurement parameters that you enter will be retained in the

NOTE Refer to Chapter 11, “Factory Preset State and Memory Allocation, ” for a

Scale 10 dB/div
Reference 0 dB
System Bandwidth Medium wide

1. Preset power level can be set to other than 0 dBm if desired.
See “Entering Source Power Level” on page 2-6 for more
information.

analyzer's memory when the power is turned off, and will be restored
when the power is turned back on.

comprehensive table of factory preset conditions.

ES User’s Guide 2-5

Getting Started

Start

MHz

Stop

MHz

Center

Span

Disp Freq Resolution

Level

dBm

Level

1.6

dBm

Pwr Level at Preset

2.5

dBm

Autoscale

Scale/Div

Enter

Reference Position

Enter

Reference Level

Enter

Entering Measurement Parameters

Entering Frequency Range

1. Press the key to access the frequency softkey menu.

FREQ

2. To change the low end of the frequency range to 10 MHz, press

10

.

3. To change the high end of the frequency range to 900 MHz, press

900

.

4. You can also set the frequency range by using the and
softkeys. For instance, if you set the center frequency to

160 MHz and the span to 300 MHz, the resulting frequency range
would be 10 to 310 MHz.

NOTE When entering frequencies, be sure to terminate your numeric entry

with the appropriate softkey to obtain the correct units. If you use the

ENTER

key to terminate a frequency entry, the units default to Hz.

The default displayed frequency resolution is kHz. You can change the
resolution by pressing , and then

FREQ

selecting a new resolution.

Entering Source Power Level

1. Press the key to access the power level softkey menu.

2. To change the power level to 3 dBm, press and or

ENTER

3. To change the power level to −1.6 dBm, press

or .

ENTER

POWER

3

.

−

Scaling the Measurement Trace

4. To change the power level that will always be restored when you

preset the analyzer, press and
or . This entry does not affect the current power level.

ENTER

1. Press the key to access the scale menu.

SCALE

2. To view the complete measurement trace on the display, press

.

3. To change the scale per division to 5 dB/division, press

5

.

4. To move the reference position (indicated by the symbol on the left

side of the display) to the first division down from the top of the
display, press . Figure 2-3 shows

9

how each reference position is identified.

5. To change the reference level to 0 dB, press

0

.

2-6 ES User’s Guide

Figure 2-3 Reference Positions

S21 Fwd Trans

S11 Refl Port1

Getting Started

Entering Measurement Parameters

Entering the Active Measurement Channel and Type of Measurement

The and keys allow you to choose which

MEAS 1 MEAS 2

measurement channels are active, and measurement parameters for the
channels. When a particular measurement channel is selected, its
display is brighter than the other channel, and any changes made to
measurement parameters will affect only the selected measurement
channel. (Some measurement parameters cannot be independently set
on each measurement channel. F or these parameters , both c hannels will
be affected regardless of selected channel status.)

1. To measure S21on measurement channel 1 and S11 on measurement
channel 2, press the following keys:

PRESET MEAS 1
MEAS 2

2. Both channels' measurements are now visible on the analyzer's
display screen. Note that the selected measurement channel's
(channel 2) measurement trace is brighter than the other
measurement channel's trace. Refer to Figure 2-4.

ES User’s Guide 2-7

Getting Started

Meas OFF

More Display

Split Disp FULL split

Entering Measurement Parameters

Figure 2-4 Both Measurement Channels Active

Viewing Measurement Channels

1. To view only the measurement channel 2 S11 measurement, press

MEAS 1

2. To view both measurement channels again, press .

3. To view both measurement channels separately on a split screen,
press . Refer to

Figure 2-5, “Split Display.”

2-8 ES User’s Guide

DISPLAY

.

MEAS 1

Figure 2-5 Split Display

Getting Started

Entering Measurement Parameters

You have now learned how to enter common measurement parameters
and how to manipulate the display for optimum viewing of your
measurement. You can now proceed on to performing the operator's
check, or refer to Chapter 3, “Making Measurements,” for detailed
information on making specific types of measurements.

ES User’s Guide 2-9

Getting Started

Performing the Operator's Check

Performing the Operator's Check

The operator's check should be performed when you receive your
instrument, and any time you wish to have confidence that the analyzer
is working properly. The operator's check does not verify performance to
specifications, but should give you a high degree of confidence that the
instrument is performing properly if it passes.

The operator's check consists of making the following measurements
with the cable that was supplied with your analyzer:

•S21 and S

• broadband power

•S11 and S

•S11 and S22 (with a 50 Ω or 75 Ω load, instead of the cable)

12

22

Equipment List

To perform the operator's check you will need the following:

• A known good cable such as the one that was supplied with your
analyzer. The cable you use should have ≤0.5 dB of insertion loss up
to 1.3 GHz and ≤0.75 dB of insertion loss from 1.3 to 3.0 GHz.

• A known good load (> 40 dB return loss) that matches the test port
impedance of your analyzer such as one from calibration kit
HP/Agilent 85032B/E (50 Ω) or HP/Agilent 85036B/E (75 Ω).

2-10 ES User’s Guide

Getting Started

User Preset

Factory Preset

Enter

dBm

Default Response

Performing the Operator's Check

Make S21 and S12 Transmission Measurements

1. Connect the equipment as shown in Figure 2-6. Use a known good
cable such as the one that was supplied with your analyzer.

NOTE The quality of the cable will affect these measurements; make sure you

use a cable with the characteristics described in “Equipment List.”

Figure 2-6 Equipment Setup for Performing the Operator’s Check

2. Press ( or ). The
instrument is automatically set up for an S21 measurement on
measurement channel 1.

3. Press .

4. Press .

5. Press .

6. Verify that the data trace falls within ±0.5 dB of 0 dB. See Figure 2-7
for a typical 8714ES result. The 8712ES should look similar, but end
at 1300 MHz.

ES User’s Guide 2-11

PRESET

SCALE .1
POWER 0
CAL

Getting Started

S12 Rev Trans

Default Response

Performing the Operator's Check

Figure 2-7 Verify S21 Transmission Measurement

7. Press .

8. Press .

MEAS 1
CAL

9. Verify that the data trace falls within ±0.5 dB of 0 dB. See Figure 2-7
for a typical 8714ES result. (Although this figure is from an S

21

measurement, the results of your S12 measurement should look
similar.) The 8712ES should look similar, but will end at 1300 MHz.

2-12 ES User’s Guide

Getting Started

More

Power

Start

MHz

Enter

dBm

Performing the Operator's Check

Make a Broadband Power Measurement

1. Leave the cable connected to the analyzer as shown in Figure 2-6.

NOTE The quality of the cable will affect these measurements; make sure you

use a cable with the characteristics described in “Equipment List” on

page 2-10.

2. Press

3. Press (unless done in the previous
measurement).

4. V erify that the data trace is within±2 dB of 0 dBm. See Figure 2-8 for
a typical 8714ES result. The 8712ES should look similar, but end at
1300 MHz.

Figure 2-8 Verify Broadband Power Measurement

MEAS 1

SCALE 1

POWER 0

FREQ

.

10

ES User’s Guide 2-13

Getting Started

User Preset

Factory Preset

S11 Refl Port1

Enter

dBm

Default 1-Port

Performing the Operator's Check

Make S11 and S22 Reflection Measurements

1. Leave the cable connected to the analyzer as shown in Figure 2-6.

NOTE The quality of the cable will affect these measurements; make sure you

use a cable with the characteristics described in “Equipment List”.

2. Press ( or )

3. Press

4. Press .

5. Press .

6. Verify that the data trace falls completely below −16 dB. See

Figure 2-9 for a typical 8714ES result. The 8712ES should look

similar, but end at 1300 MHz.

PRESET

.

SCALE 10
POWER 0
CAL

MEAS 1

2-14 ES User’s Guide

Figure 2-9 Verify S11 Reflection Measurement

S22 Refl Port2

Default 1-Port

Getting Started

Performing the Operator's Check

7. Press .

8. Press .

9. Verify that the data trace falls completely below −16 dB. See

Figure 2-9 for a typical 8714ES result. (Although this figure is from

an S11 measurement, the results of your S22 measurement should
look similar.) The 8712ES should look similar, but will end at 1300
MHz.

10.Disconnect the cable and connect a known good load to port 2 as
shown in Figure 2-10.

ES User’s Guide 2-15

MEAS 1
CAL

Getting Started

Reference Level

S11 Refl Port1

Performing the Operator's Check

Figure 2-10 Connect the Load to Port 2

11.Verify that the data trace falls below −30 dB. If the data trace is off
the screen, press and the key
until the trace moves up onto the screen.

SCALE

12.Disconnect the load from port 2 and connect it to port 1 as shown in

Figure 2-11.

Figure 2-11 Connect the Load to Port 1

13.Press .

2-16 ES User’s Guide

MEAS 1

Getting Started

Reference Level

Trigger

Hold

Performing the Operator's Check

14.Verify that the data trace falls below −30 dB. If the data trace is off
the screen, press and the key
until the trace moves up onto the screen.

This concludes the operator's check. However, further confidence can be
obtained by performing the following:

• Measure a known filter to verify that its measured response is the
same as is expected. (A 175 MHz filter is supplied with the analyzer.)
Verify both the frequency accuracy and noise floor.

• Check broadband response with the filter using conversion-loss mode
(same as B*/R*).

• If the analyzer's frequency accuracy is critical for your application,
verify a CW frequency using a frequency counter. Verify to ±.005%
accuracy (for example, ± 2500 Hz at 500 MHz). Ensure that the
analyzer is placed in trigger-hold mode (press

) to measure frequencies.

SCALE

MENU

If the Analyzer Fails the Operator's Check

First, repeat the operator's check using a different cable and load to
eliminate these as a possible cause of failure. If your analyzer does not
meet the criteria in the operator's check, your analyzer may need
adjustment or servicing. Contact any Agilent Technologies sales or
service office for assistance. Refer to Table 9-10, “Agilent Technologies

Sales and Service Offices,” in Chapter 9 for the nearest office. Before

shipping your analyzer, fill out and attach the blue repair tag, located at
the back of the analyzer’s Service Guide.

ES User’s Guide 2-17

3 Making Measurements

ES User’s Guide 3-1

Making Measurements

Introduction

Introduction

This chapter provides an overview of basic network analyzer
measurement theory, a section explaining the typical measurement
sequence, a segment describing the use of the key, and detailed
examples of the following measurements:

• “Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-P ort Calibration” on page 3-20

• “Measuring S21 Forw ard Transmission using an Enhanced Response

Calibration” on page 3-42

• “Measuring S11 Reflection Port 1 using a One-Port Calibration” on

page 3-49

• “Making a Power Measurement using Broadband Detection” on

page 3-57

• “Measuring Conversion Loss” on page 3-62

• “Making Measurements with the Auxiliary Input” on page 3-68

BEGIN

• “Measuring Group Delay” on page 3-70

• “Measuring Impedance using the Smith Chart” on page 3-74

• “Measuring Impedance Magnitude” on page 3-81

3-2 ES User’s Guide

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer

This section provides a basic overview of how the network analyzer
measures devices. The analyzer has an RF signal source that produces
an incident signal that is used as a stimulus to the device under test.
Your device responds by reflecting a portion of the incident signal and
transmitting the remaining signal. If the device is passive, some of the
transmitted signal will be absorbed, indicating a “lossy” device. If the
device is active, the transmitted signal may be amplified, indicating that
the device has gain. Figure 3-1 shows how a device under test (DUT)
responds to an RF source stimulus.

Figure 3-1 DUT Response to an RF Signal

Making Measurements

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer

ES User’s Guide 3-3

Making Measurements

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer

Refer to Figure 3-2, “Simplified Block Diagram,” for the following
discussion regarding detection schemes and modes. The forward
transmitted signal (routed to input B) and the reflected signal (input A)
are measured by comparison to the incident signal. The reverse
transmitted signal (routed to input A) and the reflected signal (input B)
are also measured by comparison to the incident signal. The analyzer
couples off a small portion of the incident signal to use as a reference
signal (routed to input R). Sweeping the source frequencies, the analyzer
measures and displays the response of your test device.

Figure 3-2 Simplified Block Diagram

3-4 ES User’s Guide

This page intentionally left blank.

Making Measurements

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer

ES User’s Guide 3-5

Making Measurements

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer

Refer to Figure 3-3, “Block Diagram,” for the following discussion. The
network analyzer receiver has two signal detection modes:

• broadband detection mode

• narrowband detection modeThere are two internal broadband
detectors: B* and R*. External broadband detectors can also be used
when connected to the X and Y ports on the rear panel of the
analyzer. When the network analyzer is in the broadband detection
mode, it measures the total power of all signals present at these
measurement ports, independent of signal frequency. This enables
the characterization of frequency translation devices such as mixers,
receivers, and tuners, where the RF input and output frequencies are
not the same. Figure 3-3 labels the transmitted signal for broadband
detection input as B*, and the reference signal as R*.

When the network analyzer is in the narrowband detection mode, the
receiver is tuned to the source frequency. This technique provides greater
dynamic range by decreasing the receiver's bandwidth. Figure 3-3 shows
receiver B as the narrowband detection input for the forward
transmitted signal and the reverse reflected signal. Receiver A acts as
the narrowband detection input for the reverse transmitted signal and
the forward reflected signal. Receiver R is shown as the narrowband
detection input for the reference signal.

3-6 ES User’s Guide

Figure 3-3 Block Diagram

Making Measurements

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer

ES User’s Guide 3-7

Making Measurements

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer

The following table shows the correlation between different types of
measurements, input channels and signals.

Measurement Detection Mode

S21 Forw ard Transmission Narrowband B/R transmitted/

S12 Reverse Transmission Narrowband A/R transmitted/

S11 Reflection Port 1 Narrowband A/R reflected/

S22 Reflection Port 2 Narrowband B/R reflected/

Power Broadband B* transmitted Forward
Conversion Loss Broadband B*/R* transmitted/

Input

Detectors

Input

Signals

incident

incident

incident

incident

incident

Source

Direction

Forw ard

Reverse

Forward

Reverse

Forward

The Measurement Display Icon

The measurement display icon, located in the lower right corner of the
analyzer’s display, indicates the signal path direction of the current
measurement. The look of this icon will vary, depending on the type of
measurement, calibration, and sweep time that have been selected. The
following table contains the icons, along with an explanation of each. (If
both measurement channels are active, you may see variations of these
icons.)

3-8 ES User’s Guide

Making Measurements

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer

Measurement

Display Icon

Icon Appears on the Analyzer’s Display
When Measuring:

Any of the four S-parameters (with two-port
calibration) when sweep time is less than 3.0
seconds.

Either of the two forward S-parameters (with
two-port calibration) when sweep time is more
than 3.0 seconds.

Either of the two reverse S-parameters (with
two-port calibration) when sweep time is more
than 3.0 seconds.

S11 (not with two-port calibration) or calibration
standards.

1

S22 (not with two-port calibration) or calibration
standards.

1

S21 or fault location/SRL (not with two-port
calibration), power, conversion loss, or
calibration standards.

1

S12 or fault location/SRL (not with two-port
calibration), or calibration standards.

1

1. When calibration standards are being measured, a “Cx” is displayed
on the annotation line, indicating non-corrected, non-simultaneous
measurements are being made.

ES User’s Guide 3-9

Making Measurements

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer

Measuring S-Parameters

Figure 3-4 Measuring S-Parameters

Refer to Figure 3-4 for the following discussion of S-parameters.
S-parameters are used to completely describe the electrical behavior of a
linear two-port device that operates at high frequencies. An N-port
device has N2 S-parameters. So, a two-port device has four S-parameters .
The numbering convention for S-parameters is that the first number
following the “S” is the port where energy emerges, and the second
number is the port where energy enters. So, S21 is a measure of power
coming out port 2 as a result of applying an RF stimulus to port 1. When
the numbers are the same (e.g., S11), it indicates a reflection
measurement.

3-10 ES User’s Guide

Making Measurements

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer

NOTE When making any type of S-parameter measurement with a two-port

calibration, the analyzer takes both a forward and a reverse sweep while
collecting data.

S11 and S21 are determined by measuring the magnitude and phase of
the incident, reflected, and transmitted signals when the output is
terminated in a perfect Z0 (a load that equals the characteristic
impedance of the test system). This condition guarantees that a2 is zero.
S11 is equivalent to the input complex reflection coefficient or impedance
of the DUT, and S21 is the forward complex transmission coefficient.

Likewise, by placing the source at port 2 and terminating port 1 in a
perfect load (making a1 zero), S22 and S12 measurements can be made.
S22 is equivalent to the output complex reflection coefficient or output
impedance of the DUT, and S12 is the reverse complex transmission
coefficient.

The accuracy of S-parameter measurements depends greatly on how
good a termination we apply to the port not being stimulated. Anything
other than a perfect load will result in a1 or a2 not being zero (which
violates the definition for S-parameters). When the DUT is connected to
the test ports of a network analyzer and you don’t account for imperfect
test port match, you haven’t satisfied the condition of a perfect
termination. For this reason, two-port error correction, which corrects for
source and load match, is very important for accurate S-parameter
measurements (two-port correction is covered in more detail in

Chapter 6, “Calibrating for Increased Measurement Accuracy”).

ES User’s Guide 3-11

Making Measurements

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer

Attenuation and Amplification in a
Measurement Setup

The measurement setup that you use may require attenuation or
amplification. The following sections describe when to use them.

When to Use Attenuation

• For accurate measurements, use external attenuation to limit the
power at the input port to +10 dBm (for narrowband-detection
measurements) or +16 dBm (for broadband-detection measurements).

CAUTION Always use attenuation on the input port if your test device's output

power exceeds the receiver damage limit of +26 dBm or ±30 Vdc.

• For information on how to reduce mismatch errors, see “Reducing

Mismatch Errors” on page 5-15.

When to Use Amplification

• For accurate measurements, amplification may be needed on the
analyzer's output port. Use amplification when your test device
requires input power that exceeds the analyzer's maximum specified
output power.

NOTE If you use an amplifier between the analyzer’s output port and your DUT,

you won’t be able to measure the input match (S11) of your DUT.

The maximum specified output power is dependent upon the option
configuration of your analyzer as well as the frequency range of your
test setup. It ranges from +4 to +13 dBm. See Chapter 9,

“Specifications,” to determine the maximum specified output power of

your analyzer.

3-12 ES User’s Guide

Making Measurements

More Cal

System Z0

50Ω 75

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer

When to Change the System Impedance

Your analyzer has a system characteristic impedance of either 50 or 75
ohms, yet may be changed to the alternate impedance. If using
minimum-loss pads for impedance conversions, the alternate impedance
should be selected so that the measurement results are displayed
relative to the conversion impedance.

For example, if you have a 50 ohm instrument and are making 75 ohm
measurements, you may be using 50 to 75 ohm minimum-loss pads.
Measurement results can be reported relative to 75 ohms, not 50 ohms, if
the alternate system impedance is selected. This includes marker
readouts, Smith chart results, or SRL impedance computations
(Option 100).

To change the system impedance, press the following keys on the
analyzer:

CAL

οr

The built-in cal kit selections will be converted to the selected system
impedance.

ES User’s Guide 3-13

Ω

Making Measurements

Measuring Devices with Your Network Analyzer

The Typical Measurement Sequence

A typical measurement consists of performing four major steps:

Step 1. Enter the
Measurement
Parameters

Step 2. Calibrate
the Analyzer

Step 3. Connect
the Equipment

Step 4. View and
Interpret the
Measurement

The easiest way to set up the analyzer's parameters for a simple
measurement is to use the key. When this key is selected, the
analyzer automatically sets up a generic set of parameters to match the
device type you choose. (See “Using the BEGIN Key to Make

Measurements” next, in this chapter.)

For measurements that require you to enter your own specific
measurement parameters (such as frequency range, source power level,
number of points, and sweeptime), use the instrument’s keys to enter
your selections rather than using the key. See the
measurement examples, located later in this chapter.

Your analyzer can provide highly accurate measurements without
performing any additional user-defined calibrations if certain conditions
are met. Chapter 6, “Calibrating for Increased Measurement Accuracy,”
explains when additional user-defined calibration is necessary.

Connect the DUT and any other required test equipment. See the
measurement examples later in this chapter for typical equipment setup
configurations.

Use the , , and functions to optimize
viewing of the measurement results.

Markers, limit lines, and hard copies of the display are common means of
interpreting measurement results.

SCALE DISPLAY FORMAT

BEGIN

BEGIN

See Chapter 4, “Using Instrument Functions,” for detailed information
on using instrument functions to view and interpret your measurements.

3-14 ES User’s Guide

Using the BEGIN Key to Make Measurements

Figure 3-5 The BEGIN Key

Making Measurements

Using the BEGIN Key to Make Measurements

The key allows you to quickly and easily configure the analyzer

BEGIN

(from the condition) to measure the following:

• amplifiers

• filters

• broadband passive devices (a cable, for example)

• mixers

• cable fault location and structural return loss (Option 100 only)
Configuring basic measurements from the key helps you

ensure correct instrument setup. The analyzer guides you through the
initial steps and configures itself for the device type you select.

ES User’s Guide 3-15

PRESET

BEGIN

Making Measurements

Using the BEGIN Key to Make Measurements

BEGIN Key Overview

The key sets up a generic instrument state for the testing of

BEGIN

various types of devices.
The key has two different behaviors, depending on whether

BEGIN

you are selecting a new device type, or a new measurement type.

Selecting a New
Device

Selecting a New
Measurement

When you use the key to select a new device type and
measurement, the analyzer does the following:

• presets the analyzer (except for external reference parameters, and
trigger mode)

• takes a sweep

• autoscales the measurement

• places a marker on the maximum or minimum point (depending on
the type of measurement)

• makes the marker active

• modifies the sweep time (Option 100 only)

See Table 3-1, “Measurement Configurations from the BEGIN Key,” for a
table of parameters for each measurement type.

Once you have selected your device, you can use the softkeys to select the
measurement you wish to make. When you select a new measurement, a
preset is not done. It is assumed that you are simply changing
measurement types and that you may have already changed some of the
analyzer's parameters (such as frequency, power, etc.) for your DUT. In
this situation, you would probably not want these parameters changed
for subsequent measurements.

BEGIN

NOTE If the new measurement selected is a broadband measurement such as

power, or conversion loss, the start frequency is limited to at least
10 MHz. Therefore, if your customized setup contains a start frequency
below 10 MHz and you choose power, or conversion loss, the start
frequency will be changed to 10 MHz. The stop frequency will remain
unchanged, unless it was set to below 10 MHz.

The BEGIN Key
and Measurement
Channels

The key is designed to work when measurement channel 1 is

BEGIN

active. However, it does change the mode of measurement channel 2 as
well.

3-16 ES User’s Guide

Making Measurements

User Preset

Factory Preset

S11 Refl Port1

S21 Fwd Trans

S12 Rev Trans

S22 Refl Port2

Amplifier

Filter

Broadband Passive

Mixer

Power

Power

Amplifier

Conversion Loss

Conversion Loss

Mixer

SRL

SRL

Cable

Using the BEGIN Key to Make Measurements

If measurement channel 2 is active when the key is used to
select a new device type, measurement channel 2 is turned off, and
measurement channel 1 is made active.

If measurement channel 2 is active when the key is used to
select a new measurement type, measurement channel 2 will be left on
and active. However, the analyzer then proceeds to set up channel 1 for
the requested measurement type, even though channel 2 is the active
channel.

BEGIN

BEGIN

Using the BEGIN Key to Configure
Measurements

This procedure shows you how to configure the network analyzer for
measurements.

1. Press ( or ). Presetting
the instruments puts it into a known state with predefined
parameters.

2. Press and then use a softkey to select the type of device that
you will be measuring (amplifier, filter, broadband passive device,
mixer, or cable—Option 100 only).

3. Connect your test device to the network analyzer.

4. Use the softkeys to select the type of measurement you want to make:

PRESET

BEGIN

• Press , , , or

if you want to measure a particular

S-parameter. (S-parameter selections are under the ,

, , and menus.)

• Press if you want to measure the RF power of a device.

(The selection is under the menu.)

• Press if you want to measure the conversion

loss of a device. (The selection is under the

menu.)

• Press (Option 100 only) if you want to measure the

structural return loss of a cable. (The selection is under the

menu.)

ES User’s Guide 3-17

Making Measurements

Fault Location

Fault Location

Cable

SRL

Fault Location

Using the BEGIN Key to Make Measurements

• Press (Option 100 only) if you want to measure
the cable fault location. (The selection is under
the menu.)

Depending on your selection, the analyzer is set to one of the following
configurations. (The and configurations are
discussed in the Option 100 User's Guide Supplement.)

Table 3-1 Measurement Configurations from the BEGIN Key

Frequency
Range
(8712ES)

Frequency
Range
(8714ES)

Measurement
Channel 1

Detection
Mode

Measurement
Paths

S11 Refl Port 1 S21 Fwd Trans S12 Rev Trans S22 Refl Port 2

0.300 MHz to
1300 MHz

0.300 MHz to
3000 MHz

S

11

Narrowband Narrowband Narrowband Narrowband Broadband

A/R B/R A/R B/R B* B*/R*

0.300 MHz to
1300 MHz

0.300 MHz to
3000 MHz

S

21

0.300 MHz to
1300 MHz

0.300 MHz to
3000 MHz

S

12

0.300 MHz to
1300 MHz

0.300 MHz to
3000 MHz

S

22

Power

10 MHz to
1300 MHz

10 MHz to
3000 MHz

Power Conversion

Internal

Conversion

Loss

10 MHz to
1300 MHz

10 MHz to
3000 MHz

Loss
Broadband

Internal

The following measurement configurations apply to all of the
measurement types in the previous table:

Power Level Factory preset or user preset

power level

Measurement
Channel 2

Off

Format Log Mag

1

Number of Points 201
Sweep Time Mode Auto
Sweep Triggering Continuous
Averaging Off
System Bandwidth Medium Wide

1. Factory preset power level is user-defined by using the “Pwr
Level at Preset” softkey. The factory default is 0 dBm.

3-18 ES User’s Guide

Making Measurements

Autost

User BEGIN

User BEGIN

Recall Program

User BEGIN on OFF

User BEGIN

User BEGIN

User BEGIN

User BEGIN

Using the BEGIN Key to Make Measurements

AUTOST files

When the analyzer's power is turned on, it first checks for an IBASIC
autostart file (AUTOSTART.BAS) on the non-volatile RAM disk and then
on the 3.5” disk. If found, the file is loaded and run. This feature
simplifies the task of turning on an automated test station at the
beginning of a working day or test session. To manually load and run an
autostart file, press .

BEGIN

The User BEGIN Function

The softkey gives you the capability to redefine the

BEGIN

key to define macros such as:

• softkeys to implement fast save/recall

• softkeys to implement most-used functions or features

• softkeys to implement often-used features that involve a number of

Macros must be defined with an IBASIC program. If no
program is currently installed (either by AUTOST or

program.

key menu and install user-defined macro functions. Use this

steps

), the analyzer will automatically create a default

selects the key menu to "user" mode

when on, and to normal operation when off.
Once you have changed the mode to on, the same menu

will be displayed for subsequent key presses of the hardkey.
(This is not true if your IBASIC program has changed. If the program
has changed, the mode is reset to off.)

Use of the function does not restrict access to any
normally available instrument feature (such as marker functions), nor
does this key affect sweep update rates.

Refer to the IBASIC example programs provided on the Example
Programs Disk for implementation requirements. Keystroke recording
may be used to modify or update programs.

See the Automating Measurements User’s Guide Supplement for more
information.

ES User’s Guide 3-19

BEGIN

BEGIN

Making Measurements

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

Measuring S-Parameters using a
Two-Port Calibration

This section describes how to perform a two-port calibration. Once done,
this calibration can be used with all types of S-parameter measurements.
It should be noted that other types of error correction, though not as
accurate as a two-port calibration, allow faster measurement speed.
Therefore, if measurement speed is of more importance than highest
accuracy, you may want to use a different type of error correction than
the two-port calibration. See the table below for a list of all possible
calibration choices for S-parameter measurements.

TIP An optimum calibration is critical for achieving best measurement

accuracy. Refer to Chapter 6, “Calibrating for Increased Measurement

Accuracy,” for detailed information about all of the various aspects of

calibration.

Table 3-2 Calibration Choices for S-Parameter Measurements

Measurement Type Calibration Choices

S11 Refl Port 1 or
S22 Refl Port 2

S21 Fwd Trans or
S12 Rev Trans

3-20 ES User’s Guide

Default 1-Port
Default 2-Port
User 1-Port
User 2-Port

Default Response
Default 2-Port
User Response:

Response
Response & Isolation

Enhanced Response
User 2-Port
Normalize

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

User Preset

Factory Preset

Enter the Measurement Parameters

1. Press the following keys on the analyzer:

Making Measurements

PRESET

2. Press the softkey for any type of S-parameter measurement.

NOTE This example measurement uses the default instrument parameters for

the S-parameter measurement you selected. If your particular
measurement requires different parameters (such as frequency range,
source power level, number of data points, and sweeptime), enter them
now.

( or )

MEAS 1

Perform a User Two-Port Calibration

This example describes how to perform a two-port calibration. This
calibration uses known standards to correct for directivity, source match,
load match, and frequency response errors when using narrowband
detection. To correct for errors caused by crosstalk, refer to the definition
of a user two-port calibration in Chapter 6.

When you perform a two-port calibration, the analyzer performs
correction at each data point across the selected frequency band. The
default number of data points per sweep is 201, but you can select any
number between 3 and 1601. Interpolation recalculates the error
correction array for reduced frequency spans. If the frequency span is
increased, the calibration is invalidated and the default two-port
calibration is automatically restored.

To perform a two-port calibration, you will need one of the following
calibration kits depending on the nominal impedance of your analyzer:

ES User’s Guide 3-21

Making Measurements

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

Cal Kit Model

Number

85039B 75 Ω type-F ✓✓
85036B 75 Ω type-N ✓✓
85036E 75 Ω type-N ✓
85032B 50 Ω type-N ✓✓
85032E 50 Ω type-N ✓

85031B 50 Ω APC-7 N/A N/A
85033D 50 Ω 3.5 mm ✓✓
85038A 50 Ω 7-16 ✓✓
85038F 50 Ω 7-16 ✓

85038M 50 Ω 7-16 ✓

Impedance

Connector

Type

For Use
with Male
Test Ports

For Use

with Female

Test Ports

NOTE By convention, cal kit labels in the analyzer indicate the sex of the port

with which they are used. For example, the default cal kit for the
analyzer is type-N female because the front panel RF ports are female
(the calibration standards, in turn, have male connectors).

Calibrating for Insertable Devices

When measuring a through-standard during calibration, the test ports
normally mate directly together. For example, two cables with the
appropriate connectors can be connected directly without a
through-adapter, resulting in a zero-length through-standard. An
insertable device is a device that can be inserted in place of a zero-length
through-standard. It has the same type of connector on each port, but
with a different sex, or the same type of sexless connector on each port
(APC-7, for example).

3-22 ES User’s Guide

Making Measurements

More Cal

Cal Kit

Type-N(m)

Prior Menu

Prior Menu

User 2-Port

User 2-Port

Isolation on OFF

Measure Standard

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

Chapter 6 provides detail about when a user-defined calibration is

necessary, and information about other calibrations available for
S-parameter measurements. If you wish to perform a two-port
calibration on your insertable device, execute the following steps:

1. Select calibration kits for both ports: since port 1 will use the default
calibration kit (female type-N), this selection is already made for you.
For port 2, press and use the front
panel knob or the keys to highlight Port 2 in the
display’s table. Press .

2. Press . If
you want to correct for crosstalk errors, toggle the

refer to the definition of a user two-port calibration in Chapter 6).

3. When the instrument prompts you to connect a through cable, insert
a cable with type-N(m) connectors between port 1 and port 2 as
shown in the Figure 3-6. Press . When done,
disconnect the cable from port 1 but leave it connected to port 2.

4. The instrument prompts you to connect three standards (open, short,
and load) to port 1 as shown in the graphic on the next page.

CAL

key ON (for more information about isolation,

Figure 3-6 Through-Cable Connection

ES User’s Guide 3-23

Making Measurements

Measure Standard

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

Port 1: Open, Short, Load Connections Port 2: Open, Short, Load Connections

NOTE Changing sweep frequencies (and other source parameters) may affect

5. Press after connecting each standard.

6. Next, the instrument prompts you to connect three standards (open,
short, and load) to port 2. Instead of connecting the standards directly
to port 2, connect them to the open end of the cable. This end of the
cable will become the calibrated port 2 for measurements. See the
graphic above.

7. The analyzer will measure each standard and then calculate new
calibration coefficients. The message "Calibration complete."
will appear for a few seconds when the analyzer is done calculating
the new error correction array.

your calibration. See Chapter 6 for more information.

3-24 ES User’s Guide

Making Measurements

Autoscale

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

Connect the DUT.

Figure 3-7 Equipment Setup for an S-Parameter Measurement of an

Insertable Two-Port Device

View and Interpret the S-Parameter Measurement
Results.

1. To view the entire measurement trace on the display, press

2. To interpret the measurement, refer to other S-parameter
measurement examples later in this chapter.

ES User’s Guide 3-25

SCALE

Making Measurements

More Cal

Cal Kit

Type-N(m)

Type-N(m)

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

Calibrating for Noninsertable Devices

A noninsertable device is one that cannot be inserted in place of a
zero-length through-standard. It has the same connectors on each port
(type and sex) or has a different type of connector on each port (SMA on
one port, and type-N on the other, for example). The following two
calibration methods are available for noninsertable devices:

• swap equal adapters

• modify the calibration kit definition of the through standard

Method A: Swap Equal Adapters.

In the following example, the noninsertable device is type-N , with female
input and output connectors.

With this method, you use two precision matched adapters which are
“equal.” To be equal, the adapters must have the same match,
characteristic impedance (Z0), insertion loss, and electrical delay. The
adapters in most HP/Agilent calibration kits have matched electrical
lengths, even if the physical lengths appear different.

NOTE For analyzers with 50 ohm input impedance only: in the 50 ohm type-N

calibration kit (85032B), there are four equal adapters: two APC-7 to
type-N(f), and two APC-7 to type-N(m). To create adapter A in the
following example, connect an APC-7-to-type-N(f) adapter with an APC-7
to type-N(m) adapter. To create adapter B, connect two APC-7 to
type-N(m) adapters.

NOTE By convention, cal kit labels in the analyzer indicate the sex of the port

with which they are used. For example, the default cal kit for the
analyzer is type-N female because the front panel RF ports are female
(the calibration standards, in turn, have male connectors).

1. Connect a test cable with type-N(m) connectors to port 2.

2. To select calibration kits for both ports, press
, and use the front panel knob or the keys to

highlight Port 1 in the display’s table. Press . Now,
highlight Port 2 and again press .

3. Connect adapter A (type-N(m) to type-N(f)) to port 1.

3-26 ES User’s Guide

CAL

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

Prior Menu

Prior Menu

User 2-Port

User 2-Port

Isolation on OFF

Measure Standard

4. Press . If
you want to correct for crosstalk errors, toggle the

key ON (for more information about isolation,

refer to the definition of a user two-port calibration in Chapter 6).

5. When the instrument prompts you to connect a through cable,
connect the port 2 test cable to adapter A on port 1 as shown in

Figure 3-8. Press .

Figure 3-8 Through-Cable Connection

Making Measurements

ES User’s Guide 3-27

Making Measurements

Measure Standard

Measure Standard

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

Port 1: Open, Short, Load Connections Port 2: Open, Short, Load Connections

6. Remove adapter A, and place adapter B (type-N(m) to type-N(m)) on
port 1. Adapter B becomes the effective test port.

7. When the instrument prompts you, connect three standards (open,
short, and load) to adapter B—as shown in the above graphic.

8. Press after connecting each standard.

9. When the instrument prompts you, connect three standards (open,
short, and load) to the port 2 cable—as shown in the above graphic.

10.Press after connecting each standard.

11.The analyzer will measure each standard and then calculate the new
calibration coefficients. The message "Calibration complete."
will appear for a few seconds when the analyzer is done calculating
the new error correction array.

3-28 ES User’s Guide

Making Measurements

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

NOTE Changing sweep frequencies (and other source parameters) may affect

your calibration. See Chapter 6 for more information.

Connect the DUT.

12.Measure the test device with adapter B in place as shown in

Figure 3-9.

Figure 3-9 Equipment Setup for an S-Parameter Measurement of a

Noninsertable Two-Port Device

ES User’s Guide 3-29

Making Measurements

User Preset

Factory Preset

More Cal

Cal Kit

Type-N(m)

S22 Refl Port2

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

Method B: Modify the Calibration Kit Definition of the
Through Standard.

With this method, it is only necessary to use one adapter. The calibration
kit through-standard definition is modified to compensate for the
adapter and then saved as a user kit. However, the electrical delay of the
adapter must first be found. Two examples of this method will be
described: in example #1, the noninsertable device’s input and output
connectors are the same, and in example #2, the connectors are different.

NOTE By convention, cal kit labels in the analyzer indicate the sex of the port

with which they are used. For example, the default cal kit for the
analyzer is type-N female because the front panel RF ports are female
(the calibration standards, in turn, have male connectors).

EXAMPLE #1: the noninsertable device has type-N female input
and output connectors.

NOTE For analyzers with 50 ohm input impedance only: in the 50 ohm type-N

calibration kit (85032B), there are four equal adapters: two
APC-7-to-type-N(f), and two APC-7-to-type-N(m). To create the adapter
in the following example, connect two APC-7-to-type-N(f) adapters.

1. Connect a test cable with type-N(m) connectors to the analyzer’s
port 1.

2. Connect a test cable with type-N(m) connectors to the analyzer’s
port 2.

3. To select a calibration kit for port 2, press (
or ) , and use the
front panel knob or the keys to highlight Port 2 in the
display’s table. Press .

4. Press . Perform a one-port reflection
calibration using type-N(f) standards on the type-N(m) open-end of
the port 2 cable. Refer to “Perform a User One-Port Calibration” on

page 3-50.

5. Connect the type-N female-to-female adapter to the type-N(m) open­end of the port 2 cable.

6. Add a type-N(m) short to the open end of the adapter as shown in

Figure 3-10.

3-30 ES User’s Guide

MEAS 1

CAL

PRESET

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

Delay

2:

Marker Functions

Marker Math

Statistics

More Cal

Cal Kit

Type-N(f)

Figure 3-10 Port 2: Short Connection to the Adapter

Making Measurements

7. Select the delay format for your measurement by pressing

FORMAT

8. Press to automatically select marker 1 as the active
marker. Position marker 1 to the left edge of the measurement trace.

9. Press to select marker 2 as the active marker. Position marker 2
to the right edge of the measurement trace.

10.Press . Find the
mean value, located in the upper right corner of the display.

11.Divide the mean value by 2. Record this value for use later in the
procedure.

12.Select a type-N(f) calibration kit for port 2. This is necessary because
the type-N(m) short (connected to the adapter on port 2) is a
component in a type-N(f) calibration kit. Press

highlight Port 2 in the display’s table. Press .

ES User’s Guide 3-31

MARKER

, and use the front panel knob or the keys to

.

CAL

Making Measurements

Operating Parameters

Next Screen

More Cal

Cal Kit

Type-N(m)

More Cal

Cal Kit

Modify Type-N(m)

Thru

Delay

Prior Menu

Mod Kit SaveRecall

Save

Add Kit Description

Select Char

Enter

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

13.Determine the offset delay of the calibration short:

• Press

SYSTEM OPTIONS

• Press until the Cal Kit screen is displayed. In the
“CAL KIT: Port 2,” display, find the numeric value for the delay of
the short.

14.Subtract this value from the value calculated in Step 11. This
corresponds to the delay of the adapter.

15.Remove the short from the adapter.

16.Reselect a type-N(m) calibration kit for port 2. This is necessary
because the type-N(m) short has been removed from the adapter.
Press , and use the front panel knob or

CAL

the keys to highlight Port 2 in the display’s table. Press

.

17.Modify the calibration kit definition of the through-standard by
entering the electrical delay of the adapter. To do so:

• Press

CAL

. Enter the delay value with the keypad and softkeys.

18.Save (and automatically assign) the modified cal kit buffer as a
user-defined cal kit for port 2. To do so:

• Press . Use the front panel

knob or the keys to highlight the desired User Kit in
the display’s table. (In this example, highlight Cal Kit A.) Press

.

If you want to enter a cal kit description in the display’s table,
press . Use a keyboard connected to the
analyzer’s DIN KEYBOARD connector to enter the description.
(If you don’t have a keyboard, you can use the analyzer’s

keys or the front panel knob and the
key to select and enter characters from the top of the analyzer’s
display. Press when done.)

3-32 ES User’s Guide

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

Prior Menu

More Cal Kits

User Cal Kit A

Prior Menu

User 2-Port

User 2-Port

Isolation on OFF

Measure Standard

19.Assign User Cal Kit A to port 1. (This User Cal Kit is assigned to both
port 1 and port 2 since these ports are connected with the same
adapter during the calibration.) To do so:

• Press . Use the front panel knob or the

keys to highlight Port 1 in the display’s table. Press

20.Start the calibration process by pressing until the
Reflection Cal menu is displayed. Next, press

. If you want to correct for crosstalk errors, toggle ON
the key. (For more information about isolation,
refer to the definition of a user two-port calibration in Chapter 6.)

21.When the instrument prompts you to connect a through cable, insert
the female-to-female adapter between the test cables connected to
port 1 and port 2 as shown in Figure 3-11. Press

.

Figure 3-11 Through-Cable Connection

Making Measurements

.

22.Remove the adapter between the test cables connected to port 1 and
port 2.

ES User’s Guide 3-33

Making Measurements

Measure Standard

Measure Standard

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

23.When the instrument prompts you, connect three standards (open,
short, and load) to the port 1 test cable as shown in the graphic on the
following page.

24.Press after connecting each standard.

Port 1: Open, Short, Load Connections Port 2: Open, Short, Load Connections

25.When the instrument prompts you, connect three standards (open,
short, and load) to the port 2 test cable—as shown in the graphic
above.

26.Press after connecting each standard.

27.The analyzer will measure each standard and then calculate new
calibration coefficients. The message "Calibration complete."
will appear for a few seconds when the analyzer is done calculating
the new error correction array.

3-34 ES User’s Guide

Making Measurements

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

NOTE Changing sweep frequencies (and other source parameters) may affect

your calibration. See Chapter 6 for more information.

Connect the DUT.

28.Measure the test device using the setup shown in Figure 3-12.

Figure 3-12 Equipment Setup for an S-Parameter Measurement of a

Type-N(f) Two-Port Noninsertable Device

ES User’s Guide 3-35

Making Measurements

User Preset

Factory Preset

More Cal

Cal Kit

3.5 mm

Type-N(m)

S22 Refl Port2

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

EXAMPLE #2: the noninsertable device has a 3.5 mm(f) input
connector, and a type-N(f) output connector.

NOTE For analyzers with 50 ohm input impedance only: in the 50 ohm type-N

calibration kit (85032B), select the APC-7-to-type-N(f) adapter and in the

3.5 mm calibration kit (85033D), select the APC-7-to-3.5 mm(f) adapter.

Connect these two adapters to create the type-N-to-3.5 mm
female-to-female adapter in the following example.

1. Connect a test cable with 3.5 mm(m) connectors to the analyzer’s
port 1. (This example assumes a type-N(m)-to-3.5 mm(f) adapter is
connected directly to the analyzer’s port 1.)

2. Connect a test cable with type-N(m) connectors to the analyzer’s
port 2.

3. Press ( or )

4. Select the proper calibration kits for each port:

• For port 1, use the front panel knob or the keys to

• For port 2, use the front panel knob or the keys to

5. Press . Perform a one-port reflection
calibration using type-N(f) standards on the type-N(m) open-end of
the port 2 test cable. Refer to “Perform a User One-Port Calibration”

on page 3-50.

6. Connect the type-N-to-3.5 mm female-to-female adapter to the
type-N(m) open-end of the port 2 test cable.

7. Add a 3.5 mm short to the open end of the adapter as shown in Figure

3-13.

PRESET

.

highlight Port 1 in the display’s table. Press .

highlight Port 2 in the display’s table. Press .

MEAS 1

CAL

3-36 ES User’s Guide

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

Delay

2:

Marker Functions

Marker Math

Statistics

Operating Parameters

Next Screen

Figure 3-13 Port 2: Short Connection to the Adapter

Making Measurements

8. Select the delay format for your measurement by pressing

FORMAT

9. Press to automatically select marker 1 as the active
marker. Position marker 1 to the left edge of the measurement trace.

10.Press to select marker 2 as the active marker. Position marker 2
to the right edge of the measurement trace.

11.Press . Find the
mean value, located in the upper-right corner of the display.

12.Divide the mean value by 2. Record this value for use later in the
procedure.

13.Determine the offset delay of the calibration short:

• Press .

• Press until the Cal Kit screen is displayed. In the

ES User’s Guide 3-37

MARKER

SYSTEM OPTIONS

“CAL KIT: Port 1,” display, find the numeric value for the delay of
the short. (This Port 1 heading is appropriate because the 3.5 mm
short used in Step 7 is from the calibration kit assigned to port 1.)

.

Making Measurements

More Cal

Cal Kit

Modify 3.5 mm

Thru

Delay

Prior Menu

Mod Kit SaveRecall

Save

Add Kit Description

Select Char

Enter

More Cal

Cal Kit

Modify Type-N(m)

Thru

Delay

Prior Menu

Mod Kit SaveRecall

Save

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

14.Subtract this value from the value calculated in Step 12. This
corresponds to the delay of the adapter.

15.Remove the short from the adapter.

16.Modify the Port 1 calibration kit definition of the through-standard by
entering the electrical delay of the female-to-female adapter. To do so:

•Press and use the front panel knob or

CAL

the keys to highlight Port 1 in the display’s table.
Press . Enter the delay value with
the keypad and softkeys.

17.Save (and automatically assign) the modified cal kit buffer as a
user-defined cal kit for port 1. To do so:

• Press . Use the front panel

knob or the keys to highlight the desired User Kit in
the display’s table. (In this example, highlight Cal Kit A.) Press

.

If you want to enter a cal kit description in the display’s table,
press . Use a keyboard connected to the
analyzer’s DIN KEYBOARD connector to enter the description.
(If you don’t have a keyboard, you can use the analyzer’s

keys or the front panel knob and the
key to select and enter characters from the top of the analyzer’s
display. Press when done.)

18.Modify the Port 2 calibration kit definition of the through-standard by
entering the electrical delay of the female-to-female adapter. To do so:

•Press and use the front panel knob or

CAL

the keys to highlight Port 2 in the display’s table.
Press . Enter the delay value
with the keypad and softkeys.

19.Save (and automatically assign) the modified cal kit buffer as a
user-defined cal kit for port 2. To do so:

• Press . Use the front panel

knob or the keys to highlight the desired User Kit in
the display’s table. (In this example, highlight Cal Kit B.) Press

.

3-38 ES User’s Guide

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

Add Kit Description

Select Char

Enter

Prior Menu

User 2-Port

User 2-Port

Isolation on OFF

Measure Standard

If you want to enter a cal kit description in the display’s table,
press . Use a keyboard connected to the
analyzer’s DIN KEYBOARD connector to enter the description.
(If you don’t have a keyboard, you can use the analyzer’s

keys or the front panel knob and the
key to select and enter characters from the top of the analyzer’s
display. Press when done.)

20.Start the calibration process by pressing until the
Reflection Cal menu is displayed. Next, press

. If you want to correct for crosstalk errors, toggle ON
the key (for more information about isolation,
refer to the definition of a user two-port calibration in Chapter 6).

21.When the instrument prompts you to connect a through cable, insert
the type-N-to-3.5 mm female-to-female adapter between the test
cables connected to port 1 and port 2 as shown in Figure 3-14. Press

.

Figure 3-14 Through-Cable Connection

Making Measurements

22.Remove the adapter between the test cables connected to port 1 and
port 2.

ES User’s Guide 3-39

Making Measurements

Measure Standard

Measure Standard

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

23.When the instrument prompts you, connect three 3.5 mm standards
(open, short, and load) to the port 1 test cable as shown in the graphic
on the following page.

24.Press after connecting each standard.

Port 1: Open, Short, Load Connections Port 2: Open, Short, Load Connections

25.When the instrument prompts you, connect three type-N standards
(open, short, and load) to the port 2 test cable—as shown in the
graphic above.

26.Press after connecting each standard.

27.The analyzer will measure each standard and then calculate new
calibration coefficients. The message "Calibration complete."
will appear for a few seconds when the analyzer is done calculating
the new error correction array.

3-40 ES User’s Guide

Making Measurements

Autoscale

Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-Port Calibration

NOTE Changing sweep frequencies (and other source parameters) may affect

your calibration. See Chapter 6 for more information.

Connect the DUT.

28.Measure the test device using the setup shown in Figure 3-15.

Figure 3-15 Equipment Setup for an S-Parameter Measurement of a

Type-N(f)-to-3.5 mm(f) Two-Port Noninsertable Device

View and Interpret the S-Parameter Measurement Results

1. To view the entire measurement trace on the display, press

.

2. To interpret the measurement, refer to other S-parameter
measurement examples later in this chapter.

ES User’s Guide 3-41

SCALE

Making Measurements

Measuring S21 Forward Transmission using an Enhanced Response Calibration

Measuring S21 Forward
Transmission using an Enhanced

Response Calibration

This section uses an example measurement to describe how to calibrate
for and make an S21 measurement. The same general concepts apply for
an S12 measurement. This example uses an enhanced response
calibration, but other calibration choices are also available. For example,
a two-port calibration, explained earlier in this chapter, could be used for
this measurement. Although the two-port calibration is the most
accurate form of error correction, it results in a slower measurement
speed than when using other calibrations. See the table below for a list of
all possible calibration choices for S21 or S12 measurements.

TIP An optimum calibration is critical for achieving best measurement

accuracy. Refer to Chapter 6, “Calibrating for Increased Measurement

Accuracy,” for detailed information about all of the various aspects of

calibration.

Table 3-3 Calibration Choices for S21 and S12 Measurements

Measurement Type Calibration Choices

S21 Fwd Trans or
S12 Rev Trans

In this example, an insertable bandpass filter like the one that was
supplied with your network analyzer is used.

3-42 ES User’s Guide

Default Response
Default 2-Port
User Response:

Response
Response & Isolation

Enhanced Response
User 2-Port
Normalize

Making Measurements

User Preset

Factory Preset

Measuring S21 Forward Transmission using an Enhanced Response Calibration

Enter the Measurement Parameters

Press ( or ) on the analyzer
to set the analyzer to the default mode which includes measuring S21 on
measurement channel 1.

NOTE This example measurement uses the default instrument parameters for

an S21 measurement. If your particular measurement requires different
parameters (such as frequency range, source power level, number of data
points, and sweeptime), enter them now.

PRESET

Perform an Enhanced Response Calibration

An enhanced response calibration uses known standards to correct for
source match and frequency response errors when using narrowband
detection. When you perform an enhanced transmission response
calibration, the analyzer performs correction at each data point across
the selected frequency band. The default number of data points per
sweep is 201, but you can select any number between 3 and 1601.
Interpolation recalculates the error correction array for reduced
frequency spans. If the frequency span is increased, the calibration is
invalidated, and the default response calibration is automatically
restored.

ES User’s Guide 3-43

Making Measurements

More Cal

Cal Kit

Measuring S21 Forward Transmission using an Enhanced Response Calibration

To perform an enhanced transmission response calibration, you will need
one of the following calibration kits depending on the nominal impedance
of your analyzer:

Cal Kit Model

Number

85039B 75 Ω type-F ✓✓
85036B 75 Ω type-N ✓✓
85036E 75 Ω type-N ✓
85032B 50 Ω type-N ✓✓
85032E 50 Ω type-N ✓
85031B 50 Ω APC-7 N/A N/A
85033D 50 Ω 3.5 mm ✓✓
85038A 50 Ω 7-16 ✓✓
85038F 50 Ω 7-16 ✓

85038M 50 Ω 7-16 ✓

Impedance

Connector

Type

For Use
with Male
Test Ports

For Use

with Female

Test Ports

NOTE By convention, cal kit labels in the analyzer indicate the sex of the port

NOTE If you are going to be using calibration standards other than the default

with which they are used. For example, the default cal kit for the
analyzer is type-N female because the front panel RF ports are female
(the calibration standards, in turn, have male connectors).

(female type-N), you must select a calibration kit to match the port(s) at
your calibration reference plane. Do this by pressing

and then selecting the appropriate type.

3-44 ES User’s Guide

CAL

Making Measurements

User Response

Enhanced Response

Measure Standard

Measuring S21 Forward Transmission using an Enhanced Response Calibration

Calibrating for Insertable Devices

When doing a through-standard calibration, normally the test ports
mate directly together. For example, two cables with the appropriate
connectors can be connected directly without a through adapter,
resulting in a zero-length through-standard. An insertable device is a
device that can be inserted in place of a zero-length through-standard. It
has the same type of connector on each port, but with a different sex, or
the same type of sexless connector on each port (APC-7, for example).

Chapter 6 provides detail about when a user-defined calibration is

necessary, and information about other calibrations available for S
measurements. If you wish to perform an enhanced response calibration
on your instrument for an S21 measurement, execute the following steps:

21

1. Press .

2. The instrument prompts you to connect four standards—open, short,
load, and through cable—as shown in the following graphic.

Open, Short, Load Connections Through Cable Connection

CAL

3. Press after connecting each standard.

ES User’s Guide 3-45

Making Measurements

Enhanced Response

User 2-Port

Measuring S21 Forward Transmission using an Enhanced Response Calibration

4. The analyzer will measure each standard and then calculate the new
calibration coefficients. The message "Calibration complete."
will appear for a few seconds when the analyzer is done calculating
the new error correction array.

NOTE Changing sweep frequencies (and other source parameters) may affect

your calibration. See Chapter 6 for more information.

Calibrating for Noninsertable Devices

A non-insertable device is one that cannot be inserted in place of a
zero-length through-standard. It has the same connectors on each port
(type and sex) or has a different type of connector on each port (SMA on
one port, and Type-N on the other, for example). To review two methods
of calibration for non-insertable devices, refer to the previous section

“Measuring S-Parameters using a Two-P ort Calibration” on page 3-20. In

both methods, you will need to select from the
calibration menu instead of .

Connect the DUT

Figure 3-16 Equipment Setup for an S21 Measurement

3-46 ES User’s Guide

Making Measurements

Autoscale

Marker Search

Max Search

Mkr−> Max

Measuring S21 Forward Transmission using an Enhanced Response Calibration

View and Interpret the S21 Measurement Results

1. To view the entire measurement trace on the display, press
.

2. To interpret the measurement, refer to Figure 3-17, “Example of an

S21 Measurement Display,” or your analyzer's display if you are

making this measurement on your instrument.
a. The values shown on the horizontal axis are the frequencies in

MHz. The values shown on the vertical axis are the power ratios
in decibels (dB) of the transmitted signal through the device
divided by the incident power. To display the result in logarithmic
magnitude format (designated by "Log Mag" at the top of the
measurement screen), the analyzer computes the measurement
trace using the following formula:

P

trans



Transmission dB() 10 log

where P
where P

b. A level of 0 dB would indicate a perfect through cable or device (no

loss or gain). Values greater than 0 dB indicate that the DUT has
gain. Values less than 0 dB indicate loss.

3. To quickly determine the filter's minimum insertion loss, press

MARKER

= the power transmitted through the device and

trans

= the incident power.

inc

=

------------- -



P

inc

SCALE

.

4. Note the marker readout in Figure 3-17 provides the frequency and

amplitude of the minimum insertion-loss point.

ES User’s Guide 3-47

Making Measurements

Measuring S21 Forward Transmission using an Enhanced Response Calibration

Figure 3-17 Example of an S21 Measurement Display

5. See “Using Markers” on page 4-3 in for more detailed information on
using markers to interpret measurements.

NOTE For the measurement to be valid, input signals must fall within the

dynamic range of the analyzer. See Chapter 5, “Optimizing

Measurements,” for techniques to increase the dynamic range of the

analyzer.

3-48 ES User’s Guide

Making Measurements

Measuring S11 Reflection Port 1 using a One-Port Calibration

Measuring S11 Reflection Port 1 using a
One-Port Calibration

This section uses an example measurement to describe how to calibrate
for and make an S11 measurement. The same general concepts apply for
an S22 measurement. This example uses a one-port reflection calibration,
but a two-port calibration, explained earlier in this chapter, could also be
used for this measurement. Although the two-port calibration is the most
accurate form of error correction for a two-port device, it results in a
slower measurement speed. See the table below for a list of all possible
calibration choices for S11 or S22 measurements.

TIP An optimum calibration is critical for achieving best measurement

accuracy. Refer to Chapter 6, “Calibrating for Increased Measurement

Accuracy,” for detailed information about all of the various aspects of

calibration.

Table 3-4 Calibration Types for S11 and S22 Measurements

Measurement Type Calibration Choices

S11 Refl Port 1 or
S22 Refl Port 2

In this example, a bandpass filter like the one that was supplied with
your network analyzer is used.

ES User’s Guide 3-49

Default 1-Port
Default 2-Port
User 1-Port
User 2-Port

Making Measurements

User Preset

Factory Preset

S11 Refl Port1

Measuring S11 Reflection Port 1 using a One-Port Calibration

Enter the Measurement Parameters

Press the following keys on the analyzer:

PRESET

( or )

MEAS 1

NOTE This example measurement uses the default instrument parameters for

an S11 measurement. If your particular reflection measurement requires
different parameters (such as frequency range, source power level,
number of data points, and sweep time), enter them now.

Perform a User One-Port Calibration

This example describes how to perform a one-port reflection calibration.
A one-port reflection calibration uses known standards to correct for
directivity, source match, and frequency response errors when using
narrowband detection. When you perform a one-port reflection
calibration, the analyzer performs correction at each data point across
the selected frequency band. The default number of data points per
sweep is 201, but you can select any number between 3 and 1601.
Interpolation recalculates the error correction array for reduced
frequency spans. If the frequency span is increased the calibration is
invalidated, and the default one-port calibration is automatically
restored.

3-50 ES User’s Guide

Making Measurements

More Cal

Cal Kit

Measuring S11 Reflection Port 1 using a One-Port Calibration

To perform a one-port calibration you will need one of the following
calibration kits depending on the nominal impedance of your analyzer:

Cal Kit Model

Number

85039B 75 Ω type-F ✓✓
85036B 75 Ω type-N ✓✓
85036E 75 Ω type-N ✓
85032B 50 Ω type-N ✓✓
85032E 50 Ω type-N ✓
85031B 50 Ω APC-7 N/A N/A
85033D 50 Ω 3.5 mm ✓✓
85038A 50 Ω 7-16 ✓✓
85038F 50 Ω 7-16 ✓

85038M 50 Ω 7-16 ✓

Impedance

Connector

Type

For Use
with Male
Test Ports

For Use

with Female

Test Ports

NOTE By convention, cal kit labels in the analyzer indicate the sex of the port

with which they are used. For example, the default cal kit for the
analyzer is type-N female because the front panel RF ports are female
(the calibration standards, in turn, have male connectors).

NOTE If you are going to be using calibration standards other than the default

(female type-N), you must select a calibration kit to match the port(s) at
your calibration reference plane. Do this by pressing

and then selecting the appropriate type.

ES User’s Guide 3-51

CAL