Agilent E4406A Users Guide

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User’s Guide

Agilent Technologies E4406A VSA Series

Transmitter Tester

Manufacturing Part Number: E4406-90130

Printed in USA

February 2000

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

Agilent Technologiesmakesnowarrantyofanykindwithregard 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.

Safety Information

The following safety notes are used throughout this manual. Familiarize yourself with these notes before operating this instrument.

WARNING Warning denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure

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

CAUTION Caution denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a procedure that, if not

correctly performed or adhered to, could result in damage to or destruction of the instrument. Do not proceed beyond a caution sign until the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

WARNING This is a Safety Class 1 Product (provided with a protective

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

WARNING No operator serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to

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

CAUTION Always use the three-prong AC power cord supplied with this product.

Failure to ensure adequate grounding may cause product damage.

Warranty

This Agilent Technologies instrument product is warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a period of three years from date of shipment. During the warranty period, Agilent Technologies will, at its option, either repair or replace products that prove to be defective.

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

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

LIMITATION OF WARRANTY

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

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

EXCLUSIVE REMEDIES

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

1. Getting Started

What Comes with the E4406A VSA Series Transmitter Tester . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

URL for the Latest VSA Transmitter Tester Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Understanding Digital Communications Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Updating the Firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

How to Make a Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Front Panel Key Maps of Context Dependency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Front Panel Description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Rear Panel Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Display Annotation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Installing Optional

Measurement Personalities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Available Personality Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

License Key Numbers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39

Installing a License Key Number. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Using the Uninstall Key. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

Cables for Connecting to the Serial Port

(RS-232) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Safety Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Instrument Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

Instrument Operation and Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

2. Using System Features

Using System Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Install and Uninstall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Key Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Using I/O, Front and Rear Panel Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Conﬁguring I/O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Using Alignment & Conﬁguration Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Alignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Restore Sys Defaults. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Show Errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Show System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

System (Local). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Using File and Save Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Loading a State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Saving a State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Using the Alpha Editor Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Using Printers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Selecting a Type of Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73

How to Print . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

How to Save a Screen Image to a Floppy Disc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

3. Setting the Mode

Selecting a Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Mode Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Input Keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Contents

Trigger Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79

Selecting the Frequency/Channel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80

4. Making Measurements

Basic Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82

Preparing for Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

Initial Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

Using Measure Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

Measurement Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84

Measurement Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84

Changing the View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87

Using Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89

Making the Spectrum (Frequency Domain) Measurement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91

Measurement Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91

Making the Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91

Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91

Changing the Measurement Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93

Changing the View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97

Using the Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97

Troubleshooting Hints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98

Making the Waveform (Time Domain) Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99

Measurement Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99

Making the Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99

Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100

Changing the Measurement Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101

Changing the View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104

Using the Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104

Troubleshooting Hints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105

Making the Channel Power Measurement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106

Measurement Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106

Making the Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106

Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107

Changing the Measurement Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108

Changing the Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109

Troubleshooting Hints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110

Making the Adjacent Channel Power (ACP) Measurement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111

Measurement Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111

Making the Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112

Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112

Changing the Measurement Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114

Changing the View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118

Troubleshooting Hints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119

Service Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120

Making the Power vs. Time Measurement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121

Contents

Measurement Method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Making the Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

Changing the Measurement Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Changing the View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

Timebase Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Measurement Method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Test Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126

50 MHz Amplitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Measurement Method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Test Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Measurement Method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Test Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Front Panel Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Test Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

Troubleshooting Hints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

5. Functional Testing

What You'll Find in This Chapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

What Are the Functional Tests?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Functional Test Versus Performance Veriﬁcation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Before You Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Test Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Equipment Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Test Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

Frequency Response (Flatness). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Test Limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Test Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Required Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Amplitude Accuracy at 50 MHz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Test Limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Test Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Required Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

Input Attenuator Accuracy at 50 MHz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

Test Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

Test Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

Required Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

Contents

Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .148

Displayed Average Noise Level (DANL). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151

Test Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151

Test Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151

Required Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151

Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152

Phase Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154

Test Limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154

Test Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154

Required Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155

Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155

Residual Responses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160

Test Limits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160

Test Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160

Required Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160

Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160

6. If You Have a Problem

Problem Symptoms and Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .166

Key or Feature Does Not Appear in Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .166

Frequency Unlock or External Reference Missing - Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167

LAN External Loopback Test Failed - Error Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167

Instrument Fails Alignment - Error Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167

Measurement Keys Do Not Appear after Pressing the Mode Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .168

Instrument Power-On Problem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .168

LAN Communication Problem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .168

Error Queues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .169

Front Panel Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .169

SCPI Remote Interface Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .172

Clearing the Error Queue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173

No Error . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173

Error Message Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .174

Messages with No Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .174

Query Error Messages

[−499 to −400] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175

Device-Speciﬁc Error Messages

[−399 to −300] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177

Execution Error Messages

[−299 to −200] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179

Command Error Messages

[−199 to −100] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186

Instrument-Speciﬁc Error Messages

[positive numbers] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .191

Core-Speciﬁc Error Messages

[1 to 99] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .191

GSM-Speciﬁc Error Messages

[100 to 199] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .195

CDMA-Speciﬁc Error Messages

[200 to 299] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .197

Contents

NADC-Speciﬁc Error Messages

[300 to 399] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198

PDC-Speciﬁc Error Messages

[400 to 499] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199

Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200

Returning Your Instrument to Agilent Technologies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201

Blue Repair Tag goes here. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203

7. Options and Accessories

Options and Measurement Personalities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206

Option BAH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206

Option BAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206

Option BAE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206

Option HN1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206

Option BAF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206

Option B78. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206

Option 300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206

Option 0B1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207

Option 0BV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207

Option 0BW. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207

Option 1CM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207

Option 1CN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207

Option 1CP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207

Option 1CR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207

VSA Transmitter Tester Measurement Personalities Retroﬁt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208

Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209

AC Probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209

Broadband Preampliﬁers and Power Ampliﬁers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209

GPIB Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209

Parallel Interface Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209

Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209

RS-232 Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210

N2714A Calibration and Adjustment Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210

Support Documentation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211

Contents

List of Key Descriptions

10 MHz Out............................................................................................................................................64

50 MHz Amplitude...............................................................................................................................127

50 MHz Amptd.....................................................................................................................................127

50 MHz Ref.............................................................................................................................................77

Abs Limit..............................................................................................................................................116

Absolute................................................................................................................................................116

ADC Dither ..........................................................................................................................................103

ADC Range.............................................................................................................................................95

Adjacent Channel Power.....................................................................................................................112

Advanced................................................................................................................................................84

Align 50 MHz Reference........................................................................................................................66

Align ADC ..............................................................................................................................................66

Align All Now.........................................................................................................................................66

Align Current IF Flatness.....................................................................................................................67

Align Current SysGain..........................................................................................................................67

Align IF...................................................................................................................................................66

Align RF .................................................................................................................................................66

Align Subsystem....................................................................................................................................66

Alignments.............................................................................................................................................65

Alpha Editor...........................................................................................................................................72

Auto Align ..............................................................................................................................................66

Auto Peak...............................................................................................................................................95

Auto Trig ................................................................................................................................................79

Auto ........................................................................................................................................................95

AutoPeakLock........................................................................................................................................96

Average...................................................................................................................................................85

Avg Bursts..............................................................................................................................................85

Avg Mode................................................................................................................................................85

Avg Number...........................................................................................................................................85

Avg Type.................................................................................................................................................86

Band Power............................................................................................................................................90

Bar Graph.............................................................................................................................................118

Basic .......................................................................................................................................................76

Blackman Harris....................................................................................................................................95

Blackman................................................................................................................................................95

Burst.....................................................................................................................................................124

cdmaOne.................................................................................................................................................76

Chan Pwr Span....................................................................................................................................108

Channel Power.....................................................................................................................................106

Clear Error Queue(s).............................................................................................................................69

Conﬁg I/O ...............................................................................................................................................62

Corrections.............................................................................................................................................67

Current...................................................................................................................................................87

Data Packing..........................................................................................................................................96

Data Points...........................................................................................................................................109

Decimation ...........................................................................................................................................103

Delay.......................................................................................................................................................79

Delta.......................................................................................................................................................90

Diagnostics.............................................................................................................................................70

List of Key Descriptions

Emulated GPIB Address........................................................................................................................63

Emulated GPIB Logical Unit ................................................................................................................63

Emulated GPIB Name...........................................................................................................................63

ESC.........................................................................................................................................................65

Ethernet Addr ........................................................................................................................................63

Exit Main Firmware ..............................................................................................................................38

Ext Atten ..............................................................................................................................................110

Ext Front ................................................................................................................................................80

Ext Rear..................................................................................................................................................80

Fail........................................................................................................................................................116

FFT Length ............................................................................................................................................95

FFT Size .................................................................................................................................................95

FFT Window...........................................................................................................................................95

File Location...........................................................................................................................................73

File System.............................................................................................................................................63

File Type.................................................................................................................................................73

Flat Top...................................................................................................................................................95

Frame Timer...........................................................................................................................................80

Frame......................................................................................................................................................86

Free Run.................................................................................................................................................86

Freq Ref..................................................................................................................................................64

Front Panel Test...................................................................................................................................131

Function................................................................................................................................................105

Gaussian.................................................................................................................................................95

GPIB Address.........................................................................................................................................62

GSM........................................................................................................................................................76

Hamming................................................................................................................................................95

Hanning..................................................................................................................................................95

Host Name..............................................................................................................................................63

I only.......................................................................................................................................................77

I/Q Input Z..............................................................................................................................................78

I/Q ...........................................................................................................................................................77

IF Align...................................................................................................................................................77

Input Atten.............................................................................................................................................78

Input Port...............................................................................................................................................77

Install......................................................................................................................................................38

Instrument Logical Unit........................................................................................................................63

Instrument Name...................................................................................................................................63

Integ BW...............................................................................................................................................108

IP Address ..............................................................................................................................................62

K-B 70dB / 90dB/ 110dB (Kaiser-Bessel)..............................................................................................95

Length Ctrl.............................................................................................................................................95

Level........................................................................................................................................................79

License Key ............................................................................................................................................39

License Key ............................................................................................................................................40

Limit Setup...........................................................................................................................................116

Line.........................................................................................................................................................86

Load State ..............................................................................................................................................71

Log-Pwr Avg...........................................................................................................................................86

List of Key Descriptions

Long (32 bit).........................................................................................................................................103

Manual ...................................................................................................................................................96

Marker All Off........................................................................................................................................90

Max Total Pwr........................................................................................................................................78

Maximum Connections..........................................................................................................................63

Maximum ...............................................................................................................................................86

Meas Time............................................................................................................................................123

Meas Type ............................................................................................................................................117

Medium (24 bit)....................................................................................................................................103

Min Pts in RBW.....................................................................................................................................95

Minimum................................................................................................................................................86

Noise.......................................................................................................................................................90

Normal....................................................................................................................................................89

Num FFT Seg.......................................................................................................................................117

Offset Adv.............................................................................................................................................117

Offset Freq............................................................................................................................................116

Offset Side............................................................................................................................................116

Offset ....................................................................................................................................................116

Offset ......................................................................................................................................................80

Peak Level..............................................................................................................................................79

Period......................................................................................................................................................80

Pos...........................................................................................................................................................79

Pre-ADC BPF.........................................................................................................................................94

Pre-FFT BW...........................................................................................................................................94

Pre-FFT Fltr...........................................................................................................................................94

Print To...................................................................................................................................................73

PSD Ref ................................................................................................................................................117

Pwr Avg..................................................................................................................................................86

Pwr vs Time .........................................................................................................................................121

RBW Filter...........................................................................................................................................123

Ref Position............................................................................................................................................88

Ref Value ................................................................................................................................................88

Reference................................................................................................................................................64

Rel Lim (Car)........................................................................................................................................117

Rel Lim (PSD)......................................................................................................................................117

Relative Att..........................................................................................................................................117

Relative.................................................................................................................................................117

Res BW...................................................................................................................................................84

Reset Offset............................................................................................................................................80

Restore Align Defaults...........................................................................................................................67

Restore Meas Defaults...........................................................................................................................84

Restore Sys Defaults..............................................................................................................................69

Resume...................................................................................................................................................84

RF Burst (Wideband).............................................................................................................................79

RF ...........................................................................................................................................................77

Rise & Fall............................................................................................................................................124

Save State...............................................................................................................................................71

Scale/Coupling........................................................................................................................................88

Scale/Div.................................................................................................................................................88

List of Key Descriptions

SCPI Lan ................................................................................................................................................63

Select.......................................................................................................................................................90

Sensors..................................................................................................................................................129

Server......................................................................................................................................................63

Service ....................................................................................................................................................76

Shape ......................................................................................................................................................90

Short (16 bit) ........................................................................................................................................103

Show Errors............................................................................................................................................69

Show System ..........................................................................................................................................70

SICL Server............................................................................................................................................63

Signal Amptd..........................................................................................................................................78

Signal Rate.............................................................................................................................................78

Signal Type.............................................................................................................................................78

Slope........................................................................................................................................................79

Socket Port..............................................................................................................................................63

Span........................................................................................................................................................88

Spectrum (Freq Domain).......................................................................................................................91

Spectrum ..............................................................................................................................................118

Sweep Time ............................................................................................................................................88

Sync Source ............................................................................................................................................80

Telnet Port..............................................................................................................................................63

Time Corr ...............................................................................................................................................67

Timebase Frequency............................................................................................................................125

Total Pwr Ref........................................................................................................................................117

Trace.......................................................................................................................................................89

Trig Holdoff ............................................................................................................................................79

Trigger....................................................................................................................................................79

Uniform...................................................................................................................................................95

Uninstall.................................................................................................................................................41

Video (IF Envlp).....................................................................................................................................79

Visible Align...........................................................................................................................................68

Voltage Avg.............................................................................................................................................86

Waveform (Time Domain)......................................................................................................................99

Window Length......................................................................................................................................95

1 Getting Started

This chapter introduces you to basic features of the instrument, including the front panel keys, rear panel connections, and display annotation. You will also ﬁnd processes for making a basic measurement and for installing applications.

Getting Started

Topics include:

“What Comes with the E4406A VSA Series Transmitter Tester” on page 17

“How to Make a Measurement” on page 20 “Front Panel Key Maps of Context Dependency” on page 21 “Front Panel Description” on page 25 “Rear Panel Description” on page 32 “Display Annotation” on page 35 “Installing Optional Measurement Personalities” on page 38 “Safety Considerations” on page 48 “Cables for Connecting to the Serial Port (RS-232)” on page 42

16 Chapter1

Getting Started

What Comes with the E4406A VSA Series Transmitter Tester

With your purchase of the instrument you receive the following materials:

Table 1-1 Standard Documentation

Part Description Notes

User’s Guide Includes E4406-90057 and E4406-90085 Speciﬁcations Includes speciﬁcations for most optional

measurement personalities. Special handling options may be documented elsewhere.

Programmer’s Guide Does not include commands for the

optional measurement personalities

Documentation and Instrument Driver CD-ROM

Includes programming examples, does not include service documentation or software

An E4406A standard instrument contains the Basic and Service modes. If you have purchased an optional measurement personality, your instrument comes loaded with the personality you have selected plus the Basic and Service modes. You also receive the related measurement and programming guides for the options you have ordered.

Chapter 1 17

Getting Started

What Comes with the E4406A VSA Series Transmitter Tester

Table 1-2 Personality Documentation

Measurement Option Part Description

Option BAC cdmaOne Measurement Guide

cdmaOne Programming Commands

Option BAH GSM Measurement Guide

GSM Programming Commands

Option BAE NADC, PDC Measurement Guide

NADC, PDC Programming Commands

Option HN! iDEN Measurement Guide

(includes programming commands)

Option BAF W-CDMA Measurement Guide

W-CDMA Programming Commands

Option B78 cdma2000 Measurement Guide

cdma2000 Programming Commands

Service documentation is available from Agilent Technologies.

NOTE If the shipping container is damaged, or any part is missing, notify

Agilent Technologies (see page 201 for locations). When transporting the instrument use the original packaging or comparable packaging.

18 Chapter1

Getting Started

What Comes with the E4406A VSA Series Transmitter Tester

URL for the Latest VSA Transmitter Tester Update

For the latest information about this instrument, including ﬁrmware upgrades, application information, and product information, please visit the following URL: www.agilent.com/ﬁnd/vsa/.

Understanding Digital Communications Measurements

Additional measurement application information is available through your local Agilent Technologies sales and service ofﬁce. See the “If You Have a Problem” chapter for ofﬁce location information. Some available application notes are listed below.

Description

Digital Modulation in Communications Systems An Introduction Application Note 1298

Understanding CDMA Measurements for Base Stations and Their Components Application Note 1311

Understanding GSM Transmitter Measurements for Base Transceiver Stations and Mobile Stations Application Note 1312

Agilent Part

Number

5965-7160E

5968-0953E

5966-2833E

Updating the Firmware

Updated versions of the E4406A VSA Transmitter Tester ﬁrmware will be available via several sources. Information on the latest ﬁrmware revision can be accessed through the following URL.

URL to Contact to Obtain Firmware Update Information

www.agilent.com/ﬁnd/vsa/

Chapter 1 19

Getting Started

How to Make a Measurement

The Making Measurements chapter is organized to help you follow the three-step process shown in the table below.

Step Primary Key Setup Keys Related Keys

1. Select & setup a mode

2. Select & setup a measurement

3. Select & setup view

The VSA E4406A transmitter tester enables you to make a wide variety of digital measurements, both through its native spectrum and waveform measurement capabilities, and through the measurement personality option(s) you have purchased to activate applications speciﬁc measurements that are based upon industry standards.

Mode Mode Setup, Input,

Frequency Channel

Measure Meas Setup Meas Control,

View/Trace Span X Scale,

Amplitude Y Scale Next Window, Zoom

, Display,

System

Restart File

, Save,

Print, Print Setup, Marker, Search

20 Chapter1

Getting Started

Front Panel Key Maps of Context Dependency

Many of the instrument features are context dependent. The functions that are available will change based on your selections of mode, mode setup, measurement, and measurement setup. The following ﬁgures represent the dependency relationships of the front panel keys.

Figure 1-1 System and Navigation Keys are not Context Dependent

System

PresetSystem

Navigation

Next Window

File

Save

Print Setup

TabWindow

Zoom Return Esc

Chapter 1 21

Getting Started

Front Panel Key Maps of Context Dependency

Figure 1-2 Context Dependent on the Selected Mode and Mode Setup

MODE

Service

GSM

cdmaOne

Channel Power

Statistics View

Spectrum View

I/Q View

SPAN

X Scale

AMPLITUDE

Y Scale

Waveform (Time Domain)

Spectrum (Freq Domain)

Spurious Close

View/ Trace

Display

Meas Setup

e n u s

MEASURE

Averaging

Trigger Source

Advanced

Restart

Marker

Limits

Meas Control

Mode Setup

Radio

Standard: TIA-95B PCS Device: MS, BS

Input

Trigger

FREQUENCY

Channel

Demod

RF Chan

Frame

Input

Marker

22 Chapter1

Getting Started

Front Panel Key Maps of Context Dependency

Figure 1-3 Context Dependent on the Selected Measure and Meas Setup

Waveform (Time Domain)

Spectrum (Freq Domain)

Spurious Close

Channel Power

Statistics View

Spectrum View

I/Q View

SPAN

X Scale

AMPLITUDE

Y Scale

View/ Trace

Display

Meas Setup

e n u s

MEASURE

Averaging

Trigger Source

Restart

Marker

Advanced

Limits

Meas Control

Marker

* Some Measure and Meas Setup parameters are context dependent upon the

Radio variant and Device selected in the Mode Setup.

Chapter 1 23

Getting Started

Front Panel Key Maps of Context Dependency

Figure 1-4 Front Panel Keys Context Dependent Relationships

System

Device: MS, BS

Standard: TIA-95B PCS

Radio

Mode

Setup

PresetSystem

Trigger

Input

Setup

File

Demod

Frame

RF Chan

Save

Limits

Meas

Control

Input

FREQUENCY

Channel

MODE

Service

GSM

cdmaOne

MEASURE

Waveform (Time Domain)

Spectrum (Freq Domain)

Spurious Close

Channel Power

Advanced

Trigger Source

Averaging

Meas

Setup

View/

Trace

enu

Statistics View

Spectrum View

I/Q View

TabWindow

Marker

Restart

Display

SPAN

X Scale

AMPLITUDE

Y Scale

Marker

Zoom Return Esc

Window

Navigation

24 Chapter1

Getting Started

Front Panel Description

The hardkeys, softkeys and menus, RPG knob and step keys, and front panel inputs are explained below.

Softkeys either activate a feature or access a further softkey menu. There are seven softkeys. The softkey which is currently active is highlighted. Softkeys which are not available for use are greyed-out.

The transmitter tester uses ﬁve types of softkey:

• Menu softkeys. An arrow on the right side of a key label indicates that the key accesses a further menu.

• Toggle softkeys. A toggle softkey allows you to select between one of several settings (usually two settings, but there may be more) that are shown on a softkey; the available settings are listed underneath the softkey label, and the currently active setting is underlined. Pressing the toggle softkey will result in activating a setting that is adjacent to the initial, underlined setting.

• Numeric softkeys. A numeric softkey allows you to modify a numerical value. Current values are shown in the active function area of the display.

• Numeric + Toggle softkeys. A numeric + toggle softkey allows you, ﬁrst, to toggle between an automatic or manual mode, and then, if you have selected manual, allows you to enter a numeric value.

• Immediate action softkeys. An immediate action softkey activates a feature immediately upon being pressed.

Softkey menus are dependent on the measurement chosen or the front panel key that has been activated. Many softkey menus contain more than seven softkeys, and cannot be displayed on a single-page menu. Multiple page menus are accessed by pressing a the bottom key of the menu.

Paths to access any feature will be found in the key access table on

page 53. Display annotation is explained on page 35. Operation of the

3.5 inch ﬂoppy-drive is covered in the section on printing on page 73.

More key, which will be

Chapter 1 25

Getting Started

Front Panel Description

1. ESC key Use the escape key to exit any function without modifying current parameters. Pressing the

ESC key

will:

• Clear any numeric entry that you have begun to

enter but decided you want to cancel.

• Remove any entries that are visible in the active

function area of the display (see the section on annotation on page 35 for a description of the active function area and other display features).

• Cancels a print, if one is in progress.

• Cancels an alignment, if one is in progress.

2. Control keys set parameters that are used by the measurement in the current measurement mode.

• FREQUENCY/Channel accesses softkeys that

control the center frequency or channel number. These parameters apply to all measurements in the current mode.

• SPAN/X Scale accesses softkeys that control the

horizontal scale in units of frequency, time, symbols or bits. The parameters in this menu apply only to the active window in the current measurement. See

page 87 for more detail.

26 Chapter1

Getting Started

Front Panel Description

• AMPLITUDE/Y Scale accesses softkeys that control vertical scale functions in units of dBm, dB, volts, degrees, or radians. The parameters in this menu apply only to the active window in the current measurement. See page 87 for more detail.

3. Input key The

Input key accesses softkeys that control the input of

the transmitter tester. These affect all measurements within the current mode. Note that the internal 50 MHz reference signal and the IF align signal are used as internal inputs that do not require external connections. See page 65 for more detail.

4. View keys

View keys modify the format of the trace and numeric

data on the display. See page 87 for more detail.

•

View/Trace accesses softkeys that control the way

results are viewed.

• Display accesses softkeys that change the display. Functions such as limit mask on/off and dots on/off are available for some measurements.

5. Measure keys are used to select and set up a speciﬁc measurement within the selected application. See page

83 for more detail.

•

MEASURE accesses softkeys that select and initiate

the various measurements that are speciﬁc to the current mode.

•

Meas Setup accesses the setup parameters that are

speciﬁc to the current measurement.

• Restart causes the measurement that is currently in

process to stop, then start again at the beginning according to the current measurement setup parameters.

•

Meas Control accesses softkeys that affect the

measurement after it has been setup, for example selecting a single or continuous measurement.

6. Mode keys select the measurement mode and mode parameters such as input and trigger settings. See page 77 for more detail.

•

MODE accesses softkeys to select the instrument

mode. Each mode is independent of all other modes.

• Mode Setup accesses softkeys that affect parameters

that are speciﬁc to the current mode and affect all measurements within that mode.

Chapter 1 27

Getting Started

Front Panel Description

7. System keys access system features, that are used with all instrument modes. See page 52 for further explanation of system features.

•

System accesses features that control instrument

conﬁguration at the system level, like I/O conﬁguration and alignment, which affect all instrument modes. Pressing

System also returns the

instrument to local control, if it has been in remote mode.

•

Preset resets all parameters of the current mode

back to the factory defaults.

• Print immediately prints what is on the screen to the

printer, or saves a ﬁle to a ﬂoppy disc, according to the parameters that are currently set in the

Setup menu. See page 73 for more detail. Print Setup conﬁgures the transmitter tester for

•

printing to a printer, or saving an image ﬁle to the ﬂoppy disc drive, and also allows you to select the printer type.

•

File accesses softkeys that control the ﬁle system of

the transmitter tester for saving and loading instrument states. See page 71 for more detail.

•

Save saves the current instrument state in the File

menu. See page 71 for more detail.

8. Marker keys are used to obtain speciﬁc information about parts of the displayed measurement (for example, to identify the exact frequency of an offset). See page 89 for more detail.

•

Marker accesses softkeys that allow manual

positioning of markers.

• Search automatically performs a peak search, and

accesses softkeys that automatically position markers at preset locations on the trace (for example, to determine the difference between the amplitude of one peak and another).

9. Probe Power The probe power input supplies power for external probes; the three connectors are a ground, and a +15 V, and a −12.6 V connector. The probe power supplies power to high frequency probes and accessories, such as preampliﬁers, that are used as accessories to the transmitter tester. The probe power provides a maximum of 150 mA.

28 Chapter1

Getting Started

Front Panel Description

10. RF Input The 50 Ω RF input allows for input of an external RF signal. The connector is a type N female, and is rated for a maximum input of +35 dBm for measuring a CW signal, and a maximum of 26 volts for a DC signal.

11. Data Entry keys are used to enter numeric values. Entries made using data entry keys will be visible in the active function area (see the section on annotation on page 35 to locate the active function area).

• The

Enter key is used to terminate numeric data

where no units of measurement are being entered, or where you want to terminate with the default unit of measurement. For operations involving selection of a unit of measurement (for example, dB, dBm, Hz, s, degrees, radians), the

Units softkey menu

(explained below) is used to terminate numeric entries.

•

Units softkeys are used to enter units of

measurement. If the value you are entering is in units of measurement, the units softkey menu will automatically appear once you enter a digit. After entering the desired numeric value, you terminate the entry by pressing the appropriate units of measurement softkey.

•

Numeric keys enter numeric values as indicated on

the keys. In addition, decimal and positive and negative sign keys are available for your use.

• The

Step keys (these are the up and down arrow

keys) change numeric values in increments of the current step size.

• The

Backspace key moves the cursor backwards one

space and erases the character in that space. You can use the

Backspace key to backspace characters

in the active function area.

• The RPG Knob changes numeric values in

increments of the current knob resolution.

12. Floppy Disk Drive. The ﬂoppy disk drive accepts 1.44 megabyte disks. For an explanation of the operation of the ﬂoppy disc drive see the Using Print Keys section on page 73.

13. Softkeys Softkeys either activate a feature or access a further softkey menu. An arrow on the right side of a softkey label indicates that the key accesses a further menu. The softkey which is currently active is highlighted. Keys unavailable for use are greyed-out. If a softkey

Chapter 1 29

Getting Started

Front Panel Description

menu has multiple pages, further pages will be accessed by pressing the

More key which is the bottom

key on any multi-page menu.

14. Return key The Return key exits the current menu and returns you to the previous menu. If you are on page one of a multi-page menu (a menu with a “More” key) the

Return

key will exit the multi-page menu. When you activate a different measurement, the return list is cleared. The

Return key will not return you to the previously

activated mode, nor will it alter any values you have entered on previous menus.

15. Navigation keys are used to move around in the display, and to return to the previous menu.

• The

Tab Left feature is not implemented. This

feature will be implemented with a future ﬁrmware update.

• The

Tab Right feature is not implemented. This

feature will be implemented with a future ﬁrmware update.

• The

Home feature is not implemented. This feature

will be implemented with a future ﬁrmware update.

16. Window keys are used to move to a different window in the display or to zoom the windows being displayed.

• The

Next Window key switches between windows.

When a single window is being viewed it switches to display the next window which is contained in the current multi-window display which, however,is not initially visible on the display. When viewing multiple windows, it activates the next window on the display. The active window is indicated by a yellow border.

• The

Zoom key allows you to switch between a

multiple-window screen and a full-size display of the window that is active.

30 Chapter1

Getting Started

Front Panel Description

17. Help key The Help feature is not implemented. This feature will be implemented with a future ﬁrmware update.

18. On/Off switch turns on the transmitter tester. A green LED will light below the

Power switch when the instrument

has been turned on. When in standby mode a yellow LED is visible above the

On/Off switch.

19. Inputs enable you to input one or more of the two following external signals.

I input and Q input.These inputs are not operational.

•

These features will be implemented with a future hardware modiﬁcation and a ﬁrmware update.

•

External Trigger input. The external trigger allows

external triggering of measurements. The external trigger accepts an external trigger signal between −5 and +5 V, and has a nominal impedance of > 10 kΩ. For more information on triggering, see page 79.

Chapter 1 31

Getting Started

Rear Panel Description

The diagram below illustrates all rear panel connections. For further explanation of labels found on the rear panel see the section on safety considerations on page 50.

1. TRIGGER 2 OUT provides a transmitter tester trigger output. This is used to synchronize other test equipment with the transmitter tester.

TRIGGER 1 OUT provides a transmitter tester trigger output. This is

used to synchronize other test equipment with the transmitter tester.

EXT REF IN allows the input of a 1 to 30 MHz external frequency

reference signal. The external reference frequency must be entered by the user.

32 Chapter1

Getting Started

Rear Panel Description

4. 10 MHz OUT provides an output of the transmitter tester’s internal 10 MHz frequency reference signal. This is used to lock the frequency reference of other test equipment with the transmitter tester. This is a switched output.

TRIGGER IN The external trigger allows external triggering of

measurements. The external trigger accepts an external trigger signal between −5 and +5 V, and has a nominal impedance of 10k Ω. For more information on triggering, see page 79.

SCSI Currently the SCSI connection can only be used to

connect an external SCSI drive for ﬁrmware upgrades. SCSI functionality will be fully implemented with a future ﬁrmware update.

Line Power Input AC power line connection. The line voltage operates

at nominally 115 V (47 to 440 Hz) or at nominally 230 V (47 H to 66 Hz). The input power ranges for the power supply are 90 to 132 V or 195 to 250 Vrms. The power supply automatically senses the input power and switches between these two ranges. There is no customer replaceable power fuse. When on, the instrument consumes less than 350 W; when in standby less than 20 W.

KYBD This feature is not implemented. This feature will be

implemented with a future ﬁrmware update. The enables connection of an external PS-2 keyboard using a 6-pin mini-DIN connector. If no keyboard is available you can use the numeric keyboard and the

Alpha Editor

menu key feature to make the entries. The keyboard must be plugged into the instrument prior to powering the instrument on or the keyboard will not work.

GPIB The GPIB allows the connection of a General Purpose

Interface Bus (GPIB) cable, which enables remote instrument operation.

KYBD

Chapter 1 33

Getting Started

Rear Panel Description

10. LAN-TP The LAN-TP connector can be used:

- as a SICL server emulating IEEE 488.2 protocol over LAN.

- for a telnet programming port that can be sent SCPI commands.

- for a TCP/IP socket programming port that can be sent SCPI commands.

- for anonymous FTP operations to retrieve a screen “gif” or screen “xwd” ﬁle from the ftp/pub.

NOTE For more information on remote programming with your transmitter

tester, refer to the programmer’s guide.

11.

PARALLEL The PARALLEL connection supports remote printing. MONITOR The MONITOR allows connection of an external VGA

12. monitor, using a 15− pin mini D−SUB connector.

13. RS-232 The serial port RS-232 is not implemented. This feature will be implemented with a future ﬁrmware update.

34 Chapter1

Display Annotation

Getting Started

Display Annotation

The annotation features explained below refers to the display that is visible when your transmitter tester is in basic measurement mode; this is the default state of the transmitter tester when it is turned on. Forexplanations relating to unique measurement options such as GSM or cdmaOne see the documentation that accompanies each mode.

1. Center Frequency annotation.

2. Trigger Source Indicator.

3. Vertical Scale dB/Division Indicator.

4. Reference Level Indicator (in dBm).

5. Active Function Area. The active function area displays

numeric entries. If you press a measurement key which activates a function, its value will appear in the active function area.

Chapter 1 35

Getting Started

Display Annotation

6. Measurement Bar. Displays information about measurements including some mode setup parameters.

7. Current Measurement Annotation.

8. The Annunciators bar displays annunciators that

indicate that hardware errors, other errors, or speciﬁc instrument states, are detected in the instrument, as explained below. Error indicators are shown in red text. Where applicable, some states will appear in green, indicating that the feature is active and performing correctly. To view error messages fully you will use keys in the

Show Errors menu (see page 52). The current

error message with the highest priority will also appear in the Status/Info Bar that appears at the bottom of the display. The following annunciators are available:

Unlock - This annunciator indicates that one or more of the internal phase-locked loops are unable to maintain a phase-locked state.

Corr Off (corrections off) - This annunciator appears when the

Corrections softkey is set to off.

Err (error) - This annunciator appears when an error message is placed in the history error queue. It will persist until you use the

Clear Error Queue(s) key

to clear the history error queue. Ext Ref (external reference) - The green Ext Ref

annunciator indicates that the external reference has been selected and the instrument is locked to it. The red Ext Ref annunciator indicates that the external reference has been selected, but the instrument is not locked to that reference. Note that the external reference on this instrument can be set at any frequency between 1 and 30 MHz; if the entered value does not correspond to the external reference that is in use, a red Ext Ref annunciator will appear.

NOTE Be aware that the value entered for the external reference frequency

will persist, even after the instrument has been powered off. The user must manually enter a new value for the external reference if a different value is required, even if it corresponds with the default value. An Ext Ref annunciator will appear only if the external reference has been activated by the user.

36 Chapter1

ESec (even second clock) - The green ESec annunciator indicates that the external even second clock has been selected as the sync type and a sync signal is present at the even second input (rear panel Trigger In), and the measurement is using it as the demodulation sync type. The red ESec annunciator indicates that an external even second clock has been selected as the sync type but a sync signal is not present at the even second input (rear panel Trigger In). In this case, the error message Even Second Clock Missing will appear in the Status/Info bar at the bottom of the display. The even second clock detection is updated every 2 seconds.

9. System Bar.

10. Time and Date.

11. Personality Mode Indicator.

Getting Started

Display Annotation

12. Graph (Window) Title.

13. Averaging Indicator.

14. Remote Status Indicator. The remote status indicator

contains four letters: “R”,“ L”, “T”, and “S”. The current status is indicated by the letters that are highlighted. When highlighted, the “R” indicates that the instrument is in remote mode, the “L” indicates a listen state, the “T” indicates a talk state, and the “S” indicates a service request.

15. Pass/Fail Status Indicator.

16. Menu Title.

17. Softkeys. A softkey that is currently active is

highlighted. Greyed-out softkeys are unavailable and may require a password for use.

18. Span annotation.

19. Status/Info Bar. The current error message which has

the highest priority will appear in the Status/Info Bar.

Chapter 1 37

Getting Started

Installing Optional Measurement Personalities

When you Install a measurement personality, you follow a two step process.

1. The measurement personality ﬁrmware must be installed into the

instrument. (See the supplied installation instructions.)

2. A license key number must be entered which enables the

measurement personality to run. (Refer to the “License Key Numbers” section below.)

Adding additional measurement personalities requires purchasing a retroﬁt kit for the desired option. The retroﬁt kit includes the measurement personality ﬁrmware, usually supplied on a zip disk. The license key certiﬁcate, included in the kit, contains the license key number. Every retroﬁt kit will have installation instructions.

The installation instructions require you to know three pieces of information about your instrument: the amount of memory installed, the Host ID, and the instrument serial number.

Required information: Key Path: Instrument

Memory: __________________ Host ID:

__________________ Instrument

Serial Number: __________________

System, File System

(the amount of memory in your instrument will be the sum of the memory and the Free memory)

System, Show System, Host ID

System, Show System, Serial Number

Used

The Exit Main Firmware key is used during the ﬁrmware installation process. This key is only for use when you want to update ﬁrmware using a LAN connection. The

Exit Main Firmware key halts the operation

of the resident ﬁrmware code so you can install an updated version of ﬁrmware using a LAN connection. Instructions for loading future ﬁrmware updates are available at the following URL:

www.agilent.com/ﬁnd/vsa/

38 Chapter1

Getting Started

Installing Optional Measurement Personalities

Available Personality Options

The option designation consists of three characters, as shown in the

Option column of the table below.

Available Personality Options

GSM with EDGE, measurement personality

cdmaOne measurement personality BAC NADC, PDC measurement personalities BAE iDEN measurement personality HN1 W-CDMA measurement personality BAF cdma2000 measurement personality B78

Option

BAH

a. As of the print date of this measurement guide.

License Key Numbers

The measurement personality you have purchased with your instrument has been installed and enabled at the factory. With the purchase of the measurement personality, and with any future purchase of a new personality, you will receive a unique license key number. The license key number is a hexadecimal number that is for your speciﬁc measurement personality and instrument serial number. The license key enables you to install, or reactivate any personality you have purchased.

Follow these steps to locate the unique license key number for the measurement personality that has come installed in your instrument:

1. Press you press the

System, More (1 of 3), More (2 of 3), Install, Choose Option. When

Choose Option key the alpha editor will be activated.

Use the alpha editor to enter the letters (upper-case) and the front-panel numeric keyboard to enter the numbers (if required) for the personality option that has been installed in the instrument.

2. Press the number for your instrument will now appear on the

Done key on the alpha editor menu. The unique license key

License Key

softkey.

Chapter 1 39

Getting Started

Installing Optional Measurement Personalities

You will want to keep a copy of your license key number in a secure location. Please enter your license key numbers in the box provided below for future reference. If you should lose your license key number, call your nearest Agilent Technologies service or sales ofﬁce for assistance.

License Key Numbers for Instrument with Serial # ________

For Option______________ the license key number is _____________________ For Option______________ the license key number is _____________________ For Option______________ the license key number is _____________________ For Option______________ the license key number is _____________________ For Option______________ the license key number is _____________________ For Option______________ the license key number is _____________________

If you purchase an option later, you will receive a certiﬁcate which displays the unique license key number that you will need to install that option.

NOTE You will need to use a license key number only if you purchase an

additional measurement personality, or if you want to reactivate a measurement personality that has been deactivated.

Installing a License Key Number

NOTE Follow this procedure to reinstall a license key number which has been

deleted during the uninstall process, or lost due to a memory failure. Toinstall a license key number for the selected option, use the following

procedure:

1. Press Pressing the Use the alpha editor to enter the letters (upper-case) and the front-panel numeric keyboard to enter the numbers (if required) for the option designation, then press the option, you will see your entry in the active function area of the display.

2. Press License Key. Entering the license key number will require entry of both letters and numbers. Use the alpha editor to enter letters. Use the front-panel numeric keyboard to enter numbers. You will see your entry in the active function area of the display. When you have completed entering the license key number, press the key.

System, More(1 of 3), More(2 of 3), Install, Choose Option.

Choose Option key will activate the alpha editor menu.

Done key. As you enter the

Done

40 Chapter1

Getting Started

Installing Optional Measurement Personalities

3. Press the Install Now key after you have entered the active license key number and the personality option. When pressed, a message may appear in the function area of the display which reads, “Insert disk and power cycle the instrument”. Disregard this message. Press the

No key only if you wish to cancel the installation

process. If you want to proceed with the installation, press the key and cycle the instrument power off and then on.

Using the Uninstall Key

The following procedure removes the license key number for the selected option. This will make the option unavailable for use, and the message “Application Not Licensed” will appear in the Status/Info bar at the bottom of the display. Please write down the 12-digit license key number for the option before proceeding. If that measurement personality is to be used at a later date you will need the license key number to reactivate the personality ﬁrmware.

NOTE Using the Uninstall key does not remove the personality from the

instrument memory, and does not free memory to be available to install another option. If you need to free memory to install another option, refer to the instructions for loading ﬁrmware updates located at the URL: www.agilent.com/ﬁnd/vsa/

Yes

1. Press Pressing the

System, More(1 of 3), More(2 of 3), Uninstall, Choose Option.

Choose Option key will activate the alpha editor menu.

Use the alpha editor to enter the letters (upper-case) and the front-panel numeric keyboard to enter the numbers (if required) for the option, then press the

Done key. As you enter the option, you will

see your entry in the active function area of the display.

2. Press the Uninstall Now key after you have entered the personality option. Press the process. Press the

No key only if you wish to cancel the uninstall

Yes key if you want to continue the uninstall

process.

3. Cycle the instrument power off and then on to complete the uninstall process.

Chapter 1 41

Getting Started

Cables for Connecting to the Serial Port (RS-232)

There are a variety of cables and adapters available for connecting to PCs, and printers. Several of these are documented in the following wiring diagrams.Youneed to ﬁnd out what connections your equipment uses to identify the cables and/or adapters that you will need.

34398A RS-232 Cable Kit This kit comes with an RS-232, 9-pin female to 9-pin

female null modem/printer cable and one adapter 9-pin male to 25-pin female ( part number 5181-6641). The adapter is also included in 34399A RS-232 Adapter Kit.

34399A RS-232 Adapter Kit This kit includes four adapters to go from DB9 female

cable ( 34398A) to PC/printer DB25 male or female, or to modem DB9 female or DB25 female.

Figure 1-5 24542U Cable

Figure 1-6 F1047-80002 Cable

42 Chapter1

Figure 1-7 24542G/H Cable

Figure 1-8 92219J Cable

Getting Started

Cables for Connecting to the Serial Port (RS-232)

Figure 1-9 13242G Cable

Chapter 1 43

Getting Started

Cables for Connecting to the Serial Port (RS-232)

Figure 1-10 24542M Modem Cable

Figure 1-11 C2913A/C2914A Cable

Figure 1-12 Mouse Adapter (typical)

44 Chapter1

Cables for Connecting to the Serial Port (RS-232)

Figure 1-13 24542U Cable with 5181-6641 Adapter

Figure 1-14 24542U Cable with 5181-6640 Adapter

Getting Started

Figure 1-15 24542U Cable with 5181-6642 Adapter

Chapter 1 45

Getting Started

Cables for Connecting to the Serial Port (RS-232)

Figure 1-16 24542U Cable with 5181-6639 Adapter

Figure 1-17 F1047-80002 Cable with 5181-6641 Adapter

Figure 1-18 F1047-80002 Cable with 5181-6640 Adapter

46 Chapter1

Cables for Connecting to the Serial Port (RS-232)

Figure 1-19 F1047-80002 Cable with 5181-6642 Adapter

Figure 1-20 F1047-80002 Cable with 5181-6639 Adapter

Getting Started

Chapter 1 47

Getting Started

Safety Considerations

This section covers safety considerations relating to the installation and use of the instrument.

Instrument Installation

Install the instrument so that the detachable power cord is readily identiﬁable and is easily reached by the operator. The detachable power cord is used to completely disconnect the instrument. The front panel switch is only a standby switch which maintains standby power to some parts of the instrument. It does not disconnect the instrument from the power source. 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.

The input power ranges for the power supply are 90 to 132 V, or 195 to 250 Vrms. The power supply automatically senses the input power and switches between these two ranges. There is no customer replaceable power fuse.

WARNING The power cord is connected to internal capacitors that may

remain live for 5 seconds after the plug is disconnected from its power supply.

WARNING If this product 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.

CAUTION This instrument has autoranging line voltage input, be sure the supply

voltage is within the speciﬁed range.

CAUTION VENTILATION REQUIREMENTS: When installing the product in a

cabinet, the convection into and out of the product must not be restricted. The ambient temperature (outside the cabinet) must be less than the maximum operating temperature of the product 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.

48 Chapter1

Getting Started

Safety Considerations

Instrument Operation and Maintenance

The following warnings explain conditions which affect the safe operation of the instrument.

WARNING If this instrument is not used as speciﬁed, the protection

provided by the equipment could be impaired. This product must be used in a normal condition (in which all means for protection are in tact) only.

WARNING To prevent electrical shock, disconnect the E4406A from mains

before cleaning. Use a dry cloth or one slightly dampened with water to clean the external case parts. Do not attempt to clean internally.

Explanation of Safety Symbols that are on the Instrument

The following list describes all safety symbols that are on the front and rear panels of the transmitter tester.

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

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

This symbol is used to mark the OFF position of the power line switch.

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

This symbol indicates that the input power required is AC.

This symbol is used to mark the STANDBY/OFF position of the power line switch.

This symbol is used to mark the On position of the power line switch.

Chapter 1 49

Getting Started

Safety Considerations

Safety Considerations for Service Personnel

NOTE No one other than qualiﬁed service personnel are allowed to remove

the cover of the instrument. The following warnings apply to service personnel. These warnings are found on the rear panel of the instrument.

To Remove Outer Cover, Remove Strap Handle, 4 Bottom Feet, and 4 Rear Feet.

To Remove CPU Assembly Unplug All Boards Connected to CPU. When Removing CPU Keep Perpendicular with Rear Panel

50 Chapter1

2 Using System Features

System keys access features, including printing, ﬁle management, and alignment, that can be used with in all modes.

Using System Features

Using System Keys

System features are accessed through the System front panel key. These are features that are not dependent on the currently selected application mode or the particular measurement being made. They apply to all modes and measurements. The the LOCAL function reactivating the front panel keys if the instrument was previously in the remote mode being controlled by an external computer.

File feature keys are accessed through the File and Save menu keys,

which are explained on page 71.

Print feature keys are accessed through the front panel Print Setup menu

key and the

Print key, which are explained on page 73.

Each description of a system feature begins with a table showing the key path for all keys related to that feature.

System key also performs

NOTE Most of the System keys are not affected by pressing the Preset key or

by cycling the instrument power. These features will stay at the last value set by the user. Press

System, More, Restore Sys Defaults, Yes to

reset the System parameters back to the factory defaults.

Install and Uninstall

The Install and Uninstall keys are described on page 38 of the Getting Started chapter.

52 Chapter2

Key Locations

All instrument features can be located by using the key access table below. The key access path describes the key sequence you enter to access the particular key. Some features can only be used when speciﬁc measurements are active. If a feature is not currently valid it will appear as lighter colored text or it will not be displayed at all.

The keys listed in this table cover system, service, and basic features.

Table 2-1 Key Access Locations

Key Key Access Path

10 MHz Out System/Reference/ 50 MHz Amptd MODE/Service/

Using System Features

Key Locations

50 MHz Ref Input/Input Port/ ADC Dither Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/Advanced/ More(1 of 2)/ ADC Range Meas Setup/More(1 of 2) / Advanced /

Note: This feature is used when measure is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Adjust Now System/Alignments/Align Subsystem/Align 50 MHz Reference/

Note: Requires Password

Advanced Meas Setup/More(1 of 2) Align 50 MHz

Reference Align ADC System/Alignments/Align Subsystem/ Align All Now System/Alignments/ Align IF System/Alignments/Align Subsystem/ Align RF System/Alignments/Align Subsystem/ Alignments System/ Align Subsystems System/Alignments/ All View/Trace/Trace Display/

System/Alignments/Align Subsystem/ Note: Requires Password

Alpha Editor The Alpha Editor is accessed by following the Menu Access

Paths that accompany the following key entries: Choose Option, License Key, and Host Name.

AMPLITUDE/ Y Scale

Front Panel

Chapter 2 53

Using System Features

Key Locations

Table 2-1 Key Access Locations

Key Key Access Path

Auto Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/Advanced/ More (1 of 2)/Data Packing/ Auto Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced /ADC Range /

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Auto Align System/Alignments/ AutoPeak Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced /ADC Range /

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

AutoPeakLock Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced /ADC Range /

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Auto Trig Mode Setup/ Trigger/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Average View/Traces/ Display Traces/ Average Meas Setup/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Avg Mode Meas Setup/ Average/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Avg Number Meas Setup/Average/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Avg Trace Marker/More(1 of 2)/ Marker Trace/ Avg Type Meas Setup/ Average/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Band Power Marker/ Function/

I/Q Input/Input Port/ Basic MODE/ Blackman Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced/ FFT Window/ Blackman- Harris Meas Setup/More(1 of 2) /Advanced / FFT Window/ More(1 of 2)/ cdmaOne MODE/ Center Freq FREQUENCY/Channel/ Choose Option System/More(1 of 3)/More(2 of 3) /Install/

54 Chapter2

Table 2-1 Key Access Locations

Key Key Access Path

Choose Option System/More(1 of 3)/More(2 of 3) /Uninstall/ Clear Error Queue(s) System/Show Errors/ Comb Input/IF Align Signal/Signal Type/ Conﬁg I/O System/ Corrections System/Alignments/ Current View/Trace/ Trace Display/ Current Trace Marker/ More(1 of 2)/Marker Trace/ CW Input/IF Align Signal/Signal Type/ Data Packing Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Decimation Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced/More (1 of 2)/

Using System Features

Key Locations

Delay Mode Setup/Trigger/Ext Front/ Delay Mode Setup/Trigger/Ext Rear/ Delay Mode Setup/Trigger/RF Burst/ Delay Mode Setup/Trigger/Video/ Delta Marker/ Diagnostics System/More (1 of 3)/

Note: Requires Password

Display Front Panel Emulated GPIB

Name Emulated GPIB

Logical Unit Emulated GPIB

Address Enter Front Panel ESC Front Panel Exit Main Firmware System/ More (1 of 3)/More (2 of 3)/ Install/

System/Conﬁg I/O/ SICL Server

Ext Front Mode Setup/ Trigger/

Ext Rear Mode Setup/ Trigger/

FFT Length Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced/FFT Size/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to spectrum.

Chapter 2 55

Using System Features

Key Locations

Table 2-1 Key Access Locations

Key Key Access Path

FFT Size Meas Setup/ More(1 of 2)/ Advanced/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to spectrum.

FFT Window Meas Setup/ More(1 of 2)/ Advanced/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to spectrum.

File Front Panel File System System/More(1 of 3)/ More(2 of 3)/ File Type Print Setup/ Flat Top Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced/ FFT Window/ Free Run Meas Setup//Trig Source/ FREQUENCY/

Channel Freq Ref System/ Reference/ Front Panel Test MODE/Service/More(1 of 2)/ Function Marker/ More(1 of 2)/ Gaussian Meas Setup/More(1 of 2) /Advanced / FFT Window/ GSM MODE/ Hamming Meas Setup/More(1 of 2) /Advanced / FFT Window/ Hanning Meas Setup/More(1 of 2) Advanced / FFT Window/ Help Front Panel Host Name System/Conﬁg I/O/ GPIB Address System/Conﬁg I/O/ IF Align Input/ Input Port/ IF Align Signal Input/ Instrument Name System/Conﬁg I/O/ SICL Server

Front Panel

Instrument Logical Unit

Input Front Panel Input Atten Input/ Input Port Input/ Install System/More(1 of 3)/ More(2 of 3)/ Install Now System/ More (1 of 3)/ More (2 of 3)/ Install/

System/Conﬁg I/O/ SICL Server

56 Chapter2

Using System Features

Key Locations

Table 2-1 Key Access Locations

Key Key Access Path

IP Address System/Conﬁg I/O/ I/Q Input Z Input/ I/Q Waveform Marker/Trace/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

K-B 70 dB Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced / FFT Window/More(1 of 2)/ K-B 90 dB Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced / FFT Window/More(1 of 2)/ K-B 110 dB Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced / FFT Window/More(1 of 2)/ Length Ctrl Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced/FFT Size/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to spectrum.

Level Mode Setup/Trigger/Ext Front/ Level Mode Setup/Trigger/Ext Rear/ License Key System/ More (1 of 3)/ More (2 of 3)/ Install/ Line Meas Setup/ Trig Source/ Load State File/

Local (System) Note: Press the front panel System key to change from remote to

local control of the instrument

Log-Pwr Avg Meas Setup/Average/Avg Type/ Long Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/

Advanced/ More (1 of 2)/ Data Packing/

Manual Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced /ADC Range/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Marker Front Panel Maximum

Connections Mrkr All Off Marker/More(1 of 2)/ Maximum Meas Setup/ Average/ Avg Type/

System/Conﬁg I/O/ SICL Server

Max Total Pwr Input/ Measure Front Panel Meas Control Front Panel Meas Setup Front Panel

Chapter 2 57

Using System Features

Key Locations

Table 2-1 Key Access Locations

Key Key Access Path

Medium Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/Advanced/ More (1 of 2)/Data Packing/ Minimum Meas Setup/Average/ Avg Type/ Min Pnts/ RBW Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced/FFT Size/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to spectrum.

MODE Front Panel Mode Setup Front Panel Next Window Front Panel Noise Marker/ Function/ Normal Marker/ Off Marker/ Pause Meas Control Peak Level Mode Setup/ Trigger/ RF Burst/ Pre-ADC BPF Meas Setup/ More(1 of 2)/ Advanced/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Pre-FFT BW Meas Setup/ More(1 of 2)/ Advanced/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to spectrum.

Pre-FFT Fltr Meas Setup/ More(1 of 2)/ Advanced/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to spectrum.

Print Front Panel Printer Print Setup/ Print Setup Front Panel Print To Print Setup/ Pulse Input/IF Align Signal/Signal Type/ Pwr Avg (RMS) Meas Setup/Average/Avg Type/ Pwr vs Time MODE/Service/ RBW Filter Meas Setup/ More(1 of 2)/ Advanced

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to spectrum.

Reference System/ Ref Position AMPLITUDE/Y Scale/ for spectrum or waveform - or -

SPAN/XScale/ for waveform.

Ref Values AMPLITUDE/Y Scale/ for spectrum or waveform - or -

SPAN/XScale/ for waveform.

58 Chapter2

Table 2-1 Key Access Locations

Key Key Access Path

Res BW Meas Setup/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Restart Front Panel

Using System Features

Key Locations

Restore Align Defaults

Restore Meas Defaults

Restore Sys Defaults

Return Front Panel RF Input/Input Port/ Align RF System/Alignments/Align Subsystem/ RF Burst Mode Setup/ Trigger/ RF Envelope View/Trace/

System/Alignments/

Meas Setup/ More(1 of 2)

System/ More(1 of 3)/ More (2 of 3) /

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to waveform.

RF Envelope Marker/Trace/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to waveform.

RF Inp Level System/Alignments/Align Subsystem/ Align 50 MHz Reference/ Save Front Panel Save State File/ or Save/ Scale Coupling AMPLITUDE/Y Scale/ for spectrum or waveform - or -

SPAN/XScale/ for waveform.

Scale/Div AMPLITUDE/Y Scale/ for spectrum or waveform - or -

SPAN/XScale/ for waveform.

SCPI Lan System/Conﬁg I/O/ Search Front Panel Select Marker/ Sensors MODE/Service/ Server System/Conﬁg I/O/ SICL Server Service MODE/ Service Password System/More(1 of 3)/Show System/

Chapter 2 59

Using System Features

Key Locations

Table 2-1 Key Access Locations

Key Key Access Path

Shape Marker/More (1 of 2)/ Short Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced/More (1 of 2)/Data Packing/ Show Errors System/ Show System System/More(1 of 3)/ SICL Server System/Conﬁg I/O/ Signal Amptd Input/IF Align Signal/ Signal Rate Input/IF Align Signal/ Signal Type Input/IF Align Signal/ Slope Mode Setup/Trigger/Ext Front Slope Mode Setup/Trigger/Ext Rear/ Slope Mode Setup/Trigger/RF Burst/ Slope Mode Setup/Trigger/Video/ Socket Port System/Conﬁg I/O/ SCPI Lan Span Meas Setup/ SPAN/

X Scale Spectrum View/Trace/

Front Panel

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to spectrum.

Spectrum Marker/Trace/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to spectrum.

Spectrum Avg Marker/Trace/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to spectrum.

Spectrum (Freq Domain)

Store Abs Ampl to EEROM

MODE/Service/

MODE/Basic/

System/Alignments/Align Subsystem/ Align 50 MHz Reference/

Sweep Time Meas Setup/ Can be accessed when measure is set to waveform. System Front Panel Telnet Port System/Conﬁg I/O/ SCPI Lan Timebase Freq MODE/Service/

60 Chapter2

Table 2-1 Key Access Locations

Key Key Access Path

Trace Marker/ Trace Display View/Trace/ Trigger Mode Setup/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Trig Holdoff Mode Setup/ Trigger/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Trig Source Meas Setup/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to either spectrum or waveform.

Uniform Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/Advanced / FFT Window/ Uninstall System/ More (1 of 3)/ More (2 of 3)/

Using System Features

Key Locations

Uninstall Now System/ More (1 of 3)/ More (2 of 3)/ Uninstall/ Video Mode Setup/ Trigger/ View/Trace Front Panel Visible Align System/Alignments/ Voltage Avg Meas Setup/Average/ Avg Type/ Waveform (Time

Domain) Waveform (Time

Domain) WindowLength Meas Setup/More(1 of 2)/ Advanced/FFT Size/

MODE/Basic/

MODE/Service/

Note: This feature is used when measurement is set to spectrum.

Zoom Front Panel

Chapter 2 61

Using System Features

Using I/O, Front and Rear Panel Keys

There are several keys available to help conﬁgure the instrument inputs/outputs. These include the various buses, external reference, and other types of I/O.

Conﬁguring I/O

Press System, Conﬁg I/O to access keys and menus that enable you to identify and change the current GPIB address, to identify and change various LAN settings.

Front Panel Key Level 1 Level 2 Level 3/Entry

System Conﬁg I/O GPIB Address

IP Address Host Name Alpha Editor Ethernet Addr SCPI LAN Telnet Port

Socket Port

SICL Server Server

Maximum Connections

Instrument Name Instrument

Logical Unit Emulated

GPIB Name Emulated GPIB

Logical Unit Emulated

GPIB Address

• GPIB Address - Shows the current GPIB address (18 is the default setting) and allows you to change this value. The new value is displayed in the active function area. The GPIB port is always active.

• IP Address - Changes the IP address of the instrument. The address is composed of numbers and decimal points as required by your LAN system.

62 Chapter2

Using System Features

Using I/O, Front and Rear Panel Keys

• Host Name - Displays the host name of the instrument. Pressing the key activates the alpha editor, which enables you to change the host name.

• Ethernet Addr - Shows the Ethernet address. This is an information only feature that can not be modiﬁed by the user.

• SCPI Lan - Accesses the following keys:

Telnet Port - Turns on or off telnet programming over the LAN. This key only affects new connections, not existing connections. Enter the port number that you will use for your telnet connection to the transmitter tester. The default port number is

5023. Socket Port - Turns on or off socket programming over the LAN.

This key only affects new connections, not existing connections. Enter the port number that you will use for your socket connection to the transmitter tester. The default port number is

5025.

• SICL Server - Accesses the following keys. These keys are provided for information only. The “value” of the settings cannot be changed.

Server - Indicates the on/off condition of the SICL IEEE 488.2 protocol LAN server.

Maximum Connections - Shows you the maximum number of connections that can be accessed simultaneously. The default is 5.

Instrument Name - Shows you the name, (same as the remote SICL address), of your transmitter tester. The default is instr0.

Instrument Logical Unit - Shows you the unique integer assigned to your transmitter tester when using SICL LAN. The default is 8.

Emulated GPIB Name - Shows you the name, (same as the remote SICL address), of the device used when communicating with your transmitter tester. The default is gpib7.

Emulated GPIB Logical Unit - Shows you the unique integer assigned to your device when it is being controlled using SICL LAN. The default is 8.

Emulated GPIB Address - Shows you the emulated GPIB address assigned to your transmitter tester when it is a SICL server. This address is set using the

GPIB Address key.

NOTE For more information these and other remote programming features,

refer to the programmer’s guide for your transmitter tester.

• File System - Shows the current amount of Used memory and Free memory in units of megabyte (MB).

Chapter 2 63

Using System Features

Using I/O, Front and Rear Panel Keys

Reference

Press the Reference menu key to activate a menu which allows you to select an external reference, or to deactivate a 10 MHz out signal on the rear panel.

Front Panel Key

System Reference Freq Ref Int/Ext Whentoggled

Level 1 Level 2 Toggle Entry

to Ext, enter any value between 1 and 30 MHz

10 MHz Out Off/On

• Freq Ref - Allows you to select an external or an internal (the default) reference. When toggled to Ext (external) you will set the external reference frequency by entering a value between 1 and 30 MHz. When the instrument is locked to an external reference a green Ext Ref indicator will appear in the annunciator bar.

External reference values are persistent. This means that the external reference frequency you select will remain active until it is changed, even if the instrument is turned off and on, or preset. If the frequency you have input to the rear panel external frequency connector is not the same as the external frequency value you have manually set, a red Ext Ref error indicator and a red Unlock error indicator will appear in the annunciator bar.

• 10 MHz Out - Activates, or deactivates, the 10 MHz out signal on the rear panel of the instrument. The 10 MHz out can be used to lock other test equipment to the same frequency reference that is used by the transmitter tester. Once activated, the 10 MHz out feature is persistent, so if it is set to On it will remain on, even if the instrument has been preset, or powered off and then on.

64 Chapter2

Using System Features

Using Alignment & Conﬁguration Keys

There are number of different keys that can help you with understanding the current instrument conﬁguration and for hardware alignment.

NOTE Some features are intended for use only by service personnel and

cannot be accessed without a service password. If after pressing a key a message appears requesting entry of a password, you should understand this to indicate that this feature is meant for service use only. The password is not available unless the user has purchased the service guide.

Alignment

Press System, Alignments to access menus which enable you to align the instrument. Press the ESC key to stop any alignment. The table below diagrams the paths through which you will access alignment feature keys. The feature in the cell that is greyed-out requires a

password.

Front Panel Key

System Alignments Auto Align On/Alert/Off

Level 1 Level 2 Level 3

Align All Now Align Subsystems Align RF

Align IF Align ADC Align 50 MHz

Reference Align CurrentIF

Flatness Align Current

Sysgain

Corrections Time Corr Auto/On/Off Restore AlignDefaults Visible Align

On/Off

Off/Low/High

Chapter 2 65

Using System Features

Using Alignment & Conﬁguration Keys

• Auto Align - Defaults to the alert state. When set to Alert, the auto align feature causes a message to appear once during every 24 hours of instrument operation to alert the user that the instrument needs to be aligned. This message will also appear if the instrument detects that an alignment is needed, for example if there is a change of ambient temperature greater than ± 3˚ C. When set to the On state a background alignment, which slows down the measurement, occurs once during every 24 hour period or occurs automatically, when a change in ambient temperature greater than ± 3˚ C has occurred. When set to Off, no auto alignments are done and no Alignment Needed message will appear.

• Align All Now - Immediately activates an alignment on all of the instrument’s standard RF, IF, and ADC alignments. All other operations are stopped and the alignments will be visible on the display.

• Align Subsystem - Allows you to activate one or a group of the standard internal instrument alignments. It allows service personnel to perform an alignment to set the amplitude of the internal 50 MHz reference signal for absolute amplitude accuracy.

It allows you to perform alignments on circuitry relating to the following internal alignments. Press the

ESC key to cause any

alignment to stop.

Align RF - Activates an alignment on the RF circuitry. Align IF - Activates an alignment on the IF circuitry. The main

gain of the Analog IF is used to compensate for preﬁlter BW gain variations so the gain of the entire IF path before the A/D remains constant.

Align ADC - Activates an alignment on the ADC circuitry. Align 50 MHz Reference - Enables a service technician to

adjust the amplitude of the internal 50 MHz reference signal. The test equipment and the adjustment procedure required are described in the E4406A service guide.

NOTE The Align 50 MHz reference feature can only be activated if you have a

service password. The password is not available unless the user has purchased the service guide.

66 Chapter2

Using System Features

Using Alignment & Conﬁguration Keys

Align Current IF Flatness - Activates an immediate measurement of the current IF ﬂatness, for FFT spectral amplitude compensation. Normally this alignment occurs in the background when the instrument bandwidth is changed. Given the current BW and Gain DAC settings for a measurement, alignment is done using the comb calibration signal. The relative amplitude of combs within the BW are compared to expected amplitudes to generate the effective shape of the current IF path.

If Time Corrections are active, this alignment generates complex IF responses (magnitude and phase) rather than just the original scalar (magnitude) response. The complex alignment requires reasonable delay estimation, and improved trigger compensation so the phase response of several averaged measurements can be unwrapped properly.

Align Current SysGain - Activates a ﬁne-tuning adjustment of the system gain. This is done by measuring the response of the current system state conﬁguration to the 50 MHz amplitude reference signal. All subsequent measurements are then compensated appropriately for absolute amplitude accuracy. Normally this occurs in the background when the instrument bandwidth is changed.

• Corrections - When set to On (the default state), the alignment ﬁrmware applies many numerical corrections to improve amplitude accuracy of the measurement. This includes an absolute amplitude adjustment at center frequency, and IF ﬂatness correction for FFT spans (spectral measurements). When corrections are Off, the background alignments which determine corrections are disabled. Corrections is a background feature which runs automatically, while the instrument is on.

• Time Corr - Time corrections are the application of a complex ﬁlter directly onto the time capture data. It compensates for the complex (magnitude and phase) response of the analog and digital IF hardware. Time corrections are less efﬁcient (take more CPU cycles) than frequency corrections when only scalar (magnitude) FFT ﬂatness is required, but for demod or other time-based (not FFT) measurements, only time corrections can improve the ﬂatness of imperfect IF hardware. If the time correction functionality is set to Auto (the default), the individual measurements activate the corrections when they are needed.

???

• Restore Align Defaults - Restores the instrument’s align defaults. This feature will only be needed if the instrument calibration locks up, which may occur as a result of hardware problems. Once the defaults are restored a message will appear informing you that alignment is needed.

Chapter 2 67

Using System Features

Using Alignment & Conﬁguration Keys

• Visible Align - When toggled to Off, the alignment traces which are visible in the display during an alignment will be turned off, and the alignment process will take less time. When set to High, every alignment trace is shown, resulting in the alignment taking more time than when

Visible Align is set to Low (the default state), where

one out of ten traces is shown. Note that text showing alignment results is displayed on screen when any alignment is activated, even when the visible alignment is set to Off.

68 Chapter2

Using System Features

Using Alignment & Conﬁguration Keys

Restore Sys Defaults

Press System, More (1 of 3), More (2 of 3) to access the Restore Sys

Defaults key. When the Restore Sys Defaults key is pressed a Yes and

No softkey will appear in the System softkey menu. Pressing Yes will

restore system defaults. Note, however, that pressing the

Yes key will

also erase the current IP address, and will set the Host name to VSA. The IP address and Host name can be reset by using the IP address and Host name features in the Conﬁguring I/O menu (see page 62).

Show Errors

Press System, Show Errors to activate a menu with features that enable you to move around in the error history queue, and to clear the error queue.

Front Panel Key Level 1 Level 2

System Show Errors Top Page

Last Page Next Page Prev Page Clear Error Queue(s

)

• Clear Error Queue(s) - The error history queue retains and displays all errors once they have been detected, even if they are no longer detected after a period of time has elapsed. After reviewing the error queue you will likely want to clear it before making another measurement. Note that if an error condition exists continuously, the error will not appear in the queue after the error history queue has been cleared.

You can exit the display of the error history queue to return to a measurement display by pressing either the

ESC or the Return key.

Chapter 2 69

Using System Features

Using Alignment & Conﬁguration Keys

Show System

Press System, More (1 of 3), Show System to activate a menu with a key that enables you to enter a password, and four information-only keys with a lighter font which show the serial number, model designation, ﬁrmware revision, and the host ID.

Front Panel Key

System More (1 of 3) Show System Service Password

NOTE The diagnostics features, which are accessed through the Diagnostics

Level 1 Level 2 Level 3

Model Serial Number

Firmware Rev

Diagnostics Host ID

key shown in the table above can only be activated if you have a service password. The password is not available unless the user has purchased the service guide. All descriptions of the service diagnostic features are located in the service guide.

System (Local)

Pressing the System front panel key will return the instrument to local control if the instrument was in remote mode being controlled by an external computer.

70 Chapter2

Using System Features

Using File and Save Keys

The File and Save keys enable you to save instrument states to memory and to load instrument states into the instrument from memory. For instructions on how to save a screen image to a ﬂoppy disc, see Saving a Screen Image to a Floppy Disc on page 73.

Front Panel Key Level 1 Level 2 Level 3

File Load State numeric entry Enter File Save State Save

numeric entry Enter

Loading a State

1. Press File, Load State. A label in the active function area will read

Load State.

2. Use the numeric keypad to enter the number of the register from which you desire to retrieve a state (you can retrieve states from registers 0 to 19), then press the

Enter key.

Saving a State

1.Press File, Save State or press the front panel Save key. An active function labeled Save State will appear.

2. Use the numeric keypad to enter the desired state number (you can enter values from 0 to 19), then press the

Enter key.

Chapter 2 71

Using System Features

Using File and Save Keys

Using the Alpha Editor Menu

The alpha editor enables you to enter text. All text entries are displayed in the active function area.

Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Example

ABCDEFG abcdefg ():;,’ V HIJKLMN hijklmn _!? ~ W OPQRSTU opqrstu + - * / <> = X VWXYZ vwxyz |/\{} [] Y Done Done @ # $% ^ & Z Space Space Space

More (1 of 3) More (2 of 3) More (3 of 3)

1. You access the alpha editor when you press a key that requires an alpha entry, such as the keys. When the Choose Option, License Key, or Host Name key is pressed, you will see the menu which is shown in level 1 of the table above.

Choose Option, License Key, and Host Name

2. If you wish to enter a capital letter, press the key which contains the letter you wish to select. For example, if you want to enter an upper case Y,you will press the

VWXYZ key. A submenu, as shown in

the example column of the table above, is now activated. You will then press the softkey labelled function area. To access lower case letters press the

Y, and it will appear in the active

More (1 of 3) key.

To access mathematical symbols and punctuation marks press the

More (2 of 3) key.

3. Press the

Return front panel key to return to the previous menu

without entering characters.

4. To enter a space, press the Space key, which is available on both the letters and the symbols Alpha Editor menus.

5. If you need to correct a character you have entered, you can use the backspace key to move the cursor in the active function area to the character you need to correct.

6. Once you have completed entering all characters, press the

7. Pressing the

ESC key at any time prior to pressing the Done key will

Done key.

clear the new entry and leave the previous entry unchanged.

72 Chapter2

Using System Features

Using Printers

Keys in the Print Setup menu enable you to select a printer, and to print to a printer or a ﬂoppy disk drive.

Front Panel Key Level 1 Level 2

Print Setup Print To File/Printer

Print Type gif/xwd File Location Floppy/Internal Printer LaserJet

DeskJet

Selecting a Type of Printer

1. Press Print Setup, Printer.

2. Press the key which has a label that corresponds to the type of printer you are using; the keys available to you are LaserJet or

DeskJet.

How to Print

1. Press the front-panel Print key. A copy of the display screen will automatically be sent to the printer or ﬂoppy disk according to the parameters set in the

Printer Setup menu.

How to Save a Screen Image to a Floppy Disc

1. Insert a ﬂoppy disc, formatted for MS-DOS, into the front panel disk drive.

2. Press Printer Setup, Print To. Toggle the Print To key from Printer to File.

3. Toggle the File Type key to select either a gif or an xwd type ﬁle.

4. Toggle the File Location key to Floppy.

5. Press the front panel remove the disk. The ﬁle you have saved, which is an image of the state displayed on the screen, is now available to be printed through use of an external computer and printer, or to be imported into an electronic document.

Print key. Once the LED on the disk drive is off

Chapter 2 73

Using System Features

Using Printers

74 Chapter2

3 Setting the Mode

This chapter explains how to select the mode, and how to modify mode parameters such as input and trigger settings.

Setting the Mode

Selecting a Mode

The Mode menu key is used to select the measurement personality you have purchased with your instrument, or to select the basic or service modes, which are native to the instrument. Upon turn-on the instrument will default to the basic mode.

•

Mode - Accesses the measurement personality mode. Press the key

that corresponds to the option mode you want to select, such as GSM or cdmaOne. For a full explanation of the personality mode you have purchased, see the documentation which comes with that option.

• Basic - This mode is useful for making measurements that are not speciﬁed in industry standards, and will be helpful for troubleshooting purposes. Press mode, and bring up the measurements menu. For further explanation of the basic features go to page 82.

Mode, Basic to switch to the basic

• Service These features will help you check the functionality of your instrument. Press

Mode, Service, to switch to the service mode, and

bring up the service measurements menu. Features accessed through this menu include tests which check the timebase frequency, the sensors on the RF board, and the functionality of the front panel keys. For further explanation of service features go to page 120.

The waveform and spectrum measurements can also be accessed through this menu, as well as a power vs time measurement which is used only for diagnostic purposes. The waveform and spectrum measurements accessed through the service mode are similar to the spectrum and waveform measurements found in the basic mode. However, the measurement setup parameters that you select are only used for the service mode. The basic mode settings remain the same. Explanations of the spectrum and waveform measurements are found in the section on basic features, which starts on page 91.

Note that spectrum and waveform measurements are available in each personality mode, as well as in the basic and service modes.

If you want to set the instrument to a known, factory default state, press

Preset. This will preset the mode setup and all of the

measurements to the factory default parameters. Note that

Preset does

not switch modes.

NOTE Some features are intended for use only by service personnel and

cannot be accessed without a password. If after pressing a key, a message appears requesting entry of a password, this means that the feature is meant for service use only. The password is only available through the service guide.

76 Chapter3

Setting the Mode

Mode Setup

When you switch to another mode the instrument automatically presets mode settings to default states for that mode. The settings under mode setup apply to all measurements in the mode.

NOTE Prior to making measurements, it is important to set the parameters

under the mode setup key so they match the device to be tested and your test setup. These parameters are not saved when you switch to another mode. If you want to save these use the save state feature, which is explained on page 71.

The

Mode Setup key accesses two mode setup menus: (1) the Input menu

key accesses features including selecting inputs, changing input attenuation, and modifying IF align settings, and (2) the key, which enables you to choose trigger setup states for the instrument.

Trigger menu

Input Keys

By pressing the Input key you access menus which enable you to activate an input port, adjust input attenuation, and adjust the IF align signal.

Activate an Input Port and Adjust Input Power

• Input Port key. The allows you to select one of the following input keys:

MHz Ref, and IF Align. These keys are explained below.

RF key. Use the different input has been activated.

I/Q key. Use this input to test I and Q signals which are not modulated onto a carrier.

I only key. Use this input to test I signals which are not modulated onto a carrier.

50 MHz Ref key. Selects the internal 50 MHz reference signal. The displayed signal amplitude will be −25 dBm.

IF Align key. The IF align signal is an internal calibration signal used during the auto align process. You can view this signal and change its characteristics through the IF Align menu.

Input Port menu key accesses a menu which

RF, I/Q, I only, 50

RF key to reactivate the RF input after a

Chapter 3 77

Setting the Mode

Mode Setup

Adjust Input Attenuation and Input Power.

• Max Total Pwr key. The when

Input Port is set to RF. Max Total Pwr allows you to enter

Max Total Pwr key can be activated only

maximum power levels (−15 dBm is the default value) for the RF input. The maximum total power setting is coupled to the input attenuation setting.

• I/Q Input Z key. The

Port is set to I/Q. The I/Q Input Z key enables you to choose an input

I/Q Input Z key can be activated only when Input

impedance of either 50 Ω or 600 Ω. An input impedance of 600 Ωmay be needed for certain telecommunications applications.

• Input Atten key. The

Port is set to RF. The Input Atten feature allows you to enter the

Input Atten feature can be activated only when

attenuation value. The input attenuation can be set at values from 0 to 40 dB in increments of 1 dB. The input attenuation setting is coupled to the maximum total power setting.

NOTE The Max Total Pwr and Input Atten settings are coupled together. When

you switch to a different measurement, the constant, but the

Input Atten may change if the two measurements have

Max Total Pwr is kept

different mixer margins. Thus, you can directly set the transmitter tester input attenuation, or you can set it indirectly by specifying the maximum expected power at the UUT (Max Total Pwr setting).

Adjust the IF Align Signal.

• Signal Rate key. To change the rate of the IF align signal you will enter a divider number between 1 to 12. Each divider number increment halves the signal frequency. For example, at the default DAC setting of 1 the signal is set to 234.375 kHz. If the rate is set to 2 the signal is half that frequency, or 117.188 kHz.

• Signal Amptd key. To modify the signal amplitude you will enter a DAC value between 0 - 4095. The amplitude range is approximately 50 dB. Incrementing the DAC value increases the amplitude of the signal, and will be visible on screen.

• Signal Type key. This menu allows you to select a CW, comb, or pulse type signal as the IF align signal.

78 Chapter3

Setting the Mode

Mode Setup

Trigger Keys

The Trigger key accesses the mode setup menu for the following trigger sources. See page 79 for an explanation of the trigger sources listed below, as well as two additional trigger sources.

• RF Burst (Wideband)

• Video (IF Envlp)

Ext Front

•

• Ext Rear Pressing one of the trigger source keys will access the mode setup

menu. This menu is used to set the trigger source. Note that the actual trigger source is selected separately for each measurement (under the

• Delay key. This key is used to set the delay time for trigger sources. For trigger delay use positive values. For pre-trigger delay use negative values. The range of the trigger delay is −500 ms to +500 ms.

Delay, Level, and Slope for each

Meas Setup key).

• Level key. For the to the peak level of the RF signal (for the

RF Burst (Wideband) selection the level is relative

RF Burst trigger you will

enter a peak level value with a key labelled PeakLevel, rather than

Level). For the Video selection the level is the value, in dBm at the

RF input, that will cause the trigger. For the

Ext Front and Ext Rear

selections, the level range is −5 to +5 volts.

• Slope key. This key allows you to trigger off of the positive-going edge (Pos) or the negative-going edge (Neg) of the trigger source signal.

Other keys accessed under the Trigger key:

• Trig Holdoff key. Sets the period of time before the next trigger can occur.

• Auto Trig key. Acts as a trigger timeout. If no trigger occurs by the speciﬁed time, a trigger is automatically generated. When set to On the instrument will take data when it receives a signal from the current trigger source; if no signal is received in the expected time period, the time period will default to the Free Run trigger default time period. When set to Off (the default setting) data will only be taken if a trigger has been set, and the Free Run trigger will not be automatically activated.

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Setting the Mode

Mode Setup

• Frame Timer key. The frame timer feature uses the internal frame clock to generate a trigger signal.

— Period key. Sets the period of the frame clock. Values between

and 1 ns and 559 ms can be entered. — Offset key. Allows entry of offset values between 10 ns and 1 s. — Reset Offset key. Resets the display of the

Sync Source menu key. See keys listed below.

—

Offset key to 0 s.

• Sync Source menu key.

Off key. Deactivates any sync source trigger that has been

—

selected and returns you to the frame timer menu. — Ext Front key. Synchronizes the measurement to an external

sync source, such as a frame clock signal. The starting point is the

point coinciding with the external trigger point plus the external

trigger delay. — Ext Rear key. Synchronizes the measurement to an external

sync source, such as a frame clock signal. The starting point is the

point coinciding with the external trigger point plus the external

trigger delay. —

RF Burst key. Synchronizes the measurement to the internal,

wideband RF burst trigger.

Selecting the Frequency/Channel

Use the FREQUENCY/Channel front panel key to set the center frequency or select the channel for the measurement you want to make.

80 Chapter3

4 Making Measurements

This chapter explains how to setup and view Basic mode and Service mode measurements. The service measurements help conﬁrm the functionality of the instrument.

Making Measurements

Basic Measurements

Basic measurements are useful for making measurements that are not speciﬁed in measurement standards, and will be useful if you need to troubleshoot a measurement operation. In addition, having spectrum and waveform measurements available independently of personality modes provides extra ﬂexibility.

To access the Basic mode press the

Mode key and select the Basic

softkey. The following measurements are then available by pressing the

Measure key:

Spectrum on page 91 Waveform on page 99 Channel Power on page 106 Adjacent Channel Power on page 111

When you press the key to select the measurement it will become the active measurement, using settings and a display unique to that measurement. Data acquisitions will automatically begin provided trigger requirements, if any, are met.

82 Chapter4

Making Measurements

Preparing for Measurements

If you want to set the Basic mode to a known, factory default state, press

Preset. This will preset the mode setup and all of the

measurements to the factory default parameters.

NOTE Pressing the Preset key does not switch instrument modes.

To preset only the settings that are speciﬁc to a speciﬁc measurement, select the measurement and press

Defaults. This will set the measure setup parameters to the factory

defaults for the currently selected measurement only.

Initial Setup

Before making a measurement, make sure the mode setup and frequency/channel parameters are set to the desired settings. Refer to the sections “Mode Setup” and “Selecting the Frequency/Channel” in the previous chapter.

Meas Setup, More, Restore Meas

How to Make a Measurement

The following table summarizes the steps you will follow in making a measurement:

Step Primary Key Setup Keys Related Keys

1. Select & setup a mode

2. Select & setup a measurement

3. Select & setup view

Using Measure Keys

The MEASURE front panel key allows you to activate one measurement from those available in the current mode. The measurements that are available will vary depending on which mode you have selected. It may be a measurement personality mode, the basic mode, or the service mode.

Mode Mode Setup, Input,

Frequency Channel

Measure Meas Setup Meas Control,

View/Trace Span X Scale,

Amplitude Y Scale Next Window, Zoom

, Display,

System

Restart File

, Save,

Print, Print Setup, Marker, Search

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Preparing for Measurements

Measurement Control

Following your selection of the instrument mode and mode setup you will use keys in the the running of the current measurement.

• Measure - Toggles between Single and Cont (for continuous) measurement states. When set to Single the measurement will continue until it has reached the speciﬁed number of averages set by the average counter. When set to Cont the measurement will run continuously, and perform averaging according to the current average type (repeat or exponential). The default is continuous. See

page 85 for an explanation of averaging.

•

Pause - Pauses the current measurement. Once toggled, the label of

the

Pause key changes to read Resume. The Resume key continues

the active measurement from the point at which it was paused.

The Restart key repeats the current measurement from the beginning, while retaining the current measurement settings.

Meas Control keys to control processes that affect

Measurement Setup

The Meas Setup key accesses features that enable you to adjust parameters of the current measurement, such as resolution bandwidth. You will also use the and Advanced measure setup feature menus.

The following measure setup features can be used with many measurements:

• Res BW - Changes the resolution bandwidth of a given measurement. Selection of a narrower bandwidth will result in a longer data acquisition time.

• Restore Meas Defaults - Presets only the settings that are speciﬁc to the selected measurement. This will set the measure setup parameters to the factory defaults, only for the currently selected measurement.

Meas Setup menu to access Average, Trig Source,

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Making Measurements

Preparing for Measurements

Averaging

Features in the Average menu allow you to modify the number, average mode, and type of averaging you use for the currently selected measurement. The features available for averaging will vary slightly depending on the measurement that is currently active. On the display averaged trace results are shown in blue, while the instantaneous signal is shown in yellow.

• Avg Number - Modiﬁes the number of times the current measurement will be repeated with the results from the repeated measurements averaged. Increased averages usually give more accurate results. There will be an increase in the time taken to make a measurement if the number of averages is increased.

• Avg Mode - Selects between an

Exp (exponential) or a Repeat mode

of averaging. This selection only affects the averaging after the number of N averages is reached (set using

Avg Number). Normal

(linear) averaging is always used until the speciﬁed number of N averages is reached. When

Measure is set to Single, data acquisitions

are stopped when the number of averages is reached. Therefore

Mode has no effect on single measurements.

Exponential averaging: When

Measure is set at Cont (continuous)

data acquisitions will continue indeﬁnitely. After N averages, exponential averaging is used with a weighting factor of N (the displayed average count stops at N). Exponential averaging weights new data more than old data, which facilitates tracking of slow-changing signals. The value of N is set through use of the

Average key or the Avg Bursts key.

Repeat averaging: When

Measure is set at Cont, data acquisitions

will continue indeﬁnitely. After N averages is reached, all previous result data is cleared and the average count is set back to 1. This is equivalent to pressing pressing the

Restart key each time the single measurement

Measure, Single and then

ﬁnishes.

Avg

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Preparing for Measurements

• Avg Type - Allows you to select type of averaging. Only the types of averaging that are appropriate for the current measurement are available in that measurement. The following average types are available:

Pwr Avg - Averages the power, which is equivalent to the rms of the voltage. This is the default type of averaging.

Log-Pwr Avg - The log of the power is averaged. This is also known as video averaging.

Voltage Avg - The voltage is averaged. Maximum - The maximum values are retained. Minimum - The minimum values are retained.

Trigger Source

Changing the

Trig Source alters the trigger source for the current

measurement only. Not all of the selections are available for all measurements. Note that the

RF Burst, Video, Ext Front, and Ext Rear

menu keys found in the Trigger menu enable you to change settings to modify the delay, level, and slope for each of these trigger sources (as described on page 79. Choose one of the following trigger sources:

• Free Run - Triggers at the time the data is requested, completely asynchronous to the RF or IF signals.

•

Video - Is an internal IF envelope trigger. It triggers on an absolute

threshold level of the signal passed by the IF.

• RF Burst - Is an internal wideband RF burst trigger that has an automatic level control for burst signals.

• Ext Front - Activates the front panel Ext Trigger Input. The external trigger must be a signal between −5 and +5 volts.

• Ext Rear - Activates the rear panel Trigger In. The external trigger must be a signal between −5 and +5 volts.

• Frame - Uses the internal frame clock to generate a trigger signal. The clock parameters are controlled under the

Mode Setup key or the

measurement ﬁrmware, not both. See the speciﬁc measurement for details.

• Line - Activates an internal line trigger. Sweep triggers occur at intervals synchronized to the line frequency.

Rear panel

TRIGGER 1 OUT and TRIGGER 2 OUT connectors are coupled

to the selected trigger source. These trigger outputs are always on the rising edge with a pulse width of at least 1 µs.

86 Chapter4

Making Measurements

Preparing for Measurements

Changing the View

The following keys enable you to select the desired view of the measurement and to change scale parameters for the graphic window.

View/Trace - Selects a predeﬁned view of the current measurement and

highlights the selected window. Once a window is selected, the X and Y scale keys can be used to modify scale parameters. The types of windows, and X and Y scale parameters that are available will vary, depending on the measurement you have activated.

• Typical Measurement Windows Spectrum window - Select this window if you want to view a

signal in parameters of frequency and power. Changes to frequency span or power will sometimes affect data acquisition. For more details see the section on spectrum measurements.

RF Envelope window - Select this window to view a signal in parameters of time and power. For more detail see the section on waveform measurements.

I/Q Waveform window - Select this window to view the I and Q signal characteristics of the current measurement in parameters of voltage and time. This window is in both the spectrum and waveform measurements.

Press window, or

View/Trace, Spectrum, to view a spectrum measurement

View/Trace, Waveform to view a waveform measurement

window.

• Trace Display

All - Displays both the current and the average trace. Average - Displays only the average trace. The average trace is

shown in blue. Current - Displays only the trace for the latest data acquisition.

The current trace is shown in yellow.

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Preparing for Measurements

• Span / X Scale Keys Span key. This key allows you to modify the frequency span.

Changes in span may affect data acquisition. Scale/Div key. This key allows you to modify the X scale

parameter in units of time. Sweep Time key. This key allows you to modify sweep time.

Changes in sweep time will affect data acquisition. Ref Value key. This key allows you to set the value of the

reference level for X scale display in units of time. Ref Position key. This key allows you to place the current

reference level on the left, the center, or the right of the display. This is used for X scale display either in units of frequency or time.

Scale/Coupling key. This key couples the scale/division to the sweep time for measurements made in the time domain.

• Amplitude / Y Scale Keys

Scale/Div key. This key enables you to set the dB/Division (for the

Spectrum and the RF Envelope windows) or V/Division (for the I/Q window).

Ref Value key. This key allows you to set the value of the reference,

in units of dB (for the RF Envelope window), or in units of mV (for the I/Q window).

Ref Position key. This key allows you to move the current

reference level to the top, center, or bottom of the display.

88 Chapter4

Making Measurements

Preparing for Measurements

Using Markers

Markers enable you to make measurements on screen. Keys in the

Marker menu control the number and types of markers you can access. Trace keys allow you to select the trace on which you will activate a

marker. The search and activate a marker at the peak signal.

Paths to access any of the features listed below will be found next to the speciﬁc key listed in the key access table which begins on page 53

Trace

The Trace keys allow you to select the trace that will be used for the other marker keys. You can then use marker features to obtain the results you desire. To access

NOTE The selections in the Trace menu include traces on all windows for the

current measurement, including windows that are not currently displayed.

Search key enables you to perform an immediate peak

Trace keys press Marker, Trace.

When making waveform measurements you can activate the following trace keys:

When making spectrum measurements you can activate:

Spectrum Avg, and I/Q Waveform keys. The spectrum average trace

RF Envelope and I/Q Waveform keys.

Spectrum,

feature places a marker on the average trace in the spectrum window.

Markers

Up to four markers can appear on the display simultaneously but only one marker can be activated and moved at a time. This marker is called the “active” marker. Press the

Shape and Marker All Off keys, which require you to press Marker,

More (1 of 2).

Marker to access the keys below, except for

• Normal - Activates a single marker on the selected trace (as set by the trace key) in units either of frequency or time, depending on the measurement mode that is currently active. However, if a marker has previously been activated, that marker will persist as the default marker until it is changed. You can change the position of the marker through use of the front panel step keys and RPG knob. Annotation in the active function area and the upper right hand corner of the display indicate the value of the active marker in units of the window which contains that marker. Pressing

Normal also

deactivates any marker delta functions which have been activated previously.

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Preparing for Measurements

• Select - Enables you to select one, or more, of the four available markers. Once selected, a marker can be activated, or deactivated, by using the

Normal, Delta, or Function keys. If a marker has

previously been turned on and assigned to a speciﬁc trace it will become active on that trace when the

Select key is pressed.

• Delta - Places two markers on the selected trace or, if a marker is already active, places a second marker at the position of the active marker. You can activate up to two sets of delta markers. Annotation in the active function area and in the upper-right corner of the display show differences between the two markers in the units of the window which contains that marker.

•

Off - Turns off the selected marker (as set by the Select key).

• Marker All Off - Turns off all markers.

• Shape - Allows you to select markers in the shapes of diamonds, crosses, squares, and lines. The line markers run vertically, from the bottom to the top of the display, while the diamond, square, and cross shapes simply allow you to distinguish different points on the trace by using different shapes. You may use up to four different shaped markers at a given time, although only one may be active.

Marker Functions

The marker functions:

Function menu key enables you to use two marker

Band Power and Noise. These functions do not apply to all

measurements; if you attempt to press a function key for a function that is not applicable to that measurement a message will appear telling you that the function is not supported under the current measurement. These functions are described below. Press

Function to access the following keys.

Marker,

• Band Power - Allows you to place two markers to either side of a band so you can measure the power within that band. You can use the RPG knob to move the band markers; the numerical power reading will be visible in the upper right corner of the display. This feature is particularly useful for measuring channel power.

• Noise - Normalizes the equivalent amplitude of the measured noise to a 1 Hz bandwidth, which is centered around the displayed marker. This is done by sampling and displaying the average of 32 data points.

Search Marker

The front panel

Search key performs a peak search when pressed. A

marker will automatically be activated at the highest peak.

90 Chapter4

Making Measurements

Making the Spectrum (Frequency Domain) Measurement

Purpose

The spectrum measurement provides spectrum analysis capability for the instrument. The control of the measurement was designed to be familiar to those who are accustomed to using swept spectrum analyzers.

This measurement is FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) based. The FFT-speciﬁc parameters are located in the available under basic mode spectrum measurements is an I/Q window, which shows the I and Q signals in parameters of voltage and time. The advantage of having an I/Q view available while in the spectrum measurement is that it allows you to view complex components of the same signal without changing settings or measurements.

Advanced menu. Also

Measurement Method

The transmitter tester uses digital signal processing to sample the input signal and convert it to the frequency domain. With the instrument tuned to a ﬁxed center frequency, samples are digitized at a high rate, converted to I and Q components with DSP hardware, and then converted to the frequency domain with FFT software.

Making the Measurement

NOTE The factory default parameters provide a good starting point.You will

likely want to change some of the settings. Press

2), Restore Meas Defaults at any time to return all parameters for the

current measurement to their default settings. Press

Spectrum (Frequency Domain) the active measurement. Tochange any of the measurement parameters from the factory default

values, refer to the “Changing the Measurement Setup” section for this measurement.

Measure, Spectrum (Freq Domain) to immediately make

Meas Setup, More (1 of

Results

A display with both a spectrum window and an I/Q Waveform window will appear when you activate a spectrum measurement. Use the

Window key to select a window, and the Zoom key to enlarge a window.

Chapter 4 91

Making Measurements

Making the Spectrum (Frequency Domain) Measurement

Figure 1 Spectrum Measurement Result- Spectrum Window

Figure 2 Spectrum Measurement Result- I/Q Waveform Window

92 Chapter4

Making the Spectrum (Frequency Domain) Measurement

Changing the Measurement Setup

Table 1 Spectrum (Frequency Domain) Measurement Defaults

Measurement Parameter Factory Default Condition

Res BW 20.0000 kHz (Auto) Averaging:

Avg Number Avg Mode Avg Type

Trigger Source Free Run (Immediate)

25 On Exp Log-Pwr Avg (Video)

Making Measurements

Measurement Time (Service mode only)

Spectrum Window:

Span Scale/Div - Amplitude Y Scale

I/Q Waveform Window:

Capture Time Scale/Div - Amplitude Y Scale

Advanced

Pre-ADC BPF On Pre-FFT Filter Flat Pre-FFT BW 1.55000 MHz (Auto) FFT Window Flat Top (High AmptdAcc) FFT Size:

Length Control Min Points/RBW Window Length FFT Length

ADC Range Auto Peak

1.0 ms (Auto)

1.00000 MHz

10.00 dB

188.00 µs 60 mV

Auto

1.300000 706 4096

Data Packing Auto ADC Dither Auto Decimation 0 (Auto) IF Flatness On

Chapter 4 93

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Making the Spectrum (Frequency Domain) Measurement

NOTE Parameters under the Advanced key seldom need to be changed. Any

changes from the default advanced values may result in invalid measurement data.

Make sure the the

Measure menu. Press the Meas Setup key to access a menu which

Spectrum (Freq Domain) measurement is selected under

allows you to modify the averaging, and trigger source for this measurement (as described in the “Measurement Setup” section). In addition, the following parameters can be modiﬁed:

•

Span - This key allows you to modify the frequency span. Changing

the span causes the bandwidth to change automatically, and will affect data acquisition time.

•

Res BW - This feature sets the resolution bandwidth for the FFT, and

allows manual or automatic settings. A narrower bandwidth will result in a longer data acquisition time. In Auto mode the resolution bandwidth is set to Span/50 (2% of the span).

•

Advanced - The following FFT advanced features should be used only

if you are familiar with their operation. Changes from the default values may result in invalid data.

Pre-ADC BPF - This key allows you to toggle the pre-ADC bandpass ﬁlter to On or Off states. The pre-ADC bandpass ﬁlter is useful for rejecting nearby signals, so that sensitivity within the span range can be improved by increasing the ADC range gain.

Pre-FFT Fltr - Allows you to toggle between

Gaussian. The pre-FFT ﬁlter defaults to a ﬂat top ﬁlter which has

Flat (ﬂat top) and

better amplitude accuracy. The Gaussian ﬁlter has better pulse response.

Pre-FFT BW - The Pre-FFT bandwidth allows you to select between a manual or an automatic setting. The pre FFTbandwidth ﬁlter can be set between 1 Hz and 10 MHz. In Auto mode this bandwidth is nominally 50% wider than the span. This bandwidth determines the ADC sampling rate.

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Making Measurements

Making the Spectrum (Frequency Domain) Measurement

FFT Window - Allows you to access the following selection menu. Unless you are familiar with FFT windows, use the ﬂat top ﬁlter (the default ﬁlter).

• Flat Top - Selects a ﬁlter for best amplitude accuracy, by reducing scalloping error.

• Uniform - You can select to have no window active by using the uniform setting.

• Hanning

• Hamming

• Gaussian - Selects a gaussian ﬁlter with an alpha of 3.5.

• Blackman

• Blackman Harris

• K-B 70dB / 90dB/ 110dB (Kaiser-Bessel) - Allows selection of Kaiser-Bessel ﬁlters with sidelobes of −70, −90, or −110 dBc.

FFT Size - This menu contains the following features:

• Length Ctrl - This feature allows you to set the FFT and window lengths either automatically or manually.

• Min Pts in RBW - This feature allows you to set the minimum number of data points that will be used inside the resolution bandwidth. This adjustment is only available if the

Length Ctrl key is set to Auto.

• Window Length - This feature allows you to enter the FFT window length ranging from 8 to 1048576. This length represents the actual quantity of I/Q samples that are captured for processing by the FFT. This value can only be entered if length control is set to Manual.

• FFT Length - This feature allows you to enter the FFT length in the number of captured samples, ranging from 4096 to

1048576. The FFT length setting is automatically limited so that it is equal or greater than the FFT window length setting. Any amount greater than the window length is implemented by zero-padding. This value can be entered only if length control is set to Man (manual).

ADC Range - Allows you to access the following selection menu to deﬁne one of the following ADC ranging functions:

• Auto - Select this to set the ADC range automatically. For most FFT spectrum measurements, the auto feature should not be selected. An exception is when measuring a signal which is “bursty”, in which case auto can maximize the time domain dynamic range, if FFT results are less important to you than time domain results.

• Auto Peak - Select this to set the ADC range automatically to the peak signal level. Auto peak is a compromise that works well for both CW and burst signals.

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Making Measurements

Making the Spectrum (Frequency Domain) Measurement

• AutoPeakLock - Select this to hold the ADC range automatically at the peak signal level. Auto peak lock is more stable than auto peak for CW signals, but should not be used for “bursty” signals.

• Manual - Allows you to access the selection menu:

+6 dB, +12 dB, +18 dB, +24 dB, to set the ADC range level. Also

−6dB, 0dB,

note that manual ranging is best for CW signals.

Data Packing - Allows you to access the following selection menu to deﬁne one of the following data packing methods:

• Auto - Data is automatically packed. This is the default setting and most recommended.

• Short (16 bit) - Data is packed by every 16 bits.

Medium (24 bit) - Data is packed by every 24 bits.

•

Long (32 bit) - Data is packed by every 32 bits.

•

ADC Dither - Allows you to toggle the ADC dither function between Auto, On, and Off. When set to auto (the default), ADC dither will

be activated when a narrow bandwidth is being measured, and deactivated when a wide bandwidth is being measured. “ADC dither” refers to the introduction of noise to the digitized steps of the analog-to-digital converter; the result is an improvement in amplitude accuracy. Use of the ADC dither, however, reduces dynamic range by approximately 3 dB.

Decimation - Allows you to toggle the decimation function between Auto and Man, and to set the decimation value. Auto is the

preferred setting, and the only setting that guarantees alias-free FFT spectrum measurements. If you are familiar with the decimation feature, you can change the decimation value by setting to

Man, but be aware that aliasing can result in higher

values.

IF Flatness - Allows you to toggle between On and Off. When

toggled to

On (the default), the IF ﬂatness feature causes

background amplitude corrections to be performed on the FFT spectrum. The

Off setting is used for adjustment and

troubleshooting the transmitter tester.

96 Chapter4

Making Measurements

Making the Spectrum (Frequency Domain) Measurement

Changing the View

View/Trace menu keys are used to activate a view of a measurement with preset X and Y scale parameters, called a “window”. Using the X and Y Scale keys you can then modify these parameter settings. You can also activate speciﬁc traces, using the

Windows Available for Spectrum Measurements

The spectrum and the I/Q windows can be viewed at the same time, or individually. You can use the

Next Window and Zoom keys to move

between these different views.

Spectrum window Select this window if you want to view frequency

and power. Changes to frequency span or power will sometimes affect data acquisition.

I/Q Waveform window. Select this window to view the I and Q signal

characteristics of the current measurement in parameters of voltage and time.

Trace Display menu key.

NOTE For the widest spans the I/Q window becomes just “ADC time domain

samples”, because the I/Q down-conversion is no longer in effect.

Using the Markers

The Marker front-panel key accesses the menu to conﬁgure the markers. If you want to use the marker function in the I/Q window, press

View/Trace, I/Q Waveform, Marker, Trace, IQ Waveform.

Select 1 2 3 4 - Allows you to activate up to four markers with the

• corresponding numbers, respectively. The selected number is underlined and its function is deﬁned by pressing the The default is 1.

• Normal - Allows you to activate the selected marker to read the frequency and amplitude of the marker position on the spectrum trace, for example, which is controlled by the

Delta - Allows you to read the differences in frequencies and

•

RPG knob.

amplitudes between the selected marker and the next.

• Function Off - Allows you to deﬁne the selected marker function to be

Band Power, Noise,orOff. The default is Off. If set to Band Power, you

need to select

Delta.

Function key.

Trace Spectrum - Allows you to place the selected marker on the

•

Spectrum, Spectrum Avg, or I/Q Waveform trace. The default is Spectrum.

Off - Allows you to turn off the selected marker.

•

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Making Measurements

Making the Spectrum (Frequency Domain) Measurement

• Shape Diamond - Allows you to access the menu to deﬁne the selected marker shape to be a a

Diamond.

Marker All Off - Allows you to turn off all of the markers.

•

Diamond, Line, Square, or Cross. The default is

The front panel

Search key performs a peak search when pressed. A

marker will automatically be activated at the highest peak.

Band Power

A band power measurement using the markers calculates the average power between two adjustable markers. To make a band power measurement:

Press the Press

spectrum signal. Press the

Marker key.

Trace, Spectrum to activate a marker on the instantaneous

Spectrum Avg key to activate a marker on

the average spectrum trace. Press Function, Band Power. Two marker lines are activated at the extreme left side of the

horizontal scale. Press Normal and move marker 1 to the desired place by rotating the

Press

Delta to bring marker 2 to the same place as marker 1.

Move marker 1 to the other desired position by rotating the

RPG knob.

RPG

knob. Band power measures the average power between the two markers. When the band power markers are active, the results are shown in the results window as Mean Pwr(Between Mks).When the band power function is off the results window reads Mean Pwr (Entire Trace).

Troubleshooting Hints

Changes made by the user to advanced spectrum settings, particularly to ADC range settings, can inadvertently result in spectrum measurements that are invalid and cause error messages to appear. Care needs to be taken when using advanced features.

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Making the Waveform (Time Domain) Measurement

Purpose

The waveform measurement is a generic measurement for viewing waveforms in the time domain. This measurement is how the instrument performs the zero span functionality found in traditional spectrum analyzers. Also available under basic mode waveform measurements is an I/Q window, which shows the I and Q signal in parameters of voltage and time. The advantage of having an I/Q view available while in the waveform measurement is that it allows you to view complex components of the same signal without changing settings or measurements.

The waveform measurement can be used to perform general purpose power measurements to a high degree of accuracy.

Measurement Method

The transmitter tester makes repeated power measurements at a set frequency, similar to the way a swept-tuned spectrum analyzer makes zero span measurements. The input analog signal is converted to a digital signal, which then is processed into a representation of a waveformmeasurement. The transmitter tester relies on a high rates of sampling to create an accurate representation of a time domain signal.

Making the Measurement

NOTE The factory default parameters provide a good starting point.You will

likely want to change some of the settings. Press

2), Restore Meas Defaults at any time to return all parameters for the

current measurement to their default settings. Press

Waveform (Time Domain) the active measurement. Tochange any of the measurement parameters from the factory default

values, refer to the “Changing the Measurement Setup” section for this measurement.

Measure, Waveform (Time Domain) to immediately make

Meas Setup, More (1 of

Chapter 4 99

Making Measurements

Making the Waveform (Time Domain) Measurement

Results

Figure 3 Waveform Measurement Results- RF Envelope Window

Figure 4 Waveform Measurement Results - I/Q Waveform Window

100 Chapter4

Agilent E4406A Users Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Contents

1 Getting Started

What Comes with the E4406A VSA Series Transmitter Tester

URL for the Latest VSA Transmitter Tester Update

How to Make a Measurement

Front Panel Key Maps of Context Dependency

Front Panel Description

Rear Panel Description

Display Annotation

Installing Optional Measurement Personalities

Available Personality Options

License Key

Installing a License Key Number

NOTE Using the Uninstall key does not remove the personality from the

Cables for Connecting to the Serial Port (RS-232)

Safety Considerations

Instrument Installation

Instrument Operation and Maintenance

2 Using System Features

Using System Keys

Install and Uninstall

Key Locations

Using I/O, Front and Rear Panel Keys

Reference

Alignment

Restore Sys Defaults

Show Errors

Show System

System (Local)

Using File and Save Keys

Loading a State

Saving a State

Using the Alpha Editor Menu

Using Printers

Selecting a Type of Printer

How to Print

How to Save a Screen Image to a Floppy Disc

3 Setting the Mode

Selecting a Mode

Mode Setup

Input Keys

Trigger Keys

Selecting the Frequency/Channel

4 Making Measurements

Basic Measurements

Preparing for Measurements

Initial Setup

Using Measure Keys

Measurement Control

Measurement Setup

Changing the View

Using Markers

Making the Spectrum (Frequency Domain) Measurement

Purpose

Measurement Method

Making the Measurement

Results

Changing the Measurement Setup

Changing the View

Using the Markers

Troubleshooting Hints

Making the Waveform (Time Domain) Measurement

Purpose

Measurement Method

Making the Measurement

Results