Agilent E9321A Operating Guide

E-Series E9320 Peak

and Average Power

Sensors

Operating and
Service Guide

General

Information contained in this document is subject to
change without notice. Agilent Technologies makes
no warranty of any kind with regard to this material,
including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of
merchantability and fitness for a particular purpo se.
Agilent Technologies shall not be liable for errors
contained herein or for incidental or consequential
damages in connection with the furnishings,
performance, or use of this material. No part of this
document may be ph otocopi ed, repr oduce d, or
translated to another language without the prior
written consent of Agilent Technologies.

Copyright 2003 Agilent Technologies

Station Road, South Queensferry, Scotland, EH30 9TG,
UK.

Agilent Part No. E9321-90001
Printed in USA

June 2007

Legal Information

Certification

Agilent Technologies certifies that this product met its
published specifications at the time of shipment from
the factory. Agilent Technologies further certifies that
its calibration measure ments are traceable to the
United States National Inst itute of Sta ndards and
Technology, to the extent allowed by the Institute’s
calibration facility, and to the calibration facilities of
other International Standards Organization members.

2 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Safety Symbols

Safety Symbols

The following symbols on the instrument and in the
documentation indicate precautions which must be taken to
maintain safe operation of the instrument.

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 supplied
documentation.

Safety

This guide uses warnings and cautions to denote hazards

Notices

WARNING A warning calls attention to a procedure, practice or the like,

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

CAUTION A caution calls attention to a procedure, practice or the like

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

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 3

General Safety Information

General Safety Information

The following general safety precautions must be observed
during all phases of operation, service, and repair of this
instrument. Failure to comply with these precautions or with
specific warnings elsewhere in this manual violates safety
standards of design, manufacture, and intended use of the
instrument. Agilent Technologies assumes no liability for the
customer’s failure to comply with these requirements.

WARNING BEFORE CONNECTING THE POWER SENSOR TO OTHER

INSTRUMENTS ensure that all instruments are connected to
the protective (earth) ground. Any interruption of the
protective earth grounding will cause a potential shock
hazard that could result in personal injury.

Sound Emission

Herstellerbescheinigung

Diese Information steht im Zusammenhang mit den
Anforderungen der Maschinenlarminformationsverordnung
vom 18 Januar 1991.

• Sound Pressure LpA < 70 dB.

• Am Arbeitsplatz.

•Normaler Betrieb.

• Nach DIN 45635 T. 19 (Typprufung).

4 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

General Safety Information

Manufacturers Declaration

This statement is provided to comply with the requirements of
the German Sound DIN 45635 T. 19 (Typprufung).

• Sound Pressure LpA < 70 dB.

• At operator position.

•Normal operation.

• According to ISO 7779 (Type Test).

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 5

General Safety Information

6 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Contents

Contents

Safety Symbols ........................................................................ 3

General Safety Information ..................................................... 4

Sound Emission.................................................................... 4

Contents .................................................................................. 7

Introduction...............................................................................9

General Information .............................................................. 10

Initial Inspection................................................................. 10

Power Meter and Sensor Cable Requirements....................11

Interconnections ................................................................ 11

Calibration.......................................................................... 11

The E-Series E9320 Power Sensors in Detail ........................ 13

Specifications and

Characteristics ......................................................................15

Introduction ........................................................................... 16

Specifications ....................................................................... 17

Service .......................................................................................43

General Information .............................................................. 44

Cleaning............................................................................. 44

Performance Test................................................................ 45

Replaceable Parts...............................................................47

Service .................................................................................. 51

Principles of Operation ....................................................... 51

Troubleshooting.................................................................. 54

Repair of Defective Sensor ................................................. 54

Disassembly Procedure...................................................... 55

Reassembly Procedure ....................................................... 55

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 7

Contents

8 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

1Introduction

What You’ll Find

In This Chapter

This Chapter introduces you to the E-series E9320 power
sensors. It contains the following sections:

• General Information on page 10

• Initial Inspection on page 10

• Power Meter and Sensor Cable Requirements on
page 11

• Interconnections on page 11

• The E-Series E9320 Power Sensors in Detail on page
13

General Information

General Information

Welcome to the E-series E9320 power sensors Operating and
Service Guide! This guide contains information about the
initial inspection, connection, and specifications of the E­series E9320 power sensors. You can also find a copy of this
guide on the CD-ROM supplied with the EPM-P series peak
and average power meters.

To make best use of your sensor refer to the chapter “Using
E-Series E9320 Sensors” in the EPM-P Series Power Meters
Operating and Service Guide.

Initial Inspection

Inspect the shipping container for damage. If the shipping
container or packaging material is damaged, it should be kept
until the contents of the shipment have been checked
mechanically and electrically. If there is mechanical damage,
notify the nearest Agilent office. Keep the damaged shipping
materials (if any) for inspection by the carrier and an Agilent
representative. If required, you can find a list of Agilent Sales
and Service offices on page 56.

10 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

General Information

Power Meter and Sensor Cable
Requirements

The E-series E9320 power sensors are compatible ONLY with
the EPM-P series power meters and with E9288 sensor
cables. (The E9288 cables are color coded to help distinguish
them from the 11730 series cables.)

Interconnections

Connect one end of an E9288 sensor cable to the E-series
E9320 power sensor and connect the other end of the cable to
the power meter’s channel input. Allow a few seconds for the
power meter to download the data contained in the power
sensor.

Ensure power sensors and cables are attached and removed
in an indoor environment.

Calibration

To carry out a zero and calibration cycle as requested by the

power meter proceed as follows:

• Ensure the E-series E9320 power sensor is disconnected

When the wait period is complete connect the E-series E9320
power sensor to the power meter’s POWER REF output.

• Press (or , / ). The wait symbol is

from any signal source. On the power meter, press

Zero

, (or / ). During zeroing

Cal

the wait symbol is displayed.

again displayed during calibration.

Zero Zero A Zero B

Cal Cal Cal A Cal B

TIP You can reduce the steps required to carry out the zero and

calibration procedure as follows:

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 11

General Information

Connect the power sensor to the POWER REF output.

• Press and . (For dual channel

Zero
Cal

meters, press , or

Zero + Cal B

Zero + Cal

Zero + Cal Zero + Cal A

as required.)

On completion, the power meter and sensor are ready to
connect to the device under test (DUT).

WARNING BEFORE CONNECTING THE POWER SENSOR TO OTHER

INSTRUMENTS ensure that all instruments are connected to
the protective (earth) ground. Any interruption of the
protective earth grounding will cause a potential shock hazard
that could result in personal injury.

CAUTION The measurement connector (for connection to DUT) is

Type-N (male). A torque wrench should be used to tighten
these connectors. Use a 3/4-inch open-end wrench and
torque to 12 in-lb (135 Ncm) for the Type-N connector.

12 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

The E-Series E9320 Power Sensors in Detail

The E-Series E9320 Power
Sensors in Detail

The E-series E9320 power sensors have two frequency
ranges. The E9325A, E9326A, and E9327A have a frequency
range of 50 MHz to 18 GHz while the 50 MHz to 6 GHz range of
the E9321A, E9322A, and E9323A covers most wireless
communication applications.

The sensors have two independent measurement paths as
shown in Figure 1.

Normal
Path

Average Only Path

Chopper

Selectable Gain
Differential Amplifier*
(300 kHz, 1.5 MHz, 5 MHz)

PEAK AUTO-ZERO

Thermistor Bias

2

C Buffer

I
Gain/Mode Control
Sensor ID

2

E

PROM

CW Differential
AMP

Switched
Gain
Preamp

GAIN SELECT

SERIAL BUS

Average
Only Path

CHOP/CLOCK

CHOP/GAIN

Normal
Path

RF IN
50ohm

Sensor D iode
Bulkhead

* Bandwi dth is sens or dependent

Load Filter*
(300 kHz, 1.5 MHz
5 MHz low pass)

Figure 1 Simplified Sensor Block Diagram

Use the default normal path for continuously sampled
measurements of modulated signals and time gated
measurements. For each frequency range there is a choice of
sensors with three video (modulation) bandwidths.

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 13

The E-Series E9320 Power Sensors in Detail

• E9321A and E9325A sensors with 300 kHz bandwidth are
suitable for measuring TDMA signals such as GSM.

• E9322A and E9326A sensors with 1.5 MHz bandwidth are
suitable for measuring IS-95 CDMA signals.

• E9323A and E9327A sensors with 5 MHz bandwidth are
suitable for measuring W-CDMA signals.

Note however, that the sensors with widest bandwidth have
the smallest dynamic range (in normal mode). If dynamic
range is an important factor, use the sensor model with just
enough video bandwidth for the measurement you want to
make.

The average-only path is suitable for average power
measurements of Continuous Wave (CW) and constant
amplitude signals between -65 dBm (sensor dependent) and
+20 dBm. The average-only path can also be used to measure
true average power of any complex modulated signal below ­20 dBm.

Calibration factors, linearity, temperature, and bandwidth
compensation data are stored in the sensor EEPROM during
the manufacturing process. All the compensation data is
downloaded to the EPM-P series power meter at power-on or
when the sensor is connected. You only need to enter the
frequency of the RF signal you are measuring to achieve a high
degree of accuracy.

14 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

2 Specifications and

Characteristics

What You’ll Find

In This Chapter

This Chapter describes the specifications and
characteristics of the E-series E9320 power sensors. It
contains the following sections:

• “Introduction” on page 16

• “Specifications” on page 17

Introduction

Introduction

E-series E9320 power sensors are designed for use with the

Agilent EPM series power meters. The E-series E9320 power

sensors have two measurement paths:

• Normal path: (default mode) for peak, average and

time-related measurements.

• Average-only path: is designed primarily for average
power measurements on low level signals.

These specifications are valid ONLY after zero and calibration
of the power meter and sensor.

Supplemental characteristics, which are shown in italics, are
intended to provide information useful in applying the power
sensors by giving typical, but nonwarranted performance
parameters. These characteristics are shown in italics or
denoted as “typical”, “nominal” or “approximate”.

16 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Specifications

Specifications

Frequency, Bandwidth, and Power Range

Table 1 Frequency, Bandwidth, and Power Range

Maximum

Power Range

Video

Sensor

E9321A 300 kHz 50 MHz

E9325A 300 kHz 50 MHz

E9322A 1.5 MHz 50 MHz

E9326A 1.5 MHz 50 MHz

E9323A 5 MHz 50 MHz

E9327A 5 MHz 50 MHz

Bandwidth

* For average power measurements, Free Run acquisition mode.

Frequency
Range

to

6GHz

to

18 GHz

to

6GHz

to

18 GHz

to

6GHz

to

18 GHz

Average
only Mode

–65 dBm

to

+20 dBm

–65 dBm

to

+20 dBm

–60 dBm

to

+20 dBm

–60 dBm

to

+20 dBm

–60 dBm

to

+20 dBm

–60 dBm

to

+20 dBm

Normal
Mode*

–50 dBm

to

+20 dBm

–50 dBm

to

+20 dBm

–45 dBm

to

+20 dBm

–45 dBm

to

+20 dBm

–40 dBm

to

+20 dBm

–40 dBm

to

+20 dBm

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 17

Maximum Power, RF Connector

Table 2 Maximum Power, RF Connector

Specifications

Sensor

E9321A
E9322A
E9323A
E9325A
E9326A
E9327A

RF
Connector

N-Type (m) +23 dBm average +30 dBm,

Maximum
Average Power

Maximum Peak
Power

<10µs duration

18 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Specifications

Measurement Ranges

The E-series E9320 power sensors have two measurement
ranges (Lower and Upper) as shown in Table 3, Table 4, and
Ta b le 5 .

Table 3 Lower and Upper Measurement Ranges

E9321A and E9325A

Lower Range (Min. Power)

Normal
mode

−50 dBm −65 dBm

Average only
mode

Lower Range (Max. Power)
Lower to Upper Auto Range

+0.5 dBm

Point

Upper to Lower Auto Range
Point

Upper Range (Min. Power)

Upper Range (Max. Power

1

Applies to CW and constant amplitude signals only

-9.5dBm -18.5 dBm

−35 dBm −50 dBm

+20 dBm

above −20 dBm.

−17.5 dBm

+20 dBm

1

1

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 19

Specifications

Table 4 Lower and Upper Measurement Ranges

E9322A and E9326A

Lower Range (Min. Power)

Normal
mode

−45 dBm −60 dBm

Average only
mode

Lower Range (Max. Power)
Lower to Upper Auto Range

−5 dBm

−13.5 dBm

Point

Upper to Lower Auto Range
Point

−15 dBm −14.5 dBm

Upper Range (Min. Power) −35 dBm −45 dBm

Upper Range (Max. Power

1

Applies to CW and constant amplitude signals only

+20 dBm

+20 dBm

above −20 dBm.

1

1

20 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Specifications

Table 5 Lower and Upper Measurement Ranges

E9323A and E9327A

Lower Range (Min. Power)

Lower Range (Max. Power)

Normal
mode

−40 dBm −60 dBm

−5 dBm

Average only
mode

Lower to Upper Auto Range
Point

Upper to Lower Auto Range

−15 dBm −11.5 dBm

Point

Upper Range (Min. Power)

−30 dBm −35 dBm

Upper Range (Max. Power +20 dBm

1

Applies to CW and constant amplitude signals only
above −20 dBm.

−10.5 dBm

20 dBm

+

1

1

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 21

Power Sensor Maximum SWR

Table 6 Power Sensor Maximum SWR

Sensor Maximum SWR ≤0dBm

Specifications

1.12

1.16

1.23

1.28

1.12

1.18

1.21

1.27

1.14

1.22

1.26

16GHz

17GHz

SWR

1.300

1.250

1.200

1.150

1.100

1.050

1.000

0.02GHz

E9321A
E9325A

E9322A
E9326A

E9323A
E9327A

0.05GHz

50 MHz to 2 GHz:

2GHz to 10GHz:
10 GHz to 16 GHz:
16 GHz to 18 GHz:

50 MHz to 2 GHz:

2GHz to 12GHz:
12 GHz to 16 GHz:
16 GHz to 18 GHz:

50 MHz to 2 GHz:

2 GHz to 16 GHz:
16 GHz to 18 GHz:

1GHz

6GHz

9GHz

12GHz

14GHz

0.3GHz

0.5GHz

15GHz

Figure 2 Typicl SWR (50 MHz to 18 GHz) for the E9321A and E9325A

sensors at various power levels

-30

-20

-10

0

10

20

Freq

18GHz

22 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Specifications

1.300

SWR

1.250

1.200

1.150

1.100

1.050

1.000

1GHz

6GHz

9GHz

12GHz

14GHz

15GHz

16GHz

0.3GHz

0.02GHz

0.05GHz

0.5GHz

17GHz

Figure 3 Typical SWR (50 MHz to 18 GHz) for the E9322A and E9326A

sensors at various power levels

1.300

SWR

1.250

1.200

1.150

1.100

1.050

1.000

1GHz

6GHz

9GHz

12GHz

14GHz

15GHz

16GHz

0.3GHz

0.02GHz

0.5GHz

0.05GHz

17GHz

-30

-20

-10

0

10

20

Freq

18GHz

-30

-20

-10

0

10

20

Freq

18GHz

Figure 4 Typical SWR (50 MHz to 18 GHz) for the E9323A and E9327A

sensors at various power levels

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 23

Sensor Linearity

Table 7 Power Sensor Linearity Normal Mode

(upper and lower range)

Specifications

Sensor

E9321A
E9325A

E9322A
E9326A

E9323A
E9327A

Temperature
(25 ±10°C)

±4.2% ±5.0%

±4.2% ±5.0%

±4.2% ±5.5%

Te mp e ra t u r e
(0 to 55°C)

Table 8 Power Sensor Linearity Average-Only Mode

(upper and lower range)

Sensor

E9321A
E9325A

E9322A
E9326A

E9323A
E9327A

Te mp e ra t u r e
(25 ±10°C)

±3.7% ±4.5%

±3.7% ±4.5%

±3.7% ±5.0%

Temperature
(0 to 55°C)

If the temperature changes after calibration and the meter and
sensor are NOT recalibrated, the following additional linearity
errors should be added to the Power Linearity figures in Table
7 and Table 8.

24 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Specifications

Table 9 Additional Linearity Error (normal and average-

only modes)

%

-0.50

-1.00

-1.50

-2.00

2.00

1.50

1.00

0.50

0.00

Temperature

Sensor

E9321A
E9325A

E9322A
E9326A

E9323A
E9327A

1-7-3026

-30

-27-23

-19-15

1

-

(25 ±10°C)

±1.0% ±1.0%

±1.0% ±1.5%

±1.0% ±2.0%

4

18

10

1

dBm

20

Temperature
(0 to 55°C)

Figure 5 Typical Power Linearity at 25°C for E9323A and E9327A

5 MHz bandwidth sensors after zero and calibration, with
associated measurement uncertainty

Aver age Only

Normal (lower range)

Norm al (upper range)

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 25

+20 dBm

0dBm

Specifications

Power Range Measurement Uncertainty

−30 to −20 dBm ±0.9%

−20 to −10 dBm ±0.8%

−10 to 0 dBm ±0.65%

0 to +10 dBm ±0.55%

+10 to +20 dBm ±0.45%

±

±

4.0%

2.0%

±

2.0%

±

4.0%

−

60 dBm

−

65 dBm

−

65 dBm

−

60 dBm

0 dBm +20 dBm

Figure 6 Relative Mode Power Measurement Linearity with an

EPM-P series power meter, at 25°C (typical)

26 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Specifications

Figure 6 shows the typical uncertainty in making a relative
power measurement, using the same power meter channel

and the same power sensor to obtain the reference and
measured values. It also assumes that negligible change in

frequency and mismatch error occurs when transitioning from
the power level used as the reference to the power level

measured.

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 27

Peak Flatness

The peak flatness is the flatness of a Peak-to-Average ratio
measurement for various tone separations for an equal
magnitude two-tone RF input. Figure 7, Figure 8, and Figure 9
refer to the relative error in Peak-to-Average measurement as
the tone separation is varied. The measurements were
performed at −10 dBm average power using an E9288A sensor
cable.

Error (dB)

0.5

0.0

-0.5

-1.0

-1.5

-2.0

-2.5

-3.0

-3.5

0.01.02.03.04.05.06.0

Input Tone Seperation Frequency (MHz)

Specifications

HIGH
LOW
MED
OFF

Figure 7 E9321A and E9325A Error in Peak-to-Average

Measurements for a Two-tone Input
(High, Medium, Low, and Off Filters)

28 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Specifications

Error (dB)

0.5

0

-0.5

-1

-1.5

-2

-2.5

-3

-3.5

0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0 6.0

Input Tone Seperation Frequency (MHz)

Figure 8 Filter responses for the E9322A and E9326A power sensors

(High, Medium, Low, and Off)

Error (dB)

0.5

0.0

-0.5

-1.0

-1.5

-2.0

-2.5

-3.0

-3.5

0.0 1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0 6.0

Input Tone Seperation Frequency (MHz)

HIGH
LOW
MED
OFF

LOW

MED

OFF

HIGH

Figure 9 Filter responses for the E9323A and E9327A power sensors

(High, Medium, Low, and Off)

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 29

Specifications

Calibration Factor (CF) and Reflection
Coefficient (Rho)

Calibration Factor and Reflection Coefficient data are provided
at frequency intervals on a data sheet included with the power
sensor. This data is unique to each sensor. If you have more
than one sensor, match the serial number on the data sheet
with the serial number of the sensor you are using. The CF
corrects for the frequency response of the sensor. The EPM-P
Series power meter automatically reads the CF data stored in
the sensor and uses it to make corrections.

For power levels greater than 0 dBm, add to the calibration
factor uncertainty specification:

±0.1% per dB for E9321A and E9325A power sensors

±0.15% per dB for E9322A and E9326A power sensors

±0.2% per dB for E9323A and E9327A power sensors

Reflection coefficient (Rho) relates to the SWR according to
the formula:

SWR=(1+Rho)/(1−Rho)

Maximum uncertainties of the CF data are listed in Table 10.
The uncertainty analysis for the calibration of the sensors was
calculated in accordance with the ISO Guide. The uncertainty
data, reported on the calibration certificate, is the expanded
uncertainty with a 95% confidence level and a coverage factor
of 2.

30 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Specifications

Table 10 Cal Factor Uncertainty at 0.1 mW (-10dBm

Frequency

50 MHz

100 MHz

300 MHz

500 MHz

800 MHz

1.0 GHz

1.2 GHz

1.5 GHz

2.0 GHz

3.0 GHz

4.0 GHz

5.0 GHz

6.0 GHz

7.0 GHz

8.0 GHz

9.0 GHz

11.0 GHz

12.0 GHz

13.0 GHz

14.0 GHz

15.0 GHz

16.0 GHz

17.0 GHz

18.0 GHz

Uncertainty (%)
(25 ±10°C)

Reference Reference

±1.8 ±2.0

±1.8 ±2.0

±1.8 ±2.0

±1.8 ±2.0

±2.1 ±2.3

±2.1 ±2.3

±2.1 ±2.3

±2.1 ±2.3

±2.1 ±2.3

±2.1 ±2.3

±2.1 ±2.3

±2.1 ±2.3

±2.3 ±2.5

±2.3 ±2.5

±2.3 ±2.5

±2.3 ±2.5

±2.3 ±2.5

±2.3 ±2.5

±2.5 ±2.8

±2.5 ±2.8

±2.5 ±2.8

±2.5 ±2.8

±2.5 ±2.8

Uncertainty(%)
(0 to 55°C)

)

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 31

Specifications

Zero Set

This specification applies to a ZERO performed when the
sensor input is not connected to the POWER REFERENCE.

Ta b le 1 1 Z er o S et

Sensor

E9321A
E9325A

E9322A
E9326A

E9323A
E9327A

Zero Set
(Normal mode)

5 nW 0.17 nW

19 nW 0.5 nW

60 nW 0.6 nW

Zero Set
(Average-only Mode)

32 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Specifications

Zero Drift

Sensor

E9321A
E9325A

E9322A
E9326A

E9323A
E9327A

Zero Drift and Measurement Noise

Table 12 Zero Drift and Measurement Noise

Normal

Mode

1

Average only

Mode

Measurement Noise

Normal

3

Mode

<±5 nW <±60 pW <6 nW <75 nW <165 pW

<±5 nW <±100 pW <12 nW <180 nW <330 pW

<±40 nW <±100 pW <25 nW <550 nW <400 pW

1

Within 1 hour after zero set, at a constant temperature, after a

24 hour warm-up of the power meter.

2

Measured over a one minute interval, at a constant temperature,

two standard deviations, with averaging set to 1 (normal mode), 16
(for average-only mode, normal speed) and 32 (average-only mode,
x2 speed).

3

In Free run acquisition mode.

4

Noise per sample, Video bandwidth set to OFF with no averaging

(i.e., averaging set to 1) - see “Effect of Video Bandwidth Settings”
and Table 14.

2

Normal

Mode

Average

4

only

Mode

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 33

Specifications

Effect of Averaging on Noise: Averaging over 1 to 1024
readings is available for reducing noise. Table 12 provides the

Measurement Noise for a particular sensor. Use the Noise
Multipliers in Table 13 for the appropriate speed (normal or

x2), or measurement mode (normal and average-only), and the
number of averages to determine the total Measurement

Noise value.

In addition, for x2 speed (in normal mode) the total
Measurement Noise should be multiplied by 1.2, and for fast

speed (in normal mode) the multiplier is 3.4. Note that in fast
speed no additional averaging is implemented.

34 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Specifications

Table 13 Noise Multipliers

Noise Multiplier

Average-only Normal

Number of
Averages

Normal

Speed

X 2

Speed

Normal Speed,

Free run acquisition

1 5.5 6.5 1.0

2 3.89 4.6 0.94

4 2.75 3.25 0.88

8 1.94 2.3 0.82

16 1.0 1.63 0.76

32 0.85 1.0 0.70

64 0.61 0.72 0.64

128 0.49 0.57 0.58

256 0.34 0.41 0.52

512 0.24 0.29 0.46

1024 0.17 0.2 0.40

Example: E9321A power sensor, Number of Averages = 4,

Free Run acquisition, normal mode, x2 speed.

Measurement Noise calculation:

(<6 nW x 0.88 x 1.2) = <6.34 nW

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 35

Specifications

Effect of Video Bandwidth Setting: The noise per sample is
reduced by applying the meter video bandwidth reduction
filter setting (High, Medium, or Low). If averaging is
implemented, this will dominate any effect of changing the
video bandwidth.

Table 14 Effect of Video Bandwidth on Noise per Sample

Noise Multipliers

Sensor

E9321A
E9325A

E9322A
E9326A

E9323A
E9327A

Low Medium High

0.32 0.5 0.63

0.50 0.63 0.80

0.40 0.63 1.0

Example: E9322A power sensor, triggered acquisition, high

video bandwidth.

Noise per sample calculation:

(<180nW x 0.80) = <144 nW

Effect of Time-Gating on Measurement Noise: The
measurement noise will depend on the time gate length over
which measurements are made. Effectively 20 averages are
carried out every 1 µs of gate length.

36 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Specifications

Settling Times

Average Only Mode:

In normal and x2 speed mode, manual filter, 10 dB decreasing

power step, refer to Table 15.

Table 15 Averages vs. Settling Time (Average-only mode)

Number of
Averages

1024 57 27

In Fast mode, within the range −50 to +20 dBm, for a 10 dB

decreasing power step, the settling time is:
E4416A: 10 ms

E4417A: 20 ms

When a power step crosses the power sensor’s auto-range
switch point, add 25 ms.

Normal Speed Mode X 2 Speed Mode

1 0.08 0.07

2 0.13 0.09

4 0.24 0.15

8 0.45 0.24

16 1.1 0.45

32 1.9 1.1

64 3.5 1.9

128 6.7 3.5

256 14 6.7

512 27 14

Settling Time (s)

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 37

Specifications

Normal Mode:

In Normal, free run acquisition mode, within the range −20 to
+20 dBm, for a 10 dB decreasing power step, the settling time

is dominated by the measurement update rate and is listed in
Table 16 for various filter settings.

Table 16 Settling Time vs. Averages

Settling Time

Number of
Averages

Free Run Acquisition Mode

Normal Speed X 2 Speed

1 0.1 sec 0.08 sec

2 0.15 sec 0.1 sec

4 0.25 sec 0.15 sec

8 0.45 sec 0.25 sec

16 0.9 sec 0.45 sec

32 1.7 sec 0.9 sec

64 3.3 sec 1.7 sec

128 6.5 sec 3.3 sec

256 13.0 sec 6.5 sec

512 25.8 sec 13.0 sec

1024 51.5 sec 25.8 sec

38 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Specifications

In normal mode, measuring in continuous or single acquisition
mode, the performance of rise times, fall times and 99%
settled results are shown in Table 17. Rise and fall time
specifications are for a 0.0 dBm pulse, with the rise time and
fall time measured between 10% to 90% points and upper
range selected.

Table 17 Rise and Fall Times vs. Sensor Bandwidth

1

Video Bandwidth Setting

Sensor

E9321A
E9325A

E9322A
E9326A

E9323A
E9327A

1

Rise and fall time specifications are only valid when used

Parameter Low Medium High Off

Rise time < µs 2.6 1.5 0.9 0.3

Fall time

< µs 2.7 1.5 0.9 0.5

Settling time
(rising)

< µs

Settling time

< µs

(falling)

Rise time < µs 1.5 0.9 0.4 0.2

Fall time

< µs 1.5 0.9 0.4 0.3

Settling time

< µs

(rising)

Settling time

< µs

(falling)

Rise time < µs 0.9 0.4 0.2 0.2

Fall time

< µs 0.9 0.4 0.2 0.2

Settling time
(rising)

< µs

Settling time

< µs

(falling)

5.1 5.1 4.5 0.6

5.1 5.1 4.5 0.9

5.3 4.5 3.5 0.5

5.3 4.5 3.5 0.9

4.5 3.5 1.5 0.4

4.5 3.5 2 0.4

with the E9288A sensor cable (1.5 metres).

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 39

Specifications

Overshoot in response to power steps with fast rise times, i.e.,
less than the sensor rise time is less than 10%.
When a power step crosses the power sensor’s auto-range
switch point, add 10 µs.

40 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Specifications

Physical Specifications

Table 18 Physical Specifications

Physical Characteristics

Net Weight

Shipping Weight

Dimensions

0.2 kg (0.45 lb)

0.55 kg (1.2 lb)

Length: 150 mm (5.9 in)
Width: 38 mm (1.5 in)
Height: 30 mm (1.2 in)

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 41

Specifications

42 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

3Service

What You’ll Find

In This Chapter

This Chapter introduces you to the E-series E9320 power
sensors. It contains the following sections:

• General Information on page 44

• Service on page 51

• Sales and Service Offices on page 56

General Information

General Information

This chapter contains information about general maintenance,
performance tests, troubleshooting and repair of E-series
E9320 power sensors.

Cleaning

Use a clean, damp cloth to clean the body of the
E-series E9320 power sensor.

Connector Cleaning

The RF connector beads deteriorate when contacted by
hydrocarbon compounds such as acetone, trichloroethylene,
carbon tetrachloride, and benzene.

Clean the connector only at a static free workstation.
Electrostatic discharge to the center pin of the connector will
render the power sensor inoperative.

Keeping in mind its flammable nature; a solution of pure
isopropyl or ethyl alcohol can be used to clean the connector.

Clean the connector face using a cotton swab dipped in
isopropyl alcohol. If the swab is too big use a round wooden
toothpick wrapped in a lint free cotton cloth dipped in
isopropyl alcohol.

44 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

General Information

Performance Test

Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) and Reflection
Coefficient (Rho) Performance Test

This section does not establish preset SWR test procedures
since there are several test methods and different equipment
available for testing the SWR or reflection coefficient.
Therefore, the actual accuracy of the test equipment must be
accounted for when measuring against instrument
specifications to determine a pass or fail condition. The test
system used must not exceed the system Rho uncertainties
shown in Table 19 when testing the E9325A, E9326A, and
E9327A. Use Table 20 when testing the E9321A, E9322A, and
E9323A.

Table 19 Reflection Coefficient for the E9321A and E9325A

Frequency

50 MHz to 2 GHz

2 GHz to 10 GHz

10 GHz to 16 GHz ±0.010 0.103

16 GHz to 18 GHz ±0.010 0.123

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 45

System Rho
Uncertainty

±0.010 0.057

±0.010 0.074

Measured

value

Maximum

Rho

General Information

Table 20 Reflection Coefficient for the E9322A and E9326A

System Rho

Frequency

50 MHz to 2 GHz ±0.010 0.057

2 GHz to 10 GHz

10 GHz to 16GHz ±0.010 0.095

16 GHz to 18GHz ±0.010 0.119

Uncertainty

±0.010 0.083

Measured

value

Maximum

Table 21 Reflection Coefficient for the E9323A and E9327A

Frequency

50 MHz to 2 GHz ±0.010 0.065

2 GHz to 16GHz ±0.010 0.099

16 GHz to 18GHz ±0.010 0.115

System Rho
Uncertainty

Measured

value

Maximum

Rho

Rho

46 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

General Information

Replaceable Parts

Table 22 is a list of replaceable parts. Figure 10 is the
illustrated parts breakdown (IPB) that identifies all of the
replaceable parts. To order a part, quote the Agilent part
number, specify the quantity required, and address the order
to the nearest Agilent office.

NOTE Within the USA, it is better to order directly from the Agilent

Parts Center in Roseville, California. Ask your nearest Agilent
office for information and forms for the “Direct Mail Order
System.” Also your nearest Agilent office can supply toll free
telephone numbers for ordering parts and supplies

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 47

General Information

.

Figure 10 Illustrated Parts Break down

48 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

General Information

Table 22 Replaceable Parts List

Reference
Designation

A1/A2
E9321A

A1/A2
E9321A

A1/A2
E9322A

A1/A2
E9322A

A1/A2
E9323A

A1/A2
E9323A

A1/A2
E9325A

A1/A2
E9325A

A1/A2
E9326A

A1/A2
E9326A

Part
Number Qty Description

E9321-60011 1 SENSOR MODULE

E9321-69011 1 RESTORED SENSOR

MODULE

E9322-60004 1 SENSOR MODULE

E9322-69004 1 RESTORED SENSOR

MODULE

E9323-60002 1 SENSOR MODULE

E9323-69002 1 RESTORED SENSOR

MODULE

E9325-60002 1 SENSOR MODULE

E9325-69002 1 RESTORED SENSOR

MODULE

E9326-60002 1 SENSOR MODULE

E9326-69002 1 RESTORED SENSOR

MODULE

A1/A2
E9327A

A1/A2
E9327A

E9327-60002 1 SENSOR MODULE

E9327-69002 1 RESTORED SENSOR

MODULE

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 49

Table 22 Replaceable Parts List

General Information

Reference
Designation

MP1 and MP2 E9321-40001 2 SHELL-PLASTIC

MP3 and MP4 E9321-20002 2 CHASSIS

MP8 and MP9 E9321-00001 2 SHIELD

MP26 E9321-80001 1 LABEL, ID E9321A

MP26 E9322-80001 1 LABEL, ID E9322A

MP26 E9323-80001 1 LABEL, ID E9323A

MP26 E9325-80001 1 LABEL, ID E9325A

MP26 E9326-80001 1 LABEL, ID E9326A

MP26 E9327-80001 1 LABEL, ID E9327A

MP27 E9321-80002 2 LABEL, POWER

MP30 E9321-80003 1 LABEL, CAL/ESD

Part
Number Qty Description

SENSOR

50 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Service

Service

Service instructions consist of principles of operation,
troubleshooting, and repairs.

Principles of Operation

The Power Sensor ‘bulkhead’ assembly converts input RF to a
low frequency voltage signal representing the RF power
envelope. The input is AC coupled to a 3dB attenuator
followed by a 50 ohm load resistor. Two diodes are connected
to the load resistor, forming a pair of half-wave detectors with
opposite polarity and complementary voltage output. The
detected signal passes through a low-pass load filter. The
cutoff frequency of the filter is 300kHz, 1.5MHz, or 5MHz,
depending on the model/ bandwidth specification of the
sensor.

The detected signal can now follow one of two paths. The
average-only signal path is optimized for high sensitivity and
low drift at the expense of detector video bandwidth. This path
chops the signal to a carrier frequency around 440Hz to
remove sensitivity to DC offsets, then amplifies the AC signal.
Amplification and chopping parameters are much the same as
in previous Agilent diode sensors, with typical dynamic power
range of -65 to +20 dBm.

The chopper is a switch that connects the two balanced
signals to the two inputs of a differential amplifier. Thus, the
small DC signal from the detector is converted to an AC signal.
The output of the differential amplifier is connected to a
switched gain preamplifier.

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 51

RF IN
50ohm

Sensor Di ode
Bulkhead

Service

The dynamic range of the sensor is greater than 80dB in this
mode, so the sensor has two power ranges. On the high power
range the signal is attenuated before further amplification.
The bandwidth of the chopped signal is limited to less than
half the chop rate. So, this method cannot be used for wide
(~5 MHz) bandwidth measurements.

The normal path is used to detect the instantaneous power of
an RF signal and is optimized for a bandwidth of up to 5MHz.
The peak path trade off includes reduced dynamic range and
increased temperature sensitivity.

Average Only Path

Load Filter*
(300 kHz, 1.5 MHz
5 MHz low pass)

Chopp er

CW Differential
AMP

Switched
Gain
Preamp

Ave ra g e
Only Path

CHOP/CLOCK

CHOP/GAIN

Selecta ble Gain
Differential Amplifier*
(300 kHz, 1.5 MHz, 5 MHz)

PEAK AUTO-ZERO

Thermistor Bias

2

I

C Buffe r
Gain/Mode Control
Sensor ID

2

PROM

E

GAIN SELECT

SERIAL BUS

Normal
Path

* Bandwidth is sensor dependen t

Normal
Path

Figure 11 Simplified Sensor Block Diagram

The output of the load filter is connected to a gain selectable
amplifier with a bandwidth corresponding to the sensor
model/ bandwidth spec. The differential configuration
minimizes sensitivity to ground noise, dc offset and drift. In
normal mode, the amplifier provides maximum bandwidths of
300 kHz, 1.5 MHz or 5 MHz, allowing the user to match the
test signal’s modulation bandwidth to the sophisticated
instrument data processing. This permits the meter to

52 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Service

measure burst average and peak power, to compute
peak-to-average ratios, and display other time-gated power
profiles on the power meter's large LCD screen.

The three dimensional Calibration data is stored in an
EEPROM on the sensor PCA. This data is unique to each
sensor and consists of frequency vs. input power vs.
temperature. Upon power-up, or when the sensor cable is
connected, these calibration factors are downloaded into the
EPM-P (E4416A/17A) series power meters. This means that
the operator is not required to enter any calibration
information when changing sensors, simply entering the
frequency of the input signal is all that is required

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 53

Service

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting information is intended to first isolate the
power sensor, cable, or power meter as the defective
component. When the power sensor is isolated, an
appropriate Sensor Module must be used for repair. See
Table 22 on page 49.

If error message 241 or 310 is displayed on the power meter,
suspect a power sensor failure. Error 241 will occur if the
sensor is missing. An E9288 cable must be used to connect an
E-series 9320A sensor to an EPM-P Series power meter.

If no error message is displayed, but a problem occurs when
making a measurement, try replacing the cable from the
power meter to the power sensor. If the problem still exists, try
using a different power sensor to determine if the problem is
in the power meter or in the power sensor.

Electrostatic discharge will render the power sensor
inoperative. Do not, under any circumstances, open the power
sensor unless you and the power sensor are in a static free
environment.

Repair of Defective Sensor

There are no serviceable parts inside the E-series E9320
power sensors. If the sensor is defective, replace the entire
“module” with the appropriate “Restored Sensor Module”
listed in Table 22 on page 49.

54 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide

Service

Disassembly Procedure

Disassemble the power sensor by performing the following
steps:

Disassemble the power sensor only in a static free
workstation. Electrostatic discharge renders the power sensor
inoperative.

Figure 12 Removing Power Sensor Shell

At the rear of the power sensor, insert the blade of a
screwdriver between the plastic shells (See Figure 12). To
prevent damage to the plastic shells use a screwdriver blade
as wide as the slot between the two shells.

Pry alternately at both sides of the connector J1 until the
plastic shells are apart. Remove the shells and the magnetic

shields.

Reassembly Procedure

Replace the magnetic shields and the plastic shells. Snap the
plastic shells together.

E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide 55

Service

Sales and Service Offices

In any correspondence or telephone conversations, refer to
the power sensor by its model number and full serial number.
With this information, the Agilent representative can quickly
determine whether your unit is still within its warranty period.

UNITED STATES Agilent Technologies

(tel) 1 800 829 4444

CANADA Agilent Technologies Canada Inc.

Tes t & Me as u r em en t
(tel) 1 877 894 4414

EUROPE Agilent Technologies

Tes t & Me as u r em en t
European Marketing Organization
(tel) (31 20) 547 2000

JAPAN Agilent Technologies Japan Ltd.

(tel) (81) 426 56 7832
(fax) (81) 426 56 7840

LATIN AMERICA Agilent Technologies

Latin America Region Headquarters,USA
(tel) [phone]
(fax) [phone]

AUSTRALIA and
NEW ZEALAND

ASIA PACIFIC Agilent Technologies, Hong Kong

Agilent Technologies Australia Pty Ltd.
(tel) 1-800 629 4852 (Australia)
(fax) (61 3) 9272 0749 (Australia)
(tel) 0-800 738 378 (New Zealand)
(fax) (64 4) 802 6881 (New Zealand)

(tel) (852) 3197 7777
(fax) (852) 2506 9284

56 E-Series E9320 Operating and Service Guide