Agilent N4000A Operations Guide

Smart Noise Sources

SNS Series

Operating and Service Guid e

N4000A, N4001A, and N4002A

Manufacturing Part Number: N4000-90001

March 2001

© Copyright 2001 Agilent Technologies

Notice

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

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 measurements are
traceable to the United States National Institute of Standards and

Technology, to the extent allowed by the Institute’s calibration facility,
and to the calibration facilities of other International Standards
Organization members.

Warranty

This Agilent Technologies instrument product is warranted against
defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from date
of shipment. During the warranty period, Agilent Technologies will at its
option, either repair or replace products which prove to be defective. For
warranty service or repair, this product must be returned to a service
facility designated by Agilent Technologies. Buyer shall prepay shipping
charges to Agilent Technologies and Agilent Technologies shall pay
shipping charges, duties, and taxes for products returned to Agilent
Technologies from another country. Agilent Technologies warrants that

ii

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 firmware will be
uninterrupted or error free.

Limitation of Warra nty

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 , oper ation outside of
the environmental specifications for the product, or i mproper 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.

Safety Notices

This guide uses warnings and cautions to denote hazards.

iii

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. D o not proceed bey ond a caution sig n until
the indicated conditions are fully understood and met.

NOTE Note calls out special information for the user’s attention. It provides

operational information or additional instructions of which the user
should be aware.

Safety Symbols

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

Table 1 Safety Symbols

iv

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.

This symbol indicates that a device, or part of a device,
may be susceptible to electrostatic discharges (ESD)
which can result in damage to the product. Observe
ESD precautions given on the product, or its user
documentation, when handling equipment bearing this
mark.

Electromagnetic Compatibility

This product conforms with the protection requirements of European
Council Directive 89/336/EEC for Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC).

The conformity assessment requirements have been met using the
technical Construction file route to compliance, using EMC test
specifications EN 55011:1991 (Group 1, Class A) and EN 50082-1:1992.

In order to preserve the EMC performance of the product, any cable
which becomes worn or damaged must be replaced with the same type
and specification. See the Declaration of Conformity on page vi.

Radio-Frequency Electromagnetic Field
Immunity

When a 3 Vm-1 radio-frequency electromagnetic field is applied to the
Smart Noise Source according to IEC 61000-4-3:1995, degradation of
performance may be observed. When the frequency of the incident field
falls within the bandwidth of a measured noise figure or gain, the values
displayed will deviate from those expected. This phenomenon will only
affect that specific frequency, and the SNS will continue to perform to
specification at all other frequency sample points.

The NFA may be unable to calibrate a chosen frequency sample point, if
the frequency matches that of an incident electromagnetic field.

Where to Find the Latest Information

Documentation is updated periodically. For the latest information about
Agilent SNS Smart Noise Sources, please visit the following Internet
URL:

http://www.agilent.com/find/nf/

v

Declaration of Conformity

vi

Contents

1. General Information

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Specifications - Table 1-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Excess Noise Ratio Expanded Uncertainty (U(Y)) - Table 1-2 . . . . . .6

Supplemental Characteristics - Table 1-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Warranty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Equipment Supplied with the NFA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Equipment Available But Not Supplied . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Recommended Test Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Handling Precautions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Initial Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Returning an SNS to Agilent for Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Mating Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Connectors That Can Be Mated With the Noise Sources . . . . . . . . .12

Storage and Shipping Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Operating Environment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Operator’s Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Operator’s Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Operator’s Check for Data Communication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Operator’s Check for Tcold Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Operator’s Check for Switching Noise Source Off and On . . . . . . . .21

Performance Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Replaceable Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

vii

Contents

Replaceable Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Replaceable Parts List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Chassis Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Documentation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Principles of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Repair of Defective Noise Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Disassembly Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Reassembly Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Returning a Noise Source for Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Agilent Technologies Sales and Service Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

2. ENR File Format

Format Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Comment Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Header Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

ENR Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Viewing the Smart Noise Source ENR Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

A. Caring for Connectors

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Connector Part Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Handling and Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Visual Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Obvious Defects and Damage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Mating Plane Surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Precision 7 mm Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

viii

Contents

Sexed Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Compressed Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Cleaning Alcohol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Precision 7 mm Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Cleaning Interior Surfaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Drying Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Mechanical Inspection: Connector Gages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Mechanical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Precision 7mm Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Sexed Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

50 Ohm Type-N Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

75 Ohm Type-N Connectors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Using Connector Gages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Inspecting and Cleaning the Gage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Zeroing the Gage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Measuring Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Making Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

Align Connectors Carefully . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

To Make a Preliminary Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Final Connection Using a Torque Wrench . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Disconnection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

Adapters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Principles of Microwave Connector Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67

ix

Contents

x

1 General Information

1

General Information

Introduction

Introduction

This manual contains operating and service information for the Agilent
SNS Series Smart Noise Sources, models; N4000A, N4001A, and
N4002A.

The Agilent SNS Se ries Smart Noi se Sources h ave been desi gned to work
with the Agilent NFA Series Noise Figure Analyzers.

Figure 1-1 An Agilent SNS Smart Noise Source

Specifications

The “Specifications - Table 1-1” on page 3, page 4, and page 5 are
performance standards or limits against which the noise source may be
tested. These specifications for the noise source are ONLY valid if the
analyzer has been allowed to meet its specified warm up time of 60
minutes.

ENR expanded uncertainty analysis for noise source calibration in
“Excess Noise Ratio Expande d Un certaint y (U(Y )) - Table 1-2” on page 6
and page 7. The “Supplemental Characteristics - Table 1-3” on page 8
are not specifications but are typical characteristics included as
additional information for the user.

2 Chapter 1

General Information

Introduction

Specifications - Table 1-1

NOTE Specifications are valid at ambient temperature 23 oCelsius only (296 K).

Frequency Range

N4000A and N4001A 10 MHz - 18 GHz
N4002A 10 MHz - 26.5 GHz

Excess Noise
Ratio (ENR)

Range

1

N4000A 4.5 - 6.5 dB
N4001A 14 - 16 dB
N4002A 12 - 17 dB

Impedance

50 ohm nominal

Operating
Temperature

o

C to 55 oC

0

Maximum reverse
power

1 Watt

1. ENR values are given at cardinal frequency points over the frequency range of each noise

source. These values are stored within the noise source’s internal EEPROM and documen t ed on
the calibration report.

Chapter 1 3

Maximum
Standing Wave
Ratio (SWR) and
Reflection

Coefficient (
Source ON/OFF
States

ρ)

General Information

Introduction

Specifications - Table 1-1 Continued

Instrument model Frequency Range

(GHz)

N4000A

N4001A 0.01-1.5 <1.15:1 0.07

N4002A 0.01-1.5 <1.22:1 0.10

1

0.01-1.5 <1.06:1 0.03

1.5 - 3.0 <1.06:1 0.03

3.0 - 7.0 <1.13:1 0.06

7.0 - 18.0 <1.22:1 0.10

1.5 - 3.0 <1.15:1 0.07

3.0 - 7.0 <1.20:1 0.09

7.0 - 18.0 <1.25:1 0.11

1.5 - 3.0 <1.22:1 0.10

3.0 - 7.0 <1.22:1 0.10

7.0 - 18.0 <1.25:1 0.11

18.0 - 26.5 <1.35:1 0.15

Maximum
Standing Wave
Ratio (SWR)

Reflection
Coefficient

(Rho) (

ρ)

1. Maximum change in complex reflection coefficient between source ON
and source OFF at all frequencies for N4000A only: 0.01.

4 Chapter 1

Specifications - Table 1-1 Continued

Figure 1-2 Characteristic

1

SWR at 23 oC

General Information

Introduction

Connectors

2

SNS Output

APC-3.5 (male) standard or Type-N (male) Option 001

SNS Input Interconnect with 11730A/B/C cable to use with NFA.

1. Type-N connector (option 001) only available on the N4000A and
N4001A models.

Dimensions

112 x 38 x 30 mm (4.4 x 1.5 x 1.2 in)

Net Weight

0.160 kg (5.64 oz.)

1. Characteristic values are met or bettered by 90% of instruments with 90% confidence.

2. For correct connector usage, refer Table A-2 for the torque settings.

Chapter 1 5

1

General Information

Introduction

Excess Noise Ratio Expanded Uncertainty (U(Y)) - Table 1-2

ENR values are given at cardinal frequency points over the frequency
range of each noise source. These values are stored within the noise
sources internal EEPROM and documented on the calibration report.

The uncertainty analysis for the calibration of the noise sources is in
accordance with the ISO/TAG4 Guide. The uncertainty data reported on
the calibration report is the expanded uncertainty (U(Y)) with 95%
confidence level and a coverage factor of 2. This uncertainty analysis is
valid for APC 3.5mm and Type-N (option 001) connector types.

A significant proportion of the expanded uncertainty (U(Y)) is based on
the uncertainties pro vi ded by the Na ti on al S t and ards Institutes. Agi l ent
therefore reserve the right to change the overall expanded uncertainties
based on changes in uncertainty values within the National Standards
Institutes.

Uncertainties are valid at ambient temperature 23°C ±1°C (296K) only.
A typical characteristic plot of ENR (U(Y)) versus each cardinal

frequency point is shown in Figure 1-3.

1

Figure 1-3 Characteristic

ENR Plot versus Cardinal Frequency Points

1. Characteristic values are met or bettered by 90% of instruments with 90% confidence.

6 Chapter 1

Characteristic
ENR (U(Y))
Specification

General Information

Introduction

Excess Noise Ratio Expanded Uncertainty (U(Y)) - Table 1-2
Continued

Instrument model Frequency

(GHz)

N4000A 0.01-1.5 0.16

1.5 - 3.0 0.15

3.0 - 7.0 0.15

7.0 - 18.0 0.16

N4001A 0.01-1.5 0.14

1.5 - 3.0 0.13

3.0 - 7.0 0.13

7.0 - 18.0 0.16

N4002A 0.01-1.5 0.15

1.5 - 3.0 0.13

3.0 - 7.0 0.13

7.0 - 18.0 0.15

18.0 - 26.5 0.22

ENR Uncertainty (

±dB)

1

1. Characteristic values are met or bettered by 90% of instruments with
90% confidence.

Chapter 1 7

Supplemental
Characteristics

General Information

Introduction

Supplemental Characteristics - Table 1-3

ENR variation with
temperature:

T emperature Sensing
Accuracy

<0.01 dB/°C for 30 MHz to 26.5 GHz

Range

Resolution

Accuracy

0 to 55

0.25

± 1
± 2

o

C

o

C

o

at 25 oC

o

over 0 oC to 55 oC

8 Chapter 1

General Information

Description

Description

The Smart Noise Source, when commanded “Off” produces RF noise due
to thermal agitation of its RF components at a level appropriate to its
physical temperature. When commanded “On” it still produces this noise
and produces additional noise component, referred to as EXCESS
NOISE. These two noise levels are used to measure the gain and added
noise of the device under test, and consequently, its noise figure.

The Excess Noise Ratio (ENR) f or each SNS has been measured at
cardinal frequencies and these frequency/ENR pair values are stored in
the SNS’s internal EEPROM. The ENR of the source relates the level of
excess noise in dB to the noise level appropriate to the standard
temperature; 296 K. ENR does not include the “Off” noise component.

Also included in the EEPROM calibration data is the measurement
uncertainty and the complex reflection coefficient in both the “On” and
“Off” states for each SNS.

The SNS has a built in thermometer which monitors the ambient
temperature. This value can be transferred to the NFA and control the
calculation of the T

cold

value.

All models are provided with a twelve pin connector for power input and
data transfer. The output connector is a male APC-3.5 on the standard
noise sources. Type-N connectors are available as options for the Agilent
SNS models N4000A and N4001A.

Warranty

The noise sources are warranted and certified as indicated in this
manual. Connector damage resulting from improper use is not covered
under warranty.

Equipment Supplied with the NFA

The following equipment is supplied from Agilent Technologies with the
N8974A and the N8975A Noise Figure Analyzer models for use with the
Precision APC 3.5 mm Smart Noise Sources:

• 8710-1761: 7.0 mm Wrench

• 83059B: Precision 3.5mm Coaxial Adaptor

Chapter 1 9

General Information

Description

Equipment Available But Not Supplied

The following equipment is available from Agilent Technologies for use
with the noise sources:

• 8710-1764: 20mm 8lb-in Torque Wrench

• 8710-1765: 5/16" 8lb-in Torque Wrench

• 8710-1766: 3/4" 12lb-in Torque Wrench (for use with option 001)

Options

The Agilent N4000A and N4001A Noise Sources are available with the
following output connector options:

• Option 001, Type-N (male)
Since the Type-N connectors are not suitable for use above 18.0 GHz, no

output connector options are available for the Agilent N4002A.

Recommended T est Equipment

All of the operator’s checks are performed using an Agilent Noise Figure
Analyzer with firmware version A.01.01 and above. This can be used to
perform an operational verification check.

10 Chapter 1

General Information

Installation

Installation

Handling Precautions

CAUTION The diode module is static sensitive and can be damaged or the

calibration can be altered.

CAUTION Do not rotate the Smart Noi se So urce bo dy when connect ing to the Noise

Figure Analyzer, or internal damage may result.

CAUTION Do not drop the noise source. Dropping can damage the unit o r alter the

calibration.

Proper connector care is essential. See Operator’s Maintenance in the
Operation section of this manual for more information.

Initial Inspection

Inspect the shipping container for damage. Inspect the noise source for
mechanical damage incurred in transit. If the shipping container or
cushioning material is damaged, it should be kept until the contents of
the shipment have been checked for completeness and the noise source
has been mechanically and electrically checked. If the contents are
incomplete, if there is mechanical damage or a defect, or if the noise
source does not work electrically, notify the nearest Agilent Technologies
office. If the shipping container is damaged, or the cushioning material
shows signs of unusual stress, notify the carrier as well as the Agilent
Technologies office. Keep the shipping materials for the carrier’s
inspection.

Chapter 1 11

General Information

Installation

Returning an SNS to Agilent for Repair

Container and materials identical to those used in factory packaging are
available through Agilent Technologies offices. If the noise source is
being returned to Agilent Technologies for servicing, attach a tag
indicating the name and address of the company, the technical contact
person, phone number and extension, the model number, serial number,
type of service being requested, and failure symptoms if applicable. For
this purpose, blue service tags have been provided at the back of this
manual. Mark the shipping container FRAGILE. In any correspondence,
refer to the noise sources by model number and serial number.

Mating Connectors

The noise sources can be mated with other instrumentation having the
connectors listed in Table 1-4.

Connectors That Can Be Mated With the Noise SourcesTable 1-4

Configuration Mating Connector

Input: all units

Output: standard APC-3.5 female
Opt.001

1. This is designed to operate with the NFA using the 11730 cable. A
11730A cable is supplied with the NFA.

2. Must comply with U.S. Military Standard MII,C-39012

multi-pin connector

Type-N female

1

2

Storage and Shipping Environment

The noise sources must be stored in a clean, dry environment. The
following environmental limitations apply to both storage and shipment:

• Temperature: -55 °C to +75 °C

• Humidity: <95% relative

• Altitude: <15300 meters (50000 feet)

12 Chapter 1

General Information

Operation

Operation

This section refers to operation with the Agilent NFA Series Noise
Figure Analyzers. The Agilent SNS Series Smart Noise Sources have
been designed to work specifically with these analyzers. For more
detailed operating instructions, refer to the Agilent NFA Series Noise
Figure Analyzers User’s Guide.

CAUTION Use a dc blocking capacitor to protect the noise source f rom damage

when connected to any system where a dc voltage is present on the
output center conductor.

Noise figure measurements of devices (such as amplifiers, mixers,
transistors, and receivers) can be made using the Smart Noise Sources
with a Noise F igure Analyz ers . Figu re 1-4 s hows a s imple test set up for a
noise figure measurement.

Figure 1-4 Typical Noise Figure Measurement Test Setup

Chapter 1 13

General Information

Operation

Operating Environment

The operating environment of the noise sources must be within the
following limitations:

• Temperature: 0 °C to +55 °C

• Humidity: <95% relative

• Altitude: <4600 metres (15 000 feet)

Operator’s Maintenance

Proper connector care is a vital part of the maintenance which should be
performed by the user. The life of the connector can be greatly extended
by following the general connector care practices outlined in

Appendix A , “Caring for Connectors, ” on page 43.

Operator’s Check

The operator’s checks in this section should be performed if failure of the
noise source is suspe cted. The checks can be used only to verify that the
noise sources are producing a broadband noise spectrum. They can not
be used to check the units against specifications.

NOTE The operator’s checks are designed to find a fault in the SNS. However,

the fault could equally be with the cable and this should also be checked.

NOTE All of the operator’s checks are performe d usi ng a Nois e Figure Analyzer

with firmware version A.01.01 and above. This can be used to perform an
operational verification check.

14 Chapter 1

General Information

Operator’s Check for Data Communication

The following pr ocedure checks that the SNS can transfer the ENR data
to the NFA.

Step 1. Remove any cables from the NFA input and SNS drive.

Operation

Step 2. Press the

Preset key.

Wait until the preset routine is complete before proceeding.

NOTE The preset condition used is the NFA default of Preset (Factory).

Step 3. Press the
Step 4. Press the
Step 5. Press the
Step 6. Press the

ENR key.
SNS Setup menu key.
Preference menu key and set it to Preference (SNS).
Auto Load ENR menu key and set it to Auto Load ENR (Off).

Step 7. Connect the SNS to the NFA Port using the multi-pin 11730 cable, as

shown in Figure 1-5.

Figure 1-5 Operator’s Check Test Setup for Data Communication

Chapter 1 15

General Information

Operation

Step 8. Press the ENR key.

Step 9. Press the
Step 10. Press the
Step 11. Press the
Step 12. Press the

ENR Mode menu key and set it to ENR Mode (Table).
Common Table menu key and set it to Common Table (On).
ENR Table menu key.
Edit Table menu key and press the Clear Table me nu key if t here

is data in the ENR Table.
You are prompted to press this key again. This feature ensures you do

not accidently clear a valid Frequency list table. Press the
menu key again. Figure 1-6 shows a typical cleared ENR table.

Figure 1-6 A Typical Cleared ENR Table

Clear Table

16 Chapter 1

Step 13. Press the Prev key.

General Information

Operation

Step 14. Press the

Fill Table From SNS menu key.

Wait until the data is uploaded from the SNS before proceeding.

Step 15. Verify the data has been transferred from the SNS to the NFA.

The data transfer should be similar to Figure 1-7. If it is not, return the
SNS to Agilent Technologies for repair.

Figure 1-7 A Typical ENR Table after data entry

Chapter 1 17

General Information

Operation

Operator’s Check for T

Communication

cold

The following procedure checks that the SNS can transfer the T
to the NFA.

Step 1. Remove any cables from the NFA input and SNS drive.

Step 2. Press the

Preset key.

Wait until the preset routine is complete before proceeding.

NOTE The preset condition used is the NFA default of Preset (Factory).

Step 3. Press the

Step 4. Press the

ENR key.
Tcold menu key.

Step 5. Connect the SNS to the NFA Port using the multi-pin 11730 cable, as

shown in Figure 1-8

Figure 1-8 Operator’s Check Test Setup for T

Communication

cold

cold

data

Step 6. Press the

18 Chapter 1

SNS Tcold menu key and set it to SNS Tcold (Off).

General Information

Operation

Step 7. Press the User Tcold menu key and set it to User Tcold (On).

NOTE The value displayed in the User Value menu key, typically 296.50 K.

Figure 1-9 shows a typical NFA menu map.

Figure 1-9 Typical User Value

Step 8. Press the

In the

User Tcold From SNS menu key.

User Value menu key, the new ambient temperature value is

displayed. Figure 1-10 shows a typical NFA menu map.

Figure 1-10 Typical User Value after Uploading SNS Value

Chapter 1 19

General Information

Operation

Step 9. If this value has not changed, warm the SNS by wrapping your hand

around its bulkhead as shown in Figure 1-11 for 20 seconds. This gives
the SNS thermometer time to change its ambient value. Then press the

User Tcold From SNS menu key again. The new ambient temperature

value is displayed.

Figure 1-11 Operator’s Check for T

Step 10. If the value does not change, retu rn the SNS to Agilent Technologies for

repair.

Upload From SNS

cold

20 Chapter 1

General Information

Operator’s Check for Switching Noise Source Off and On

The following procedure checks that the SNS can switch the noise source
off and on. This ensures th e excess noise switches.

Step 1. Remove any cables from the NFA input and SNS drive.

Operation

Step 2. Press the

Preset key.

Wait until the preset routine has completed before proceeding.

NOTE The preset condition used is the NFA default of Preset (Factory).

Step 3. Connect the SNS to the NFA Port using the multi-pin 11730 cable, as

shown in Figure 1-12.

Figure 1-12 SNS connected to NFA graphic

Step 4. Press the
Step 5. Press the
Step 6. Press the

Chapter 1 21

Frequency/Points key.
Frequency M ode menu key.
Fixed menu key.

General Information

Operation

Step 7. Press the Fixed Frequency menu key.

Enter 1.0 GHz as a fixed frequency value, by pressing the
followed by pressing the

Step 8. Press the

Step 9. Press the
Step 10. Press the
Step 11. Press the
Step 12. Press the

GHz menu key.
Sweep key.
Manual Meas menu key.
Manual State menu key and set it to Manual State (On).
Noise Source menu key and set it to Noise Source (On).
IF Att menu key and set it to IFAtt (Hold).

1 numeric key

Step 13. Monitor the power value which appears in the manual measurement

screen. Figure 1-13 shows a typical example of this.

Figure 1-13 Typical example of power reading with Noise Source On

Step 14. Press the

22 Chapter 1

Noise Source menu key and set it to Noise Source (Off).

General Information

Operation

Step 15. Monitor the power value which appears in the manual measurement

screen. Figure 1-14 shows a typical example of this.

NOTE The monitored value is only to be used to indicate if the SNS is switching

the Excess Noise “On” and “Off” by showing a change in power value.

Figure 1-14 Typical example of power reading with Noise Source Off

Step 16. If there is not a change in value, return the SNS to Agilent Technologies

for repair.

Chapter 1 23

General Information

Performance Tests

Performance Tests

Due to the specialized test equipment involved, there are no
recommended performance tests for the user to perform. Return the
noise sources to Agil ent T ec hnologi es when tes ts are requ ired to ver ify its
performance and for periodic re-calibration. The calibration must be
traceable to the national standards laboratories. The suggested interval
before initial re-calibration is one year.

Adjustments

The user cannot make adjustments to the noise sources.

24 Chapter 1

General Information

Replaceable Parts

Replaceable Parts

Table 1-5 and Table 1-6 lists all replaceable parts available for the
Agilent N400XA Smart Noise Sources. Figure 1-15 shows a typical
Smart Noise Source being prepared for parts replacement at the
assembly level by removing the four end screws (two at each end).

To order parts contact your local Agilent Technologies Sales and Service
Office.

NOTE If the Agilent Smart Noise Source is opened and parts replaced, it

requires re-calibration.

Table 1-5

Model/ Option Replacement

N4000A N4000-60014 00346-60154 00346-60156 N4000-60001
N4000A Opt 001 N4000-60015 00346-60154 00346-60156 N4000-60001
N4001A N4001-60003 00346-60154 00346-60027 N4000-60001
N4001A Opt 001 N4001-60004 00346-60154 00346-60027 N4000-60001
N4002A N4002-60004 00346-60155 00346-60027 N4002-60001

Replaceable Parts List

Replacement
Bulkhead
Assembly

Noise Cartridge

1

Attenuator
Replacement Kit

PC Board
Assembly

1. Only replace these parts if you have calibration facilities to verify the SNS.

Chapter 1 25

General Information

Replaceable Parts

Chassis PartsTable 1-6

Model Agilent Part Number Reference

Designator

N4000A, N4001A, N4002A E9321-20002 MP1, MP2 Machined Casting
N4000A, N4 001A, N4002A E9321-00001 MP3, MP4 Shield
N4000A, N40 01A, N4002A E9321-40001 MP5, MP6 Plastic Shell
N4000A, N4001A, N4002A 0460-1919 MP7, MP8 Copper Roll Shielding Tape
N4000A, N4001A, N4002A N4000-80002 MP9 Label- Caution
N4000A, N4001A, N4002A N4000-80003 MP10, MP11 Label- SNS Series
N4000A N4000-80001 MP12 Label- N4000A
N4001A N4001-80001 MP12 Label- N4001A
N4002A N4002-80001 MP12 Label- N4002A
N4000A, N4001A, N4002A 00346-80011 MP13 Label- Caution

DocumentationTable 1-7

Description

Model Agilent Part Number Description

N4000A, N4001A, N4002A N4000-90001 Operating and Service Manual

26 Chapter 1

Figure 1-15 Illustrated Parts Break Down

MP12

MP5

MP13

MP10

General Information

Replaceable Parts

MP1

MP7

MP4

MP3

MP8

MP2

MP11

MP6

MP9

Chapter 1 27

General Information

Replaceable Parts

Figure 1-16 Smart Noise Source Block Diagram

28 Chapter 1

General Information

Service

Service

Principles of Operation

Referring to the SNS block diagram in Figure 1-16, a constant +28V is

supplied from the NFA through the multi-pin “Connector” block when
the SNS is connected to the Noise Figure Analyzer . A voltage inverter is
used in the N4000A and N4001A to input approximately -25V to the
Current Regulator.

The Current Regulator applies a negative bias current to the noise diode
for the N4000A and N4001A models. The N4002A utilizes a positive bias,
so the voltage inverter is not necessary. The current regulator block also
provides the switching necessary to produce the noise “On” and “Off”
states.

The two-wire bus interface allows for data transfer to and from the noise
source. The data stored in the EEPROM includes model, serial number,
diode current setting and SNS calibration data.

The Power Supply provides +5V to the Two Wire Bus Interface,
EEPROM and Digital Temperature Sensor.

The Digital Temperature Sensor is a digital thermometer, thermally
coupled to the Microwave Assembly.

When the Smart Noise Source is in its “On” state, the noise diode
produces broadband noise which is input to the attenuator.

The attenuator sets the final Excess Noise Ratio (ENR) and output
impedance of the Smart Noise Source. A 16dB attenuator is used in the
N4000A to provide nominal ENR values of 5dB. A 6dB attenuator is used
in the N4001A and N4002A models for nominal ENR values of 15 dB.

The standard output connector is a Precision 3.5mm. A Type-N connector
is optional.

Chapter 1 29

General Information

Service

Troubleshooting

Check the connectors and perform the Operator Check described in the
Operation section of this manual. If the Operator Check results indicate
a problem, or if the connectors are damaged, please contact Agilent
Technologies. Our representatives can help isolate the problem and
make arrangements for repairs if necessary.

Repair of Defective Noise Source

Repair by the user is not recommended because of the complex
equipment required for test and calibration. However, a number of
replacement parts are available for customers with repair and

calibration capabilities. See “Replaceable Parts List” on page 25 and
“Chassis Parts” on page 26.

NOTE This manual does not include specific repair procedures covering the

replacement of parts listed in Table 1-5.

Disassembly Procedure

NOTE If the Agilent Smart Noise Source is opened and parts are replaced, it

requires re-calibration.

CAUTION Disassemble the noise source only in a static free work area.

Electrostatic discharge can damage the noise source.

30 Chapter 1

Figure 1-17 Removing the Smart Noise Source Plastic Shell

Disassemble the Smart Noise Source by performing the following steps.

Step 1. At the rear of the noise source, insert the blade of a screwdriver between

the plastic shells (see Figure 1-17). To prevent damage to the shells, use
a screwdriver blade as wide as the slot between the two shells.

General Information

Service

Step 2. Pry alternately at both sides of the connector (see Figure 1-17) until the

plastic shells are apart. Remove the shells and the magnetic shields.

Reassembly Procedure

Step 1. Replace the magnetic shields and plastic shells as shown in Figure 1-15.
Step 2. Snap the plastic shells together.

Returning a Noise Source for Calibration

When returning a Smart Noise Source to Agilent Technologies for
calibration send it to your nearest Sales and Service Office. These are
listed in Table 1-8.

Chapter 1 31

General Information

Service

Agilent Technologies Sales and Service OfficesTable 1-8

UNITED STATES

Agilent Technologies
(tel) 1 800 452 4844

CANADA

Agilent Technologies Canada Inc.
Test & Measurement
(tel) 1 877 894 4414

EUROPE

Agilent Technologies
Test & Measurement
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/NEW ZEALAND

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)

ASIA PACIFIC

Agilent Technologies, Hong Kong
(tel) (852) 3197 7777
(fax) (852) 2506 9284

32 Chapter 1

2 ENR File Format

33

ENR File Format

Format Details

Format Details

An SNS ENR file:

• Includes all data currently supplied on the printed noise source
calibration report.

• Can be viewed and edited using a standard text editor (for example,
Wordpad).

• Is simple to create and interpret.

• Is easily printable.

• Is easily imported into Excel.

Format

The ENR file is read line by line. Each line is terminated by a linefeed
character, or a carriage-return linefeed pair. Each line must be less then
100 characters long, excluding the terminator.

Lines containing only whitespace (tab or space character) are ignored.
Each line is interpreted as one of three types of record:

• Comment.

•Header Field.

•ENR Data.

Comment Records

A comment record must have either a "#" or "!" as the first character in
the line. The entire line is ignored. Comment records can appear at any
point within the file.

34 Chapter 2

ENR File Format

Format Details

Header Fields

General form Header fields must have a "[" as the first character in the line. Each

header field has the general form:

• [FieldName OptionalValue]

• The "[" must be the first character on the line.

• The FieldName and OptionalValue, if present, must be separated by
whitespace.

• Whitespace following the "]" is ignored.

• The file must start with one or more header fields (ignoring
comments and blank lines).

All header fields must appea r at the beginni ng of the file before the ENR
data records. Mixing header fields and ENR data is not permitted.

Mandatory header
fields

Certain header fields must be present. These are:

Table 2-1 Mandatory header fields

FieldName Description OptionalValue Description Example

Filetype Indicates the type of

file.

Version Indicates the version

of the file format
which applies to this
file.

NOTE All mandatory fields must appear in the file before any optional header

fields.

Optional header
fields

The following header fields are also all owed.

ENR Only ’E N R ’ i s

allowed for ENR
data files.

versionnumber
(formatted as
major.minor)

Allows for future
changes in the file
format.

[Filetype ENR]

[Version 1.0]

Chapter 2 35

ENR File Format

Format Details

NOTE Only the first two fields, Serialnumber and Model , are currently used by

the Noise Figure Analyzer.

Table 2-2 Optional header fields

FieldName Description Optional-

Value

Serialnumber The serial number

of the noise source

Model Identifies the noise

source model
number

Option Identifies any

model code option

Caldate Date of calibration

of noise source

Calduedate Indicates date

when next
calibration of
noise source is due

Temperature Calibration

temperature

Humidity Calibration

relative humidity

serialtext a string

modelcode model code string [Model 346B]

optioncode option code string [Option 001]

date&time formatted date

date&time formatted date

value number followed

value number followed

Description Example

[Serialnumber 3318A14223]
containing the
serial number

[Caldate 19991202.09:15:30]
and optional time

[Calduedate 20001225]
and optional time

[Temperature 24C]
by unit. Valid
units are C,F,K

[Humidity 40%]
by optional ’%’

Placeofcal Name of

calibration site

Trackingnum Tracking number

used during
manufacture

36 Chapter 2

placetext string containing

the place of
calibration

value number [Trackingnum 100]

[Placeofcal SouthQueensferry]

Table 2-2 Optional header fields

ENR File Format

Format Details

FieldName Description Optional-

Value

Current Calibrated value

of SNS current
DAC value

The format of date&ti me parameters is YYYYMMDD[.hh :mm:ss], i.e. a
four digit year, two digit month and two digit date , opt ionally followed b y
a "." then two digit hour ":" two digit minutes ":" tw o digit seconds.

Unknown header fields are ignored by the Noise Figure Analyzer. This
allows for future expansion.

value number [Current 3000]

Description Example

ENR Data

ENR data records must be ordered from lowest to highest frequency.

General form The Noise Figure Analyzer attempts to interpret lines which are not

comments or header fields as ENR data. ENR data has the general form:

Freq [Funit] ENR [Eunit] [Euncert [on_mag on_phase
off_mag off_phase [on_mag_uncert [on_phase_uncert
off_mag_uncert off_phase_uncert]]]]

NOTE Square brackets signify optional fields.

Field separator Each field is separated by whitespace. A single "," is allowed within or

instead of the whitespace.

Numeric fields With the exception of the two optional value fields, the other fields are

numeric. Numbers are formatted as an optional sign, followed by a
sequence of one or more digits (which can include a single decimal point
within the sequence), follow ed by an optional exponent. The exponent
consists of the "e" or "E" followed by an optional sign followed by between
one and three digits, for example, "10e6" to represent 10MHz.

Chapter 2 37

ENR File Format

Format Details

Frequency fields The frequency field (Freq) is the frequency at which the ENR amplitude

was measured.
The frequency unit field (Funit) is optional. The default unit is Hz.
Valid units are Hz, kHz, MHz, GHz, THz. Units are not case sensitive.

ENR fields The ENR amplitude (ENR) is the measured ENR at the specified

frequency.
The ENR unit field (Eunit) is optional. The default unit is dB. Currently,

the only allowed unit is dB. Note that units K, C, F (temperature) are
reserved for possible future use, but are not supported by the NFA at this
time.

The uncertainty fiel d for the ENR amplitude (Euncert) is optional.
However , this field must be present if reflection coefficient data is
supplied.

Reflection
coefficient data

NOTE The file format requires the ENR uncertainty field to be present before

The reflection coefficien t data is optional and is formatted as four fields
(on_mag, on_phas e, off_m ag, off_ phase):

• Reflection magnitude with noise source on.

• Reflection angle (in degrees) with noise source on.

• Reflection magnitude with noise source off.

• Reflection angle (in degrees) with noise source off.
If any reflection coefficient data is supplied, then all four fields must be

present.

any reflection data.

The reflection coefficien t uncertainty (on_mag_uncert) is an optional
parameter. Either one or four reflection uncertainties are allowed. If one
value is supplied, it is assumed to apply to all reflection parameters.
Alternatively, uncertainties can be supplied for all four reflection
parameters independently. Reflection coefficient data must be present if
this field is supplied.

38 Chapter 2

ENR File Format

Viewing the Smart Noise Source ENR Data

Viewing the Smart Noise Source ENR Data

To view the ENR data you need a Noise Figure Analyzer and a diskette.

NOTE For an explanation of saving a file to a diskette using the NFA, see the

Noise Figure Analyzer User’s Guide.

Step 1. Connect the SNS to the NFA Port using the multi-pin 11730 cable, as

shown in Figure 1-5 on page 15.

NOTE Ensure the NFA is set to read the SNS data. See “Operator’s Check for

Data Communication” on page 15, for further information.

Step 2. Press the
Step 3. Press the
Step 4. Press the
Step 5. Press the
Step 6. Press the

File key.
Save menu key.
ENR menu key.
SNS menu key.
Tab key to highlight the Path: C:

Ensure ".." "^UP^" is highlighted.

Step 7. Press the

Select menu key.

Ensure the "[-A-]" directory is highlighted.

Step 8. Press
Step 9. Press the

Select menu key.

Enter key.

Wait until the data is saved to the diskette.

Step 10. You can now view the data on a PC using, for example, Wordpad as

shown in “Examples” on page 40.
The data is presented using Comma Separat ed V alue s (CSV). This allows

you to view it in a Spreadsheet.

Chapter 2 39

ENR File Format

Examples

Examples

Example 1 This first example shows a simple ENR file where the Frequency and

ENR values have been entered manually into the Noise Figure Analyzer:

# ENR Data File
# Created by N8973A Agilent NFA Series Noise Figure Analyzer
# Serial Number GB40390000 Firmware Revision A.01.01
# 13:37:07 Mar 28, 2001
# Format is: Frequency (Hz), ENR (dB)

[Filetype ENR]
[Version 1.0]
10000000, 15.3500
100000000, 15.4230
1000000000, 15.2280
2000000000, 15.0900
3000000000, 14.9600
4000000000, 14.8400
5000000000, 14.7890
6000000000, 14.7500
7000000000, 14.7720
8000000000, 14.8570
9000000000, 14.9580
10000000000, 15.0600
11000000000, 15.0830
12000000000, 15.1950
13000000000, 15.2710
14000000000, 15.3430
15000000000, 15.4800
16000000000, 15.6750
17000000000, 15.8400
18000000000, 15.8940

40 Chapter 2

ENR File Format

Example 2 The second example is an SNS ENR file saved to a diskette:

# ENR Data File
# Created by N8975A NFA Series Noise Figure Analyzer
# Serial Number GB40390000 Firmware Revision A.01.01
# 13:37:07 Mar 28, 2001
# Format is: Frequency (Hz), ENR (dB), ENR Unc (dB),
# On Refl.Mag (lin), On Refl.Phase (deg),
# Off Refl.Mag (lin), Off Refl.Phase (deg),
# On Refl.Mag Unc (lin), On Refl.Phase Unc (deg),
# Off Refl.Mag Unc (lin), Off Refl.Phase Unc (deg)

[Filetype ENR]
[Version 1.1]
[Serialnumber US41240152]
[Model N4001A]
[Option 001]
[Caldate 20000727]
[Calduedate 20010727]
[Placeofcal EPSGQ]
[Trackingnum 10]
[Temperature 296.5K]
[Humidity 65%]
[Current 36272]

Examples

10000000,15.281,0.193,0.0450,-136.0,0.0450,-136.0,0.0030,

-6.0, 0.0070, +6.0
100000000, 15.291, 0.190, 0.0358, +168.0, 0.0358, +168.0,

0.0040, +4.6, 0.0050, -4.6
1000000000, 15.118, 0.151, 0.0398, +39.6, 0.0398, +39.6,

0.0100, +4.5, 0.0067, +1.5
2000000000, 14.999, 0.168, 0.0377, 0.168, 0.0377, -85.7,

0.0056, +0.9, 0.0086, +1.9
3000000000, 14.879, 0.172, 0.0267, +150.6, 0.0267, +150.6,

0.0080, -9.2, 0.0090, -1.2
4000000000, 14.795, 0.173, 0.0130, -18.1, 0.0130, -18.1,

0.0013, +16.0, 0.0063, +10.0
5000000000, 14.818, 0.179, 0.0359, +169.5, 0.0359, +169.5,

0.0024, -9.3, 0.0035, -0.3
6000000000, 14.846, 0.181, 0.0556, +63.7, 0.0556, +63.7,

0.0041, +10.3, 0.0067, -4.3
7000000000, 14.895, 0.180, 0.0430, -37.0, 0.0430, -27.0,

0.0079, -2.3, 0.0049, -2.3

Chapter 2 41

ENR File Format

Examples

8000000000, 15.016, 0.198, 0.0232, -160.3, 0.0232, -160.3,

0.0091, -3.8, 0.0053, -1.8
9000000000, 15.134, 0.201, 0.0122, +71.4,0.0122, +71.4,

0.0037, +17.3, 0.0057, +7.3
10000000000, 15.253, 0.194, 0.0080, +116.2, 0.0080, +116.2,

0.0048, -1.4, 0.0056, -5.4
11000000000, 15.249, 0.243, 0.0241, +65.7, 0.0241, +65.7,

0.0059, +1.5, 0.0049, +44.5
12000000000, 15.349, 0.240, 0.0196, +8.8, 0.01 96, +8.8, 0.0057,

+3.2, 0.0077, +2.2
13000000000, 15.383, 0.188, 0.0217, -5.4, 0.02 17, -5.4, 0.0062,

-6.9, 0.0045, -1.9
14000000000, 15.355, 0.178, 0.0228, -66.6, 0.0228, -66.6,

0.0075, +11.2, 0.0065, +1.2
15000000000, 15.367, 0.187, 0.0141, +141.6, 0.0141, +141.6,

0.0036, -3.2, 0.0029, -1.2
16000000000, 15.421, 0.182, 0.0251, +6.4, 0.02 51, +6.4, 0.0030,

+7.2, 0.0042, -1.2
17000000000, 15.418, 0.174, 0.0242, -100.5, 0.0242, -100.5,

0.0048, -2.7, 0.0050, +9.7
18000000000, 15.464, 0.179, 0.0183, +124.4, 0.0183, +124.4,

0.0098, -1.1, 0.0100, +9.1

NOTE The values shown in Example 2 are representative of their position in

the file. Therefore, they may not be numerically accurate.

42 Chapter 2

A Caring for Connectors

The material contained in this appendix may not be apply to the
connector you are using on the instrument.

43

Caring for Connectors

Introduction

Introduction

Recent advances in measurement capabilities have made connectors and
connection techniques more important than ever before. Damage to the
connectors on calibration and verification devices, test ports, cables, and
other devices represent an increasing burden in downtime and expense.

This Appendix will help you get the best performance from all coaxial
microwave connectors:

• To know what to look for whe n cleaning and inspecting the m, in order
to preserve their precision and extend their life.

• To make the best possible microwave connections, improving the
accuracy and repeatability of all of your measurements, saving both
time and money.

Connector Pa rt Numbers

Refer to the latest edition of the HP RF & Microwave Test Accessories
Catalog for connector part numbers.

Handling and Storage

Microwave connectors must be handled carefully, inspected before use
and when not in use, stored in a way that gives them maximum
protection. Avoid touching the connector mating plane surfaces and
avoid setting the connectors contact-end down, especially on a hard
surface.

Never store connectors with the contact end exposed. Plastic end caps
are provided with all Agilent connectors and these should be retained
after unpacking and placed over the ends of the connectors whenever
they are not in use. Extend the threads of connectors that have a
retractable sleeve or sliding connector nut, then put the plastic end cap
over the end of the connector.

Above all, never store any devices loose in a box or in a desk or a bench
drawer. Careless handling of this kind is the most common cause of
connector damage during storage.

44 Appendix A

Caring for Connectors

Visual Inspection

Visual Inspection

Visual inspection and, if necessary, cleaning should be done every time a
connection is made.

Metal and metal by-product particles from the connector threads often
find their way onto the mating plane surfaces when a connection is
disconnected and even one connection made with a dirty or damaged
connector can damage both connectors beyond repair.

Magnification is helpful when inspecting connectors, but it is not
required and may actually be misleading. Defects and damage that
cannot be seen without magnification generally have no effect on
electrical or mechanical performance. Magnification is of great use in
analyzing the nature and cause of damage and in cleaning connectors,
but it is not required for inspection.

Obvious Defects and Damage

Examine the connectors first for obvious defects or damage: badly worn
plating, deformed threads or bent, broken, or misalign ed center
conductors. Connector nuts should move smoothly and be free of burrs,
loose metal particles, and rough spots.

Immediately discard, or mark for identification and send away for repair,
any connector that has obvious defects like these.

Mating Plane Surfaces

Flat contact between the connectors at all points on their mating plane
surfaces is required for a good connection. Therefore, particular attention
should be paid to deep scratches or dents, and to dirt and metal or metal
by-product particles on the connector mating plane surfaces.

Also look for bent or rounded edges on the mating plane surfaces of the
center and outer conductors and for any signs of d amage due to exces sive
or uneven wear or misalignment.

Appendix A 45

Caring for Connectors

Visual Inspection

Light burnishing of the mating plane surfaces is normal, and is evident
as light scratches or shallow circular marks distributed more or less
uniformly over the mating plane surfa ce. Other small defects and
cosmetic imperfections are also normal. None of these affect electrical or
mechanical performance.

If a connector shows deep scratches or dents, particles clinging to the
mating plane surfaces, or uneven wear, clean it and inspect it again.
Damage or defects like dent s or scratches, which are deep enough to
displace metal on the mating plane surface of the connector, may indicate
that the connector itself is damaged and should not be used. Try to

determine the cause of the damage before making further connections.

Precision 7 mm Connectors

Precision 7mm connectors, among them APC-7 connectors, should be
inspected visually with the center conductor collets in place, and
whenever the collet has been removed. See Figure A-1.

The collet itsel f should be inspected for edge or surface damage and for
any signs that the spring contacts are bent or twisted. If they are, replace
the collet. When the collet has been re-inserted, verify that it springs
back immediately when pressed with a blunt plastic rod or with the
rounded plastic handle of the collet removing tool. Never use a pencil or
your finger for this purpose.

46 Appendix A

Figure A-1 Precision 7mm Connector

Outer Conductor Center Conductor

Dielectric
Support bead

Sexed Con n ectors

Caring for Connectors

Visual Inspection

Collet

Outer
Conductor
Mating Plane

On sexed connectors, especially precision 3.5mm and SMA connectors,
pay special attention to the female center conductor contact fingers
(Figure A-2 and Figure A-3). These are very easily bent or broken, and
damage to them is not always easy to see. Any connector with damaged
contact fingers will not make good electrical contact and must be
replaced.

Figure A-2 Precision 3.5mm connectors

FEMALE

Appendix A 47

MALE

Outer Conductor
Mating Plane

Caring for Connectors

Visual Inspection

Figure A-3 SMA connectors

FEMALE

MALE

Outer Conductor
Mating Plane

48 Appendix A

Caring for Connectors

Cleaning

Cleaning

Careful cleaning of all connectors is essential to assure long, reliable
connector life, to prevent accidental damage to connectors, and to obtain
maximum measurement accuracy and repeatability . Yet it is the one step
most often neglected or done improperly. Supplies recommended for
cleaning microwave connectors are as follows:

• Compressed Air.

•Alcohol.

• Cotton Swabs.

• Lint-Free Clea ning Cloth.

Compressed Air

Loose particles on the connector mating plane surfaces can usually be
removed with a quick blast of compressed air. This is very easy to do and
should always be tried first using compressed air from a small
pressurized can. The stream of air can be directed exactly where it is
wanted through a plastic (not metal) nozzle. No hoses or other
connections are needed. Hold the can upright, to avoid spraying liquid

along with the vapor.

Cleaning Alcohol

Dirt and stubborn contaminants that cannot be removed with
compressed air can often be removed with a cotton swab or lint free
cleaning cloth moistened with alcohol.

NOTE Use the least amount of alcohol possible, and avoid wetting any plastic

parts in the connectors with the alcohol.

Appendix A 49

Caring for Connectors

Cleaning

Alcohol should be used in liquid rather than spray form. If a spray must
be used, always spray the alcohol onto a cloth or swab, never directly into
a connector.

Very dirty connectors can be cleaned with pure alcohol. Other solutions
that contain additives should not be used.

Carefully avoid wetting the plastic support bead (which is easily
damaged by alcohol) inside the connector and blow the connector dry
immediately with a gentle stream of compressed air.

Precision 7 mm Connectors

When precision 7mm connectors have been cleaned with the center
conductor collet removed, insert the collet and clean the mating plane
surfaces again.

When the connector is attached to a small component, or to a cable,
calibration, or verification standard, the easiest way to do this is to put a
lint-free cleaning cloth flat on a table and put a couple of drops of alcohol
in the center of the cloth. It should be noted that it is not necessary to
remove the collet to use this cleaning method.

Retract the connector sleeve threads so that the connector interface is
exposed. Gently press the contact end of the connector into the cloth
moistened with alcohol, then turn the connector.

Dirt on the connector interface will be scrubbed away by the cloth
without damaging the connector. Blow the connector dry with a gentle
stream of compressed air.

This cleaning method can be adapted even for fixed connectors such as
those attached to test ports. Simply fold the cloth into several layers of
thickness, moisten it, press it against the connector interface, and turn it
to clean the connector. Blow the connector dry with a gentle stream of
compressed air.

50 Appendix A

Cleaning Interior Surfaces

Interior surfaces, especially on precision 3.5mm connectors, are very
difficult to reach, and it is easy to damage connectors in trying to clean
them. The openings ar e very small, and genera lly the center conductor is
supported only at the inn er end, by a plastic di electric supp ort bead. T his
makes it very easy to bend or break the center conductor.

One suitable method (Figure A-4) is to cut off the sharp tip of a round
wooden toothpick, or a smaller diameter wooden rod, and then to wrap it
with a single layer of lint-free cleaning cloth.

Figure A-4 Cleaning interior surfaces

Caring for Connectors

Cleaning

NOTE Metal must never be used (it will scratch the plated surfaces), and in

cleaning precision 3.5mm connectors the diameter must not exceed 0.070
in. (1.7 mm). The wooden handle of a cotton swab, for example, is too
large for this purpose. Even though the handle can sometimes be
inserted into the connector, even when wrapped in lint-free cloth,
movement of the handle against the center conductor can exert enough
force on the center conductor to damage it severely.

Appendix A 51

Caring for Connectors

Cleaning

Moisten the cloth with a small amount of alcohol and carefully insert it
into the connector to clean the interior surfaces. Use an illuminated
magnifying glass or mi crosc ope to se e c le arly the ar eas yo u wi sh to clea n.

Drying Connectors

When you have cleaned a connector, always be sure that it is completely
dry before reassembling or using it. Blow the connector dry with a gentle
stream of clean compressed air and inspect it again under a magnifying
glass to be sure that no particles or alcohol residues remain.

52 Appendix A

Caring for Connectors

Mechanical Inspection: Connector Gages

Mechanical Inspection: Connector Gages

Even a perfectly clean, unused connector can cause problems if it is
mechanically out of specification. Since the critical tolerances in
microwave connectors are on the order of a few ten-thousandths of an
inch, using a connector gage is essential.

Before using any connector for the first time, inspect it mechanically
using a connector gage. How often connectors should be gag ed after that
depends upon usage.

In general, connectors should be gaged whenever visual inspection or
electrical performance suggests that the connector interface may be out
of specification, for example due to wear or damage. Connectors on
calibration and verification devices should also be gaged whenever they
have been used by someone else or on another system or piece of
equipment.

Precision 3.5mm and SMA connectors should be gaged relatively more
often than other connectors, owing to the ease with which t he center pins
can be pulled out of specification during disconnection.

Connectors should also be gaged as a matter of routine - after every 100
connections and disconnections initially, more or less often after that as
experience suggests.

Table A-1 Recommended connector gages

Connector gage kits containing all of the items required are included in many
Agilent calibration kits. They are also available separately. Part numbers are as
follows.

Type Part Number/Ordering Information

Precision 7mm
(APC-7)

Precision 3.5mm 11752D
Precision 2.4mm 11752E
Type-N 85054-60047

Appendix A 53

85050-80012

Caring for Connectors

Mechanical Specifications

Mechanical Specifications

The critical dimension to be measured, regardless of connector type, is
the position (generally, the recession or setback) of the center conductor
relative to the outer conductor mating plane.

Mechanical specifications for connectors specify a maximum distance
and a minimum distance that the center conductor can be positioned
behind (or, in female Type-N connectors, in front of) the outer conductor
mating plane. Nominal specifications for each connector type exist, but
the allowable tolerances (and sometimes the dimensions themselves)
differ from manufacturer to manufacturer and from de vice to device.
Therefore, before gaging any connector, consult the mechanical
specifications provided with the connector or the device itself.

Precision 7mm Connectors

In precision 7mm connectors, contact between the center conductors is
made by spring-loaded contacts called collets. These protrude slightly in
front of the outer conductor mating plane when the connectors are apart.
When the connection is tightened, the collets are compressed into the
same plane as the outer conductors.

For this reason, two mechanical specifications are generally given for
precision 7mm connectors: the maximum recession of the center
conductor behind the outer conductor mating plane with the center
conductor collet removed; and a minimum and maximum allowable
protrusion of the center conductor collet in front of the outer conductor
mating plane with the collet in place.

The center conductor collet should also spring back immediately when
pressed with a blunt pl astic rod or wit h the ro unded pl astic h andle of the
collet removing tool. Never use a pencil or your finger f or this purpose.

With the center conductor collet removed, no protrusion of the center
conductor in front of the outer conductor mating plane is allowable, and
sometimes a minimum recession is required. Consult the mechanical
specifications provided with the connector or the device itself.

54 Appendix A

Caring for Connectors

Mechanical Specifications

Sexed Con n ectors

In Type-N and precision 3.5mm connectors, the position of the center
conductor in the male connect or is def ined as the pos ition of the should er
of the male contact pin - not the position of the tip. The male contact pin
slides into the female contact fingers and electrical contact is made by
the inside surfaces of th e tip of the female contact fingers on the sides of
the male contact pin.

50 Ohm Type-N Connectors

NOTE No Type-N connector should ever be used when there is any possibility of

interference between the shoulder of the male contact pin and the tip of
the female contact fingers when the connectors are mated. In practice
this means that no Type-N connector pair should be mated when the
separation between the t ip of the fema le contact f ingers and the shoulder
of the male contact pin could be less than zero when the connectors are
mated. Gage Type-N connectors carefully to avoid damage.

Type-N connectors differ from other connector types in that the outer
conductor mating plane is offset from the mating plane of the center
conductors. The outer conductor sleeve in the male connector extends in
front of the shoulder of the male contact pin. When the connection is
made, this outer conductor sleeve fits into a recess in the female outer
conductor behind the tip of the female contact fingers (Figure A-5).

Appendix A 55

Caring for Connectors

Mechanical Specifications

Figure A-5 Type-N connectors

FEMALE

Therefore the mechanical specifications of Type-N connectors give a
maximum protrusion of the female contact fingers in front of the outer
conductor mating plane and a minimum recession of the shoulder of the
male contact pin behind the outer conductor mating plane.

As Type-N connectors wear, the protrusion of the female contact fingers
generally increases, due to wear of the outer conductor mating plane
inside the female connector. This decreases the total center conductor
contact separation and should be monitored carefully.

MALE

Outer Conductor
Mating Plane

75 Ohm Type-N Connectors

75Ω Type-N connectors differ from 50Ω Type-N connectors most
significantly in that the center conductor, male contact pin, and female
contact hole are smaller. Therefore, mating a male 50

connector with a female 75

Ω connector by spreading the female contact fingers apart

75
permanently or even breaking them.

NOTE If both 75Ω and 50Ω Type-N connectors are among those on the devices

you are using, identify the 75
are never mated with any 50Ω Type-N connectors.

56 Appendix A

Ω Type-N connector will destroy the female

Ω Type-N connectors to be sure that they

Ω Type-N

Caring for Connectors

Using Connector Gages

Using Connector Gages

Before a connector gage is used, it must be inspected, cleaned, and
zeroed.

Inspecting and Cleaning t he Gage

Inspect the connector gage and the gage calibration block carefully,
exactly as you have inspected the connector itself. Clean or replace the
gage or the block if necessary (dirt on the gage or block will make the
gage measurements of the connectors inaccurate and can transfer dirt to
the connectors themselves, damaging them during gaging or when the
connection is made).

Zeroing the Gage

Zero the gage by following the steps described below. Be sure that you
are using the correct connector gage and correct end of the gage
calibration block for the connector being measured.

• Hold the gage by the plung er b arrel (no t the dial hous ing or cap) a nd,
for male connectors, slip the protruding end of the calibration block
into the circular bushing on the connector gage. For precision 7mm,
female precision 3.5mm use the flat end of the gage calibration block.
For female Type-N connectors, use the recessed end of calibration
block.

• Hold the gage by the plunger barrel only (Figure A-6). Doing so will
prevent errors in gage readings due to the application of stresses to
the gage plunger mechanism through the dial indicator housing.

• Carefully bring the gage and gage block together, applying only
enough pressure to the gage and gage block to result in the dial
indicator pointer settling at a reading.

Appendix A 57

Caring for Connectors

Using Connector Gages

• Gently rock the two surfaces together, to make sure that they have
come together flatly. The gage pointer should now line up exactly with
the zero mark on the gage. If it does not, inspect and clean the gage
and gage calibration block again and repeat this process. If the gage
pointer still does not line up with the zero mark on the gage, loosen
the dial lock screw and turn the graduated dial until the gage pointer
exactly lines up with zero. Then retighten the lock screw.

Figure A-6 Using the connector gage

NOTE Gages should be checked often, to make sure that the zero setting ha s

not changed. Generally, when the gage pointer on a gage that has been
zeroed recently does not line up exactly with the zero mark, the gage or
calibration block needs cleaning. Clean carefully and check the zero
setting again.

58 Appendix A

Caring for Connectors

Using Connector Gages

Measuring Connectors

Measuring the recession of the center conductor behind the outer
conductor mating plane in a connector is done in exactly the same wa y as
zeroing the gage, except of course that the graduated dial is not re-set
when the measurement is made.

If the connector has a retractable sleeve or sliding connector nut ­precision 7mm connectors, for example - extend the sleeve or nut fully.
This makes it easier to keep the gage centered in the connector.

Hold the gage by the plunger barrel and slip the gage into the connector
so that the gage plunger rests against the center conductor. Carefully
bring the gage into firm contact with the outer conductor mating plane.

Apply only enough pressure to the gage so that the gage pointer settles
at a reading.

Gently rock the connector gage within the connector, to make sure that
the gage and the outer conductor have come together flatly. Read the
recession (or protrusion) from the gage dial. (For maximum accuracy,
measure the connector several times and take an average of the
readings.)

Rotate the gage relative to the connector between each measurement. To
monitor connector wear, record the readings for each connector over time.

Appendix A 59

Caring for Connectors

Making Connections

Making Connections

Making good connections is easy if a few simple principles are kept in
mind:

• Aall connectors must be undamaged, clean, and within mechanical
specification.

• The connectors must be precisely aligned with one another and in flat
physical contact at all points on the mating plane surfaces.

• The connection must not be too tight or too loose.

• Lateral or horizontal (bending) force must not be applied to the
connection, nor should any connection ever be twisted.

Align Connectors Carefully

Careful alignment of the connectors is critical in making a good
connection, both to avoid damaging connectors and device s and to assure
accurate measurements.

As you bring one connector up to the other and as you make the actual
connection, be alert for any sign that the two connectors are not aligned
perfectly. If you suspect that misalignment has occurred, stop and begin
again.

Alignment is especially important in the case of sexed connectors, such
as precision 3.5mm and SMA connectors, to avoid bending or breaking
the contact pins. The center pin on the male connector must slip
concentrically into the contact fingers of the female connector. This
requires great care in aligning the two connectors before and as they are
mated.

When they have been aligned, the center conductors must be pushed
straight together, not twisted or screwed together, and only the connector
nut (not the device itself) should then be rotate d to make the co nnection.
(slight resistance is generally felt as the center conductors mate).

60 Appendix A

Caring for Connectors

Making C o nn ections

Alignment of precision 7mm connectors is made easier by the fact that
the connector sleeve on one of the connectors must be e xtended fully (and
the sleeve on the other connector retracted fully) in order to make the
connection. Extending the sleeve creates a cylinder into which the other
connector fits.

If one of the connectors is fixed, as on a test port, extend that connector
sleeve and spin its knurled connector nut to make sure that the threads
are fully extended, while on the other connector, fully retract the
connector sleeve.

To Make a Preliminary Connection

Align the two connectors carefully and engage the connector nut o ver the
exposed connector sleeve threads on the other connector.

Gently turn the connector nut until a preliminary connection is made.
Let the connector nut pull the two connectors straight together. Do not
twist one connector body into the other (as you might drive a screw or
insert a light bulb) as this is extremely harmful and can damage the
connectors.

When the mating plane surfaces make uniform, light contact, the
preliminary connection is tight enough. Do not overtighten this
connection.

NOTE At this stage all you want is a connection in which the outer conductors

make gentle contact at all points on both mating surfaces. Very light
finger pressure (no more than 2 inch-ounces of torque) is enough.

Appendix A 61

Caring for Connectors

Making Connections

Final Connection Using a Torque Wrench

When the preliminary connection has been made , use a torque wrenc h to

make the final connection. Tighten the connection only until the “break”
point of the wrench is reached, when the wrench handle gives way at its
internal pivot point. Do not tighten the connection further.

Also make sure that torque actually is being applied to the connection
through the torque wrench, not only to the wrench handle or in any way
that prevents the break point of the wrench from controll ing the torque
applied to the connection. Suggestions to ensure that torque is actually
being applied are given in Table A-2 on page 63.

Using a torque wrench guarantees that the connection will not be too
tight, thus preventing possible damage to the connector s and impaired
electrical performance. It also guarantees that all connections will be
made with the same degree of tightness every time they are made.

Torque wrenches pre-set to the correct value for each connector type are
included in many Agilent calibration kits, and they are also available
separately. Torque settings are detailed in Table A-2.

When using a torque wrench, prevent rotatio n of anything o ther than the
connector nut that is being tightened with the torque wrench. Generally
this is easy to do by hand (all the more so if one of the connectors is fixed)
as on a test port. In other situations, an open-end wrench can be used to
keep the bodies of the connectors from turning.

Hold the torque wrench lightly by the knurled end of the handle only.
Apply force at the end of the torque wrench only, perpendicular to the
wrench and always in a plane parallel to the outer conductor mating
planes. This will result in torque being applied to the connection through
the wrench until the break point of the wrench is reached.

Avoid pivoting the wrench handle on the thumb or other fingers. This
results in an unknown amount of torque being applied to the connection
when the break point of the wrench is reached. Avoid twisting the head
of the wrench relative to the outer conductor mating plane. This results
in applying more than the recommended torque.

62 Appendix A

Table A-2 Recommended Torque Settings

Type Description

Caring for Connectors

Making C o nn ections

Precision
7mm

Precision

3.5mm
SMA 5 lb-in (56 N-cm) Use the SMA wrench to connect male

Type-N Type-N connectors may be connected finger tight. If a

To reiterate the main do’s and do not’s detailed previously:

• Avoid holding the wrench tightly, in such a way that the handle is not
pivoted but simply pushed downward the same amount throughout
its length. If this is done, an unlimited amount of torque can be
applied.

• Hold the wrench at the s ame point near the end of the handle every
time, and always in the same orientation. Whenever possible, begin
tightening the connection with the wrench held horizontally

12 lb-in (136 N-cm.)

8 lb-in (90 N-cm)

SMA connectors to female precision 3.5min connectors.
Connections of male precision 3.5mm. connectors to female
SMA connectors can be made with the precision 3.5mm
torque wrench (8 lb-in).

torque wrench is used, 12 lb-in (136 N-cm) is
recommended.

Disconnection

Disconnect connectors by first loosening the connector nut that was
tightened in order to make the connection. If necessary, use the torque
wrench or an open-end wrench to start the process, but leave the
connection finger tight. At all times support the devices and the
connection to avoid putting lateral (bending) force on the connectors.

Complete the disconnection by disconnecting the connector nut
completely.

Appendix A 63

Caring for Connectors

Making Connections

NOTE Never disconnect connectors by t wisting one connector or device out of

the other as one might remove a screw or a light bulb. This is extremely
harmful and connector damage can occur whenever the device body
rather than the nut alo ne is being turned.

If the connection is between sexed connectors, pull the connectors
straight apart and be especially careful not to twist the body of any
device as you do so. Twisting the connection can damage the connector by
damaging the center conductors or the interior component part s to which
the connectors themselves are attached. It can also scrape the plating
from the male contact pin or even (in rare instances) unscrew the male or
female contact pin slightly from its interior mounting, bringing it out of
specification (this can also occur if the female contact fingers are
unusually tight).

64 Appendix A

Caring for Connectors

Adapters

Adapters

Adapters are used to connect a device with one connector interface to a
device or to test equipment that has another interface, or to reduce wear
on connectors that may be difficult or expensive to replace. Reducing
wear is possibly the most important use of adapters, especially when
devices that have SMA connectors are being used.

SMA connectors are low-cost connectors generally used up to about
23GHz. They are not precision mechanical devices and are not designed
for repeated connections and disconnections as they wear out quickly
and are very often found, upon assembly, to be out of specification, even
before they have been used. This makes them potentially destructive to
any precision 3.5mm connectors with which they might be mated.

CAUTION Worn, damaged, or out-of-specification SMA connectors can destroy a

precision 3.5mm connector even on the very first connection. For this
reason it is recommended that you use high-quality precision adapters,

sometimes called “connector savers”, whenever more than a few
connections are to be made between SMA and precision 3.5mm
connectors.

In most applications two adapters will be required, one each at the input
and the output of the device. Male-female adapters cause no change in
the sex of the interface. The same interface is presented when the
adapter is in place as is presented in the original setup.

Same-sex adapters (male-male, female-female) change the sex of the
interface. For example, if the original interface presents a male
connector, attaching a female-female adapter will result in a female
interface to which devices or cables that have male SMA (or male
precision 3.5mm) connectors can be connected.

Adapters are included in many Agilent calibration kits and with many
Agilent devices, or they may be ordered separately.

Appendix A 65

Caring for Connectors

Adapters

Table A-3 Adapters

Type Description

Precision 7mm and
Type-N

Precision 3.5mm
and SMA

Precision 7mm/male 3.5mm
Precision 7mm/female 3.5 mm

Precision 7mm/male 50
7mm/female 50

Male 3.5mm/female 3.5mm
Male 3.5mm/female 3.5 mm
Female 3.5mm/female 3.5mm
Precision 7mm/male 3.5mm

Precision 7mm/female 3.5mm “Connector
saver” male 3.5mm/female 3.5 mm
“Connector saver” male 3.5mm/male 3.5mm

Ω Type-N

Ω Type-N Precis ion

66 Appendix A

Principles of Microwave Connector Care

Principles of Microwave Connector Care

Table A-4 Principles of Microwave Connector Care

Handling and Storag e

DO DO NOT

Caring for Connectors

• Keep connectors clean.

• Extend sleeve or connector nut.

• Use plastic end caps during
storage.

Visual Inspection

DO DO NOT

• Inspect each connector carefully
before every connection.

• Look for metal particles, scratches
and dents.

Cleaning

DO DO NOT

• Try compressed air first.

• Clean connector threads.

• Touch mating plane surfaces.

• Set connectors contact-end down.

• Use a damaged connector ­EVER.

• Use any abrasives.

• Get liquid onto plastic support
beads.

Appendix A 67

Caring for Connectors

Principles of Microwave Connector Care

Table A-4 Principles of Microwave Connector Care

Gaging

DO DO NOT

• Clean and zero the gage before
using.

• Use correct gage type.

• Use correct end of calibration
block.

• Gage all connectors before first
use.

Making Connections

DO DO NOT

• Align connectors carefully.

• Make preliminary connection
lightly.

• T urn conn ector nu t onl y to tigh ten.

• Use a torque wrench for final
connection.

• Use an out-of-spec connector.

• Apply bending force to
connection.

• Overtighten preliminary
connection.

• Twist or screw in connectors.

• Tighten past “break” point of
torque wrench.

68 Appendix A