Agilent N5531S Data Sheet

Key measurements include:

• Frequency counter

• Absolute RF power

• Tuned RF level

• TRFL with tracking

• AM depth

• FM deviation

• oI M deviation

• Modulation rate

• Modulation distortion

• Modulation SINAD

• Audio frequency

• Audio AC level

• Audio distortion

• Audio SINAD

New features:

• Auto carrier triggering

• CCITT filters

Agilent N5531S
Measuring Receiver

Data Sheet

Up to 50 GHz

• Metrology-grade measurement

accuracy built on the tradition
of excellence

• Off-the-shelf, general-purpose

instruments with specialized
PSA measurement personality

• Best for signal source and

step attenuator calibrations

• Abundant features with

easy-to-use user interfaces

• Sensor modules covering up

to 50 GHz with single input
connection

Conditions and Requirements

The Agilent N5531S measuring
receiver system is comprised of
a PSA spectrum analyzer with
Option 233, a P-Series power
meter, and an N5532A sen­sor module for metrology and
calibration applications. To
achieve the optimal measure­ment results as specified, the
best metrology practice must
be applied and the required
instrument conditions must be
met.

PSA is the core component
instrument of the N5531S
measuring receiver. The PSA
instrument conditions includ­ed in the PSA specification
guide must be met to meet the
N5531S specifications.

Additional conditions required to meet specifications

• The system components are

within their calibration cycle

• Tuned RF Level measure-

ment is set to "High Accuracy
Mode"

• Fast Mode is set to "Off"

when performing modulation
measurements

• For center frequency

< 20 MHz, DC coupling is
applied

• At least 2 hours of storage

or operation at the operating
temperature of 20 to 30 °C

• The PSA has been turned on

at least 30 minutes with Auto

Align On selected or if Auto
Align Off is selected, Align
All Now must be run:

• Within the last 24 hours,

and

• Any time the ambient

temperature changes more
than 3 °C

• After the analyzer has been

at operating temperature at
least 2 hours

• For analog modulation

measurements, a direct
connection between the
PSA and the device under
test (DUT) is required to
achieve the best performance
and meet the specifications
for all test frequencies

• The following PSA options

are required in addition to
Option 233 as stated in the
specifications:

• Option 123 (pre-selector

bypass) must be installed
to meet TRFL specifications
above 3 GHz

• Option 107 (audio input

100 kohm) is required with
Option 233 (built-in
measuring receiver person­ ality) for the audio analysis

• Option 1DS (pre-amplifier
between 100 kHz and

3.05 GHz)
(pre-amplifier
10 MHz up to 50 GHz)
needed to achieve better
sensitivity as indicated in
the data sheet

or Option 110

between

is

2

2

Key Specifications

For detailed specifications, refer to the “Measuring receiver personality” chapter in the PSA specifications guide.

1.1 Frequency modulation

Description Specification Supplemental information

Input power rangea –18 to +30 dBm

Operating rate range

100 kHz ≤ fc < 10 MHz 20 Hz to 10 kHz
10 MHz ≤ fc < 50 GHz 50 Hz to 200 kHz

Peak frequency deviationsa Peak Deviation = IFBW/2 -Modulation Rate.

100 kHz ≤ fc < 10 MHz 40 kHz maximum IFBW
10 MHz ≤ fc ≤ 50 GHz 400 kHz maximum IFBW

FM deviation accuracyb

Frequency range Modulation rate Peak deviation ß c

250 kHz to 20 Hz to 200 Hz to > 0.2 ±1.5% of reading
10 MHz 10 kHz 40 kHz > 1.2 ±1% of reading

10 MHz to 50 Hz to 250 Hz to > 0.2 ±1.5% of reading

6.6 GHz 200 kHz 400 kHz > 0.45 ±1% of reading

6.6 to 50 Hz to 250 Hz to > 0.2 ±2.5% of reading

13.2 GHz 200 kHz 400 kHz > 8 ±1% of reading

13.2 to 50 Hz to 250 Hz to > 0.2 ±3.8% of reading

31.15 GHz 200 kHz 400 kHz > 16 ±1% of reading

31.15 to 50 Hz to 250 Hz to > 0.2 ±8.5% of reading
50 GHz 200 kHz 400 kHz > 32 ±1% of reading

= 5 MHz in “Auto” mode;

max

= 10 MHz in “Manual” mode

max

AM rejection (50 Hz to 3 kHz BW)

Frequency range Modulation rate AM depths

150 kHz to 3 GHz 400 Hz or 1 kHz ≤ 50% < 10 Hz peak deviation

3 to 6.6 GHz 400 Hz or 1 kHz ≤ 50% < 10 Hz

6.6 to 13.2 GHz 400 Hz or 1 kHz ≤ 50% < 20 Hz

13.2 to 26.5 GHz 400 Hz or 1 kHz ≤ 50% < 40 Hz

26.5 to 50 GHz 400 Hz or 1 kHz ≤ 50% < 75 Hz

Residual FM (50 Hz to 3 kHz BW)

RF frequency

100 kHz to 6.6 GHz < 1.5 Hz (rms)

6.6 to 13.2 GHz < 3 Hz (rms)

13.2 to 31.15 GHz < 6 Hz (rms)

31.15 to 50 GHz < 12 Hz (rms)

Detectors

a. The modulation rates and the peak deviations that the system is capable of measuring are governed by the instrument’s IFBW
(Information Bandwidth) setting. Their relationship is described by the equation: Peak deviation (in Hz) = IFBW/2 - modulation rate.

b. When the carrier frequency fc is less than 10 MHz, to avoid the 0 Hz frequency wrap-around, the fc and IFBW must be chosen to satisfy [fc-(IFBW)/2] > 100 kHz.

c. ß is the ratio of frequency deviation to modulation rate (deviation/rate).

33

Available: +peak, -peak, ±peak/2, peak hold, rms

Key Specifications (Continued)

1.2 Amplitude modulation

Description Specification Supplemental information

Input power range –18 to +30 dBm

Operating rate rangea

100 kHz ≤ fc < 10 MHz 20 Hz to 10 kHz
10 MHz ≤ fc < 50 GHz 50 Hz to 100 kHz

Depth range 5 to 99% Capable of measuring AM depth
range of 0 to 99%.

AM depth accuracyb

Frequency range Modulation rate Depths

100 kHz to 10 MHz 50 Hz to 10 kHz 5% to 99% ±0.75% of reading

10 MHz to 50 Hz to 20% to 99% ±0.5% of reading
3 GHz 100 kHz 5% to 20% ±2.5% of reading

3 to 50 Hz to 20% to 99% ±1.5% of reading

26.5 GHz 100 kHz 5% to 20% ±4.5% of reading

26.5 to 50 Hz to 20% to 99% ±1.9% of reading

31.15 GHz 100 kHz 5% to 20% ±6.8% of reading

31.15 to 50 Hz to 20% to 99% ±6% of reading
50 GHz 100 kHz 5% to 20% ±26% of reading

c

Flatness

Frequency range Modulation rate Depths

10 MHz to 3 GHz 90 Hz to 10 kHz 5% to 99% ±0.30% of reading

3 to 26.5 GHz 90 Hz to 10 kHz 5% to 99% ±0.40% of reading

26.5 to 50 GHz 90 Hz to 10 kHz 5% to 99% ±0.60% of reading

FM rejection (50 Hz to 3 kHz BW)

Frequency range Modulation rate Peak FM deviations

250 kHz to 10 MHz 400 Hz or 1 kHz < 5 kHz < 0.14% AM depth

10 MHz to 50.0 GHz 400 Hz or 1 kHz < 50 kHz < 0.36% AM depth

Residual AM (50 Hz to 3 kHz BW) < 0.01% (rms)

Detectors

a. When the carrier frequency fc is less than 10 MHz, to avoid the 0 Hz frequency wrap-around, the fc and IFBW must be chosen to satisfy [fc-(IFBW)/2] > 100 kHz.

b. For peak measurement only: AM accuracy may be affected by distortion generated by the measuring receiver. In the worst case this distortion can decrease
accuracy by 0.1% of reading for each 0.1% of distortion.

c. Flatness is the relative variation in indicated AM depth versus rate for a constant carrier frequency and depth.

e. Preamp must be on to meet this specification for frequency range of 26.5 to 50 GHz.

f. Follow this procedure to verify this specification: Input a clean CW signal (0 dBm) to the measuring receiver; Manually tune the frequency to the input signal;
Set the PSA parameters as follows, (1) IF BW = 6 kHz, (2) Detector type = RMS, (3) High Pass Filter = 50 Hz, (4) Low Pass Filter = 3 kHz, (5) Set “RF Input Ranging”
to “Man”, and decrease the input attenuation at 2 dB/step until “SigHi” message appears, and then back off 2 dB for the “SigHi” message to disappear.

d, e

Available: +peak, -peak, ±peak/2, peak hold, rms

44

Key Specifications (Continued)

1.3 Phase modulation

Description Specification Supplemental information

Input power range –18 to +30 dBm

Operating rate range 100 kHz ≤ fc < 50 GHz 200 Hz to 20 kHz

Maximum peak phase deviation

f
f
24,999 radiansb In “Manual” mode

o

I M accuracy

Frequency range Deviations

100 kHz to 6.6 GHz > 0.7 rad ±1% of reading

> 0.3 rad ±3% of reading

6.6 to 13.2 GHz > 2.0 rad ±1% of reading
> 0.6 rad ±3% of reading

13.2 to 26.5 GHz > 4.0 rad ±1% of reading
> 1.2 rad ±3% of reading

26.5 to 31.5 GHz > 4.0 rad ±1% of reading
> 1.3 rad ±3% of reading

31.5 to 50 GHz > 8.0 rad ±1% of reading
> 2.4 rad ±3% of reading

AM rejection (50 Hz to 3 kHz BW) For 50% AM at 1 kHz rate < 0.03 rad (peak)

< 10 MHz 450 radiansa

c

≥ 10 MHz 12,499 radiansb In “Auto” mode

c

Residual PM (50 Hz to 3 kHz BW)

Frequency range

100 kHz to 6.6 GHz < 0.0017 rad (rms)

6.6 to 13.2 GHz < 0.0033 rad (rms)

13.2 to 31.15 GHz < 0.0066 rad (rms)

31.15 to 50 GHz < 0.0130 rad (rms)

Detectors

a. When the carrier frequency fc is less than 10 MHz, to avoid the 0 Hz frequency wrap-around, the fc and IFBW must be chosen to satisfy [fc- (IFBW/2)] > 100 kHz.
The specification of 450 radians applies for fc = 200 kHz, IFBW = 200 kHz, and a modulation rate of 200 Hz. The specification for maximum peak phase deviation
will linearly improve as the allowed IFBW increase. As fc increases, the IFBW can increase up to the maximum allowed IFBW in “Auto” or “Manual” modes.

b. When the carrier frequency (fc) is equal to or greater than 10 MHz, the maximum peak deviation that the instrument is capable of measuring depends on
the IFBW setting and the modulation rate of the signal-under-test. The relationship is described by the equation:
Max peak deviation (in radians) = [IFBW/(2 x modulation rate in Hz)] - 1
The maximum IFBW used in “Auto” mode is 5 x 10
the maximum IFBW can be set to 10

7

Hz, hence, Max peak deviation (in radians) = (5 x 106/modulation rate in Hz) - 1.

6

Hz, therefore, Max peak deviation (in radians) = (2.5 x 106/modulation rate in Hz) - 1. In “Manual” mode,

Available: +peak, -peak, ±peak/2, peak hold, rms

55

Key Specifications (Continued)

1.4 RF frequency counter

Description Specification Supplemental information

Range 100 kHz to 50 GHz

Sensitivitya In “Auto” mode

100 kHz ≤ fc < 3.0 GHz 0.4 mV

3.0 GHz ≤ fc ≤ 26.5 GHz 1.3 mV

26.5 GHz ≤ fc ≤ 50 GHz 4.0 mV

Maximum resolution 0.001 Hz

Accuracy ± (readout freq. x freq.

ref. accy +0.100 Hz)

Modes Frequency and frequency error (manual tuning)

Sensitivity in manual tuning mode Using manual ranging and changing RBW settings,

sensitivity can be increased to approximately -100 dBm.

(–55 dBm)

rms

(–45 dBm)

rms

(–35 dBm)

rms

1.5 Audio input

b

Description Specification Supplemental information

Frequency range 20 Hz to 250 kHz

Input impedance 100 kΩ (nominal)

Maximum safe input level 7 V

a. Instrument condition: RBW ≤ 1 kHz.

b. All audio measurements require PSA Option 107.

or 20 VDC

rms

66

Key Specifications (Continued)

1.6 Audio frequency counter

Description Specification Supplemental information

Frequency range 20 Hz to 250 kHz

Accuracya With HPF set to minimum setting of < 20 Hz

f < 1 kHz ±(0.02 Hz + f x Internal Reference Accuracy)b

f ≥ 1 kHz ±3 counts of the first 6 significant digits
± f x (Internal Reference Accuracy)

Resolution 0.01 Hz (8 digits)

Sensitivity ≤ 5 mV

1.7 Audio AC (RMS) level

Description Specification Supplemental information

Frequency range 20 Hz to 250 kHz

Measurement level range 100 mV

Accuracy 1% of reading

Detector mode RMS

a. Follow this procedure to verify this specification: Set an input audio signal at 100 mV. Set the PSA as follows: (1) Auto Level, (2) Auto IF BW,
(3) LP is greater than the audio frequency, (4) HP = 300 Hz or less than the audio frequency, (5) Average = 5 Repeat.

b. Refer to the “Internal Time Base Reference” section in the PSA specification guide for the “Internal Reference Accuracy”.

rms

to 3 V

rms

77

Key Specifications (Continued)

1.8 Audio distortion

Description Specification Supplemental information

Display range (20 Hz to 250 kHz BW) 0.01% to 100% (–80 to 0 dB)

Accuracy (20 Hz to 250 kHz) ±1 dB of reading

Residual noise and distortion < 0.3% (–50.4 dB)

Total noise –73.2 dB characteristic performance

Total distortion –74.8 dB characteristic performance

1.9 Audio SINAD

Description Specification Supplemental information

Display range (20 Hz to 250 kHz BW) 0.00 to 80 dB

Display resolution 0.01 dB

Accuracy

20 Hz to 20 kHz ±1 dB of reading

20 kHz to 250 kHz ±2 dB of reading

Residual noise and distortion 50.4 dB (< 0.3%)

Total noise 73.2 dB charactristic performance

Total distortion 74.8 dB charactristic performance

8

Key Specifications (Continued)

1.10 Audio filters

Description Specification Supplemental information

Filter flatness

Non high-pass filter < ± 1% at rates > 20 Hz

50 Hz high-pass filter < ±1% at rates > 50 Hz

300 Hz high-pass filter < ±1% at rates > 300 Hz

400 Hz high-pass filter a < ±1% at rates > 400 Hz

3 kHz low-pass filter < ±1% at rates < 3,030 Hz

15 kHz low-pass filter < ±1% at rates < 15,030 Hz

30 kHz low-pass filter a < ±1% at rates < 30 kHz

80 kHz low-pass filter a < ±1% at rates < 80,000 Hz

> 100 kHz low-pass filter < ± 1% at rates < 100 kHz

CCITT weighting filter CCITT recommendation P53
Deviation from the ideal ±0.2 dB at 800 Hz; ±1.0 dB, 300 Hz to 3 kHz
CCITT filter response ±2.0 dB, 50 to 300 Hz and 3 to 3.5 kHz; ±3.0 dB, 3.5 to 5 kHz

De-emphasis filters 25 µs, 50 µs, 75 µs, and 750 µs De-emphasis filters are single-pole,
low-pass filters with nominal –3 dB frequencies
of: 6,366 Hz for 25 µs, 3,183 Hz for 50 µs,
2,122 Hz for 75 µs, and 212 Hz for 750 µs.

Deviation from ideal de-emphasis filter

With 3 kHz Low-Pass filter and IFBW Mode
set to “minimal”.

< 0.4 dB, or < 3º Applicable to 25 µs, 50 µs, and 75 µs filters.

a. PSA firmware revision ≥ A.11.08 or Option 23B

99

Key Specifications (Continued)

1.11 RF Power

The Agilent N5531S measuring receiver system with the N5532A sensor modules performs RF power measurements
from –10 dBm (100 µW) to +30 dBm (1 W). The N5531S must be used with Agilent P-Series power meters
(N1911A, N1912A), or EPM/EPM-P Series (E4416A, E4417A, E4418B and E4419B). A LAN/GPIB gateway will be
required if the EPM/EPM-P Series power meter is used.

a, b

Description Specification Supplemental information

RF power accuracy (dB)

+20 to +30 dBm Power meter range 1 Typicals

Sensor module Options Sensor module Options
+20 to +30 dBm #504 #518 #526 #550 #504 #518 #526 #550

100 kHz ≤ fc ≤ 10 MHz ±0.356 – – – ±0.182 – – –
10 MHz < fc ≤ 30 MHz ±0.356 ±0.361 – – ±0.182 ±0.185 – –
30 MHz < fc ≤ 2 GHz ±0.356 ±0.361 ±0.361 ±0.361 ±0.182 ±0.185 ±0.185 ±0.185
2 GHz < fc ≤ 4.2 GHz ±0.356 ±0.392 ±0.422 ±0.367 ±0.182 ±0.201 ±0.217 ±0.188

4.2 GHz < fc ≤ 18 GHz – ±0.400 ±0.422 ±0.367 – ±0.205 ±0.217 ±0.188
18 GHz < fc ≤ 26.5 GHz – – ±0.480 ±0.387 – – ±0.247 ±0.199

26.5 GHz < fc ≤ 50 GHz – – – ±0.420 – – – ±0.216

–10 to +20 dBm Power meter range 2 Typicals

Sensor module Options Sensor module Options
0 to +20 dBm #504 #518 #526 #550 #504 #518 #526 #550

100 kHz ≤ fc ≤ 10 MHz ±0.190 – – – ±0.097 – – –
10 MHz < fc ≤ 30 MHz ±0.190 ±0.200 – – ±0.097 ±0.101 – –
30 MHz < fc ≤ 2 GHz ±0.190 ±0.200 ±0.200 ±0.200 ±0.097 ±0.101 ±0.101 ±0.101
2 GHz < fc ≤ 4.2 GHz ±0.190 ±0.255 ±0.301 ±0.212 ±0.097 ±0.130 ±0.154 ±0.108

4.2 GHz < fc ≤ 18 GHz – ±0.267 ±0.301 ±0.212 – ±0.136 ±0.154 ±0.108
18 GHz < fc ≤ 26.5 GHz – – ±0.380 ±0.247 – – ±0.195 ±0.126

26.5 GHz < fc ≤ 50 GHz – – – ±0.297 – – – ±0.152

RF power resolution Display resolution 0.001 dB

Instrumentation accuracy Logarithmic ±0.02 dB

Linear ±0.5 %

a. For latest specification updates refer to N1911A/N1912A, and E4416A/17A and E4418B/19B power meter User’s Guides.

b. The N5531S RF Power Accuracy is derived from the Agilent power meter accuracy. The parameters listed in this section are components used to
calculate the RF Power Accuracy. Application Note 1449-3 (literature number 5988-9215EN) does an excellent job of explaining how the components
are combined to derive an overall accuracy number. The resulting calculation yields ±0.190 to ±0.297 dB when measuring a +10 dBm signal and ignoring
DUT mismatch. Assuming 1.5:1 DUT SWR, the calculation would return a typical accuracy of ±0.213 to ±0.387 dB (depending on the frequency
range and power under test). Absolute and relative accuracy specifications do not include mismatch uncertainty.

1010

Key Specifications (Continued)

1.11 RF Power (Continued)

Description Specification Supplemental information

Input SWR

N5532A Option 504 100 kHz to 2 GHz < 1.10:1 (ρ = 0.048)
2 GHz to 4.2 GHz < 1.28:1 (ρ = 0.123)

N5532A Option 518 10 MHz to 2 GHz < 1.10:1 (ρ = 0.048)
2 GHz to 18 GHz < 1.28:1 (ρ = 0.123)

N5532A Option 526 30 MHz to 2 GHz < 1.10:1 (ρ = 0.048)
2 GHz to 18 GHz < 1.28:1 (ρ = 0.123)
18 GHz to 26.5 GHz < 1.40:1 (ρ = 0.167)

N5532A Option 550 30 MHz to 2 GHz < 1.10:1 (ρ = 0.048)
2 GHz to 18 GHz < 1.28:1 (ρ = 0.123)
18 GHz to 26.5 GHz < 1.40:1 (ρ = 0.167)

26.5 GHz to 33 GHz < 1.55:1 (ρ = 0.216)
33 GHz to 40 GHz < 1.70:1 (ρ = 0.259)
40 GHz to 50 GHz < 1.75:1 (ρ = 0.272)

Zero set and
measurement noisea

Zero drift of sensors

(1 hour, at constant
temperature after
24 hour warm-up)

RF power ranges of
N5531S with N5532A
sensor modules –20 dBm (10 µW) to One range for power sensors

+30 dBm (1 W)

Response time
(0 to 99 % of reading) 150 ms x number of averages (nominal)

Displayed units Watts, dBm, or Volts

N5532A Options 504, 518, 526 and 550

N5532A Options 504, 518, 526 and 550

±680 nW

<± 10 nW

a. Since zero set and measurement noise cannot be separated, these two components are combined as one error term.

1111

TRFL Specification Nomenclature

The tuned RF level measurement
uncertainty is represented
primarily by two regions. For
high signal-to-noise (S/N) mea­surements, the uncertainty is
dominated by the linearity of
the measuring receiver. For
low S/N measurements, the
measurement uncertainty is
dominated by the noise of
the measuring receiver being
added to the measured signal.
The input power at which the

uncertainty switches from
linearity dominated to noise
dominated is labeled as
“Residual noise threshold.” The
minimum power level is defined
as the noise floor of the mea­suring receiver system.

Additionally, there are 2 range­to-range change uncertainties
known as “Range 2 Uncertainty”
and “Range 3 Uncertainty”,
respectively. Range 2 Uncertainty

Uncertainty

dominated by

linearity

occurs when the measuring
receiver switches from Range 1
to Range 2, and Range 3 uncer­tainty from Range 2 to Range 3.
They are additive uncertainties
applied to all measurements
whose input powers across
“Range Switch Level”.

Uncertainty

dominated

by noise

Range 2

Measurement uncertainty

Range 1

uncertainty

Maximum

power

Figure 1. Measurement uncertainty vs. input power relationship

Range 3
uncertainty

Range 2 Range 3

Input power

12

12

Residual

noise

threshold

Minimum

power

Key Specifications (Continued)

1.12 Tuned RF level

a, b, c

Note: While the Tuned RF level specifications listed below are for IFBW settings of 75 Hz and 10 Hz, the IFBW in N5531S can also be set to 30 kHz or
200 kHz. The wider IFBW is capable of measuring sources with some degree of frequency instability by trading off measurement sensitivity.

For sources with frequency instability greater than 100 kHz, use the "Tuned RF Level with Tracking" measurement. When using the "Tuned RF Level with
Tracking", the following additional amplitude error must be applied due to FFT frequency response as the signal drifts within the tracking range:
±(0.15 dB + 0.1 dB/MHz of span) to a max of ±0.40 dB, where span is equivalent to the tracking range setting in the measurement. The "Tuned RF Level
with Tracking" measurement upper frequency limit = 3.05 GHz. For the "Tuned RF Level with Tracking", the minimum power in the = 10*log [Integrated
BW/(75 Hz *1.06)], relative to the specified 75 Hz minimum power level.

Description Specification Supplemental information

Power range

Maximum power Preamp off +30 dBm

Preamp on +16 dBm

Minimum power (dBm)g 75 Hz IFBW 10 Hz IFBW
E4443A/45A/40A

Frequency range uninstalled installed

Preamp Preamp Preamp Preamp

f

uninstalled installedf

100 kHz to 2 MHz –110 –124/–110 –129 –140/–129

2 to 10 MHz –115 –131/–115 –134 –140/–134

10 MHz to 3.05 GHz –117 –134/–133 –136 –140/–140

3.05 to 6.6 GHz –117 –117/–127 –136 –136/–140

6.6 to 13.2 GHz –108 –108/–116 –127 –127/–135

13.2 to 19.2 GHz –100 –100/–110 –119 –119/–129

19.2 to 26.5 GHz –93 –93/–102 –112 –112/–121

Minimum power (dBm)g 75 Hz IFBW 10 Hz RBW
E4447A/46A/48A

Frequency range uninstalled installed

Preamp Preamp Preamp Preamp

f

uninstalled installedf

100 kHz to 2 MHz –110 –124/–110 –129 –140/–129

2 to 10 MHz –115 –131/–115 –134 –140/–134

10 MHz to 3.05 GHz –117 –134/–133 –136 –140/–140

3.05 to 6.6 GHz –114 –114/–126 –133 –133/–140

6.6 to 13.2 GHz –111 –111/–123 –130 –130/–140

13.2 to 19.2 GHz –109 –109/–118 –128 –128/–137

d, e

d, e

Also see Notes 1 and 2 on page 14

Also see Notes 1 and 2 on page 14

a. PSA Option 123 is required to perform “Tuned RF Level” measurements above 3 GHz.

b. These specifications are valid when the measuring receiver input is a CW tone and operating temperature is within the range of 20 to 30ºC.

c. Absolute and relative accuracy specifications do not include mismatch uncertainty.

d. With 10 Hz IFBW setting selected, the measurement automatically switches the RBW to the 1 Hz setting for SNR values < 10 dB.

e. For instrument with serial number prefix below US/MY4615, the minimum power level in 10 Hz IFBW setting is 10 dB higher than the values shown here.
However, if the PSA contains Option 107, the values shown in the table still apply.

f. In the frequency range of 100 kHz to 3.05 GHz, the minimum power specifications with “Preamp installed” are presented in two values: A/B,
where value A is for the PSA installed with Option 1DS, and value B is for the PSA installed with Option 110. Furthermore, in the frequency range
of 100 kHz and 10 MHz, Option 110 is turned off for these measurements. Option 1DS only covers frequency range of 100 kHz and 3.05 GHz,
whereas Option 110 covers up to the maximum frequency of the PSA base instrument. Those two preamplifier options cannot coexist in a
same PSA instrument.

g. With 30 kHz and 200 kHz IF bandwidth (IFBW), TRFL minimum power level will be degraded by a factor of 10*log(IFBW/75 Hz), relative to the specified 75 Hz
minimum power level. This will result in a degradation of 26 dB for the 30 kHz IFBW and 34 dB for the 200 kHz IFBW.

1313

Key Specifications (Continued)

1.12 Tuned RF level (Continued)

Description Specification Supplemental information

Minimum power (dBm) 75 Hz IFBW 10 Hz IFBW
E4447A/46A/48A

Frequency range uninstalled installed uninstalled installed

19.2 to 26.5 GHz –97 –97/–104 –116 –116/–123

26.5 to 31.15 GHz –98 –98/–103 –117 –117/–122

31.15 to 41 GHz –87 –87/–91 –106 –106/–110

41 to 45 GHz –81 –81/–81 –100 –100/–100

45 to 50 GHz –69 –69/–69 –88 –88/–88

Linearity ±(0.009 dB + 0.005 dB/10 dB step)

Relative measurement Residual noise ±(0.015 dB + 0.005 dB/10 dB step)
accuracy thresholdb to

maximum power

Minimum power ±(cumulative errore + 0.0012 x (input power ­ to residual noise residual noise threshold power)2)
threshold

Residual noise threshold Residual noise threshold power = minimum
power (dBm) power +30 dB

Range 2 uncertaintyf ±0.031 dB

Range 3 uncertaintyg ±0.031 dB

Preamp Preamp Preamp Preamp

a

a, c, d

(nominal)

Also see Notes 1 and 2 on page 14

a. “Step” in this specification refers to the difference between relative measurements, such as might be experienced by stepping a stepped attenuator. Therefore,
accuracy is computed by adding the uncertainty for each full or partial 10 dB step to the other uncertainty term. For example, if the two levels whose relative level is
to be determined differ by 15 dB, consider that to be a difference of two 10 dB steps.

b. The residual noise threshold power is the power level at which the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) becomes the dominant contributor to the measurement uncertainty.
See “TRFL Specifications Nomenclature” at the beginning of this section.

c. Immediately following the system alignments, the measurement is made by manually setting frequency to that of the signal-under-test, “Accuracy” mode to “High”,
and “Measure Control” to “Single”. For the E4446A/E4447A/E4448A, if the change of measured frequency crosses frequency bands (refer to previous page in the
column of “Supplemental Information” for definitions of frequency bands for the E4446A/E4447A/E4448A), allow 10 minutes for thermal stability before taking the

first measurement within the new band.

d. This includes the linearity accuracy.

e. In relative accuracy of TRFL measurements, the “cumulative error” is the error incurred when stepping from a higher power level to the Residual Noise Threshold
Power level. The formula to calculate the cumulative error is ±(0.015 dB + 0.005 dB/10 dB step). For example, assume the higher level starting power is 0 dBm and
the calculated Residual Noise Threshold Power is –99 dBm. The cumulative error would be ±(0.015 + 99/10 x 0.005 dB), or ±0.065 dB, where x is a ceiling
function that means the smallest integer is not less than x.

f. Add this specification when the measuring receiver enters the “Range 2” state. “Range 2” is entered when the “Range 1” signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) falls between
50 and 28 dB. The SNR value is tuning band dependent. A prompt of “Range 2” in the PSA display will indicate that the measuring receiver is in “Range 2”.

g. Add this specification in addition to “Range 2 Uncertainty” when the measuring receiver software enters the “Range 3” state. “Range 3” is entered when the
“Range 2” SNR falls between 50 and 28 dB. The SNR value is tuning band dependent. A prompt of “Range 3” in the PSA display will indicate that the measuring
receiver is in “Range 3”.

|

|

|

|

1414

Key Specifications (Continued)

1.12 Tuned RF level (Continued)

Description Specification Supplemental information

Absolute measurement
accuracy Preamp Off

power

Residual noise threshold ±(power meter range 2 - 4 uncertainty + 0.005 dB/10 dB step)
power to +20 dBm

Minimum power to residual ±(cumulative errora + 0.0012 x (input power – residual noise threshold power)2)
noise threshold power

Absolute measurement
accuracy Preamp On

power to +16 dBm

Minimum power to residual ±(cumulative errora + 0.0012 x (input power – residual noise threshold power)2)
noise threshold power

+20 dBm to maximum ±(power meter range 1 uncertainty + 0.005 dB/10 dB step)

Residual noise threshold ±(power meter range 2 - 4 uncertainty + 0.005 dB/10 dB step)

Residual Noise Threshold Residual Noise Threshold Power = Minimum Power + 30 dB
Power (dBm)

Range 2 Uncertaintyb ±0.031 dB

Range 3 Uncertaintyc ±0.031 dB

a. In absolute accuracy of TRFL measurements, the "cumulative error" is the error incurred when stepping from a higher power level to the Residual Noise Threshold
power level. See Figure 1 for a graphic. In order to calculate the cumulative error, you must determine the Residual Noise Threshold power and determine the Power
Meter Range. The formula to calculate the cumulative error is: ±(Power Meter Range Uncertainty + 0.005 dB/10 dB step). For example: the power sensor is Option
504, starting power is 0 dBm and power will be stepped to –120 dBm. Therefore starting power falls in the Power Meter Range 2-4 and the uncertainty is ±0.190 dB,
as indicated in the table on the next page.

The Residual Noise Threshold Power is –106 dBm at IFBW of 10 Hz. This is calculated per the Minimum Power specification in table on the next page. Assume no

preamp is installed, and that the measurement frequency is 10 MHz to 3 GHz. The Residual Noise Threshold Power is –136 dBm + 30 dB = –106 dBm using the
formula on this page.

The cumulative error is then ±(0.190 dB + 106/10 X 0.005 dB), or ±0.245 dB, where x is a ceiling function that means the smallest integer not less than x, which
is 11 in this example.

b. Add this specification when the Measuring Receiver enters the "Range 2" state. Range 2 is entered when the "Range 1" signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) falls between 50
and 28 dB. The SNR value is tuning band dependent. A prompt of "Range 2" in the PSA display will indicate that the Measuring Receiver is in Range 2.

c. Add this specification in addition to "Range 2 Uncertainty" when the Measuring Receiver enters the "Range 3" state. Range 3 is entered when the "Range 2" SNR
falls between 50 and 28 dB. The SNR value is tuning band dependent. A prompt of "Range 3" in the PSA display will indicate that the Measuring Receiver is in
Range 3.

NOTE 1
As the displayed average noise level (DANL) of a spectrum analyzer becomes very low, it can reveal “residuals”. These occur at discrete frequencies and arise from
the various clocks and other components of the local oscillators. This is true for ALL modern spectrum analyzers. The residuals specification for the PSA Series is
–100 dBm. Please take this information into consideration when you measure the TRFL level below –100 dBm. A user may apply a 50 ohm terminator to the PSA’s
“RF input” connector and switch to the PSA’s “spectrum analysis” mode to verify the PSA residuals.

NOTE 2
The sensor module (N5532A) may generate a residual of around –100 dBm or lower at frequency of 50 MHz and its harmonics. Please take this information
into consideration when you use the N5532A to measure the TRFL level below –100 dBm at 50 MHz and its harmonics.

| |

| |

1515

Key Specifications (Continued)

1.12 Tuned RF level (Continued)

Description Specification Supplemental information

Power Meter Range
Uncertainty

Uncertainty (dB)

+20 to +30 dBm Sensor Module Options Sensor Module Options
#504 #518 #526 #550 #504 #518 #526 #550

100 kHz ≤ fc ≤ 10 MHz ±0.356 – – – ±0.182 – – –
10 MHz < fc ≤ 30 MHz ±0.356 ±0.361 – – ±0.182 ±0.185 – –
30 MHz < fc ≤ 2 GHz ±0.356 ±0.361 ±0.361 ±0.361 ±0.182 ±0.185 ±0.185 ±0.185
2 GHz < fc ≤ 4.2 GHz ±0.356 ±0.392 ±0.422 ±0.367 ±0.182 ±0.201 ±0.217 ±0.188

4.2 GHz < fc ≤ 18 GHz – ±0.400 ±0.422 ±0.367 – ±0.205 ±0.217 ±0.188
18 GHz < fc ≤ 26.5 GHz – – ±0.480 ±0.387 – – ±0.247 ±0.199

26.5 GHz < fc ≤ 50 GHz – – – ±0.420 – – – ±0.216

Power meter range 2 a Typicals
Uncertainty (dB)

0 to +20 dBm Sensor Module Options Sensor Module Options
#504 #518 #526 #550 #504 #518 #526 #550

100 kHz ≤ fc ≤ 10 MHz ±0.190 – – – ±0.097 – – –
10 MHz < fc ≤ 30 MHz ±0.190 ±0.200 – – ±0.097 ±0.101 – –
30 MHz < fc ≤ 2 GHz ±0.190 ±0.200 ±0.200 ±0.200 ±0.097 ±0.101 ±0.101 ±0.101
2 GHz < fc ≤ 4.2 GHz ±0.190 ±0.255 ±0.301 ±0.212 ±0.097 ±0.130 ±0.154 ±0.108

4.2 GHz < fc ≤ 18 GHz – ±0.267 ±0.301 ±0.212 – ±0.136 ±0.154 ±0.108
18 GHz < fc ≤ 26.5 GHz – – ±0.380 ±0.247 – – ±0.195 ±0.126

26.5 GHz < fc ≤ 50 GHz – – – ±0.297 – – – ±0.152

Power meter range 1 Typicals

Operating frequency range

E4443A/45A/40A/47A/46A/48A 100 kHz to 3 GHz

E4443A/45A/40A/47A/46A/48A 3 to 6.7 GHz Requires Option 123

E4445A/40A/47A/46A/48A 6.7 to 13.2 GHz Requires Option 123

E4440A/47A/46A/48A 13.2 to 26.5 GHz Requires Option 123

E4447A/46A/48A 26.5 to 42.98 GHz Requires Option 123

E4446A/48A 42.98 to 44 GHz Requires Option 123

E4448A 44 to 50 GHz Requires Option 123

Displayed units Absolute Watts, dBm, or Volts

Relative Percent or dB

Displayed resolution 6 digits in watts or 5 digits in volts mode

0.001 dB in dBm or dB (relative) mode

Input SWR See “RF Power” Section

a. Refer to the PSA specification guide, E4440-90606, for more information.

1616

N5531S Ordering Information

The Agilent N5531S measuring
receiver system is comprised
of a PSA, a P-Series power
meter, and an N5532A sensor
module.

PSA Series spectrum analyzer

(Select one model from the
following models)

• E4443A

3 Hz to 6.7 GHz

• E4445A

3 Hz to 13.2 GHz

• E4440A

3 Hz to 26.5 GHz

• E4447A

3 Hz to 42.98 GHz

• E4446A

3 Hz to 44 GHz

• E4448A

3 Hz to 50 GHz

PSA options (x = 0, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8)

E444xA-233
Built-in measuring receiver
personality and PC software
(required)

E444xA-123

Switchable preselector bypass
(required for TRFL measure­ments above 3 GHz)

E444xA-1DS

RF internal preamplifier
(required for the best
TRFL specifications up to

3.05 GHz; does not co-exist
with Option 110)

E444xA-110

RF/μW internal preamplifier
(required for the best TRFL
specifications up to the
maximum frequency of the PSA
base instrument; does not
co-exist with Option 1DS)

E444xA-107

Audio input 100 kΩ (required
for audio analysis, only
operational with Option 233)

AM/FM/PM triggering

Shipped standard with
Option 233 (PSA firmware rev
≥ A.11.08) or Option 23A

CCITT filter (adds CCITT
and 400-Hz HP, 30-kHz/
80-kHz LP filters)

Shipped standard with
Option 233 (PSA firmware rev
≥ A.11.08) or Option 23B

PSA option upgrades

a

(x = 0, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8)

E444xAU-233

Built-in measuring receiver
personality and PC software
(required)

E444xAU-123
Switchable preselector bypass
(required for TRFL measure­ments above 3 GHz)

E444xAU-1DS

RF internal preamplifier
(required for the best
TRFL specifications up to

3.05 GHz; does not co-exist
with Option 110)

E444xAU-110

RF/μW internal preamplifier
(required for the best TRFL
specifications up to the
maximum frequency of the PSA
base instrument; does not
co-exist with Option 1DS)

E444xAU-107

Audio input 100 kΩ (required
for audio analysis, only opera­tional with Option 233)

a. Upgrades for certain PSA options may not

be available for earlier instruments. For
detailed information regarding availability
and compatibility of options, please visit

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

Select from PSA options for
other measurements (Optional,
Refer to PSA Configuration
Guide for details of option
compatibility and requirements)

17

N5531S Ordering Information (Continued)

P-Series power meter

(Select one from the
following models)

N1911A

P-Series single channel
power meter

N1912A

P-Series dual channel
power meter

Select from power meter
options (optional)

N5532A sensor module

(Select one frequency option)

N5532A-504

100 kHz to 4.2 GHz, type N(m)
input connector

N5532A-518

10 MHz to 18 GHz, type N(m)
input connector

N5532A-526

30 MHz to 26.5 GHz, APC 3.5 (m)
input connector

N5532A-550

30 MHz to 50 GHz, 2.4 mm (m)
input connector

N5532A-019

Adaptor to N191xA power
meter (required when the
N191xA power meter is used),
can also be ordered standalone

Select from N5532A options
(optional)

Accessories

N5531S-010

LAN connection kit (includ­ing one LAN hub and 3 regular
LAN cables) (optional)

18

Related Literature

Publication title Publication type

Publication number

N5531S measuring receiver

The Agilent N5531S Measuring Receiver Technical Overview 5989-4795EN

Accurate Absolute and Relative Power Measurement Using the Agilent N5531S Measuring Receiver System

Application Note 5989-8161EN

PSA in general

Selecting the Right Signal Analyzer for Your Needs Selection Guide 5968-3413E

PSA Series Brochure 5980-1283E

PSA Series Data Sheet 5980-1284E

PSA Series Configuration Guide 5989-2773EN

Self-Guided Demonstration for Spectrum Analysis Product Note 5988-0735EN

Power meter in general

P-Series Power Meters and Power Sensors Data Sheet 5989-2471EN

P-Series Power Meters and Power Sensors Technical Overview 5989-1049EN

Power measurement fundamentals

Fundamentals of RF and Microwave Power Measurements, Application Note 1449-1 5988-9213EN

Introduction to Power, History, Definition, International Standards, and Traceability

Fundamentals of RF and Microwave Power Measurements, Application Note 1449-2 5988-9214EN

Power Sensors and Instrumentation

Fundamentals of RF and Microwave Power Measurements, Application Note 1449-3 5988-9215EN

Power Measurement Uncertainty per International Guides

Fundamentals of RF and Microwave Power Measurements, Application Note 1449-4 5988-9216EN

An Overview of Agilent Instrumentation for RF/Microwave Power Measurement

19

Agilent Email Updates

t

www.agilent.com/find/emailupdates

Get the latest information on the
products and applications you select.

Agilent Direc

www.agilent.com/find/agilentdirect

Quickly choose and use your test
equipment solutions with confidence.

Agilent

Open

www.agilent.com/find/open

Agilent Open simplifies the process
of connecting and programming
test systems to help engineers
design, validate and manufacture
electronic products. Agilent offers
open connectivity for a broad range
of system-ready instruments, open
industry software, PC-standard I/O
and global support, which are
combined to more easily integrate
test system development.

Remove all doubt

Our repair and calibration services
will get your equipment back to you,
performing like new, when prom­ised. You will get full value out of
your Agilent equipment through­out its lifetime. Your equipment
will be serviced by Agilent-trained
technicians using the latest factory
calibration procedures, automated
repair diagnostics and genuine parts.
You will always have the utmost
confidence in your measurements.

Agilent offers a wide range of ad­ditional expert test and measure­ment services for your equipment,
including initial start-up assistance,
onsite education and training, as
well as design, system integration,
and project management.

For more information on repair and
calibration services, go to:

www.agilent.com/find/removealldoubt

www.agilent.com

www.agilent.com/find/psa

For more information on Agilent
Technologies’ products, applications or
services, please contact your local Agilent
office. The complete list is available at:
www.agilent.com/find/contactus

Americas
Canada [phone]
Latin America 305 269 7500
United States [phone]

Asia Pacific
Australia 1 800 629 485
China 800 810 0189
Hong Kong 800 938 693
India 1 800 112 929
Japan 0120 (421) 345
Korea 080 769 0800
Malaysia 1 800 888 848
Singapore 1 800 375 8100
Taiwan 0800 047 866
Thailand 1 800 226 008

Europe & Middle East
Austria 01 36027 71571
Belgium 32 (0) 2 404 93 40
Denmark 45 70 13 15 15
Finland 358 (0) 10 855 2100
France 0825 010 700*
*0.125 €/minute
Germany 07031 464 6333
Ireland 1890 924 204
Israel 972-3-9288-504/544
Italy 39 02 92 60 8484
Netherlands 31 (0) 20 547 2111
Spain 34 (91) 631 3300
Sweden 0200-88 22 55
Switzerland 0800 80 53 53
United Kingdom 44 (0) 118 9276201
Other European Countries:
www.agilent.com/find/contactus

Revised: March 24, 2009

© Agilent Technologies, Inc. 2009
Printed in USA, May 5, 2009

5989-9217EN