Agilent Technologies E8257D PSG, E8267D PSG User Manual

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User’s Guide

Agilent Technologies

E8257D/67D PSG Signal Generators

This guide applies to the following signal generator models:

E8257D PSG Analog Signal Generator

E8267D PSG Vector Signal Generator

Due to our continuing efforts to improve our products through firmware and hardware revisions, signal generator design and operation may vary from descriptions in this guide. We recommend that you use the latest revision of this guide to ensure you have up-to-date product information. Compare the print date of this guide (see bottom of page) with the latest revision, which can be downloaded from the following website:

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

Manufacturing Part Number: E8251- 90353

Printed in USA

February 2008

Notice

The material in this document is provided “as is,” and is subject to change without notice in future editions.

Further, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, Agilent disclaims all warranties, either express or implied with regard to this manual and to any of the Agilent products to which it pertains, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Agilent shall not be liable for errors or for incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, use, or performance of this document or any of the Agilent products to which it pertains. Should Agilent have a written contract with the User and should any of the contract terms conflict with these terms, the contract terms shall control.

Contents

1. Signal Generator Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Signal Generator Models and Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

E8257D PSG Analog Signal Generator Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

E8267D PSG Vector Signal Generator Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Firmware Upgrades. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

To Upgrade Firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

Modes of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Continuous Wave . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Swept Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Analog Modulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Digital Modulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

1. Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

2. Softkeys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

3. Knob . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

4. Amplitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

5. Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

6. Save. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

7. Recall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

8. Trigger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

9. MENUS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

10. Help. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

11. EXT 1 INPUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

12. EXT 2 INPUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

13. LF OUTPUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

14. Mod On/Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

15. ALC INPUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

16. RF On/Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

17. Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

18. RF OUTPUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

19. SYNC OUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

20. VIDEO OUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

21. Incr Set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

22. GATE/ PULSE/ TRIGGER INPUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

23. Arrow Keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

24. Hold. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

25. Return . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

iii

Contents

26. Contrast Decrease. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

27. Contrast Increase. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

28. Local . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

29. Preset. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

30. Line Power LED. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

31. LINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

32. Standby LED. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

33. SYMBOL SYNC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

34. DATA CLOCK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

35. DATA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

36. Q Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

37. I Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Front Panel Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

1. Active Entry Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

2. Frequency Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

3. Annunciators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

4. Digital Modulation Annunciators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

5. Amplitude Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

6. Error Message Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

7. Text Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

8. Softkey Label Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Rear Panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

1. EVENT 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

2. EVENT 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

3. PATTERN TRIG IN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

4. BURST GATE IN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

5. AUXILIARY I/O . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

6. DIGITAL BUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

7. Q OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

8. I OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

9. WIDEBAND I INPUTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

10. I-bar OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

11. WIDEBAND Q INPUTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

12. COH CARRIER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

13. 1 GHz REF OUT (Serial Prefixes >=US4646/MY4646). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

14. Q-bar OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

15. AC Power Receptacle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

16. GPIB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Contents

17. 10 MHz EFC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

18. ALC HOLD (Serial Prefixes >=US4722/MY4722) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

19. AUXILIARY INTERFACE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

20. 10 MHz IN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

21. LAN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

22. 10 MHz OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

23. STOP SWEEP IN/OUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

24. BASEBAND GEN CLK IN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

25. Z-AXIS BLANK/MKRS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

26. SWEEP OUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

27. TRIGGER OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

28. TRIGGER IN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

29. SOURCE SETTLED. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

30. SOURCE MODULE INTERFACE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

31. RF OUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

32. EXT 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

33. EXT 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

34. PULSE SYNC OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

35. PULSE VIDEO OUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

36. PULSE/TRIG GATE INPUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

37. ALC INPUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

38. DATA CLOCK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

39. I IN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

40. SYMBOL SYNC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

41. Q IN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

42. DATA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

43. LF OUT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

2. Basic Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Using Table Editors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Table Editor Softkeys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Modifying Table Items in the Data Fields. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Configuring the RF Output. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Configuring a Continuous Wave RF Output. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Configuring a Swept RF Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Extending the Frequency Range. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Modulating a Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Turning On a Modulation Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Contents

Applying a Modulation Format to the RF Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Using Data Storage Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Using the Memory Catalog. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Using the Instrument State Registers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Using Security Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Understanding PSG Memory Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

Removing Sensitive Data from PSG Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

Using the Secure Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

Enabling Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

Enabling a Software Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

Using the Web Server. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67

Activating the Web Server . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

3. Basic Digital Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Custom Modulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71

Custom Arb Waveform Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Custom Real Time I/Q Baseband . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72

Arbitrary (ARB) Waveform File Headers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Creating a File Header for a Modulation Format Waveform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73

Modifying Header Information in a Modulation Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Storing Header Information for a Dual ARB Player Waveform Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79

Modifying and Viewing Header Information in the Dual ARB Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79

Playing a Waveform File that Contains a Header. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Using the Dual ARB Waveform Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

Accessing the Dual ARB Player. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

Creating Waveform Segments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84

Building and Storing a Waveform Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85

Playing a Waveform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86

Editing a Waveform Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86

Adding Real-Time Noise to a Dual ARB Waveform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86

Storing and Loading Waveform Segments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87

Renaming a Waveform Segment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88

Using Waveform Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Waveform Marker Concepts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Accessing Marker Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92

Viewing Waveform Segment Markers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93

1. Clearing Marker Points from a Waveform Segment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94

2. Setting Marker Points in a Waveform Segment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95

Contents

3. Controlling Markers in a Waveform Sequence (Dual ARB Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97

Viewing a Marker Pulse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99

Using the RF Blanking Marker Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100

Setting Marker Polarity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102

Triggering Waveforms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 02

Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103

Mode and Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103

Accessing Trigger Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104

Setting the Polarity of an External Trigger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105

Using Gated Triggering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105

Using Segment Advance Triggering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107

Using Waveform Clipping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108

How Power Peaks Develop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108

How Peaks Cause Spectral Regrowth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110

How Clipping Reduces Peak-to-Average Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111

Configuring Circular Clipping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114

Configuring Rectangular Clipping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115

Using Waveform Scaling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116

How DAC Over-Range Errors Occur. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116

How Scaling Eliminates DAC Over-Range Errors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117

Scaling a Currently Playing Waveform (Runtime Scaling) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118

Scaling a Waveform File in Volatile Memory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118

4. Optimizing Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119

Using the ALC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119

Selecting ALC Bandwidth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119

To Select an ALC Bandwidth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119

Using External Leveling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120

To Level with Detectors and Couplers/Splitters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120

To Level with a mm-Wave Source Module. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123

Creating and Applying User Flatness Correction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123

Creating a User Flatness Correction Array. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 24

Creating a User Flatness Correction Array with a mm-Wave Source Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .128

Adjusting Reference Oscillator Bandwidth (Option UNR/UNX) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134

To Select the Reference Oscillator Bandwidth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134

To Restore Factory Default Settings: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135

5. Analog Modulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137

vii

Contents

Analog Modulation Waveforms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

Configuring AM (Option UNT). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

To Set the Carrier Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138

To Set the RF Output Amplitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138

To Set the AM Depth and Rate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138

To Turn on Amplitude Modulation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138

Configuring FM (Option UNT) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138

To Set the RF Output Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138

To Set the RF Output Amplitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138

To Set the FM Deviation and Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139

To Activate FM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139

Configuring ΦM (Option UNT). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

To Set the RF Output Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139

To Set the RF Output Amplitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139

To Set the FM Deviation and Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139

To Activate FM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140

Configuring Pulse Modulation (Option UNU/UNW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140

To Set the RF Output Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140

To Set the RF Output Amplitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140

To Set the Pulse Period, Width, and Triggering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140

To Activate Pulse Modulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140

Configuring the LF Output (Option UNT). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141

To Configure the LF Output with an Internal Modulation Source. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

To Configure the LF Output with a Function Generator Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .142

6. Custom Arb Waveform Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143

Working with Predefined Setups (Modes) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143

Selecting a Custom ARB Setup or a Custom Digital Modulation State. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

Working with User-Defined Setups (Modes)-Custom Arb Only. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

Modifying a Single-Carrier NADC Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .144

Customizing a Multicarrier Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .145

Recalling a User-Defined Custom Digital Modulation State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

Working with Filters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .146

Using a Predefined FIR Filter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .147

Using a User-Defined FIR Filter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .148

Working with Symbol Rates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

To Set a Symbol Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

viii

Contents

To Restore the Default Symbol Rate (Custom Real Time I/Q Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154

Working with Modulation Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155

To Select a Predefined Modulation Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155

To Use a User-Defined Modulation Type (Real Time I/Q Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .156

Differential Wideband IQ (Option 016) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .161

Single-Ended Wideband IQ (Option 015 - Discontinued) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .161

Configuring Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .162

To Set a Delayed, Positive Polarity, External Single Trigger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .162

To Set the ARB Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .163

7. Custom Real Time I/Q Baseband. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .165

Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .165

Working with Predefined Setups (Modes) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .165

Selecting a Predefined Real Time Modulation Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .165

Deselecting a Predefined Real Time Modulation Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .166

Working with Data Patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .166

Using a Predefined Data Pattern. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167

Using a User-Defined Data Pattern. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167

Using an Externally Supplied Data Pattern. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171

Working with Burst Shapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171

Configuring the Burst Rise and Fall Parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 72

Using User-Defined Burst Shape Curves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .172

Configuring Hardware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175

To Set the BBG Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175

To Set the External DATA CLOCK to Receive Input as Either Normal or Symbol. . . . . . . . . . .176

To Set the BBG DATA CLOCK to External or Internal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176

To Adjust the I/Q Scaling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176

Working with Phase Polarity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177

To Set Phase Polarity to Normal or Inverted. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177

Working with Differential Data Encoding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177

Understanding Differential Encoding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177

Using Differential Encoding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .181

8. Multitone Waveform Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .185

Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .185

Creating, Viewing, and Optimizing Multitone Waveforms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186

To Create a Custom Multitone Waveform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186

To View a Multitone Waveform . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .187

Contents

To Edit the Multitone Setup Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .188

To Minimize Carrier Feedthrough . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190

To Determine Peak to Average Characteristics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 91

9. Two-Tone Waveform Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .195

Creating, Viewing, and Modifying Two-Tone Waveforms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .195

To Create a Two-Tone Waveform. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .196

To View a Two-Tone Waveform. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .197

To Minimize Carrier Feedthrough . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198

To Change the Alignment of a Two-Tone Waveform. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .199

10. AWGN Waveform Generator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201

Configuring the AWGN Generator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201

Arb Waveform Generator AWGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201

Real Time I/Q Baseband AWGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202

11. Peripheral Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203

N5102A Digital Signal Interface Module . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203

Clock Timing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203

Connecting the Clock Source and the Device Under Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216

Data Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218

Operating the N5102A Module in Output Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 19

Operating the N5102A Module in Input Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .228

Millimeter-Wave Source Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236

Using Agilent Millimeter-Wave Source Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .236

Using Other Source Modules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240

12. Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 243

RF Output Power Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .243

No RF Output Power when Playing a Waveform File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .243

RF Output Power too Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244

The Power Supply has Shut Down. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .244

Signal Loss While Working with a Mixer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .244

Signal Loss While Working with a Spectrum Analyzer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246

No Modulation at the RF Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 247

Sweep Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .248

Sweep Appears to be Stalled. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .248

Contents

Cannot Turn Off Sweep Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .248

Incorrect List Sweep Dwell Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .248

List Sweep Information is Missing from a Recalled Register . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .249

Data Storage Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .249

Registers With Previously Stored Instrument States are Empty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .249

Saved Instrument State, but Register is Empty or Contains Wrong State. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .249

Cannot Turn Off Help Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250

Signal Generator Locks Up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250

Fail-Safe Recovery Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .250

Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .251

Error Message File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .252

Error Message Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .252

Error Message Types. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 52

Contacting Agilent Sales and Service Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .253

Returning a Signal Generator to Agilent Technologies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .253

Contents

xii

Documentation Overview

Installation Guide

User’s Guide

Programming Guide

• Safety Information

• Getting Started

• Operation Verification

• Regulatory Information

• Signal Generator Overview

• Basic Operation

• Basic Digital Operation

• Optimizing Performance

• Analog Modulation

• Custom Arb Waveform Generator

• Custom Real Time I/Q Baseband

• Multitone Waveform Generator

• Two- Tone Waveform Generator

• AWGN Waveform Generator

• Peripheral Devices

• Troubleshooting

• Getting Started with Remote Operation

• Using IO Interfaces

• Programming Examples

• Programming the Status Register System

• Creating and Downloading Waveform Files

• Creating and Downloading User- Data Files

SCPI Reference

• Using this Guide

• System Commands

• Basic Function Commands

• Analog Commands

• Digital Modulation Commands

• Digital Signal Interface Module Commands

• SCPI Command Compatibility

xiii

Service Guide

• Troubleshooting

• Replaceable Parts

• Assembly Replacement

• Post-Repair Procedures

• Safety and Regulator y Information

Key Refe rence

• Key function description

xiv

1 Signal Generator Overview

In the following sections, this chapter describes the models, options, and features available for Agilent E8257D/67D PSG signal generators. The modes of operation, front panel user interface, and front and rear panel connectors are also described.

• “Signal Generator Models and Features” on page 1

• “Options” on page 4

• “Firmware Upgrades” on page 4

• “Modes of Operation” on page 5

• “Front Panel” on page 7

• “Front Panel Display” on page 14

• “Rear Panel” on page 18

NOTE For more information about the PSG, such as data sheets, configuration guides, application

notes, frequently asked questions, technical support, software and more, visit the Agilent PSG web page at http://www.agilent.com/find/psg.

Signal Generator Models and Features

Table 1- 1 lists the available PSG signal generator models and frequency- range options.

Table 1-1 PSG Signal Generator Models

Model Frequency Range Options

E8257D PSG analog signal generator 250 kHz to 20 GHz (Option 520)

E8267D PSG vector signal generator 250 kHz to 20 GHz (Option 520)

a.Instruments with Option 567 are functional, but unspecified, above 67 GHz to 70 GHz

250 kHz to 31.8 GHz (Option 532) 250 kHz to 40 GHz (Option 540) 250 kHz to 50 GHz (Option 550)

250 kHz to 67 GHz

250 kHz to 31.8 GHz (Option 532) 250 kHz to 44 GHz (Option 544)

(Option 567)

Chapter 1 1

Signal Generator Overview Signal Generator Models and Features

E8257D PSG Analog Signal Generator Features

The E8257D PSG includes the following standard features:

• CW output from 250 kHz to the highest operating frequency, depending on the option

• frequency resolution to 0.001 Hz

• list and step sweep of frequency and amplitude, with multiple trigger sources

• user flatness correction

• external diode detector leveling

• automatic leveling control (ALC) on and off modes; power calibration in ALC- off mode is available, even without power search

• 10 MHz reference oscillator with external output

• RS- 232, GPIB, and 10Base- T LAN I/O interfaces

• a source module interface that is compatible with Agilent 83550 Series millimeter- wave source modules for frequency extension up to 110 GHz and Oleson Microwave Labs (OML) AG- Series millimeter-wave modules for frequency extensions up to 325 GHz

The E8257D PSG also offers the following optional features:

Option 007—analog ramp sweep

Option UNR/UNX—enhanced phase noise performance

Option UNT—AM, FM, phase modulation, and LF output

• open- loop or closed- loop AM

• dc- synthesized FM to 10 MHz rates; maximum deviation depends on the carrier frequency

• external modulation inputs for AM, FM, and ΦM

• simultaneous modulation configurations (except: FM with ΦM or Linear AM with

Exponential AM)

• dual function generators that include the following:

— 50- ohm low- frequency output, 0 to 3 Vp, available through the LF output

— selectable waveforms: sine, dual- sine, swept- sine, triangle, positive ramp, negative ramp,

square, uniform noise, Gaussian noise, and dc

— adjustable frequency modulation rates

— selectable triggering in list and step sweep modes: free run (auto), trigger key (single), bus

(remote), and external

Option UNU—pulse modulation

• internal pulse generator

• external modulation inputs

• selectable pulse modes: internal square, internal free- run, internal triggered, internal doublet,

internal gated, and external pulse; internal triggered, internal doublet, and internal gated

2 Chapter 1

Signal Generator Models and Features

Signal Generator Overview

require an external trigger source

• adjustable pulse rate

• adjustable pulse period

• adjustable pulse width (150 ns minimum)

• adjustable pulse delay

• selectable external pulse triggering: positive or negative

Option UNW—narrow pulse modulation

• generate narrow pulses (20 ns minimum) across the operational frequency band of the PSG

• includes all the same functionality as Option UNU

Option 1EA—high output power

Option 1E1—step attenuator

Option 1ED—Type- N female RF output connector

Option 1EH—improved harmonics below 2 GHz

Option 1EM—moves all front panel connectors to the rear panel

E8267D PSG Vector Signal Generator Features

The E8267D PSG provides the same standard functionality as the E8257D PSG, plus the following:

• internal I/Q modulator

• external analog I/Q inputs

• single- ended and differential analog I/Q outputs

• high output power (optional for the E8257D)

• step attenuator (optional for the E8257D)

The E8267D PSG offers the same options as the E8257D PSG, plus the following:

Option 601 (Discontinued)—internal baseband generator with 8 megasamples of memory

Option 602—internal baseband generator with 64 megasamples of memory

Option 003—PSG digital output connectivity with N5102A

Option 004—PSG digital input connectivity with N5102A

Option 005—6 GB internal hard drive

Option 015—single- ended wideband external I/Q inputs (Discontinued)

Option 016—differential wideband external I/Q inputs

Chapter 1 3

Signal Generator Overview Options

Options

PSG signal generators have hardware, firmware, software, and documentation options. The Data Sheet shipped with your signal generator provides an overview of available options. For more

information, visit the Agilent PSG web page at http://www.agilent.com/find/psg, select the desired PSG model, and then click the

Options tab.

Firmware Upgrades

You can upgrade the firmware in your signal generator whenever new firmware is released. New firmware releases, which can be downloaded from the Agilent website, may contain signal generator features and functionality not available in previous firmware releases.

To determine the availability of new signal generator firmware, visit the Signal Generator Firmware Upgrade Center web page at http://www.agilent.com/find/upgradeassistant, or call the number listed at http://www.agilent.com/find/assist.

To Upgrade Firmware

The following procedure shows you how to download new firmware to your PSG using a LAN connection and a PC. For information on equipment requirements and alternate methods of downloading firmware, such as GPIB, refer to the Firmware Upgrade Guide, which can be accessed at http://www.agilent.com/find/upgradeassistant.

1. Note the IP address of your signal generator. To view the IP address on the PSG, press

GPIB/RS-232 LAN > LAN Setup.

2. Use an internet browser to visit http://www.agilent.com/find/upgradeassistant.

3. Scroll down to the “Documents and Downloads” table and click the link in the “Latest Firmware Revision” column for the E8257/67D PSG.

4. In the File Download window, select

5. In the Welcome window, click

Run.

Next and follow the on- screen instructions. The firmware files

download to the PC.

6. In the “Documents and Downloads” table, click the link in the “Upgrade Assistant Software” column for the E8257/67D PSG to download the PSG/ESG Upgrade Assistant.

7. In the File Download window, select

8. In the Welcome window, click

9. At the desktop shortcut prompt, click

10. Once the utility downloads, close the browser and double- click the

Run.

OK and follow the on-screen instructions.

Yes .

PSG/ESG Upgrade Assistant icon on

the desktop.

11. In the upgrade assistant, set the connection type you wish to use to download the firmware, and the parameters for the type of connection selected. For LAN, enter the instrument’s IP address, which you recorded in step 1.

Utility >

4 Chapter 1

Signal Generator Overview

Modes of Operation

NOTE If the PSG’s dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP) is enabled, the network assigns the

12. Click Browse, and double- click the firmware revision to upgrade your signal generator.

13. In the Upgrade Assistant, click

14. Once connection to the instrument is verified, click

NOTE Once the download starts, it cannot be aborted.

NOTE When the User Attention message appears, you must first cycle the instrument’s power, then

When the upgrade completes, the Upgrade Assistant displays a summary.

15. Click

instrument an IP address at power on. Because of this, when DHCP is enabled, the IP address may be different each time you turn on the instrument. DHCP does not affect the hostname.

Next.

Next and follow the on- screen prompts.

click OK.

OK and close the Upgrade Assistant.

Modes of Operation

Depending on the model and installed options, the PSG signal generator provides up to four basic modes of operation: continuous wave (CW), swept signal, analog modulation, and digital modulation.

Continuous Wave

In this mode, the signal generator produces a continuous wave signal. The signal generator is set to a single frequency and power level. Both the E8257D and E8267D can produce a CW signal.

Swept Signal

In this mode, the signal generator sweeps over a range of frequencies and/or power levels. Both the E8257D and E8267D provide list and step sweep functionality. Option 007 adds analog ramp sweep functionality.

Analog Modulation

In this mode, the signal generator modulates a CW signal with an analog signal. The analog modulation types available depend on the installed options.

Option UNT provides amplitude, frequency, and phase modulations. Some of these modulations can be used together. Options UNU and UNW provide standard and narrow pulse modulation capability, respectively.

Chapter 1 5

Signal Generator Overview Modes of Operation

Digital Modulation

In this mode, the signal generator modulates a CW signal with either a real- time I/Q signal or arbitrary I/Q waveform. I/Q modulation is only available on the E8267D. An internal baseband generator (Option 601/602) adds the following digital modulation formats:

• Custom Arb Waveform Generator mode can produce a single- modulated carrier or multiple-modulated carriers. Each modulated carrier waveform must be calculated and generated before it can be output; this signal generation occurs on the internal baseband generator. Once a waveform has been created, it can be stored and recalled, which enables repeatable playback of test signals. To learn more, refer to “Custom Arb Waveform Generator” on page 143.

• Custom Real Time I/Q Baseband mode produces a single carrier, but it can be modulated with real- time data that allows real- time control over all of the parameters that affect the signal. The single-carrier signal that is produced can be modified by applying various data patterns, filters, symbol rates, modulation types, and burst shapes. To learn more, refer to “Custom Real Time I/Q

Baseband” on page 165.

• Two Tone mode produces two separate continuous wave signals (or tones). The frequency spacing between the two signals and the amplitudes are adjustable. To learn more, refer to “Two- Tone

Waveform Generator” on page 195.

• Multitone mode produces up to 64 continuous wave signals (or tones). Like Two Tone mode, the frequency spacing between the signals and the amplitudes are adjustable. To learn more, refer to

“Multitone Waveform Generator” on page 185.

• Dual ARB mode is used to control the playback sequence of waveform segments that have been written into the ARB memory located on the internal baseband generator. These waveforms can be generated by the internal baseband generator using the Custom Arb Waveform Generator mode, or downloaded through a remote interface into the ARB memory. To learn more, refer to

“Using the Dual ARB Waveform Player” on page 83.

6 Chapter 1

Signal Generator Overview

Front Panel

This section describes each item on the PSG front panel. Figure 1-1 shows an E8267D front panel, which includes all items available on the E8257D as well.

Figure 1-1 Standard E8267D Front Panel Diagram

1. Display 10. Help 19. SYNC OUT 28. Local

2. Softkeys 11. EXT 1 INPUT 20. VIDEO OUT 29. Preset

3. Knob 12. EXT 2 INPUT 21. Incr Set 30. Line Power LED

4. Amplitude 13. LF OUTPUT 22. GATE/ PULSE/ TRIGGER INPUT 31. LINE

5. Frequency 14. Mod On/Off 23. Arrow Keys 32. Standby LED

6. Save 15. ALC INPUT 24. Hold 33. SYMBOL SYNC

7. R e cal l 16. RF On/Off 25. Return 34. DATA CLOCK

8. Trigger 17. Numeric Keypad 26. Contrast Decrease 35. DATA

9. MENUS 18. RF OUTPUT 27. Contrast Increase 36. Q Input

37. I Input

Chapter 1 7

Signal Generator Overview Front Panel

1. Display

The LCD screen provides information on the current function. Information can include status indicators, frequency and amplitude settings, and error messages. Softkeys labels are located on the right- hand side of the display. For more detail on the front panel display, see “Front Panel Display”

on page 14.

2. Softkeys

Softkeys activate the displayed function to the left of each key.

3. Knob

Use the knob to increase or decrease a numeric value, change a highlighted digit or character, or step through lists or select items in a row.

4. Amplitude

Pressing this hardkey makes amplitude the active function. You can change the output amplitude or use the menus to configure amplitude attributes such as power search, user flatness, and leveling mode.

5. Frequency

Pressing this hardkey makes frequency the active function. You can change the output frequency or use the menus to configure frequency attributes such as frequency multiplier, offset, and reference.

6. Save

Pressing this hardkey displays a menu of choices that enable you to save data in the instrument state register. The instrument state register is a section of memory divided into 10 sequences (numbered 0 through 9), each containing 100 registers (numbered 00 through 99). It is used to store and recall frequency, amplitude, and modulation settings.

Save hardkey provides a quick alternative to reconfiguring the signal generator through the front

The panel or SCPI commands when switching between different signal configurations. Once an instrument state has been saved, all of the frequency, amplitude, and modulation settings can be recalled with

Recall hardkey. For more information on saving and recalling instrument states, refer to “Using the

the

Instrument State Registers” on page 57.

7. Recall

This key restores an instrument state saved in a memory register. To recall an instrument state, press

and enter the desired sequence number and register number. To save a state, use the Save

Recall

hardkey. For more information on saving and recalling instrument states, refer to “Using the

Instrument State Registers” on page 57.

8 Chapter 1

Signal Generator Overview

Front Panel

8. Trigger

This key initiates an immediate trigger event for a function such as a list, step, or ramp sweep (Option 007 only). Before this hardkey can be used to initiate a trigger event, the trigger mode must be set to

Trigger Key. For example: press the Sweep/List hardkey, then one of the following sequences

of softkeys:

More (1 of 2) > Sweep Trigger > Trigger Key

•

• More (1 of 2) > Point Trigger > Trigger Key

9. MENUS

These keys open softkey menus for configuring various functions. For descriptions, see the E8257D/67D PSG Signal Generators Key Reference.

Table 1-2 Hardkeys in Front Panel MENUS Group

E8257D PSG Analog E8267D PSG Vector

AM Sweep/List FM/ΦM Utility Pulse LF Out

Mode Mux AM Sweep/List Mode Setup Aux Fctn

FM/ΦM Utility I/Q Pulse LF Out

NOTE Some menus are optional. Refer to “Options” on page 4 for more information.

10. Help

Pressing this hardkey causes a short description of any hardkey or softkey to be displayed and, in most cases, a listing of related remote- operation SCPI commands. There are two help modes available on the signal generator: single and continuous. The single mode is the factory preset condition. Toggle between single and continuous mode by pressing

Single Cont

Utility > Instrument Info/Help Mode > Help Mode

• In single mode, help text is provided for the next key you press without activating the key’s function. Any key pressed afterward exits the help mode and its function is activated.

• In continuous mode, help text is provided for each subsequent key press until you press the Help hardkey again or change to single mode. In addition, each key is active, meaning that the key function is executed (except for the Preset key).

11. EXT 1 INPUT

This female BNC input connector (functional only with Options UNT, UNU, or UNW) accepts a ±1Vp signal for AM, FM, and ΦM. For these modulations, ±1V When ac- coupled inputs are selected for AM, FM, or ΦM and the peak input voltage differs from 1 V by more than 3 percent, the HI/LO display annunciators light. The input impedance is selectable as

either 50 or 600 ohms; the damage levels are 5 V

rms

1EM, this connector is located on the rear panel.

produces the indicated deviation or depth.

and 10 Vp. On signal generators with Option

Chapter 1 9

Signal Generator Overview Front Panel

12. EXT 2 INPUT

This female BNC input connector (functional only with Options UNT, UNU, or UNW) accepts a ±1Vp signal for AM, FM, and ΦM. With AM, FM, or ΦM, ±1V

produces the indicated deviation or depth.

When ac- coupled inputs are selected for AM, FM, or ΦM and the peak input voltage differs from 1 V by more than 3 percent, the HI/LO annunciators light on the display. The input impedance is

selectable as either 50 or 600 ohms and damage levels are 5 V

and 10 Vp. On signal generators

rms

with Option 1EM, this connector is located on the rear panel.

13. LF OUTPUT

This female BNC output connector (functional only with Option UNT) outputs modulation signals generated by the low frequency (LF) source function generator. This output is capable of driving

(nominal) into a 50 ohm load. On signal generators with Option 1EM, this connector is located

on the rear panel.

14. Mod On/Off

This hardkey (E8267D and E8257D with Options UNT, UNU, or UNW and E8267D only) enables or disables all active modulation formats (AM, FM, ΦM, Pulse, or I/Q) applied to the output carrier signal available through the RF OUTPUT connector. This hardkey does not set up or activate an AM, FM, ΦM, Pulse, or I/Q format; each modulation format must still be set up and activated (for example, is enabled. The MOD ON/OFF annunciator indicates whether active modulation formats have been enabled or disabled with the

AM > AM On) or nothing is applied to the output carrier signal when the Mod On/Off hardkey

Mod On/Off hardkey.

15. ALC INPUT

This female BNC input connector is used for negative external detector leveling. This connector accepts an input of −0.2 mV to −0.5 V. The nominal input impedance is 120 kohms and the damage level is ±15 V. On signal generators with Option 1EM, this connector is located on the rear panel.

16. RF On/Off

Pressing this hardkey toggles the operating state of the RF signal present at the RF OUTPUT connector. Although you can set up and enable various frequency, power, and modulation states, the RF and microwave output signal is not present at the RF OUTPUT connector until On. The

RF On/Off annunciator is always visible in the display to indicate whether the RF is turned

RF On/Off is set to

on or off.

17. Numeric Keypad

The numeric keypad consists of the 0 through 9 hardkeys, a decimal point hardkey, and a backspace hardkey ( ). The backspace hardkey enables you to backspace or alternate between a positive and a negative value. When specifying a negative numeric value, the negative sign must be entered

prior to entering the numeric value.

10 Chapter 1

Signal Generator Overview

Front Panel

18. RF OUTPUT

This connector outputs RF and microwave signals. The nominal output impedance is 50 ohms. The reverse-power damage levels are 0 Vdc, 0.5 watts nominal. On signal generators with Option 1EM, this connector is located on the rear panel. The connector type varies according to frequency option.

19. SYNC OUT

This female BNC output connector (functional only with Options UNU or UNW) outputs a synchronizing TTL- compatible pulse signal that is nominally 50 ns wide during internal and triggered pulse modulation. The nominal source impedance is 50 ohms. On signal generators with Option 1EM, this connector is located on the rear panel.

20. VIDEO OUT

This female BNC output connector (functional only with Options UNU or UNW) outputs a TTL- level compatible pulse signal that follows the output envelope in all pulse modes. The nominal source impedance is 50 ohms. On signal generators with Option 1EM, this connector is located on the rear panel.

21. Incr Set

This hardkey enables you to set the increment value of the current active function. The increment value of the current active function appears in the active entry area of the display. Use the numeric keypad, arrow hardkeys, or the knob to adjust the increment value.

22. GATE/ PULSE/ TRIGGER INPUT

This female BNC input connector (functional only with Options UNU or UNW) accepts an externally supplied pulse signal for use as a pulse or trigger input. With pulse modulation, +1 V is on and 0 V is off (trigger threshold of 0.5 V with a hysteresis of 10 percent; so 0.6 V would be on and 0.4 V would be off). The damage levels are ±5V

On signal generators with Option 1EM, this connector is located on the rear panel.

and 10 Vp. The nominal input impedance is 50 ohms.

rms

23. Arrow Keys

These up and down arrow hardkeys are used to increase or decrease a numeric value, step through displayed lists, or to select items in a row of a displayed list. Individual digits or characters may be highlighted using the left and right arrow hardkeys. Once an individual digit or character is highlighted, its value can be changed using the up and down arrow hardkeys.

24. Hold

Pressing this hardkey blanks the softkey label area and text areas on the display. Softkeys, arrow hardkeys, the knob, the numeric keypad, and the pressed.

Chapter 1 11

Incr Set hardkey have no effect once this hardkey is

Signal Generator Overview Front Panel

25. Return

Pressing this hardkey displays the previous softkey menu. It enables you to step back through the menus until you reach the first menu you selected.

26. Contrast Decrease

Pressing this hardkey causes the display background to darken.

27. Contrast Increase

Pressing this hardkey causes the display background to lighten.

28. Local

Pressing this hardkey deactivates remote operation and returns the signal generator to front-panel control.

29. Preset

Pressing this hardkey sets the signal generator to a known state (factory or user- defined).

30. Line Power LED

This green LED indicates when the signal generator power switch is set to the on position.

31. LINE

In the on position, this switch activates full power to the signal generator; in standby, it deactivates all signal generator functions. In standby, the signal generator remains connected to the line power and power is supplied to some internal circuits.

32. Standby LED

This yellow LED indicates when the signal generator power switch is set to the standby condition.

33. SYMBOL SYNC

This female BNC input connector is CMOS- compatible and accepts an externally supplied symbol sync signal for use with the internal baseband generator (Option 601/602). The expected input is a 3.3 V CMOS bit clock signal (which is also TTL compatible). SYMBOL SYNC might occur once per symbol or be a single one- bit- wide pulse that is used to synchronize the first bit of the first symbol. The maximum clock rate is 50 MHz. The damage levels are > +5.5 V and < −0.5V. The nominal input impedance is not definable. SYMBOL SYNC can be used in two modes:

• When used as a symbol sync in conjunction with a data clock, the signal must be high during the first data bit of the symbol. The signal must be valid during the falling edge of the data clock signal and may be a single pulse or continuous.

12 Chapter 1

Signal Generator Overview

Front Panel

• When the SYMBOL SYNC itself is used as the (symbol) clock, the CMOS falling edge is used to clock the DATA signal.

On signal generators with Option 1EM, this connector is located on the rear panel.

34. DATA CLOCK

This female BNC input connector is CMOS compatible and accepts an externally supplied data- clock input signal to synchronize serial data for use with the internal baseband generator (Option 601/602). The expected input is a 3.3 V CMOS bit clock signal (which is also TTL compatible) where the rising edge is aligned with the beginning data bit. The falling edge is used to clock the DATA and SYMBOL SYNC signals. The maximum clock rate is 50 MHz. The damage levels are > +5.5 V and < −0.5V. The nominal input impedance is not definable. On signal generators with Option 1EM, this connector is located on the rear panel.

35. DATA

This female BNC input connector (Options 601/602 only) is CMOS compatible and accepts an externally supplied serial data input for digital modulation applications. The expected input is a 3.3 V CMOS signal (which is also TTL compatible) where a CMOS high = a data 1 and a CMOS low = a data

0. The maximum input data rate is 50 Mb/s. The data must be valid on the falling edges of the data

clock (normal mode) or the on the falling edges of the symbol sync (symbol mode). The damage levels are > +5.5 and < −0.5V. The nominal input impedance is not definable. On signal generators with Option 1EM, this connector is located on the rear panel.

36. Q Input

This female BNC input connector (E8267D only) accepts the quadrature- phase (Q) component of an externally supplied, analog, I/Q modulation. The in- phase (I) component is supplied through the I

INPUT. The signal level is = 0.5 V

impedance is 50 or 600 ohms. The damage level is 1 V the I and Q input connectors, press

Ext 600 Ohm. On signal generators with Option 1EM, these connectors are located on the rear panel.

Mux > I/Q Source 1 or I/Q Source 2 and then select either Ext 50 Ohm or

for a calibrated output level. The nominal input

rms

and 10 V

rms

. To activate signals applied to

peak

37. I Input

This female BNC input connector (E8267D only) accepts the in- phase (I) component of an externally supplied, analog, I/Q modulation. The quadrature- phase (Q) component is supplied through the Q

INPUT. The signal level is = 0.5 V

impedance is 50 or 600 ohms. The damage level is 1 V the I and Q input connectors, press

Ext 600 Ohm. On signal generators with Option 1EM, these connectors are located on the rear panel.

Chapter 1 13

Mux > I/Q Source 1 or I/Q Source 2 and then select either Ext 50 Ohm or

for a calibrated output level. The nominal input

rms

and 10 V

rms

. To activate signals applied to

peak

Signal Generator Overview Front Panel Display

Front Panel Display

Figure 1-2 shows the various regions of the PSG display. This section describes each region.

Figure 1-2 Front Panel Display Diagram

1. Active Entry Area 5. Amplitude Area

2. Frequency Area 6. Error Message Area

3. Annunciators 7. Text Area

4. Digital Modulation Annunciators 8. Softkey Label Area

14 Chapter 1

Signal Generator Overview

Front Panel Display

1. Active Entry Area

The current active function is shown in this area. For example, if frequency is the active function, the current frequency setting will be displayed here. If the current active function has an increment value associated with it, that value is also displayed.

2. Frequency Area

The current frequency setting is shown in this portion of the display. Indicators are also displayed in this area when the frequency offset or multiplier is used, the frequency reference mode is turned on, or a source module is enabled.

3. Annunciators

The display annunciators show the status of some of the signal generator functions and indicate any error conditions. An annunciator position may be used by more than one function. This does not create a problem, because only one function that shares an annunciator position can be active at a time.

ΦM This annunciator (Option UNT only) appears when phase modulation is on. If

ALC OFF This annunciator appears when the ALC circuit is disabled. A second annunciator,

AM This annunciator (Option UNT only) appears when amplitude modulation is on.

ARMED This annunciator appears when a sweep has been initiated and the signal

ATTEN HOLD This annunciator (E8267D or E8257D with Option 1E1 only) appears when the

DIG BUS This annunciator (Options 003/004 only) appears when the digital bus is active,

ENVLP This annunciator appears if a burst condition exists, such as when marker 2 is set

ERR This annunciator appears when an error message is in the error queue. This

EXT This annunciator appears when external leveling is on.

EXT1 LO/HI This annunciator (Options UNT, UNU, or UNW only) appears as either EXT1 LO or

EXT2 LO/HI This annunciator (Options UNT, UNU, or UNW only) is displayed as either

frequency modulation is on, the FM annunciator replaces ΦM.

UNLEVEL, appears in the same position if the ALC is enabled and cannot maintain

the output level.

generator is waiting for the sweep trigger event.

attenuator hold function is on. When this function is on, the attenuator is held at its current setting.

and the internal oven reference oscillator is not cold (OVEN COLD appears in this same location).

to enable RF blanking in the Dual ARB format.

annunciator does not turn off until you either view all the error messages or cleared the error queue. To access error messages, press

EXT1 HI, when the ac- coupled signal to the EXT 1 INPUT is < 0.97 V >1.03V

Utility > Error Info.

EXT2 LO or EXT2 HI. This annunciator appears when the ac- coupled signal to the EXT 2 INPUT is < 0.97 Vp or > 1.03 Vp.

Chapter 1 15

Signal Generator Overview Front Panel Display

EXT REF This annunciator appears when an external frequency reference is applied.

FM This annunciator (Option UNT only) appears when frequency modulation is turned

on. If phase modulation is turned on, the ΦM annunciator will replace FM.

I/Q This annunciator (E8267D only) appears when I/Q modulation is turned on.

L This annunciator appears when the signal generator is in listener mode and is

receiving information or commands over the RS- 232, GPIB, or VXI- 11 LAN interface.

MOD ON/OFF This annunciator (E8267D and E8257D with Options UNT, UNU, or UNW only)

indicates whether active modulation formats have been enabled or disabled. Pressing the

Mod On/Off hardkey enables or disables all active modulation formats

(AM, FM, ΦM, Pulse, or I/Q) that are applied to the output carrier signal available through the RF OUTPUT connector. The

Mod On/Off hardkey does not set up or

activate an AM, FM, ΦM, Pulse, or I/Q format; each individual modulation format must still be set up and activated (for example, applied to the output carrier signal when the

AM > AM On) or nothing will be

Mod On/Off hardkey is enabled.

OVEN COLD This annunciator (Option UNR/UNX only) appears when the temperature of the

internal oven reference oscillator has dropped below an acceptable level. When this annunciator is on, frequency accuracy is degraded. This condition should occur for several minutes after the signal generator is first connected to line power.

PULSE This annunciator (Options UNU or UNW only) appears when pulse modulation is

on.

R This annunciator appears when the signal generator is remotely controlled over

the GPIB, RS- 232, or VXI- 11/Sockets LAN interface (TELNET operation does not activate the R annunciator). When the R annunciator is on, the front panel keys are disabled, except for the Local key and the line power switch. For information on remote operation, refer to the Programming Guide.

RF ON/OFF This annunciator indicates when the RF or microwave signal is present (RF ON) or

not present (RF OFF) at the RF OUTPUT. Either condition of this annunciator is always visible in the display.

S This annunciator appears when the signal generator has generated a service

request (SRQ) over the RS- 232, GPIB, or VXI- 11 LAN interface.

SWEEP This annunciator appears when the signal generator is in list, step, or ramp sweep

mode (ramp sweep is available with Option 007 only). List mode is when the signal generator can jump from point to point in a list (hop list); the list is traversed in ascending or descending order. The list can be a frequency list, a power level list, or both. Step mode is when a start, stop, and step value (frequency or power level) are defined and the signal generator produces signals that start at the start value and increment by the step value until it reaches the stop value. Ramp sweep mode (Option 007 only) is when a start and stop value (frequency or power level) are defined and the signal generator produces signals that start at the start value and produce a continuous output until it reaches the stop value.

T This annunciator appears when the signal generator is in talker mode and is

transmitting information over the GPIB, RS- 232, or VXI- 11 LAN interface.

16 Chapter 1

Signal Generator Overview

Front Panel Display

UNLEVEL This annunciator appears when the signal generator is unable to maintain the

UNLOCK This annunciator appears when any of the phase locked loops are unable to

correct output level. The UNLEVEL annunciator is not necessarily an indication of instrument failure. Unleveled conditions can occur during normal operation. A second annunciator, ALC OFF, will appear in the same position when the ALC circuit is disabled.

maintain phase lock. You can determine which loop is unlocked by examining the error messages.

4. Digital Modulation Annunciators

All digital modulation annunciators (E8267D with Option 601/602 only) appear in this location. These annunciators appear only when the modulation is active, and only one digital modulation can be active at any given time.

ARB Dual Arbitrary Waveform Generator M-TONE Multitone Waveform Generator

CUSTOM Custom Real Time I/Q Baseband T-TONE Two- Tone Waveform Generator

DIGMOD Custom Arb Waveform Generator

5. Amplitude Area

The current output power level setting is shown in this portion of the display. Indicators are also displayed in this area when amplitude offset is used, amplitude reference mode is turned on, external leveling mode is enabled, a source module is enabled, and when user flatness is enabled.

6. Error Message Area

Abbreviated error messages are reported in this space. When multiple error messages occur, only the most recent message remains displayed. Reported error messages with details can be viewed by pressing

Utility > Error Info.

7. Text Area

This text area of the display:

• shows signal generator status information, such as the modulation status, sweep lists, and file catalogs

• displays the tables

• enables you to perform functions such as managing information, entering information, and displaying or deleting files

8. Softkey Label Area

The labels in this area define the function of the softkeys located immediately to the right of the label. The softkey label may change depending upon the function selected.

Chapter 1 17

Signal Generator Overview Rear Panel

Rear Panel

This section describes each item on the PSG rear panel. Four consecutive drawings show the standard and Option 1EM rear panels for the E8267D and the E8257D. (Option 1EM moves all front panel connectors to the real panel.)

Figure 1-3 Standard E8267D Rear Panel

1. EVENT 1 11. WIDEBAND Q INPUTS 21. LAN

2. EVENT 2 12. COH CARRIER 22. 10 MHz OUT

3. PATTERN TRIG IN 13. 1 GHz REF OUT (Serial Prefixes

4. BURST GATE IN 14. Q- bar OUT 24. BASEBAND GEN CLK IN

5. AUXILIARY I/O 15. AC Power Receptacle 25. Z- AXIS BLANK/MKRS

6. DIGITAL BUS 16. GPIB 26. SWEEP OUT

7. Q OUT 17. 10 MHz EFC 27. TRIGGER OUT

8. I OUT 18. ALC HOLD (Serial Prefixes

9. WIDEBAND I INPUTS 19. AUXILIARY INTERFACE 29. SOURCE SETTLED

10. I- bar OUT 20. 10 MHz IN 30. SOURCE MODULE INTERFACE

>=US4646/MY4646)

>=US4722/MY4722)

23. STOP SWEEP IN/OUT

28. TRIGGER IN

18 Chapter 1

Figure 1-4 E8267D Option 1EM Rear Panel

Signal Generator Overview

Rear Panel

1. EVENT 1 16. GPIB 31. RF OUT

2. EVENT 2 17. 10 MHz EFC 32. EXT 1

3. PATTERN TRIG IN 18. ALC HOLD (Serial Prefixes >=US4722/MY4722) 33. EXT 2

4. BURST GATE IN 19. AUXILIARY INTERFACE 34. PULSE SYNC OUT

5. AUXILIARY I/O 20. 10 MHz IN 35. PULSE VIDEO OUT

6. DIGITAL BUS 21. LAN 36. PULSE/TRIG GATE INPUT

7. Q OUT 22. 10 MHz OUT 37. ALC INPUT

8. I OUT 23. STOP SWEEP IN/OUT 38. DATA CLOCK

9. WIDEBAND I INPUTS 24. BASEBAND GEN CLK IN 39. I IN

10. I- bar OUT 25. Z- AXIS BLANK/MKRS 40. SYMBOL SYNC

11. WIDEBAND Q INPUTS 26. SWEEP OUT 42. DATA

12. COH CARRIER 27. TRIGGER OUT 41. Q IN

13. 1 GHz REF OUT (Serial Prefixes >=US4646/MY4646)

14. Q- bar OUT 29. SOURCE SETTLED

15. AC Power Receptacle 30. SOURCE MODULE INTERFACE

28. TRIGGER IN 43. LF OUT

Chapter 1 19

Signal Generator Overview Rear Panel

Figure 1-5 Standard E8257D Rear Panel

5. AUXI LI ARY I/ O 19. AUXILIA RY INTER FACE 25. Z- AXIS BL ANK/ MK RS

12. COH CARRIER 20. 10 MHz IN 26. SWEEP OUT

15. AC Power Receptacle 21. LAN 27. TRIGGER OUT

16. GPIB 22. 10 MHz OUT 28. TRIGGER IN

17. 10 MHz EFC 23. STOP SWEEP IN/OUT 29. SOURCE SETTLED

20 Chapter 1

Figure 1-6 E8257D Option 1EM Rear Panel

Signal Generator Overview

Rear Panel

5. AUXILIARY I/O 22. 10 MHz OUT 33. EXT 2

12. COH CARRIER 23. STOP SWEEP IN/OUT 34. PULSE SYNC OUT

15. AC Power Receptacle 25. Z- AXIS BLANK/MKRS 35. PULSE VIDEO OUT

16. GPIB 26. SWEEP OUT 36. PULSE/TRIG GATE INPUT

17. 10 MHz EFC 27. TRIGGER OUT 37. ALC INPUT

19. AUXILIARY INTERFACE 28. TRIGGER IN 43. LF OUT

20. 10 MHz IN 31. RF OUT

21. LAN 32. EXT 1

Chapter 1 21

Signal Generator Overview Rear Panel

1. EVENT 1

This female BNC connector is used with an internal baseband generator (Option 601/602). On signal generators without Option 601/602, this female BNC connector is non- functional.

In real- time mode, the EVENT 1 connector outputs a pattern or frame synchronization pulse for triggering or gating external equipment. It may be set to start at the beginning of a pattern, frame, or timeslot and is adjustable to within ± one timeslot with one bit resolution.

In arbitrary waveform mode, the EVENT 1 connector outputs a timing signal generated by Marker 1. A marker (3.3 V CMOS high for both positive and negative polarity) is output on the EVENT 1 connector whenever a Marker 1 is turned on in the waveform.

The reverse damage levels for this connector are > +8 V and < −4 V. The nominal output impedance is not defined.

2. EVENT 2

This female BNC connector is used with an internal baseband generator (Option 601/602). On signal generators without Option 601/602, this female BNC connector is non- functional.

In real- time mode, the EVENT 2 connector outputs a data enable signal for gating external equipment. This is applicable when external data is clocked into internally generated timeslots. Data is enabled when the signal is low.

In arbitrary waveform mode, the EVENT 2 connector outputs a timing signal generated by Marker 2. A marker (3.3 V CMOS high for both positive and negative polarity) is output on the EVENT 2 connector whenever a Marker 2 is turned on in the waveform.

The reverse damage levels for this connector are > +8 V and < −4 V. The nominal output impedance is not defined.

3. PATTERN TRIG IN

This female BNC connector is used with an internal baseband generator (Option 601/602). On signal generators without Option 601/602, this female BNC connector is non- functional. This connector accepts a signal that triggers an internal pattern or frame generator to start a single- pattern output. Minimum pulse width is 100 ns. Damage levels are > +5.5 V and < −0.5 V. The nominal input impedance is not defined.

4. BURST GATE IN

This female BNC connector is used with an internal baseband generator (Option 601/602). On signal generators without Option 601/602, this connector is non-functional. This connector accepts a 3- volt CMOS input signal for gating burst power. Burst gating is used when you are externally supplying data and clock information.

The input signal must be synchronized with the external data input that will be output during the burst. The burst power envelope and modulated data are internally delayed and re-synchronized. The input signal must be CMOS high for normal burst RF power or CW RF output power and CMOS low for RF off. Damage levels are > +5.5 V and < −0.5 V. The nominal input impedance is not defined.

22 Chapter 1

5. AUXILIARY I/O

ALT PWR IN: Used with an internal baseband generator. This pin accepts a CMOS signal for synchronization of external data and alternate power signal timing. Damage levels are > +8 V and < −4V.

View looking into

rear panel connector

DATA CLK OUT: Used with an internal baseband generator. This pin relays a CMOS bit clock signal for synchronizing serial data.

DATA OUT: Used with an internal baseband generator. This pin outputs data (CMOS) from the internal data generator or the externally supplied signal at data input.

EVENT 3: Used with an internal baseband generator. In arbitrary waveform mode, this pin outputs a timing signal generated by Marker 3. A marker (3.3 V CMOS high for both positive and negative polarity) is output on this pin when a Marker 3 is turned on in the waveform. Reverse damage levels: > +8 V and < −4V.

P ATT TRIG IN 2: Acce pts a signal that triggers an internal pattern or frame generator to start single pattern output. Minimum pulse width: 100 ns. Damage levels: > +5.5 V and < −0.5 V.

SYM SYNC OUT: Used with an internal baseband generator. This pin outputs the CMOS symbol clock for symbol synchronization, one data clock period wide.

EVENT 4: Used with an internal baseband generator . In arbit rary waveform mode, this pin outputs a timing signal generated by Marker 4. A marker (3.3V CMOS high for both positive and negative polarity) is output on this pin when a Marker 4 is turned on in the waveform. Reverse damage levels: > +8 V and < −4V.

This female 37-pin connector is active only on instruments with an internal baseband generator (Option 601/602); on signal generators without Option 601/602, this connector is non- functional. This connector provides access to the inputs and outputs described in the following figure.

Figure 1-7 Auxiliary I/O Connector (Female 37-Pin)

Signal Generator Overview

Rear Panel

Chapter 1 23

Signal Generator Overview Rear Panel

6. DIGITAL BUS

This is a proprietary bus used for Agilent Baseband Studio products, which require an E8267D with Options 003/004 and 601/602. This connector is not operational for general- purpose customer use. Signals are present only when a Baseband Studio option is installed (for details, refer to http://www.agilent.com/find/basebandstudio). The DIG BUS annunciator appears on the display when the Digital Bus is active (and the internal oven reference oscillator is not cold—OVEN COLD appears in this same location).

7. Q OUT

This female BNC connector (E8267D only) is used with an internal baseband generator (Option 601/602) to output the analog, quadrature-phase component of I/Q modulation. On signal generators without Option 601/602, this female BNC connector is used to output the quadrature-phase component of an external I/Q modulation that has been fed into the Q input connector. The nominal output impedance of the Q OUT connector is 50 ohms, dc- coupled.

8. I OUT

This female BNC connector (E8267D only) is used with an internal baseband generator (Option 601/602) to output the analog, in- phase component of I/Q modulation. On signal generators without Option 601/602, this female BNC connector is used to output the in-phase component of an external I/Q modulation that has been fed into the I input connector. The nominal output impedance of the I OUT connector is 50 ohms, dc- coupled.

9. WIDEBAND I INPUTS

These female SMA connectors: I IN (+) and I- bar IN (−) (Option 016 only) are used with differential wideband external I/Q inputs. They accept wideband AM and allow direct high–bandwidth analog inputs to the I/Q modulator in the 3.2−44 GHz range (frequency limit is dependant on the option). This input is not calibrated. The recommended input power level is −1 dBm with a +/− 1 VDC input voltage. The nominal impedance for this connector is 50 ohms.

The signal generator uses lowside mixing in the 20–28.5 GHz frequency range (Options 532 and 544), which reverses the phase relationship for I and Q signals. For internally generated I/Q signals the signal generator’s firmware compensates for this. However, for wideband external I/Q inputs (Option 016) there is no compensation and the I and Q inputs at the rear panel must be reversed to maintain the correct phase relationships in this frequency band. Refer to the Data Sheet and to the A37 Upconverter description in the Service Guide for more information.

For instruments with Option 015 (discontinued), single- ended wideband I/Q, there is a single BNC I input. The recommended power level at this input connector is 0 dBM.

24 Chapter 1

Signal Generator Overview

Rear Panel

10. I-bar OUT

This female BNC connector (E8267D only) is used with an internal baseband generator (Option 601/602) to output the complement of the analog, in- phase component of I/Q modulation. On signal generators without Option 601/602, this female BNC connector is used to output the complement of the in- phase component of an external I/Q modulation that has been fed into the Iinput connector.

I- bar OUT is used in conjunction with I OUT to provide a balanced baseband stimulus. Balanced signals are signals present in two separate conductors that are symmetrical relative to ground and are opposite in polarity (180 degrees out of phase). The nominal output impedance of the I- bar OUT connector is 50 ohms, dc- coupled.

11. WIDEBAND Q INPUTS

These female SMA connectors: Q IN (+) and Q- bar IN (−) (Option 016 only) are used with differential wideband external I/Q inputs. They accept wideband AM and allow direct high–bandwidth analog inputs to the I/Q modulator in the 3.2−44 GHz range (frequency limit is dependant on the option). This input is not calibrated. The recommended input power level is −1 dBm with a +/− 1 VDC input voltage. The nominal impedance for this connector is 50 ohms.

For instruments with Option 015 (discontinued), single- ended wideband I/Q, there is a single BNC Q input. The recommended power level at this input connector is 0 dBM.

12. COH CARRIER

This female SMA connector (Option UNT only) outputs an RF signal that is phase coherent with the signal generator carrier. The coherent carrier connector outputs RF that is not modulated with AM, pulse, or I/Q modulation, but is modulated with FM or ΦM (when FM or ΦM are on).

The output power is nominally 0 dBm. The output frequency range is from 249.99900001 MHz to

3.2 GHz; this output is not useful for output frequencies > 3.2 GHz. If the RF output frequency is

below 249.99900001 MHz, the coherent carrier output signal will have the following frequency:

Frequency of coherent carrier = (1E9 − Frequency of RF output) in Hz.

Damage levels are 20 Vdc and 13 dBm reverse RF power. The nominal output impedance of this connector is 50 ohms.

13. 1 GHz REF OUT (Serial Prefixes >=US4646/MY4646)

This female SMA connector (Option UNX only) provides a 1 GHz output that is 100 times the frequency of the internal or external 10 MHz reference. The nominal output level is 7 dBM. The nominal output impedance is 50 ohms. When not in use, this connector must be terminated with a 50 ohm load.

Chapter 1 25

Signal Generator Overview Rear Panel

14. Q-bar OUT

This female BNC connector (E8267D only) can be used with an internal baseband generator (Option 601/602) to output the complement of the analog, quadrature- phase component of I/Q modulation. On signal generators without Option 601/602, this female BNC connector can be used to output the complement of the quadrature- phase component of an external I/Q modulation that has been fed into the Q input connector.

Q- bar OUT is used in conjunction with Q OUT to provide a balanced baseband stimulus. Balanced signals are signals present in two separate conductors that are symmetrical relative to ground and are opposite in polarity (180 degrees out of phase). The nominal output impedance of the Q- bar OUT connector is 50 ohms, dc- coupled.

15. AC Power Receptacle

The ac line voltage is connected here. The power cord receptacle accepts a three- pronged power cable that is shipped with the signal generator.

16. GPIB

This GPIB interface allows listen and talk capability with compatible IEEE 488.2 devices.

17. 10 MHz EFC

This female BNC input connector (Options UNR/UNX only) accepts an external dc voltage, ranging from −5 V to +5 V, for electronic frequency control (EFC) of the internal 10 MHz reference oscillator. This voltage inversely tunes the oscillator about its center frequency (approximately −0.0025 ppm/V). The nominal input impedance is greater than 1 Mohms. When not in use, this connector should be shorted using the supplied shorting cap to assure a stable operating frequency.

18. ALC HOLD (Serial Prefixes >=US4722/MY4722)

This female BNC connector (E8267D only) is a TTL- compatible input that controls ALC action with bursted I/Q signals from an arbitrary waveform generator (AWG). A high signal allows the ALC to track the RF signal and maintain constant RF output level as the I/Q inputs vary. A low input signal allows the ALC to be held for a brief time (less than 1 second) and not track the RF signal. When driving the external I/Q inputs from an external arbitrary waveform generator supplying a bursted waveform, the ALC Hold line should be driven from a marker output from the AWG that is high when the bursted signal is at the proper level and low when the bursted signal is not at the proper level Damage levels are > 5.5 V and < −0.5 V.

26 Chapter 1

Signal Generator Overview

View looking into

rear panel connector

Rear Panel

19. AUXILIARY INTERFACE

This 9- pin D- subminiature female connector is an RS- 232 serial port that can be used for serial communication and Master/Slave source synchronization.

Table 1-3 Auxiliary Interface Connector

Pin Number Signal Description Signal Name

1 No Connection (default operation)/

2 Receive Data RECV

3 Transmit Data XMIT

4 +5V (Default operation)/

5Ground, 0V

6No Connection

7Request to SendRTS

8Clear to SendCTS

9No Connection

Retrace (Master/Slave operation)

Sweep Stop (Master/Slave operation)

Figure 1-8

20. 10 MHz IN

This female BNC connector accepts an external timebase reference input signal level of > −3dBm. The reference must be 1, 2, 2.5, 5, or 10 MHz, within ±1 ppm. The signal generator detects when a valid reference signal is present at this connector and automatically switches from internal to external reference operation.

For Option UNR/UNX or instruments with serial prefixes > accepts a signal with a nominal input level of 5 ±5 dBm. The external frequency reference must be 10 MHz, within ±1 ppm.

The nominal input impedance is 50 ohms with a damage level of ≥ 10 dBm.

US4805/MY4805, this BNC connector

21. LAN

This LAN interface allows ethernet local area network communication through a 10Base- T LAN cable. The yellow LED on the interface illuminates when data transmission (transfer/receive) is present. The green LED illuminates when there is a delay in data transmission or no data transmission is present.

Chapter 1 27

Signal Generator Overview Rear Panel

22. 10 MHz OUT

This female BNC connector outputs a nominal signal level of > +4 dBm and has an output impedance of 50 ohms. The accuracy is determined by the timebase used.

23. STOP SWEEP IN/OUT

This female BNC connector (Option 007 only) provides an open- collector, TTL- compatible input/output signal that is used during ramp sweep operation. It provides low-level (nominally 0 V) output during sweep retrace and band-cross intervals. It provides high- level (nominally +5 V) output during the forward portion of the sweep. Sweep stops when this input/output connector is grounded externally. When operating as an input, the nominal impedance for this connector is less than 10 ohms. When operating as an output, the nominal impedance is approximately 4.2 kohms.

24. BASEBAND GEN CLK IN

This female BNC connector accepts a sine or square wave PECL clock input with a frequency range of 200 MHz to 400 MHz, resulting in sample rates of 50 MSa/s to 100 MSa/s. The recommended input level is approximately 1 Vpeak- to- peak for a square wave and 1 dBm to 6 dBm for a sine wave. This allows baseband generators from multiple signal sources to run off the same clock.

25. Z-AXIS BLANK/MKRS

This female BNC connector (Option 007 only) supplies a +5 V (nominal) level during retrace and band- switch intervals of a step, list, or ramp sweep. During ramp sweep, this female BNC connector supplies a –5 V (nominal) level when the RF frequency is at a marker frequency and intensity marker mode is on. This signal is derived from an operational amplifier output so the load impedance should be greater than or equal to 5 kohms. This connection is most commonly used to interface with an Agilent 8757D Scalar Network Analyzer.

26. SWEEP OUT

This female BNC connector outputs a voltage proportional to the RF power or frequency sweep ranging from 0 V at the start of sweep and goes to +10 V (nominal) at the end of sweep, regardless of sweep width.

The nominal output impedance is less than 1 ohm and can drive a 2 kohm load.

When connected to an Agilent Technologies 8757D network analyzer, it generates a selectable number of equally spaced 1 ms, 10 V pulses (nominal) across a ramp (analog) sweep. The number of pulses can be set from 101 to 1601 by remote control through the 8757D.

28 Chapter 1

Signal Generator Overview

Rear Panel

27. TRIGGER OUT

This female BNC connector, in step/list sweep mode, outputs a TTL signal that is high at the start of a dwell sequence or when waiting for a point trigger in manual sweep mode. The signal is low when the dwell is over or when a point trigger is received. In ramp sweep mode, the output provides 1601 equally spaced 1 μs pulses (nominal) across a ramp sweep. When using LF Out, the output provides a 2 μs pulse at the start of an LF sweep. The nominal impedance for this connector is less than 10 ohms.

28. TRIGGER IN

This female BNC connector accepts a 3.3V CMOS signal, which is used for point- to- point triggering in manual sweep mode, or in a low frequency (LF output) or analog (AM, FM, and ΦM) external sweep trigger setup. Triggering can occur on either the positive or negative edge of the signal start. The damage level is ≤ −4V or ≥+10 V. The nominal input impedance for this connector is approximately

4.2 kohms.

29. SOURCE SETTLED

This female BNC connector provides a 3-volt CMOS output trigger, indicating when the signal generator has settled to a new frequency or power level. A high indicates that the source has not settled. A low indicates that the source has settled. The nominal output impedance for this connector is less than 10 ohms.

30. SOURCE MODULE INTERFACE

This interface is used to connect to compatible Agilent Technologies 83550 Series mm- wave source modules.

31. RF OUT

This connector outputs RF and microwave signals. The nominal output impedance is 50 ohms. The reverse power damage levels are 0 Vdc, 0.5 watts nominal. On signal generators without Option 1EM, this connector is located on the front panel. The connector type varies according to frequency option.

32. EXT 1

either 50 or 600 ohms; the damage levels are 5 V 1EM, this connector is located on the front panel.

Chapter 1 29

rms

produces the indicated deviation or depth.

and 10 Vp. On signal generators without Option

Signal Generator Overview Rear Panel

33. EXT 2

This female BNC input connector (functional only with Options UNT, UNU, or UNW) accepts a ±1Vp signal for AM, FM, and ΦM. With AM, FM, or ΦM, ±1V When ac- coupled inputs are selected for AM, FM, or ΦM and the peak input voltage differs from 1 V by more than 3 percent, the HI/LO annunciators light on the display. The input impedance is

selectable as either 50 or 600 ohms and damage levels are 5 V without Option 1EM, this connector is located on the front panel.

produces the indicated deviation or depth.

and 10 Vp. On signal generators

rms

34. PULSE SYNC OUT

This female BNC output connector (functional only with Options UNU or UNW) outputs a synchronizing TTL- compatible pulse signal that is nominally 50 ns wide during internal and triggered pulse modulation. The nominal source impedance is 50 ohms. On signal generators without Option 1EM, this connector is located on the front panel.

35. PULSE VIDEO OUT

This female BNC output connector (functional only with Options UNU or UNW) outputs a TTL- level compatible pulse signal that follows the output envelope in all pulse modes. The nominal source impedance is 50 ohms. On signal generators without Option 1EM, this connector is located on the front rear panel.

36. PULSE/TRIG GATE INPUT

On signal generators without Option 1EM, this connector is located on the front panel.

and 10 Vp. The nominal input impedance is 50 ohms.

rms

37. ALC INPUT

This female BNC input connector is used for negative external detector leveling. This connector accepts an input of −0.2 mV to −0.5 V. The nominal input impedance is 120 kohms and the damage level is ±15 V. On signal generators without Option 1EM, this connector is located on the front panel.

38. DATA CLOCK

This female BNC input connector (E8267D only) is CMOS compatible and accepts an externally supplied data clock input signal to synchronize serial data for use with the internal baseband generator (Option 601/602). The expected input is a 3.3 V CMOS bit clock signal (which is also TTL compatible) where the rising edge is aligned with the beginning data bit. The falling edge is used to clock the DATA and SYMBOL SYNC signals. The maximum clock rate is 50 MHz. The damage levels are > +5.5 V and < −0.5V. The nominal input impedance is not defined. On signal generators without Option 1EM, this connector located on the front panel.

30 Chapter 1

Signal Generator Overview

Rear Panel

39. I IN

This female BNC input connector (E8267D only) accepts the in- phase (I) component an externally supplied, analog, I/Q modulation. The quadrature- phase (Q) component is supplied through the Q IN

connector. The signal level is = 0.5 V

impedance is 50 or 600 ohms. The damage level is 1 V the I and Q input connectors, press

Ext 600 Ohm. On signal generators without Option 1EM, this connector is located on the front panel.

Mux > I/Q Source 1 or I/Q Source 2 and then select either Ext 50 Ohm or

for a calibrated output level. The nominal input

rms

and 10 V

rms

. To activate signals applied to

peak

40. SYMBOL SYNC

This female BNC input connector (E8267D only) is CMOS-compatible and accepts an externally supplied symbol sync signal for use with the internal baseband generator (Option 601/602). The expected input is a 3.3 V CMOS bit clock signal (which is also TTL compatible). SYMBOL SYNC might occur once per symbol or be a single one-bit-wide pulse that is used to synchronize the first bit of the first symbol. The maximum clock rate is 50 MHz. The damage levels are > +5.5 V and < −0.5V. The nominal input impedance is not defined. SYMBOL SYNC can be used in two modes:

• When the SYMBOL SYNC itself is used as the (symbol) clock, the CMOS falling edge is used to clock the DATA signal.

On signal generators without Option 1EM, this connector is located on the front panel.

41. Q IN

This female BNC input connector (E8267D only) accepts the quadrature- phase (Q) component an externally supplied, analog, I/Q modulation. The in- phase (I) component is supplied through the I IN

connector. The signal level is = 0.5 V

impedance is 50 or 600 ohms. The damage level is 1 V the I and Q input connectors, press

Ext 600 Ohm. On signal generators without Option 1EM, this connector is located on the front panel.

Mux > I/Q Source 1 or I/Q Source 2 and then select either Ext 50 Ohm or

for a calibrated output level. The nominal input

rms

and 10 V

rms

. To activate signals applied to

peak

42. DATA

This female BNC input connector (Option 601/602 only) is CMOS compatible and accepts an externally supplied serial data input for digital modulation applications. The expected input is a 3.3 V CMOS signal (which is also TTL compatible) where a CMOS high = a data 1 and a CMOS low = a data

0. The maximum input data rate is 50 Mb/s. The data must be valid on the falling edges of the data

clock (normal mode) or the on the falling edges of the symbol sync (symbol mode). The damage levels are > +5.5 and < −0.5V. The nominal input impedance is not defined. On signal generators without Option 1EM, this connector is located on the front panel.

Chapter 1 31

Signal Generator Overview Rear Panel

43. LF OUT

This female BNC output connector (functional only with Option UNT) outputs modulation signals generated by the low frequency (LF) source function generator. This output is capable of driving

(nominal) into a 50-ohm load. On signal generators without Option 1EM, this connector is

located on the front panel.

32 Chapter 1

2 Basic Operation

In the following sections, this chapter describes operations common to all Agilent PSG signal generators:

• “Using Table Editors” on page 34

• “Configuring a Continuous Wave RF Output” on page 36

• “Configuring a Swept RF Output” on page 38

• “Using Ramp Sweep (Option 007)” on page 43

• “Extending the Frequency Range” on page 53

• “Turning On a Modulation Format” on page 53

• “Applying a Modulation Format to the RF Output” on page 54

• “Using Data Storage Functions” on page 55

• “Using the Instrument State Registers” on page 57

• “Using Security Functions” on page 59

• “Enabling Options” on page 66

• “Using the Web Server” on page 67

Chapter 2 33

Basic Operation

Cursor

Table Softkeys

Table Name

Tabl e Items

Active Function Area

Using Table Editors

Table editors simplify configuration tasks, such as creating a list sweep. This section provides information to familiarize you with basic table editor functionality using the List Mode Values table editor as an example.

Preset > Sweep/List > Configure List Sweep.

Press

The signal generator displays the List Mode Values table editor, as shown below.

Figure 2-1

Active Function Area displays the active table item while its value is edited

Cursor an inverse video identifier used to highlight specific table items

for selection and editing

Table Softkeys select table items, preset table values, and modify table

structures

Table Items values arranged in numbered rows and titled columns (The

columns are also known as data fields. For example, the column below the Frequency title is known as the Frequency data field).

34 Chapter 2

Basic Operation

Using Table Editors

Tab le Ed it or S o f t k e y s

The following table editor softkeys are used to load, navigate, modify, and store table item values.

Edit Item displays the selected item in the active function area of the display where the

item’s value can be modified

Insert Row inserts an identical row of table items above the currently selected row

Delete Row deletes the currently selected row

Goto Row opens a menu of softkeys (Enter, Goto Top Row, Goto Middle Row, Goto Bottom Row, Page Up,

Insert Item inserts an identical item in a new row below the currently selected item

Delete Item deletes the currently selected item

Page Up and Page Down displays table items that occupy rows outside the limits of the ten- row table

Page Down) used to quickly navigate through the table items

and

display area

More (1 of 2) accesses Load/Store and its associated softkeys

Load/Store opens a menu of softkeys (Load From Selected File, Store To File, Delete File, Goto Row, Page Up,

Page Down) used to load table items from a file in the memory catalog, or to

and store the current table items as a file in the memory catalog

Modifying Table Items in the Data Fields

1. If not already displayed, open the List Mode Values table editor (Figure 2- 1 on page 34):

2. Use the arrow keys or the knob to move the table cursor over the desired item.

3. Press

4. Use the knob, arrow keys, or the numeric keypad to modify the value.

5. Press

Preset > Sweep/List > Configure List Sweep

Press

In Figure 2- 1, the first item in the Frequency data field is selected.

Edit Item.

The selected item is displayed in the active function area of the display.

Enter.

The modified item is now displayed in the table.

Chapter 2 35

Basic Operation Configuring the RF Output

Configuring the RF Output

This section provides information on how to create continuous wave and swept RF (page 38) outputs. It also has information on using a mm-Wave source module to extend the signal generator’s frequency range (page 53).

Configuring a Continuous Wave RF Output

These procedures demonstrate how to set the following parameters:

• RF output frequency

• frequency reference and frequency offset (page 37)

• RF output amplitude (page 37)

• amplitude reference and amplitude offset (page 38)

Setting the RF Output Frequency

Set the RF output frequency to 700 MHz, and increment or decrement the output frequency in 1 MHz steps.

1. Return the signal generator to the factory- defined state: Press

Preset.

NOTE You can change the preset condition of the signal generator to a user- defined state. For

these examples, however, use the factory- defined preset state (set the

Preset Normal User softkey

in the Utility menu to Normal).

2. Observe the FREQUENCY area of the display (in the upper left- hand corner).

The value displayed is the maximum specified frequency of the signal generator.

3. Press

RF On/Off.

RF On/Off hardkey must be pressed before the RF signal is available at the

The RF OUTPUT connector. The display annunciator changes from RF OFF to RF ON. The maximum specified frequency should be output at the RF OUTPUT connector (at the signal generator’s minimum power level).

4. Press

Frequency > 700 > MHz.

The 700 MHz RF frequency should be displayed in the FREQUENCY area of the display and also in the active entry area.

5. Press

Frequency > Incr Set > 1 > MHz.

This changes the frequency increment value to 1 MHz.

6. Press the up arrow key.

Each press of the up arrow key increases the frequency by the increment value last set with the

Incr Set hardkey. The increment value is displayed in the active entry area.

7. The down arrow decreases the frequency by the increment value set in the previous step. Practice stepping the frequency up and down in 1 MHz increments.

You can also adjust the RF output frequency using the knob. As long as frequency is the active function (the frequency is displayed in the active entry area), the knob will increase and decrease the RF output frequency.

36 Chapter 2

Configuring the RF Output

Basic Operation

8. Use the knob to adjust the frequency back to 700 MHz.

Setting the Frequency Reference and Frequency Offset

The following procedure sets the RF output frequency as a reference frequency to which all other frequency settings are relative. When the frequency reference is set, the display will read 0.00 Hz (the frequency output of the signal generator’s hardware minus the reference frequency). Although the display changes, the actual frequency output is 700 MHz (from step 8 above). Any subsequent frequency changes are shown as increments or decrements to the 0 Hz reference.

The Frequency Reference Set function is not an active function. Once it is set, any change to the frequency setting appears as a frequency reading on the signal generator’s front- panel display. For example,

1. Preset the signal generator: Press

Preset.

2. Set the frequency reference to 700 MHz:

Frequency > 700 > MHz > More (1 of 3) > Freq Ref Set.

Press:

This activates the frequency reference mode, sets the output frequency (700 MHz) as the reference value, and toggles the

Freq Ref softkey On. The FREQUENCY area displays 0.000 Hz. This reading is

the frequency output of the signal generator’s hardware (700 MHz) minus the reference value (700 MHz). The signal generator’s true output frequency is 700 MHz. If the

Freq Ref softkey is

toggled to Off, the front-panel will indicate the actual frequency: 700 MHz. The REF indicator appears on the front- panel display and the

3. Turn on the RF output: Press

RF On/Off.

Freq Ref Off On softkey toggles to On.

The display annunciator changes from RF OFF to RF ON. The RF frequency at the RF OUTPUT connector is 700 MHz.

4. Set the frequency increment value to 1 MHz: Press

Frequency > Incr Set > 1 > MHz.

5. Increment the output frequency by 1 MHz: Press the up arrow key.

The FREQUENCY area display changes to show 1.000 000 000 MHz, which is the frequency output by the hardware (700 MHz + 1 MHz) minus the reference frequency (700 MHz). The frequency at the RF OUTPUT changes to 701 MHz.

6. Enter a 1 MHz offset: Press

More (1 of 3) > Freq Offset > 1 > MHz.

The FREQUENCY area displays 2.000 000 00 MHz, which is the frequency output by the hardware (701 MHz) minus the reference frequency (700 MHz) plus the offset (1 MHz). The OFFS indicator activates. The frequency at the RF OUTPUT connector is still 701 MHz.

Setting the RF Output Amplitude

1. Preset the signal generator: Press

Preset.

The AMPLITUDE area of the display shows the minimum power level of the signal generator. This is the normal preset RF output amplitude.

2. Turn on the RF output: Press

RF On/Off.

The display annunciator changes to RF ON. At the RF OUTPUT connector, the RF signal is output at the minimum power level.

Chapter 2 37

Basic Operation Configuring the RF Output

3. Change the amplitude to −20 dBm: Press Amplitude > −20 > dBm.

The new output power displays in the AMPLITUDE area of the display and in the active entry area. Until you press a different front panel function key, amplitude remains the active function. You can also change the amplitude using the up and down arrow keys or the knob.

Setting the Amplitude Reference and Amplitude Offset

The following procedure sets the RF output power as an amplitude reference to which all other amplitude parameters are relative. The amplitude initially shown on the display is 0 dB (the power output by the hardware minus the reference power). Although the display changes, the output power does not change. Any subsequent power changes are shown as incremental or decremental to 0 dB.

1. Press

2. Set the amplitude to −20 dBm: Press

Preset.

Amplitude > -20 > dBm.

3. Activate the amplitude reference mode and set the current output power (−20 dBm) as the reference value: Press

More (1 of 2) > Ampl Ref Set.

The AMPLITUDE area displays 0.00 dB, which is the power output by the hardware (−20 dBm) minus the reference value (−20 dBm). The REF indicator activates and the

Ampl Ref Off On softkey

toggles On.

4. Turn the RF output on: Press

RF On/Off.

The display annunciator changes to RF ON. The power at the RF OUTPUT connector is −20 dBm.

5. Change the amplitude increment value to 10 dB: Press

Incr Set > 10 > dB.

6. Use the up arrow key to increase the output power by 10 dB.

The AMPLITUDE area displays 10.00 dB, which is the power output by the hardware (- 20 dBm plus 10 dBm) minus the reference power (−20 dBm). The power at the RF OUTPUT connector changes to −10 dBm.

7. Enter a 10 dB offset: Press

Ampl Offset > 10 > dB.

The AMPLITUDE area displays 20.00 dB, which is the power output by the hardware (−10 dBm) minus the reference power (−20 dBm) plus the offset (10 dB). The OFFS indicator activates. The power at the RF OUTPUT connector is still −10 dBm.

Configuring a Swept RF Output

A PSG signal generator has up to three sweep types: step sweep, list sweep, and ramp sweep (Option 007).

The signal generator indicates the sweep advance in a progress bar on the front- panel display. If the sweep time is greater than one second, the progress bar sweep advances according to the frequency span of each segment. For each segment in the span, the progress bar displays the full segment and then the sweep is taken. With sweep times less than one second, the progress bar is drawn, the sweep taken, and the progress bar is then blanked.

38 Chapter 2

Configuring the RF Output

Basic Operation

NOTE List sweep data cannot be saved within an instrument state, but can be saved to the

memory catalog. For instructions on saving list sweep data, see “Storing Files to the Memory

Catalog” on page 56.

During swept RF output, the FREQUENCY and AMPLITUDE areas of the signal generator’s display are deactivated, depending on what is being swept.

Step sweep (see page 39) and ramp sweep (see page 41) provide a linear progression through the start- to- stop frequency and/or amplitude values, while list sweep enables you to create a list of arbitrary frequency, amplitude, and dwell time values and sweep the RF output based on that list.

The list sweep example uses the points created in the step sweep example as the basis for a new list sweep.

Ramp sweep (see page 43) is faster than step or list sweep, and is designed to work with an 8757D Scalar Network Analyzer.

The signal generator provides a softkey, Sweep Retrace Off On, that lets you configure single sweep behavior. When sweep retrace is on, the signal generator will retrace the sweep to the first point of the sweep. If the sweep retrace is off, the sweep will stop and remain on the last point in the sweep.

Activating Scalar Pulse in Sweep Configurations

If your sweep setup uses a scalar network analyzer and a DC detector, the PSG must modulate the swept signal with a 27 kHz square wave, also referred to as a scalar pulse. This pulse modulation is necessary for the DC detector to properly detect the swept signal. If the PSG is controlled by an 8757D through a GPIB connection, the scalar pulse automatically turns on when DC detection is selected on the 8757D. When using any other scalar analyzer, you can manually turn on the scalar pulse using either one of the following key-press sequences:

Sweep/List > Sweep Type > Scalar Pulse Off On to On

Press

Pulse > Pulse Source > Scalar > Pulse Off On to On

Press

Using Step Sweep

Step sweep provides a linear progression through the start- to- stop frequency and/or amplitude values. You can toggle the direction of the sweep, up or down. When the

Sweep Direction Down Up softkey

is set to Up, values are swept from the start amplitude/frequency to the stop amplitude/frequency. When set to Down, values are swept from the stop amplitude/frequency to the start amplitude/frequency.

When a step sweep is activated, the signal generator sweeps the RF output based on the values entered for RF output start and stop frequencies and amplitudes, a number of equally spaced points (steps) to dwell upon, and the amount of dwell time at each point; dwell time is the minimum period of time after the settling time that the signal generator will remain at its current state. The frequency, amplitude, or frequency and amplitude of the RF output will sweep from the start amplitude/frequency to the stop amplitude/frequency, dwelling at equally spaced intervals defined by

# Points softkey value.

the

Chapter 2 39

Basic Operation Configuring the RF Output

To Configure a Single Step Sweep

In this procedure, you create a step sweep with nine, equally- spaced points, and the following parameters:

• frequency range from 500 MHz to 600 MHz

•amplitude from −20 dBm to 0 dBm

• dwell time 500 ms at each point

1. Press

2. Press

Preset.

Sweep/List.

This opens a menu of sweep softkeys.

3. Press

Sweep Repeat Single Cont.

This toggles the sweep repeat from continuous to single.

4. Press

Configure Step Sweep.

5. Press Freq Start > 500 > MHz. This changes the start frequency of the step sweep to 500 MHz.

6. Press

Freq Stop > 600 > MHz.

This changes the stop frequency of the step sweep to 600 MHz.

7. Press

Ampl Start > -20 > dBm.

This changes the amplitude level for the start of the step sweep.

8. Press

Ampl Stop > 0 > dBm.

This changes the amplitude level for the end of the step sweep.

9. Press

# Points > 9 > Enter.

This sets the number of sweep points to nine.

10. Press

Step Dwell > 500 > msec.

This sets the dwell time at each point to 500 milliseconds.

11. Press

Return > Sweep > Freq & Ampl.

This sets the step sweep to sweep both frequency and amplitude data. Selecting this softkey returns you to the previous menu and turns on the sweep function.

12. Press

RF On/Off.

The display annunciator changes from RF OFF to RF ON.

13. Press

Single Sweep.

A single sweep of the frequencies and amplitudes configured in the step sweep is executed and available at the RF OUTPUT connector. On the display, the SWEEP annunciator appears for the duration of the sweep and a progress bar shows the progression of the sweep. The

Single Sweep

softkey can also be used to abort a sweep in progress. To see the frequencies sweep again, press

Single Sweep to trigger the sweep.

40 Chapter 2

Configuring the RF Output

Basic Operation

To Configure a Continuous Step Sweep

Sweep Repeat Single Cont.

Press

This toggles the sweep from single to continuous. A continuous repetition of the frequencies and amplitudes configured in the step sweep are now available at the RF OUTPUT connector. The SWEEP annunciator appears on the display, indicating that the signal generator is sweeping and progression of the sweep is shown by a progress bar.

Using List Sweep

List sweep enables you to create a list of arbitrary frequency, amplitude, and dwell time values and sweep the RF output based on the entries in the List Mode Values table.

Unlike a step sweep that contains linear ascending/descending frequency and amplitude values, spaced at equal intervals throughout the sweep, list sweep frequencies and amplitudes can be entered at unequal intervals, nonlinear ascending/descending, or random order.

For convenience, the List Mode Values table can be copied from a previously configured step sweep. Each step sweep point’s associated frequency, amplitude and dwell time values are entered into a row in the List Mode Values table, as the following example illustrates.

To Configure a Single List Sweep Using Step Sweep Data

In this procedure, you will leverage the step sweep points and change the sweep information by editing several points in the List Mode Values table. For information on using tables, see “Using Table

Editors” on page 34.

1. Press

Sweep Repeat Single Cont.

This toggles the sweep repeat from continuous to single. The SWEEP annunciator is turned off. The sweep will not occur until it is triggered.

2. Press

Sweep Type List Step.

This toggles the sweep type from step to list.

3. Press

Configure List Sweep.

This opens another menu displaying softkeys that you will use to create the sweep points. The display shows the current list data. (When no list has been previously created, the default list contains one point set to the signal generator’s maximum frequency, minimum amplitude, and a dwell time of 2 ms.)

4. Press

More (1 of 2) > Load List From Step Sweep > Confirm Load From Step Data.

The points you defined in the step sweep are automatically loaded into the list.

To Edit List Sweep Points

1. Press

Return > Sweep > Off.

Turning the sweep off allows you to edit the list sweep points without generating errors. If sweep remains on during editing, errors occur whenever one or two point parameters (frequency, power, and dwell) are undefined.

2. Press

Configure List Sweep.

This returns you to the sweep list table.

Chapter 2 41

Basic Operation Configuring the RF Output

3. Use the arrow keys to highlight the dwell time in row 1.

4. Press

Edit Item.

The dwell time for point 1 becomes the active function.

5. Press

100 > msec.

This enters 100 ms as the new dwell time value for row 1. Note that the next item in the table (in this case, the frequency value for point 2) becomes highlighted after you press the terminator softkey.

6. Using the arrow keys, highlight the frequency value in row 4.

7. Press

Edit Item > 545 > MHz.

This changes the frequency value in row 4 to 545 MHz.

8. Highlight any column in the point 7 row and press

Insert Row.

This adds a new point between points 7 and 8. A copy of the point 7 row is placed between points 7 and 8, creating a new point 8, and renumbering the successive points.

9. Highlight the frequency item for point 8, then press

Pressing

Insert Item shifts frequency values down one row, beginning at point 8. Note that the

Insert Item.

original frequency values for both points 8 and 9 shift down one row, creating an entry for point 10 that contains only a frequency value (the power and dwell time items do not shift down).

The frequency for point 8 is still active.

10. Press

11. Press

590 > MHz.

Insert Item > -2.5 > dBm.

This inserts a new power value at point 8 and shifts down the original power values for points 8 and 9 by one row.

12. Highlight the dwell time for point 9, then press

Insert Item.

A duplicate of the highlighted dwell time is inserted for point 9, shifting the existing value down to complete the entry for point 10.

To Configure a Single List Sweep

1. Press Return > Sweep > Freq & Ampl

This turns the sweep on again. No errors should occur if all parameters for every point have been defined in the previous editing process.

2. Press

Single Sweep.

The signal generator will single sweep the points in your list. The SWEEP annunciator activates during the sweep.

3. Press

4. Press

More (1 of 2) > Sweep Trigger > Tri gg er K ey .

This sets the sweep trigger to occur when you press the

More (2 of 2) > Single Sweep.

Tr ig g er hardkey.

This arms the sweep. The ARMED annunciator is activated.

42 Chapter 2

Configuring the RF Output

Basic Operation

5. Press the Trigger hardkey.

The signal generator will single sweep the points in your list and the SWEEP annunciator will be activated during the sweep.

To Configure a Continuous List Sweep

Sweep Repeat Single Cont.

Press

This toggles the sweep from single to continuous. A continuous repetition of the frequencies and amplitudes configured in the list sweep are now available at the RF OUTPUT connector. The SWEEP annunciator appears on the display, indicating that the signal generator is sweeping and progression of the sweep is shown by a progress bar.

Using Ramp Sweep (Option 007)

Ramp sweep provides a linear progression through the start- to- stop frequency and/or amplitude values. Ramp sweep is much faster than step or list sweep, and is designed to work with an 8757D Scalar Network Analyzer. This section describes the ramp sweep capabilities available in PSG signal generators with Option 007. You will learn how to use basic ramp sweep, and how to configure a ramp sweep for a master/slave setup (see page 50).

Refer to the E8257D/67D PSG Signal Generators Programming Guide for an example program that uses pass-thru commands in a ramp sweep system (pass-thru commands enable you to temporarily interrupt ramp sweep system interaction so that you can send operating instructions to the PSG).

Using Basic Ramp Sweep Functions

This procedure demonstrates the following tasks (each task builds on the previous task):

• “Configuring a Frequency Sweep” on page 43

• “Using Markers” on page 46

• “Adjusting Sweep Time” on page 48

• “Using Alternate Sweep” on page 49

• “Configuring an Amplitude Sweep” on page 50

Configuring a Frequency Sweep

1. Set up the equipment as shown in Figure 2- 2.

NOTE The PSG signal generator is not compatible with the GPIB system interface of an 8757A,

8757C, or 8757E. For these older scalar network analyzers, do not connect the GPIB cable in

Figure 2-2. This method provides only a subset of 8757D functionality. See the PSG Data

Sheet for details. Use the 8757A/C/E documentation instead of this procedure.

Chapter 2 43

Basic Operation Configuring the RF Output

Figure 2-2 Equipment Setup

2. Turn on both the 8757D and the PSG.

3. On the 8757D, press

System > More > Sweep Mode and verify that the SYSINTF softkey is set to ON.

This ensures that the system interface mode is activated on the 8757D. The system interface mode enables the instruments to work as a system.

4. Press

5. On the 8757D, press

Utility > GPIB/RS-232 LAN to view the PSG’s GPIB address under the GPIB Address softkey. If you

want to change it, press

GPIB Address and change the value.

LOCAL > SWEEPER and check the GPIB address. If it does not match that of the

PSG, change the value.

6. Preset either instrument.

Presetting one of the instruments should automatically preset the other as well. If both instruments do not preset, check the GPIB connection, GPIB addresses, and ensure the 8757D is set to system interface mode (

SYSINTF set to ON).

The PSG automatically activates a 2 GHz to maximum frequency ramp sweep with a constant amplitude of 0 dBm. Notice that the RF ON, SWEEP, and PULSE annunciators appear on the PSG display. The PULSE annunciator appears because the 8757D is operating in AC mode.

The PSG also switches its remote language setting to 8757D System, allowing the PSG to talk to the 8757D during ramp sweep operations. You can confirm this by pressing and observing the selection under the

44 Chapter 2

Remote Language softkey.

Utility > GPIB/RS-232 LAN

Configuring the RF Output

Basic Operation

NOTE During swept RF output, the FREQUENCY and/or AMPLITUDE areas of the signal generator’s

display are deactivated, depending on what is being swept. In this case, since frequency is being swept, nothing appears in the FREQUENCY area of the display.

7. Press Frequency > Freq CW.

The current continuous wave frequency setting now controls the RF output and ramp sweep is turned off.

8. Press

Freq Start.

The ramp sweep settings once again control the RF output and the CW mode is turned off. Pressing any one of the softkeys

Freq Start, Freq Stop, Freq Center, or Freq Span activates a ramp sweep

with the current settings.

NOTE In a frequency ramp sweep, the start frequency must be lower than the stop frequency.

9. Adjust the settings for Freq Center and Freq Span so that the frequency response of the device under test (DUT) is clearly seen on the 8757D display.

Notice how adjusting these settings also changes the settings for the

Freq Start and Freq Stop softkeys.

You may need to rescale the response on the 8757D for a more accurate evaluation of the amplitude. Figure 2- 3 on page 46 shows an example of a bandpass filter response.

Chapter 2 45

Basic Operation Configuring the RF Output

Figure 2-3 Bandpass Filter Response on 8757D

Using Markers

1. Press

Markers.

This opens a table editor and associated marker control softkeys. You can use up to 10 different markers, labeled 0 through 9.

2. Press

Marker Freq and select a frequency value within the range of your sweep.

In the table editor, notice how the state for marker 0 automatically turns on. The marker also appears on the 8757D display.

3. Use the arrow keys to move the cursor in the table editor to marker 1 and select a frequency value within the range of your sweep, but different from marker 0.

Notice that marker 1 is activated and is the currently selected marker, indicated by the marker arrow pointing down. As you switch between markers, using the arrow keys, you will notice that the selected marker’s arrow points down, while all others point up.

Notice also that the frequency and amplitude data for the currently selected marker is displayed on the 8757D.

46 Chapter 2

Configuring the RF Output

Basic Operation

4. Move the cursor back to marker 0 and press Delta Ref Set > Marker Delta Off On to On.

In the table editor, notice that the frequency values for each marker are now relative to marker 0. Ref appears in the far right column (also labeled Ref) to indicate which marker is the reference. Refer to Figure 2- 4.

Figure 2-4 Marker Table Editor

5. Move the cursor back to marker 1 and press

Marker Freq. Turn the front panel knob while

observing marker 1 on the 8757D.

On the 8757D, notice that the displayed amplitude and frequency values for marker 1 are relative to marker 0 as the marker moves along the trace. Refer to Figure 2- 5.

Chapter 2 47

Basic Operation Configuring the RF Output

Figure 2-5 Delta Markers on 8757D

6. Press

Turn Off Markers.

All active markers turn off. Refer to the E8257D/67D PSG Signal Generators Key Reference for information on other marker softkey functions.

Adjusting Sweep Time

1. Press

Sweep/List.

This opens a menu of sweep control softkeys and displays a status screen summarizing all the current sweep settings.

2. Press

Configure Ramp/Step Sweep.

Since ramp is the current sweep type, softkeys in this menu specifically control ramp sweep settings. When step is the selected sweep type, the softkeys control step sweep settings. Notice that the

Freq Start and Freq Stop softkeys appear in this menu in addition to the Frequency hardkey

menu.

3. Press

Sweep Time to Manual > 5 > sec.

In auto mode, the sweep time automatically sets to the fastest allowable value. In manual mode, you can select any sweep time slower than the fastest allowable. The fastest allowable sweep time is dependent on the number of trace points and channels being used on the 8757D and the frequency span.

48 Chapter 2

4. Press Sweep Time to Auto.

The sweep time returns to its fastest allowable setting.

Configuring the RF Output

Basic Operation

NOTE When using an 8757 network analyzer in manual sweep mode, you must activate the signal

generator’s

Sweep/List > More (2 of 3) > Manual Freq

Manual Freq softkey before using the front panel knob to control the sweep. Press

Using Alternate Sweep

1. Press the Save hardkey.

This opens the table editor and softkey menu for saving instrument states. Notice that the

softkey is active. (For more information on saving instrument states refer to “Using the

Reg

Select

Instrument State Registers” on page 57.)

2. Turn the front panel knob until you find an available register and press

SAVE. Remember this

saved register number. If no registers are available, you can write over an in- use register, by pressing

Re-SAVE.

NOTE When you are using the PSG in a system with an 8757 network analyzer, you are limited to

using registers 1 through 9 in sequence 0 for saving and recalling states.

3. Press Sweep/List > Configure Ramp/Step Sweep and enter new start and stop frequency values for the ramp sweep.

4. Press

Alternate Sweep Register and turn the front panel knob to select the register number of the

previously saved sweep state.

5. Press

Alternate Sweep Off On to On.

The signal generator alternates between the original saved sweep and the current sweep. You may need to adjust 8757D settings to effectively view both sweeps, such as setting channel 2 to measure sensor A. Refer to Figure 2- 6.

Chapter 2 49

Basic Operation Configuring the RF Output

Figure 2-6 Alternating Sweeps on 8757D

Configuring an Amplitude Sweep

1. Press Return > Sweep > Off.

This turns off both the current sweep and the alternate sweep from the previous task. The current CW settings now control the RF output.

2. Press

3. Using the

4. Press

Configure Ramp/Step Sweep.

Ampl Start and Ampl Stop softkeys, set an amplitude range to be swept.

Return > Sweep > Ampl.

The new amplitude ramp sweep settings control the RF output and the CW mode is turned off.

Configuring a Ramp Sweep for a Master/Slave Setup

This procedure shows you how to configure two PSGs and an 8757D to work in a master/slave setup. The master/slave control setup must use two instruments from the same signal generator family such as two PSG’s, or two 83640B’s, or two 83751B’s.

NOTE The master/slave setup applies to ramp sweep only, not step sweep or list sweep. To use this

setup, you must have two sources from the same signal generator family such as two PSG’s, or two 83640B’s, or two 83751B’s.

50 Chapter 2

Configuring the RF Output

Basic Operation

1. Set up the equipment as shown in Figure 2- 7. Use a 9- pin, D- subminiature, male RS- 232 cable with the pin configuration shown in Figure 2- 8 on page 52 to connect the auxiliary interfaces of the two PSGs. You can also order the cable (part number 8120- 8806) from Agilent Technologies.

By connecting the master PSG’s 10 MHz reference standard to the slave PSG’s 10 MHz reference input, the master’s timebase supplies the frequency reference for both PSGs.

2. Set up the slave PSG’s frequency and power settings.

By setting up the slave first, you avoid synchronization problems.

3. Set up the master PSG’s frequency, power, and sweep time settings.

The two PSGs can have different frequency and power settings for ramp sweep.

4. Set the slave PSG’s sweep time to match that of the master.

Sweep times must be the same for both PSGs.

5. Set the slave PSG to continuous triggering.

The slave must be set to continuous triggering, but the master can be set to any triggering mode.

6. On the slave PSG, press

Sweep/List > Sweep Type > Ramp Sweep Control > Slave.

This sets the PSG to operate in slave mode.

7. On the master PSG, press

Sweep/List > Sweep Type > Ramp Sweep Control > Master. This sets the PSG to

operate in master mode.

Chapter 2 51

Basic Operation Configuring the RF Output

Figure 2-7 Master/Slave Equipment Setup

Figure 2-8 RS-232 Pin Configuration

52 Chapter 2

Basic Operation

Modulating a Signal

Extending the Frequency Range

You can extend the signal generator frequency range using an Agilent 83550 series millimeter- wave source module or other manufacturer’s mm- source module. Refer to “Millimeter-Wave Source

Modules” on page 236 for information on using the signal generator with a millimeter- wave source

module.

Modulating a Signal

This section describes how to turn on a modulation format, and how to apply it to the RF output.

Turning On a Modulation Format

A modulation format can be turned on prior to or after setting the signal parameters.

1. Access the first menu within the modulation format. This menu displays a softkey that associates the format’s name with off and on. For example,

> AM Off On

one.

2. Press the modulation format off/on key until On highlights.

Figure 2-9 shows the portion of the AM modulation format’s first menu that displays the state of

the modulation format, as well as the active modulation format annunciator.

The modulation format generates, but the carrier signal is not modulated until you apply it to the RF output (see page 54).

Depending on the modulation format, the signal generator may require a few seconds to build the signal. Within the digital formats (E8267D PSG with Option 601/602 only), you may see a BaseBand Reconfiguring status bar appear on the display. Once the signal is generated, an annunciator showing the name of the format appears on the display, indicating that the modulation format is active. For digital formats (E8267D PSG with Option 601/602 only), the I/Q annunciator appears in addition to the name of the modulation format.

. For some formats, the off/on key may appear in additional menus other than the first

Chapter 2 53

Basic Operation

First AM Menu Modulation format is off

Modulation format is on

Active Modulation Format Annunciator

Modulating a Signal

Figure 2-9 Example of AM Modulation Format Off and On

Applying a Modulation Format to the RF Output

The carrier signal is modulated when the Mod On/Off key is set to On, and an individual modulation format is active.

When the is set to On, the MOD ON annunciator shows in the display, whether or not there is an active modulation format. The annunciators simply indicate whether the carrier signal will be modulated when a modulation format is turned on.

Mod On/Off key is set to Off, the MOD OFF annunciator appears on the display.When the key

To Turn RF Output Modulation On

Press the

Mod On/Off key until the MOD ON annunciator appears in the display.

The carrier signal should be modulated with all active modulation formats. This is the factory default.

To Turn RF Output Modulation Off

Press the

Mod On/Off key until the MOD OFF annunciator appears in the display.

The carrier signal is no longer modulated or capable of being modulated when a modulation format is active.

54 Chapter 2

Figure 2-10 Carrier Signal Modulation Status

Mod Set to On—Carrier is Modulated

AM Modulation Format is Active

Mod Set to Off—Carrier is not Modulated

Mod Set to On—Carrier is not Modulated

No Active Modulation Format

Using Data Storage Functions

Basic Operation

Using Data Storage Functions

This section explains how to use the two forms of signal generator data storage: the memory catalog and the instrument state register.

Using the Memory Catalog

The Memory Catalog is the signal generator’s interface for viewing, storing, and saving files; it can be accessed through the signal generator’s front panel or a remote controller. (For information on performing these tasks remotely, see the E8257D/67D PSG Signal Generators Programming Guide.)

Chapter 2 55

Basic Operation Using Data Storage Functions

Table 2-1 Memory Catalog File Types and Associated Data

Binary binary data

State instrument state data (controlling instrument operating parameters,

LIST sweep data from the List Mode Values table including frequency,

User Flatness user flatness calibration correction pair data (user-defined

FIR Finite Impulse Response (FIR) filter coefficients

ARB Catalog Types (E8267D PSG with Option 601/602 only) user created files -

Modulation Catalog T ypes (E8267D PSG with Option 601/602 only) associated data for I/Q and

Shape burst shape of a pulse

Bit Bit

such as frequency, amplitude, and mode)

amplitude, and dwell time

frequency and corresponding amplitude correction values)

Waveform Catalog Types: WFM1 (waveform file), NVARB Catalog Types: NVWFM (non-volatile, ARB waveform file), NVMKR (non- volatile, ARB waveform marker file), Seq (ARB sequence file), MTONE (ARB multitone file), DMOD (ARB digital modulation file), MDMOD (ARB multicarrier digital modulation file)

FSK (frequency shift keying) modulation files

Storing Files to the Memory Catalog

To store a file to the memory catalog, first create a file. For this example, use the default list sweep table.

1. Press

2. Press

Preset.

Sweep/List > Configure List Sweep > More (1 of 2) > Load/Store.

This opens the “Catalog of List Files”.

3. Press

Store to File.

This displays a menu of alphabetical softkeys for naming the file. Store to: is displayed in the active function area.

4. Enter the file name LIST1 using the alphabetical softkeys and the numeric keypad (for the numbers 0 to 9).

5. Press

Enter.

The file should be displayed in the “Catalog of List Files”, showing the file name, file type, file size, and the date and time the file was modified.

56 Chapter 2

Using Data Storage Functions

Basic Operation

Viewing Stored Files in the Memory Catalog

1. Press

Utility > Memory Catalog > Catalog Type.

All files in the memory catalog are listed in alphabetical order, regardless of which catalog type you select. File information appears on the display and includes the file name, file type, file size, and the date and time the file was modified.

2. Press

List.

The “Catalog of List Files” is displayed.

3. Press

Catalog Type > State.

The “Catalog of State Files” is displayed.

4. Press

Catalog Type > All.

The “Catalog of All Files” is displayed. For a complete list of file types, refer to Table 2- 1 on

page 56.

Using the Instrument State Registers

The instrument state register is a section of memory divided into 10 sequences (numbered 0 through

9) with each sequence consisting of 100 registers (numbered 00 through 99). Instrument state sequences and registers are used to store and recall instrument settings and provide a quick way to reconfigure the signal generator when switching between different instrument and signal configurations. The signal generator with Option 005 (internal hard drive) has approximately 4 GB available for storing instrument state files and other user data. Without Option 005, the signal generator has 20 MB available for data and instrument state storage. Instrument state files can vary in length depending on the signal generator’s configuration.

File data, such as modulation formats, arb setups, and table entries, are not stored with the save function. Only setups such as frequency, attenuation, power and other user-defined settings that do not survive a power cycle or instrument reset can be saved to a sequence and register. Any data file, such as an arb format file, associated with the instrument state will only be referenced by its file name. Once an instrument state has been saved, recalling that state will setup the generator with the saved settings and load the associated file data.

For more information on storing file data such as modulation formats, arb setups, and table entries refer to “Storing Files to the Memory Catalog” on page 56. Refer to the E8257D/67D PSG Signal Generators Programming Guide and the E7257D/67D PSG Signal Generators Key Reference for more information on the save and recall function.

NOTE A reference to a file is saved along with the instrument state. However, no data is saved

with the save function. You must store file data, using store commands, in a different memory location.

Saving an Instrument State

1. Preset the signal generator, then turn on amplitude modulation (the AM annunciator will turn on):

a. Press b. Press

Frequency > 800 > MHz. Amplitude > 0 > dBm.

c. Press AM > AM Off On.

Chapter 2 57

Basic Operation Using Data Storage Functions

2. Press Save > Select Seq.

The sequence number becomes the active function. The signal generator displays the last sequence used. Using the arrow keys, set the sequence to 1.

3. Press

Select Reg.

The register number in sequence 1 becomes the active function. The signal generator displays either the last register used accompanied by the text: (in use), or (if no registers are in use) register 00 accompanied by the text: (available). Use the arrow keys to select register 01.

4. Press

Save Seq[1] Reg[01].

This saves this instrument state in sequence 1, register 01 of the instrument state register.

5. Press

Add Comment to Seq[1] Reg[01].

This enables you to add a descriptive comment to sequence 1 register 01.

6. Using the alphanumeric softkeys or the knob, enter a comment and press

7. Press

Edit Comment In Seq[1] Reg[01].

Enter.

If you wish, you can now change the descriptive comment for sequence 1 register 01.

After making changes to an instrument state, you can save it back to a specific register by highlighting that register and pressing Re-SAVE Seq[n] Reg[nn].

Recalling an Instrument State

Using this procedure, you will learn how to recall instrument settings saved to an instrument state register.

1. Press

2. Press the

3. Press

Preset.

Recall hardkey.

Notice that the

RECALL Reg.

Select Seq softkey shows sequence 1. (This is the last sequence that you used.)

The register to be recalled in sequence 1 becomes the active function. Press the up arrow key once to select register 1. Your stored instrument state settings should have been recalled.

Deleting Registers and Sequences

These procedures describe how to delete registers and sequences saved to an instrument state register.

Deleting a Specific Register within a Sequence

1. Press

2. Press the

3. Press

58 Chapter 2

Preset.

Recall or Save hardkey.

Notice that the

Select Seq and enter the sequence number containing the register you want to delete.

Select Seq softkey shows the last sequence that you used.

4. Press Select Reg and enter the register number you want to delete.

Notice that the

Delete Seq[n] Reg[nn] should be loaded with the sequence and register you want to

delete.

5. Press

Delete Seq[n] Reg[nn].

This deletes the chosen register.

Deleting All Registers within a Sequence

1. Press Preset.

2. Press the

Notice that the

3. Press

4. Press

Recall or Save hardkey.

Select Seq softkey shows the last sequence that you used.

Select Seq and enter the sequence number containing the registers you want to delete.

Delete all Regs in Seq[n].

This deletes all registers in the selected sequence.

Deleting All Sequences

Basic Operation

Using Security Functions

CAUTION Be sure you want to delete the contents of all registers and all sequences in the

instrument state register.

1. Press Preset.

2. Press the

Notice that the

3. Press

Recall or Save hardkey.

Select Seq softkey shows the last sequence that you used.

Delete All Sequences.

This deletes all of the sequences saved in the instrument state register.

8757 Network Analyzer Save and Recall Functions

The 8757 network analyzer family can save and recall signal generator instrument states although communication between the instruments is limited.

A clear register command from the 8757 will cause the signal generator to replace a register’s contents with default values. Default values can be cleared from the signal generator by using the

Delete All softkey menu or by using the corresponding SCPI (Standard Commands for Programmable

Instruments) command.

The signal generator does not communicate directly with the 8757 network analyzer. If the 8757 saves an instrument state to a signal generator register and the user deletes that register, the 8757 will not recognize the deletion. An attempt, by the 8757, to recall a deleted state will cause the PSG to generate the error message: +700 “State Save Recall Error...”.

Using Security Functions

This section describes how to use the PSG’s security functions to protect and remove classified proprietary information stored or displayed in the instrument. All security functions described in this

Chapter 2 59

Basic Operation Using Security Functions

section also have an equivalent SCPI command for remote operation. (Refer to the “System Commands” chapter of the E8257D/67D PSG Signal Generators SCPI Command Reference for more information.)

Understanding PSG Memory Types

The PSG comprises several memory types, each used for storing a specific type of data. Before removing sensitive data, it is important to understand how each memory type is used in the PSG. The following tables describe each memory type used in the base instrument, optional baseband generator, and optional hard disk.

Table 2-2 Base Instrument Memory

Memory Type and Size

Main Memory (SDRAM)

64 MB

Main Memory (Flash)

20 MB

Firmware Memory (Flash)

12 MB

Purpose/Contents Data Input Method Location in Instrument and Remarks

Writa ble D ur in g

Normal Operation ?

Data Retained

When Powered Off?

Yes No firmware operating

Yes Yes fa ct or y

No Yes main firmware image factory installed or

Yes Yes LAN configuration front panel entry or

memory

calibration/configuratio n data

user file system, which includes instrument status backup, flatness calibration, IQ calibration, instrument states, waveforms (including header and marker data), modulation definitions, and sweep lists

operating system (not user)

firmware upgrades and user-saved data

firmware upgrade

remotely

CPU board, not battery backed.

CPU board (same chip as firmware memory, but managed separately)

User data is not stored in this memory if hard disk (Option 005) is installed.

Because this 32-MB memory chip contains 20 MB of user data (described here) and 12 MB of firmware memory, a selective chip erase is performed. User data areas are selectively and completely sanitized when you perform the

CPU board (same chip as main flash memory, but managed separately)

During normal operation, this memory cannot be overwritten except for LAN configuration. It is only overwritten during the firmware installation or upgrade process.

Because this 32-MB memory chip contains 20 MB of user data and 12 MB of firmware memory (described here), a selective chip erase is performed. User data areas are selectively and completely sanitized when you perform the

Erase and Sanitize function.

60 Chapter 2

Table 2-2 Base Instrument Memory (Continued)

Basic Operation

Using Security Functions

Memory Type and Size

Battery Backed Memory (SRAM)

512 kB

Bootrom Memory (Flash)

128 kB

Calibration Backup Memory (Flash)

512 KB

Boards Memory (Flash)

512 Bytes

Micro- processor Cache (SRAM)

3 kB

Purpose/Contents Data Input Method Location in Instrument and Remarks

Writa ble D ur in g

Normal Ope ratio n?

Data Retained

When Powered Off?

Yes Yes user- editable data

No Yes CPU bootup program

No Yes fact or y

No Yes factory calibration and

Yes No CPU data and

(table editors)

last instrument state, last instrument state backup, and persistent instrument state and instrument status

and firmware loader/updater

calibration/configuratio n data backup

no user data

information files, code images, and self- test limits

no user data

instruction cache

firmware operations CPU board

The battery can be removed to sanitize the memory, but must be reinstalled for the instrument to operate. The battery is located on the CPU board.

factory programmed CPU board

During normal operation, this memory cannot be overwritten or erased. This read-only data is programmed at the factory.

factory or service only

memory is managed by CPU, not user

motherboard

all RF boards, baseband generator, and motherboard

CPU board, not battery backed.

Table 2-3 Baseband Generator Memory (Options 601 and 602)

Memory Type and Size

Wave form Memory (SDRAM)

40−320 MB

Writable Dur ing

Normal Operation?

Yes No waveforms (including header

Purpose/Contents Data Input Method Remarks

Data Retained

When Powered Off?

and marker data) and PRAM

normal user operation

User data is completely sanitized when you perform the backed.

Erase and Sa nitize function. Not battery

Chapter 2 61

Basic Operation Using Security Functions

Table 2-3 Baseband Generator Memory (Options 601 and 602) (Continued)

Memory Type and Size

BBG Firmware Memory (Flash)

32 MB

Coprocessor Memory (SRAM)

32 MB

Buffer Memory (SRAM)

5 x 512 kB

Writ able Dur ing

Norma l Ope ration?

No Yes firmware image for

Yes N o op era t ing m e mor y o f

No No support buffer memor y for

Purpose/Contents Data Input Method Remarks

Data Retained

When Powered Off?

baseband generator

baseband coprocessor CPU

ARB and real- time applications

firmware upgrade

During normal operation, some user information, such as payload data, can remain in the memory.

normal user operation

Table 2-4 Hard Disk Memory

This memory is used during normal baseband generator operation. It is not directly accessible by the user. Not battery backed.

Memory Type and Size

Media Storage (Built- in Hard Disk)

6GB or 10 GB (4 GB usable in both cases)

Buffer Memory (DRAM)

512 kB

Writa ble During

Normal Operation ?

Yes Yes user files, including f latness

No No buffer (cache) memory normal operation

Purpose/Contents Data Input Method Remarks

Data Retained

When Powered Off?

calibrations, IQ calibration, instrument states, waveforms (including header and marker data), modulation definitions, and sweep lists

user-saved data The magnetic residue requires several rewrite

through hard disk

cycles or drive removal and destruction.

The hard disk is an option and is therefore not installed in some instruments. If it is installed, these files are stored on the hard disk instead of in flash memor y.

User data is completely sanitized when you perform the

Erase and Sanitize function.

62 Chapter 2

Basic Operation

Using Security Functions

Removing Sensitive Data from PSG Memory

When moving the PSG from a secure development environment, you can remove any classified proprietary information stored in the instrument. This section describes several security functions you can use to remove sensitive data from your instrument.

Erase All

This function removes all user files, user flatness calibrations, user I/Q calibrations, and resets all table editors with original factory values, ensuring that user data and configurations are not accessible or viewable. The instrument appears as if it is in its original factory state, however, the memory is not sanitized. This action is relatively quick, taking less than one minute.

To carry out this function, press

Utility > Memory Catalog > More (1 of 2) > Security > Erase All > Confirm Erase.

NOTE This function is different than pressing Utility > Memory Catalog > More (1 of 2) > Delete All Files,

which deletes all user files, but does not reset the table editors.

Erase and Overwrite All

This function performs the same actions as Erase All and then clears and overwrites the various memory types in accordance with Department of Defense (DoD) standards, as described below.

SRAM All addressable locations are overwritten with random characters.

CPU Flash All addressable locations are overwritten with random characters and then the flash blocks are erased. This

DRAM All addressable locations are overwritten with random characters.

Hard Disk All addressable locations are overwritten with a single character. (This is insufficient for top secret data,

To carry out this function, press

Confirm Overwrite.

accomplishes the same purpose of a chip erase, however, only the areas that are no longer in use are erased and the factory calibration files are left intact. System files are restored after erase.

according to DoD standards. For top secret data, the hard drive must be removed and destroyed.)

Utility > Memory Catalog > More (1 of 2) > Security > Erase and Overwrite All >

Erase and Sanitize All

This function performs the same actions as Erase and Overwrite All and then adds more overwriting actions. After executing this function, you must manually perform some additional steps for the sanitization to comply with Department of Defense (DoD) standards. These actions and steps are described below.

SRAM

DRAM All addressable locations are overwritten with a single character. You must then power off the instrument to

All addressable locations are overwritten with random characters.

purge the memory contents.

Hard Disk All addressable locations are overwritten with a single character and then a random character. (This is

To carry out this function, press

Chapter 2 63

insufficient for top secret data, according to DoD standards. For top secret data, the hard drive must be removed and destroyed.)

Utility > Memory Catalog > More (1 of 2) > Security > Erase and Sanitize All >

Basic Operation Using Security Functions

Confirm Sanitize.

Removing Persistent State Information Not Removed During Erase

Persistent State

The persistent state settings contain instrument setup information that can be toggled within predefined limits such as display intensity, contrast and the GPIB address. In vector models, the user IQ Cal is also saved in this area.

The following key presses or SCPI commands can be used to clear the IQ cal file and to set the operating states that are not affected by a signal generator power- on, preset, or *RST command to their factory default:

Instrument Setup

• On the front panel, press: Utility > Power On/Preset > Restore System Defaults > Confirm Restore Sys Defaults

• Or send the command: :SYSTem:PRESet:PERSistent

LAN Setup

The LAN setup (hostname, IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway) information is not defaulted with a signal generator power- on or *RST command. This information can only be changed or cleared by entering new data.

User IQ Cal File (Vector Models Only)

When a user-defined IQ calibration has been performed, the cal file data is removed by setting the cal file to default, as follows:

1. On the front panel, press: I/Q > I/Q Calibration > Revert to Default Cal Settings

2. Send these commands:

• :CAL:IQ:DEF

• :CAL:WBIQ:DEF

Using the Secure Mode

The secure mode automatically applies the selected Security Level action the next time the instrument’s power is cycled.

Setting the Secure Mode Level

1. Press Utility > Memory Catalog > More (1 of 2) > Security > Security Level.

2. Choose from the following selections:

None − equivalent to a factory preset, no user information is lost Erase − equivalent to Erase All Overwrite − equivalent to Erase and Overwrite All Sanitize − equivalent to Erase and Sanitize All

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Using Security Functions

Activating the Secure Mode

CAUTION Once you activate secure mode (by pressing Confirm), you cannot deactivate or decrease

the security level; the erasure actions for that security level execute at the next power cycle. Once you activate secure mode, you can only increase the security level until you cycle power. For example, you can change Erase to Overwrite, but not the reverse.

After the power cycle, the security level selection remains the same, but the secure mode is not activated.

Press Utility > Memory Catalog > More (1 of 2) > Security > Enter Secure Mode > Confirm.

The Enter Secure Mode softkey changes to Secure Mode Activated.

If Your Instrument is Not Functioning

If the instrument is not functioning and you are unable to use the security functions, you may physically remove the processor board and hard disk, if installed, from the instrument. Once these assemblies are removed, proceed as follows:

For removal and replacement procedures, refer to the Service Guide.

Processor Board

Either

• Discard the processor board and send the instrument to a repair facility. A new processor board will be installed and the instrument will be repaired and calibrated. If the instrument is still under warranty, you will not be charged for the new processor board.

• If you have another working instrument, install the processor board into that instrument and erase the memory. Then reinstall the processor board back into the non- working instrument and send it to a repair facility for repair and calibration. If you discover that the processor board does not function in the working instrument, discard the processor board and note that it caused the instrument failure on the repair order. If the instrument is still under warranty, you will not be charged for the new processor board.

Hard Disk

Either

• Discard the hard disk and send the instrument to a repair facility. Indicate on the repair order that the hard disk was removed and must be replaced. A new hard disk will be installed and the instrument will be repaired and calibrated. If the instrument is still under warranty, you will not be charged for the new hard disk.

• Keep the hard disk and send the instrument to a repair facility. When the instrument is returned, reinstall the hard disk.

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Basic Operation Enabling Options

Using the Secure Display

This function prevents unauthorized personnel from reading the instrument display and tampering with the current configuration through the front panel. The display is blanked, except for the message *** SECURE DISPLAY ACTIVATED ***, and the front panel keys are disabled. Once this function is activated, the power must be cycled to re- enable the display and front panel keys.

To apply this function, press

Figure 2-11 PSG Screen with Secure Display Activated

Utility > Display > More (1 of 2) > Activate Secure Display > Confirm Secure Display

Enabling Options

You can retrofit your signal generator after purchase to add new capabilities. Some new optional features are implemented in hardware that you must install. Some options are implemented in software, but require the presence of optional hardware in the instrument. This example shows you how to enable software options.

Enabling a Software Option

A license key (provided on the license key certificate) is required to enable each software option.

1. Access the Software Options menu:

Utility > Instrument Adjustments > Instrument Options > Software Options.

The following is an example of the signal generator display, which lists any enabled software options, and any software options that can be enabled:

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Using the Web Server

2. Verify that the host ID shown on the display matches the host ID on the license key certificate. The host ID is a unique number for every instrument. If the host ID on the license key certificate does not match your instrument, the license key cannot enable the software option.

3. Verify that any required hardware is installed. Because some software options are linked to specific hardware options, before the software option can be enabled, the appropriate hardware option must be installed. For example, Option 420 (radar simulation modulation format) requires that Option 601/602 (internal baseband generator) be installed. If the software option that you intend to install is listed in a grey font, the required hardware may not be installed (look for an X in the “Selected” column of the appropriate hardware option in the Hardware Options menu).

4. Enable the software option:

a. Highlight the desired option.

b. Press

Modify License Key, and enter the 12- character license key (from the license key certificate).

c. Verify that you want to reconfigure the signal generator with the new option:

Proceed With Reconfiguration > Confirm Change

The instrument enables the option and reboots.

Using the Web Server

You can communicate with the signal generator using the Web Server. This service uses TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) to communicate with the signal generator over the internet.

The Web Server uses a client/server model where the client is the web browser on your PC or workstation and the server is the signal generator. When you enable the Web Server, you can access a web page that resides on the signal generator.

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Basic Operation Using the Web Server

The Web-Enabled PSG web page, shown in Figure 2-12, provides general information on your signal generator and a means to control the instrument by using a remote front- panel interface or using SCPI (Standard Communication for Programmable Instruments) commands. The web page also has links to Agilent’s products, support, manuals, and website.

Explorer web browser.

The Signal Generator Web Control menu button on the Web-Enabled PSG web page will access a second web page. This web page, shown in Figure 2- 13, provides a virtual instrument interface that can be used to control the signal generator. You can use the mouse to click on the signal generator’s front panel hardkeys, softkeys and number pad. There is also a text box that can be used to send SCPI commands to the instrument.

Activating the Web Server

Perform the following steps to access the Web Server.

1. Turn on the Web Server by pressing

2. Press the

3. Press the

Proceed With Reconfiguration softkey.

Confirm Change (Instrument will Reboot) softkey. The signal generator will reboot.

4. Launch your PC or workstation web browser.

5. Enter the IP address of the signal generator in the web browser address field. For example, http://101.101.101.101. Replace 101.101.101.101 with your signal generator’s IP address. Press the Enter key on the computer’s keyboard.

NOTE The IP (Internet Protocol) address can change depending on your LAN configuration.

Use the LAN Config Manual DHCP softkey to select a Manual or DHCP (dynamic host communication protocol) LAN configuration. Refer to E8257D/67D PSG Signal Generators Key Reference for more information.

6. Press the enter key on the computer’s keyboard. The web browser will display the signal generator’s homepage as shown below in Figure 2- 12. This web page displays information about the signal generator and provides access to Agilent’s website.

Utility > GPIB/RS–232 LAN > LAN Services Setup > Web S erver On.

1. Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corp.

68 Chapter 2

Figure 2-12 Signal Generator Web Page

Basic Operation

Using the Web Server

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Basic Operation Using the Web Server

7. Click the Signal Generator Web Control menu button on the left of the page. A new web page will be displayed as shown below in Figure 2-13.

Figure 2-13 Web Page Front Panel

This web page remotely accesses all signal generator functions and operations. Use the mouse pointer to click on the signal generator’s hardkeys and softkeys. The results of each mouse click selection will be displayed on the web page. For example, click on the Frequency hardkey then use the front- panel key pad to enter a frequency. You can also use the up and down arrow keys to increase or decrease the frequency.

You can use the SCPI Command text box at the bottom of the front-panel display to send commands to the signal generator. Enter a valid SCPI command, then click the SEND button. The results of the command will be displayed on a separate web page titled, “SCPI Command Processed”. You can continue using this web page to enter SCPI commands or you can return to the front panel web page.

NOTE It may be necessary to use the web browser Refresh function if the web page does not

update with new settings.

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3 Basic Digital Operation

This chapter provides information on the functions and features available for the E8267D PSG vector signal generator with Option 601 or 602.

• “Custom Modulation” on page 71

• “Arbitrary (ARB) Waveform File Headers” on page 72

• “Using the Dual ARB Waveform Player” on page 83

• “Using Waveform Markers” on page 88

• “Triggering Waveforms” on page 102

• “Using Waveform Clipping” on page 108

• “Using Waveform Scaling” on page 116

Custom Modulation

For creating custom modulation, the signal generator offers two modes of operation: the Arb Waveform Generator mode and the Real Time I/Q Baseband mode. The Arb Waveform Generator mode has built-in modulation formats such as NADC or GSM and pre-defined modulation types such as BPSK and 16QAM that can be used to create a signal. The Real Time I/Q Baseband mode can be used to create custom data formats using built-in PN sequences or custom-user files along with various modulation types and different built- in filters such as Gaussian or Nyquist.

Both modes of operation are used to build complex, digitally modulated signals that simulate communication standards with the flexibility to modify existing digital formats, define or create digitally modulated signals, and add signal impairments.

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Basic Digital Operation Arbitrary (ARB) Waveform File Headers

Custom Arb Waveform Generator

The signal generator’s Arb Waveform Generator mode is designed for out- of- channel test applications. This mode can be used to generate data formats that simulate random communication traffic and can be used as a stimulus for component testing. Other capabilities of the Arb Waveform Generator mode include:

configuring single or multicarrier signals. Up to 100 carriers can be configured.

creating waveform files using the signal generator’s front panel interface.

The waveform files, when created as random data, can be used as a stimulus for component testing where device performance such as adjacent channel power (ACP) can be measured. The AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM file that is automatically created when you turn the Arb Waveform Generator on can be renamed and stored in the signal generator’s non-volatile memory. This file can later be loaded into volatile memory and played using the Dual ARB waveform player.

For more information, refer to the sections “Using the Dual ARB Waveform Player” on page 83 and

“Modes of Operation” on page 5.

Custom Real Time I/Q Baseband

The real- time mode simulates single- channel communication using user-defined modulation types along with custom FIR filters, and symbol rates. Data can be downloaded from an external source into PRAM memory or supplied as real time data using an external input. The Real Time I/Q Baseband mode can also generate pre- defined data formats such as PN9 or FIX4. A continuous data stream generated in this mode can be used for receiver bit error analysis. This mode is limited to a single carrier. The Real Time I/Q Baseband mode:

has more data and modulation types available than the Arb Waveform Generator mode.

supports custom I/Q constellation formats.

has the capability to generate continuous PN sequences for bit error rate testing (BERT).

needs no waveform build time when signal parameters are changed.

For more information, refer to the custom arb section “Overview” on page 143, the custom real time section “Overview” on page 165 and the section on “Digital Modulation” on page 6.

Arbitrary (ARB) Waveform File Headers

An ARB waveform file header enables you to save instrument setup information (key format settings) along with a waveform. When you retrieve a stored waveform, the header information is applied so that when the waveform starts playing, the dual ARB player is set up the same way each time.

Headers can also store a user-specified 32- character description of the waveform or sequence file.

A default header is automatically created whenever a waveform is generated, a waveform sequence is created, or a waveform file is downloaded to the PSG (for details on downloading files, see the E8257D/67D PSG Signal Generators Programming Guide).

The following signal generator settings are saved in a file header:

•ARB sample clock rate

• Runtime scaling (only in the dual ARB player)

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First-Level Softkey Menu (Some ARB formats

have a second page)

Basic Digital Operation

Marker settings and routing functions (page 88)

—Polarity

—ALC hold

—RF blanking

• High crest mode (only in the dual ARB player)

• Modulator attenuation

• Modulator filter

• I/Q output filter (used when routing signals to the rear panel I/Q outputs)

• Other instrument optimization settings (for files generated by the PSG) that cannot be set by the user.

Creating a File Header for a Modulation Format Waveform

When you turn on a modulation format, the PSG generates a temporary waveform file (AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM), with a default file header. The default header has no signal generator settings saved to it.

This procedure, which is the same for all ARB formats, demonstrates how to create a file header for a Custom digital modulation format.

1. Preset the signal generator.

2. Turn on the Custom modulation format:

Mode > Custom > ARB Waveform Generator > Digital Modulation Off On to On

Press

A default file header is created, and the temporary waveform file (AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM) plays.

Figure 3-1 shows the PSG’s display.

Figure 3-1 Custom Digital Modulation First-Level Softkey Menu

At this point, a default file header has been created, with default (unspecified) settings that do not reflect the current signal generator settings for the active modulation. To save the settings for

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Basic Digital Operation Arbitrary (ARB) Waveform File Headers

the active modulation, you must modify the default settings before you save the header information with the waveform file (see “Modifying Header Information in a Modulation Format”

on page 74).

NOTE Each time an ARB modulation format is turned on, a new temporary waveform file

(AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM) and file header are generated, overwriting the previous temporary file and file header. Because all ARB formats use the same file name, this happens even if the previous AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM file was created by a different ARB modulation format.

Modifying Header Information in a Modulation Format

This procedure builds on the previous procedure, explaining the different areas of a file header, and showing how to access, modify, and save changes to the information.

In a modulation format, you can access a file header only while the modulation format is active (on). This procedure uses the Custom digital modulation format. All ARB modulation formats and the dual ARB player access the file header the same way, except that in some modulation formats, you may have to go to page two of the first-level softkey menu.

1. From the first- level softkey menu (shown in Figure 3- 1 on page 73), open the Header Utilities menu:

ARB Setup > Header Utilities

Press

Figure 3-2 shows the default header for the Custom digital modulation waveform. The

Saved Header Settings column, shows that the signal generator settings for the active format are Unspecified, which means that no settings have been saved to the file header.

NOTE If a setting is unspecified in the file header, the signal generator’s current value for that

setting does not change when you select and play the waveform in the future.

The Current Inst. Settings column shows the current signal generator settings for the active modulation. These settings become the saved header settings when they are saved to the file header (as demonstrated in Step 2).

74 Chapter 3

Figure 3-2 Custom Digital Modulation Default Header Display

Lets you enter/edit the Description field

Clears the Saved Header Settings column to the default settings

Saves the Current Inst. Settings column to the Saved Header Settings column

Current signal generator settings

Page 1

Default Header Settings

Note:

Parameters that are inactive (such as Runtime Scaling) can be set only in the dual ARB player.

Page 2

Arbitrary (ARB) Waveform File Headers

Basic Digital Operation

2. Save the information in the Current Inst. Settings column to the file header:

Save Setup To Header.

Press

Both the Saved Header Settings column and the Current Inst. Settings column now display the same settings; the Saved Header Settings column lists the settings saved in the file header.

The file header contains the following signal generator settings:

32- Character Description:

Sample Rate: The ARB sample clock rate.

Runtime Scaling: The Runtime scaling value. Runtime scaling is applied in real- time while the waveform is playing.

Marker 1...4 Polarity: The marker polarity, positive or negative (described on page 102).

ALC Hold Routing: Which marker, if any, implements the PSG’s ALC hold function (described on page 90).

RF Blank Routing: Which marker, if any, implements the PSG’s RF blanking function (described on page 100).

I/Q Mod Filter: The I/Q modulator filter setting. The modulator filter affects the I/Q signal modulated onto the RF

I/Q Output Filter: The I/Q output filter setting. The I/Q output filter is used for I/Q signals routed to the rear panel

Mod Attenuation: The I/Q modulator attenuation setting.

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A description entered for the header, such as a the waveform’s function (saved/edited with the Edit

Description key, see Figure 3- 2 on page 75).

This setting can be changed only for files in the dual ARB player.

carrier.

I and Q outputs.

Basic Digital Operation Arbitrary (ARB) Waveform File Headers

3. Return to the ARB Setup menu: Press Return.

In the ARB Setup menu (shown in Figure 3-3), you can change the current instrument settings.

Figure 3-3 also shows the softkey paths used in steps four through nine.

4. Set the ARB sample clock to 5 MHz: Press

ARB Sample Clock > 5 > MHz.

5. Set the modulator attenuation to 15 dB:

More (1 of 2) > Modulator Atten n.nn dB Manual Auto to Manual > 15 > dB.

Press

6. Set the I/Q modulation filter to a through:

I/Q Mod Filter Manual Auto to Manual > Through.

Press

7. Set marker one to blank the RF output at the set marker point(s):

More (2 of 2) > Marker Utilities > Marker Routing > Pulse/RF Blank > Marker 1.

Press

For information on setting markers, see “Using Waveform Markers” on page 88.

8. Set the polarity of Marker 1 negative:

Return > Marker Polarity > Marker 1 Polarity Neg Pos to Neg.

Press

9. Return to the Header Utilities menu: Press

Return > Return > Header Utilities.

Notice that the Current Inst. Settings column now reflects the changes made to the current signal generator setup in steps 4 through 8, but that the saved header values have not changed (as shown in Figure 3- 4 on page 78).

10. Save the current settings to the file header: Press

Save Setup To Header softkey.

The settings from the Current Inst. Settings column now appear in the Saved Header Settings column. The file header has been modified and the current instrument settings saved.

This is shown in Figure 3- 5 on page 78.

While a modulation format is active (is on), the waveform file (AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM) plays and you can modify the header information within the active modulation format. Once you turn the modulation format off, the header information is available only through the dual ARB player.

NOTE If you turn the modulation format off and then on, you overwrite the previous

AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM file and its file header. To avoid this, rename the file before you turn the modulation format back on (see page 88).

Storing a waveform file (see page 87) stores the saved header information with the waveform.

76 Chapter 3

Figure 3-3 ARB Setup Softkey Menu and Marker Utilities

Dual ARB Player softkey (it does not appear in the ARB formats)

Arbitrary (ARB) Waveform File Headers

Basic Digital Operation

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Basic Digital Operation

Values differ between the two columns

Page 1

Page 2

Values differ between the two columns

Page 1

Page 2

Arbitrary (ARB) Waveform File Headers

Figure 3-4 Differing Values between Header and Current Setting Columns

Figure 3-5 Saved File Header Changes

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Basic Digital Operation

Storing Header Information for a Dual ARB Player Waveform Sequence

When you create a waveform sequence (described on page 85), the PSG automatically creates a default file header, which takes priority over the headers for the waveform segments that compose the waveform sequence. During a waveform sequence playback, the waveform segment headers are ignored (except to verify that all required options are installed). When you store the waveform sequence, its file header is stored with it.

Modifying and Viewing Header Information in the Dual ARB Player

Once a modulation format is turned off, the waveform file is available only to the dual ARB player. This is also true for downloaded waveform files. Because of this, future edits to a waveform’s header information must be performed using the dual ARB player.

To modify header information in the dual ARB player, the waveform file must be playing in the dual ARB player (although you can view the header information in the dual ARB player without playing the file)

You can reapply saved header settings by reselecting the waveform file for playback. When you do this, the values from the Saved Header Settings column are applied to the PSG.

Modifying Header Information

All of the same header characteristics shown in “Modifying Header Information in a Modulation

Format” on page 74 are valid in the dual ARB player. This task guides you through selecting a

waveform file and accessing the header for the selected file, then refers you back to the aforementioned procedure to perform the modifications.

1. Select a waveform:

a. Press

b. Using the arrow keys, highlight the desired waveform file.

c. Press the

2. Play the waveform: Press

3. Access the header: Press

4. Refer to “Modifying Header Information in a Modulation Format” to edit the header information:

• For a default header, read the information in step one on page 74, then perform the remaining

• To modify an existing file header, start with step three on page 76.

The rest of this section focuses on the additional file header operations found in the dual ARB player.

Mode > Dual ARB > Select Waveform.

Select Waveform softkey.

ARB Off On to On.

ARB Setup > Header Utilities.

steps in the procedure.

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Basic Digital Operation

Header editing softkeys grayed-out

File header information and current signal generator settings

Page 1

Page 2

Note: When the dual ARB player is off, the current instrument settings column does not update; the values displayed may not be valid.

Arbitrary (ARB) Waveform File Headers

Viewing Header Information with the Dual ARB Player Off

One of the differences between a modulation format and the dual ARB player is that even when the dual ARB player is off, you can view a file header. You cannot, however, modify the displayed file header unless the dual ARB player is on, and the displayed header is selected for playback. With the dual ARB player off, perform the following steps.

1. Select a waveform: a. Press

Mode > Dual ARB > Select Waveform.

b. Highlight the desired waveform file. c. Press the

2. Access the file header: Press

Select Waveform softkey.

ARB Setup > Header Utilities.

The header information is now visible in the PSG display. As shown in Figure 3- 6, the header editing softkeys are grayed-out, meaning they are inactive.

Figure 3-6 Viewing Header Information

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Arbitrary (ARB) Waveform File Headers

Current waveform file type

Waveform File Types

Table

Basic Digital Operation

Viewing Header Information for a Different Waveform File

While a waveform is playing in the dual ARB player, you can view the header information of a different waveform file, but you can modify the header information only for the waveform that is currently playing. When you select another waveform file, the header editing softkeys are grayed-out (see Figure 3- 6). This task guides you through the available viewing choices.

1. View the waveform file list: Press

Mode > Dual ARB > ARB Setup > Header Utilities > View Different Header.

As shown in Figure 3- 7, there is an alphabetical list of waveform files in the table.

Figure 3-7 Waveform File List for Viewing a Different Header

2. View all waveform segments in non- volatile memory:

a. Press the

Catalog Type softkey. As shown in Figure 3- 7, you have a choice of three waveform file

types that can be displayed in the table accessed in step one.

NVWFM displays all waveform segments stored in non-volatile memory

Seq displays all waveform sequence files

WFM1 displays all waveform segments stored in volatile memory

b. Press the

3. View a waveform file’s header information: Highlight a file and press the

NVWFM softkey. The table displays the waveform files in non- volatile memory.

View Header softkey.

The header information for the selected waveform file appears in the PSG display. If there is a waveform playing, its header information is replaced by this information, but the waveform settings used by the signal generator do not change. To return to the header information for the playing waveform, either press

View Header, or

press

Return > Header Utilities.

press

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View Different Header, select the current playing waveform file, and

Basic Digital Operation

Header setting same as preset setting

Header setting applied

Summary Display

The waveform is selected;

saved header settings are

applied.

Can change when a waveform is selected

Summary Display

The waveform is not selected;

preset settings are applied.

Arbitrary (ARB) Waveform File Headers

Playing a Waveform File that Contains a Header

After a waveform file (AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM) is generated in a modulation format and the format is turned off, the file becomes accessible to and can only be played back by the dual ARB player. This is true for downloaded waveform files (downloading files is described in the E8257D/67D PSG Signal Generators Programming Guide). When the waveform is selected for playback, the saved header information is used by the signal generator. Some of these settings appear as part of the labels of the softkeys used to set the parameters, and also appear on the dual ARB summary display (see Figure

3- 8).

NOTE The signal generator used to play back a stored waveform file must have the same options as

are required to generate the file.

For details on applying file header settings and playing back a waveform, see “Playing a Waveform”

on page 86.

To properly set up the instrument:

1. Select the waveform.

2. Modify the signal generator settings as desired.

3. Turn on the dual ARB.

Figure 3-8 File Header Settings

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Using the Dual ARB Waveform Player

Basic Digital Operation

Using the Dual ARB Waveform Player

The dual arbitrary (ARB) waveform player is used to create, edit, and play waveform files. There are two types of waveform files: segments and sequences. A segment is a waveform file that is created using one of the signal generator’s pre- defined ARB formats. A sequence can be described as several segments strung together to create one waveform file. Waveform files can also be created remotely using another signal generator or using computer programs and downloaded to the PSG for playback by the Dual ARB waveform player. For information on downloading waveforms, refer to the E8257D/67D PSG Signal Generators Programming Guide.

A waveform file is automatically generated whenever an ARB modulation format is turned on. This automatically generated file is named AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM. Because this default file name is shared among all ARB formats, it must be renamed if you want to save the information. If the file is not renamed, it will be overwritten when another ARB format is turned on.

The Dual ARB waveform player provides markers (page 88), triggering (page 102), and clipping (page 108) capabilities.

Before you can work with any waveform file, it must reside in volatile memory. The signal generator has two types of memory, WFM1 (volatile waveform memory) and NVWFM (non- volatile waveform memory). A newly generated waveform file (AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM), created when the Arb Waveform Generator is turned on, initially resides in WFM1. If you want to save this file, rename it and store it in NVWFM. Load a stored waveform file from NVWFM into volatile memory (WFM1) where it can be edited or played by the ARB waveform player. Refer to “Custom Modulation” on page 71 for more information.

Accessing the Dual ARB Player

Press Mode > Dual ARB.

his first- level softkey menu is shown in the following figure. Most procedures start from this menu.

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Basic Digital Operation Using the Dual ARB Waveform Player

Creating Waveform Segments

There are two ways to provide waveform segments for use by the waveform sequencer. You can either download a waveform via the remote interface, or generate a waveform using one of the ARB modulation formats. For information on downloading waveforms via the remote interface, see the E8257D/67D PSG Signal Generators Programming Guide.

A waveform sequence is made up of segments but can also contain other sequences. Any number of segments, up to 32768, can be used to create a sequence. This limit count is determined by the number of segments in the waveform sequence. Segments and sequences can be repeated within a waveform sequence and the total of all segments and repeated segments cannot exceed the limit count. The following diagram shows a waveform sequence made up of two sequences and three segments. In this example the segment count is eleven.

Figure 3-9 Waveform Sequence Diagram

The following procedure describes how to create two waveform segments, then name and store them in ARB memory. After you name and store the two waveform segments in ARB memory, you can use them to build a waveform sequence, as described on page 85.

1. Generate the first waveform:

a. Press Preset > b. Press

Tw o Ton e O f f O n to On, then to Off.

Mode > Two To n e > Alignment Left Cent Right to Right.

You turn off the Two Tone mode after generation because a waveform cannot be renamed as a segment while it is in use.

This generates a two tone waveform with the tone on the right placed at the carrier frequency. During waveform generation, the T-TONE and I/Q annunciators activate. The waveform is stored in volatile memory, with the default file name AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM.

NOTE Because there can be only one AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM waveform in memory at any given time,

you must rename this file to clear the way for a second waveform.

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Basic Digital Operation

2. Create the first waveform segment:

a. Press

Mode > Dual ARB > Waveform Segments > Load Store to Store.

b. Highlight the default segment AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM. c. Press

Rename Segment > Editing Keys > Clear Text.

d. Enter a file name (for example, TTONE), and press Enter > Store Segment To NVWFM Memory.

This renames the waveform segment, and stores a copy in non volatile memory.

3. Generate the second waveform:

a. Press

Mode > Multitone > Initialize Table > Number Of Tones > 9 > Enter > Done.

b. Press Multitone Off On to On, then Off.

Remember that a waveform cannot be renamed as a segment while it is in use.

This generates a multitone waveform with nine tones. During waveform generation, the M-TONE and I/Q annunciators activate. The waveform is stored in volatile memory with the default file name AUTOGEN_WAVEFORM.

4. Create the second waveform segment:

Repeat Step 2, giving this segment a descriptive name (for example, MTONE).

Building and Storing a Waveform Sequence

This example shows how to build and edit a waveform sequence using the two waveform segments created on page 84. To use a segment in a sequence, the segment must reside in volatile memory; for information on loading waveform segments from non volatile to volatile memory, see page 87.

1. Select the waveform segments:

Define a sequence as one repetition of the two- tone waveform segment followed by one repetition of the nine- tone multitone waveform segment.

a. Press

b. Highlight the a waveform segment (for example, TTONE) and press

c. Highlight a second waveform segment (for example, MTONE) and press

d. Press

2. Optional: Enable markers as desired for the segments in the new sequence: see page 97.

3. Name and store the waveform sequence to the Catalog of Seq Files in the memory catalog:

a. Press

b. Enter a file name (for example, TTONE+MTONE).

c. Press

Mode > Dual ARB > Waveform Sequences > Build New Waveform Sequence > Insert Waveform.

Insert Selected Waveform.

Done Inserting

Name and Store.

Enter.

Chapter 3 85

Basic Digital Operation Using the Dual ARB Waveform Player

Playing a Waveform

This procedure applies to playing either a waveform segment or a waveform sequence. This example plays the waveform sequence created in the previous procedure.

1. Select a waveform sequence:

a. Press

Mode > Dual ARB > Select Waveform.

b. Highlight a waveform sequence (for this example, TTONE+MTONE) from the Sequence column of

the Select Waveform catalog, and press

Select Waveform.

The display shows the currently selected waveform (for example, Selected Waveform: SEQ:TTONE+MTONE).

2. Generate the waveform:

ARB Off On to On.

Press

This plays the selected waveform sequence. During the waveform sequence generation, the ARB and I/Q annunciators activate.

Editing a Waveform Sequence

This example shows how to edit waveform segments within a waveform sequence, and then save the edited sequence under a new name. Within the editing display, you can change the number of times each segment plays (the repetitions), delete segments, add segments, toggle markers (described on

page 97), and save changes.

NOTE If you do not store changes to the waveform sequence prior to exiting the waveform

sequence editing display, the changes are removed.

1. Press Waveform Se quences > Edit Selected Waveform Sequence, and highlight the first entry.

2. Press

3. Press

Edit Repetitions > 100 > Enter. The second segment is automatically selected.

Edit Repetitions > 200 > Enter.

4. Save the edited file as a new waveform sequence:

a. Press

b. Press

c. Press

Name And Store.

Editing Keys > Clear Text, then enter a new file name (for example, TTONE100+MTONE200).

Enter.

You have now changed the number of repetitions for each waveform segment entry from 1 to 100 and 200, respectively. The sequence has been stored under a new name to the Catalog of Seq Files in the signal generator’s memory catalog.

For information on playing a waveform sequence, refer to page 86.

Adding Real-Time Noise to a Dual ARB Waveform

The signal generator with option 403 can apply AWGN (additive white gaussian noise) to a carrier in real time while the modulating waveform file is being played by the Dual ARB waveform player. The AWGN can be configured using front- panel softkeys. The specify the amount of noise power relative to carrier power that is applied to the signal. The

86 Chapter 3

Carrier to Noise Ratio softkey allows you to

Carrier

Agilent Technologies E8257D PSG, E8267D PSG User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Documentation Overview

1 Signal Generator Overview

Signal Generator Models and Features

E8257D PSG Analog Signal Generator Features

E8267D PSG Vector Signal Generator Features

Options

Firmware Upgrades

To Upgrade Firmware

Modes of Operation

Continuous Wave

Swept Signal

Analog Modulation

Digital Modulation

Front Panel

1. Display

2. Softkeys

3. Knob

4. Amplitude

5. Frequency

6. Save

7. Recall

8. Trigger

9. MENUS

10. Help

11. EXT 1 INPUT

12. EXT 2 INPUT

13. LF OUTPUT

14. Mod On/Off

15. ALC INPUT

16. RF On/Off

17. Numeric Keypad

18. RF OUTPUT

19. SYNC OUT

20. VIDEO OUT

21. Incr Set

22. GATE/ PULSE/ TRIGGER INPUT

23. Arrow Keys

24. Hold

25. Return

26. Contrast Decrease

27. Contrast Increase

28. Local

29. Preset

30. Line Power LED

31. LINE

32. Standby LED

33. SYMBOL SYNC

34. DATA CLOCK

35. DATA

36. Q Input

37. I Input

Front Panel Display

1. Active Entry Area

2. Frequency Area

3. Annunciators

4. Digital Modulation Annunciators

5. Amplitude Area

6. Error Message Area

7. Text Area

8. Softkey Label Area

Rear Panel

1. EVENT 1

2. EVENT 2

3. PATTERN TRIG IN

4. BURST GATE IN

5. AUXILIARY I/O

6. DIGITAL BUS

7. Q OUT

8. I OUT

9. WIDEBAND I INPUTS

10. I-bar OUT

11. WIDEBAND Q INPUTS

12. COH CARRIER

13. 1 GHz REF OUT (Serial Prefixes >=US4646/MY4646)

14. Q-bar OUT

15. AC Power Receptacle