Anritsu MA244 User Manual
User Guide
MA244xxA Microwave USB Peak Power Sensors
Anritsu Company
490 Jarvis Drive
Morgan Hill, CA 95037-2809
USA
http://www.anritsu.com
Part Number: 10585-00033
©Copyright 2021 Anritsu Company
Published: February 2021
Revision: C
Unauthorized Use or Disclosure
Anritsu Company has prepared the product user documentation for use by Anritsu Company personnel and
customers as a guide for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of Anritsu Company equipment and
software programs. The drawings, specifications, and information contained therein are the property of Anritsu
Company, and any unauthorized use of these drawings, specifications, and information is prohibited; they shall not be
reproduced, copied, or used in whole or in part as the basis for manufacture or sale of the equipment or software
programs without the prior written consent of Anritsu Company.
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Front-2 PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C MA244xxA UG
Table of Contents
Chapter 1—General Information
1-1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Additional Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1-2 Manual Organization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1-3 Instrument Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
1-4 Architecture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1-5 Instrument Care and Preventive Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Connector Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
ESD Caution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
1-6 Contacting Anritsu for Sales and Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Chapter 2—Installation
2-1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2-2 Unpacking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2-3 Repacking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2-4 Installing MA244xxA Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Chapter 3—Getting Started
3-1 MA244xxA Input Power Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3-2 Connecting the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3-3 Status LED Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
3-4 Starting the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Dockable Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Available Resources Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Virtual Power Analyzer Main Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Trace View Window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Virtual Power Analyzer Lower Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
Channel Control Window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
Time / Trigger Settings Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14
Marker Settings Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
Pulse Definitions Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16
Stat Mode Control Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Automatic Measurements Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18
Display (Graph) Settings Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20
CCDF View Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-21
Statistical Measurements Window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-22
Chapter 4—Operation
4-1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
4-2 The Trace View Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
The Main Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
MA244xxA UG PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C Contents-1
Table of Contents (Continued)
Time/Trigger Control Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Channel Control Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-10
Automatic Measurements Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Pulse Definitions Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-19
Marker Settings Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20
Statistical CCDF Graph Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-22
Statistical Mode Control Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
Statistical Measurements Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
Meter View Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
Acquisition Status Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27
Archiving Measurement Setups. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27
4-3 Multichannel Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29
Multichannel Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29
4-4 Data Buffer Mode (API Remote Programming Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-33
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-34
Data Buffer Mode Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-35
Data Buffer Mode User Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-38
Chapter 5—Making Measurements
5-1 Pulse Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Pulse Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Standard IEEE Pulse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
5-2 Marker Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
5-3 Automatic Statistical Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Contents-2 PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C MA244xxA UG
Chapter 1 — General Information
1-1 Introduction
The MA244xxA Microwave USB Peak Power Sensors (MA244xxA Peak Power Sensorss) are designed to
provide accurate, peak-power measurements from 50 MHz to 6 GHz, 18 GHz, and 40 GHz with up to 80 dB of
dynamic range and 195 MHz of video bandwidth. The sensors employ real-time processing, a unique parallel
processing methodology that performs the multi-step process of RF power measurement. While conventional
power meters and USB sensors perform steps serially resulting in long re-arm times and missed data,
Anritsu’s MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors capture, display, and measure every pulse, glitch, and detail with
virtually no gaps in data and with zero latency.
Before You Begin
Read the Anritsu Power Meters, Power Sensors, and Power Analyzer Product Information, Compliance, and
Safety Guide (PN: 10100-00066) for important safety, legal, and regulatory notices before operating the
equipment.
Additional Documentation
Table 1-1. Related Manuals
Document Part Number Description
10100-00066 Important Product Information, Compliance, and Safety Notices
11410-01127 Microwave USB Peak Power Sensors Technical Data Sheet
10585-00034 Programming Manual
For additional information and literature covering your product, visit the product page of your instrument and
select the Library tab: https://www.anritsu.com/en-us/test-measurement/products/ma24400a
1-2 Manual Organization
This User Manual provides the information needed to install, operate, and maintain the MA244xxA Peak
Power Sensors.
The manual is organized into these seven chapters:
Chapter 1, “General Information” presents summary descriptions of the sensors and their principal features,
accessories, and options. Also included are specifications for the instrument.
Chapter 2, “Installation” provides instructions for unpacking the sensor, setting it up for operation, connecting
power, and signal cables, and initial power-up.
Chapter 3, “Getting Started” describes the basic operation of the Microwave Peak Power Sensors and the
Power Analyzer Software.
Chapter 4, “Operation” describes, in detail, the Graphical User Interface (GUI) of the Power Analyzer Software
and the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors.
Chapter 5, “Making Measurements” provides definitions for key terms used in this manual and on the GUI
displays, as well as methodologies used to calculate automated pulse, marker, and statistical measurements.
MA244xxA UG PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C 1-1
1-3 Instrument Description General Information
1-3 Instrument Description
This modular product line offers speed and accuracy in a USB form-factor. The new line includes 6, 18 and 40
GHz models, and measures wideband modulated signals.
The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors are the latest series of products from Anritsu that turn your PC or laptop
using a standard USB 2.0 port into a state-of-the-art peak power analyzer without the need for any other
instrument. Power measurements from the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors can be displayed on your computer
or can be integrated into a test system with a set of user-defined software functions.
The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors include the models MA24406A, MA24408A, MA24418A, MA24440A,
MA24419A, and MA24441A. Collectively, they cover a frequency range of 50 MHz to 40 GHz and offer
broadband measurements with rise times as fast as 3 ns, time resolution of 100 ps, and video bandwidths up to
195 MHz.
The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors enable rapid-pulse integrity determinations. Effective sampling rate is up
to one hundred times faster than conventional power sensors. This makes finer waveform details visible. The
sensors perform automatic capture of pulse power, overshoot, droop, edge delay, skew timing, and edge
transition times.
The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors have exceptional trigger stability—of less than 100 ps trigger jitter
regardless of the trigger source—which yields greater waveform detail because a stable trigger point yields a
stable waveform. Using dedicated trigger circuitry rather than software-based, triggering provides precise
time-stamping of relative trigger-to-sample delay. This precision permits the use of random interleaved
sampling (RIS) for repetitive waveforms. This results in an effective sampling rate of 10 GS/s, which permits
accurate, direct-measurement of fast timing events without requiring interpolation between samples.
Real-time processing offers new possibilities for power integrity measurements because every pulse is analyzed
and none are discarded. Trace acquisition, averaging, and envelope times are drastically reduced, resulting in
simultaneous analysis of average, peak, and minimum power values.
The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors are supported by the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer, a Windows-based
software package that provides control and readout of the sensors. It is an easy-to-use program that provides
both time and statistical domain views of power waveforms with variable peak hold and persistence views. It
supports power measurements using automated pulse and statistical measurements, power level, and timing
markers. The GUI application is easily configured with dockable or floating windows and measurement tables
that can be edited to show only the measurements of interest.
The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors are ideal for manufacturing, design, research, and service in commercial
and military applications such as telecommunications, avionics, RADAR, and medical systems. They are the
instrument of choice for fast, accurate, and highly-reliable RF power measurements, equally suitable for
product development, compliance testing, and site-monitoring applications.
1-2 PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C MA244xxA UG
General Information 1-4 Architecture
1-4 Architecture
The sensor functions as an ultra-fast, calibrated, power-measurement tool, which acquires and computes the
instantaneous, average, and peak RF power of a modulated, wideband RF signal. The internal A/D converter
samples the detected RF signal at up to 100 megasamples/second (MSa/s), and a digital signal processor carries
out the work of forming the digital samples into a correctly scaled and calibrated trace on the display.
Figure 1-1 shows a block diagram of the peak power sensor.
Figure 1-1. MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors Block Diagram
The first and most critical stage of a peak power sensor is the detector, which removes the RF carrier signal
and outputs the amplitude of the modulating signal. The width of the detector’s video bandwidth dictates the
sensor’s ability to track the power envelope of the RF signal. The image on the left of Figure 1-2 shows how a
detector with insufficient bandwidth is unable to track the signal’s envelope effectively, affecting the accuracy
of the power measurement.
The image on the right shows sufficient video bandwidth to track the envelope accurately. The fast detectors
used in peak-power sensors are by their nature non-linear, so shaping procedures within the digital processor
must be used to linearize their response. When measuring instantaneous peak power, a high-sample rate is
important to ensure that no information is lost. The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors have a sample rate of 100
MS/s, enabling capture and analysis of power versus time waveforms at a very high resolution.
Figure 1-2. Comparison of Bandwidth Detectors
MA244xxA UG PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C 1-3
1-5 Instrument Care and Preventive Maintenance General Information
1-5 Instrument Care and Preventive Maintenance
Instrument care and preventive maintenance consist of proper operation in a suitable environment, occasional
cleaning of the instrument, and inspecting and cleaning the RF connectors and all accessories before use.
Clean the instrument with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with water or water and a mild cleaning solution.
Caution To avoid damaging the display or case, do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.
Connector Care
Clean the RF connectors and center pins with a cotton swab dampened with denatured alcohol. Visually
inspect the connectors. The fingers of the N(f) connectors and the pins of the N(m) connectors should be
unbroken and uniform in appearance. If you are unsure whether the connectors are undamaged, gauge the
connectors to confirm that the dimensions are correct. Visually inspect the test port cable(s). The test port
cable should be uniform in appearance and not stretched, kinked, dented, or broken.
To prevent damage to your instrument, do not use pliers or a plain wrench to tighten the Type-N connectors.
The recommended torque is 12 lbf·in (1.35 N · m). The recommended torque for K connectors (2.92 mm) is
8 lbf·in (0.9 N·m). Inadequate torque settings can affect measurement accuracy. Over-tightening connectors
can damage the cable, the connector, the instrument, or all of these items.
Visually inspect connectors for general wear, cleanliness, and for damage such as bent pins or connector rings.
Repair or replace damaged connectors immediately. Dirty connectors can limit the accuracy of your
measurements. Damaged connectors can harm the instrument. Connection of cables carrying an electrostatic
potential, excess power, or excess voltage can damage the connector, the instrument, or both.
Connecting Procedure
1. Carefully align the connectors. The male connector center pin must slip concentrically into the contact
fingers of the female connector.
2. Align and push connectors straight together. Do not twist or screw them together. A slight resistance can
usually be felt as the center conductors mate.
3. To tighten, turn the connector nut, not the connector body. Major damage can occur to the center
conductor and to the outer conductor if the connector body is twisted.
4. If you use a torque wrench, initially tighten by hand so that approximately 1/8 turn or 45 degrees of
rotation remains for the final tightening with the torque wrench.
Relieve any side pressure on the connection (such as from long or heavy cables) in order to assure
consistent torque. Use an open-end wrench to keep the connector body from turning while tightening
with the torque wrench.
Do not over-torque the connector.
Disconnecting Procedure
1. If a wrench is needed, use an open-end wrench to keep the connector body from turning while loosening
with a second wrench.
2. Complete the disconnection by hand, turning only the connector nut.
3. Pull the connectors straight apart without twisting or bending.
1-4 PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C MA244xxA UG
General Information 1-6 Contacting Anritsu for Sales and Service
ESD Caution
The MA244xxA power sensors, like other high performance instruments, are susceptible to electrostatic
discharge (ESD) damage. Coaxial cables and antennas often build up a static charge, which (if allowed to
discharge by connecting directly to the instrument without discharging the static charge) may damage the
MA244xxA input circuitry. Instrument operators must be aware of the potential for ESD damage and take all
necessary precautions.
Operators should exercise practices outlined within industry standards such as JEDEC-625 (EIA-625),
MIL-HDBK-263, and MIL-STD-1686, which pertain to ESD and ESDS devices, equipment, and practices.
Because these apply to the MA244xxA power sensors, it is recommended that any static charges that may be
present be dissipated before making connection. It is important to remember that the operator may also carry
a static charge that can cause damage. Following the practices outlined in the above standards will ensure a
safe environment for both personnel and equipment.
1-6 Contacting Anritsu for Sales and Service
Customers having questions or equipment problems should visit this website and select the services in your
region: http://www.anritsu.com/contact-us.
MA244xxA UG PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C 1-5
1-6 Contacting Anritsu for Sales and Service General Information
1-6 PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C MA244xxA UG
Chapter 2 — Installation
1
2
6
5 4 3
2-1 Introduction
This chapter contains unpacking and repacking instructions, installation instructions for the software, and
power requirements for the sensors.
2-2 Unpacking
Caution
The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors are shipped complete and are ready to use upon receipt. Verify the items
in your power sensor package as shown in Figure 2-1, If any of the items are missing or damaged, refer to
contact Anritsu Customer Service.
Follow all ESD (electro-static discharge) precautions and procedures when handling, connecting, or
disconnecting the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors.
1. Calibration Certificate
2. Information Card
3. MA244xxA Power Sensor
Figure 2-1. MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors Kit
4. USB Type-A Cable (6 ft)
5. External Trigger Multi-I/O Cable (SMB to BNC)
6. Trigger Sync Cable (SMB to SMB)
2-3 Repacking
When repacking the sensor, use the original packing materials or equivalent.
MA244xxA UG PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C 2-1
2-4 Installing MA244xxA Software Installation
2-4 Installing MA244xxA Software
This section describes the installation and use of the MA244xxA USB Peak Power Sensor software. Before you
start, check your computer for compatibility against these minimum computer characteristics:
Caution
• Processor: 1.3 GHz or higher, recommended
• RAM: 512 MB (1 GB or more, recommended)
• Operating System:
• Hard-disk free space: 1.0 GB free space to install or run
• Display resolution: 800x600 (1280x1024 or higher, recommended)
• Interface: USB 2.0 high-speed
Installation Procedure
MA244xxA provides a PC User Interface for making Peak Power Measurements.
To install the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer software:
1. Download the latest MA244xxA USB Peak Power Sensor software from the Anritsu Website:
https://www.anritsu.com/en-us/test-measurement/support/downloads/software/dwl19784
2. Click Download
3. Select Run to start the installation.
4. Click through the installation screens. The installation creates a folder on the users PC that is located
here: C:\Program Files (x86)\MA24400A Peak Power Analyzer. Open the folder to launch
AnritsuPowerAnalyzer.exe. Once launched, the MA244xxA PC User Interface will appear as shown in
Figure 2-2.
Do not connect the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors to your PC until you have installed the
MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer software.
• Microsoft® Windows® 10
• Microsoft® Windows® 8 (32-bit and 64-bit)
• Microsoft® Windows® 7 (32-bit and 64-bit)
Figure 2-2. MA244xxA PC Interface Display
2-2 PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C MA244xxA UG
Chapter 3 — Getting Started
This chapter provides MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors basic connection and operation. For a detailed
functional description, see Chapter 4, “Operation."
3-1 MA244xxA Input Power Requirements
The MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors require 2.5 Watts at 5 Volts, this is supplied via a USB port. Therefore,
power sensor MUST be connected to a USB 2.0 compatible port that is able to supply 500 mA.
Usually a USB 2.0 port is capable of supplying 500 mA current through its port. When an
Note
3-2 Connecting the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors
The rear panel of the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors, shown in Figure 3-1, has two connectors and a status
LED. The larger connector is a USB Type B receptacle used to connect the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors to
the host computer. The connector labeled MULTI I/O is an SMB plug and can serve as a trigger input, a status
output, or as a trigger-synchronizing interconnection when multiple MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors are used.
un-powered USB hub is used (sometimes the hub is internal), available current may need to be
shared between connected devices.
Figure 3-1. The Power Sensor Rear Panel
Note
Caution
To connect the sensor to the PC and to an RF source:
MA244xxA UG PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C 3-1
The MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer software must be installed prior to connecting the sensor but
should not be started until the sensor is connected.
Follow all ESD (electrostatic discharge) precautions and procedures when handling, connecting, or
disconnecting the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors.
3-1 MA244xxA Input Power Requirements Getting Started
1. Connect the power sensor to your PC with the supplied USB cable. The cable should be secured
(hand-tight only) to the sensor using the captive screw on the USB plug. See Figure 3-2
Figure 3-2. Captive Screw for the USB Cable
2. Connect the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors to the RF signal to be measured. All MA244xxA Peak
Power Sensors models are equipped with either a precision Type-N male RF connector (for applications
up to 20 GHz) or a precision 2.92 mm male RF connector (for applications up to 40 GHz).
Use the connecting and disconnecting procedures described in “Instrument Care and Preventive
Maintenance” on page 1-4.
Caution
Do not exceed the specified RF input power as specified on the front label. See Figure 3-3 for
location of this information.
Ensure that you do not apply any excessive forces to the sensor after it is connected.
Figure 3-3. MA24406A With N-Type Connector
3. Connect additional sensors according to your needs. See “Multichannel Operation” on page 4-29 for
connection schemes for multichannel situations.
Up to eight sensors can be connected to the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer.
4. Start the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer. Refer to “Starting the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer”.
3-2 PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C MA244xxA UG
Getting Started 3-3 Status LED Codes
No Power
Init Fault
Free Runing
Triggered
Auto Triggered
3-3 Status LED Codes
The rear panel shown in Figure 3-1 on page 3-1 includes a status LED. The color and flash pattern indicate the
sensor’s status as indicated on the label on the side panel shown in Figure 3-4.
Figure 3-4. Information Labels on the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors
The information labels (see Figure 3-3 and Figure 3-4) on the MA244xxA Peak Power Sensors contain
information on the maximum input power levels and a description of the various status LED flash patterns.
Table 3-1. LED Status Indicators
Icon Description
No Power: No input power detected.
Init Fault: Initialize meter setting failed.
Free Running: Generating horizontal sweeps asynchronously, without
regard to trigger conditions.
Triggered: Indicates a preset triggered condition has occurred.
Auto Triggered: Automatically generates a trace if no trigger edges are
detected for a period of time.
MA244xxA UG PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C 3-3
3-4 Starting the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Getting Started
Armed
Stopped
Overload
Cmd Error
Tab le 3- 1 . LED Status Indicators
Icon Description
Armed: Meter is armed and waiting for trigger event.
Stopped: Measurement Stopped.
Overload: Input power is too high. Reduce input power.
Cmd Error: Command Error return. Measurement is not valid.
3-4 Starting the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer
After you have installed the software and connected the power sensor to the PC, you are ready to make
measurements using the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer.
To start making measurements:
1. Start the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer by double-clicking the desktop icon.
Figure 3-5. MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Desktop Icon
A splash screen welcomes you to the application.
3-4 PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C MA244xxA UG
Getting Started 3-4 Starting the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer
If no sensors are connected, the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer displays the No resources available
message as shown in Figure 3-6. If this is the case, close the analyzer, connect one or more sensors and
restart the analyzer.
Figure 3-6. No Resources View Available
With a sensor connected, the Available Resources window shows a list of the connected devices
Figure 3-7. Available Resources Box
2. In the Available Resources window, check select boxes for one or more connected sensors.
Figure 3-8. Selecting a Sensor from the Available Resources List
MA244xxA UG PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C 3-5
3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics Getting Started
3. Click New Virtual Pwr Analyzer. This launches a new Virtual Power Analyzer instance containing trace
and control panels, and adds the Virtual Power Analyzer name to the Available Resource entries.
Figure 3-9. The Available Resources Box Shows Assigned Devices
4. If you have an RF signal connected to the USB sensor, the measured signal's waveform appears in the
trace window.
Figure 3-10. Initial View of the Virtual Power Analyzer
A Virtual Power Analyzer is analogous to a bench-top RF power analyzer with one or more sensors connected.
Time and trigger controls are typically common to all sensors within a MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer, while
channel-specific controls are available for most other settings. This offers users the familiar, multi-channel
approach common to power meters and oscilloscopes.
When independent control of timebase-related settings is desired, you may open multiple MA244xxA Peak
Power Analyzer windows, each with their own sets of controls.
3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics
Dockable Windows
The MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer uses dockable windows that allow you to arrange the various windows
into the configuration of your choice. You can drag a docked window by clicking its title bar. This action enables
them to move the window to a different docked position or undock it.
To dock tool windows:
1. Click and hold the title bar of the tool window you want to dock.
2. Start dragging the window.
Guide arrows appear pointing toward the four sides of the main window.
3-6 PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C MA244xxA UG
Getting Started 3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics
3. When the tool window you are dragging reaches the location where you want to dock it, move the pointer
over the corresponding portion of the guide diamond. The designated area is shaded blue.
Figure 3-11. Docking a Window
4. To dock the window in the position indicated, release the mouse button.
Figure 3-12. Docking a Window to the Right-side of the Main Window
Each of the tool windows may be positioned by dragging in any direction within the main window.
Note
Figure 3-11 on page 3-7 is one example; but you can rearrange tool windows as you prefer to see
them within the main software window or onto the desktop; Figure 3-13 shows this.
5. Docked windows can be overlapped. By selecting individual tabs, it is possible to resize and reposition
each tool window.
MA244xxA UG PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C 3-7
3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics Getting Started
6. Docked windows can also be moved partially or completely out of the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer
main window.
Figure 3-13. Partial Window Repositioning
Available Resources Window
Sensors can be selected from the Available Resources window. A description for each connected resource
indicates the hardware version, model, and channel information, including alias. Users can select up to eight
resources per Virtual Power Analyzer instance. After selecting sensors, click New Virtual Pwr Analyzer and a
new Virtual Power Analyzer instance opens for those sensors with default configurations suitable for pulse
measurements.
Figure 3-14. Selecting a Sensor Using the Available Resources Box
3-8 PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C MA244xxA UG
Getting Started 3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics
Virtual Power Analyzer Main Toolbar
Each Virtual Power Analyzer window displays a main toolbar at the top of its window which hosts shortcuts to
commonly used functions and measurement modes. The main toolbar is subdivided into smaller toolbars by
function; the order of tools in each toolbar may be customized or the groups may be dragged and dropped as
needed to provide more usable arrangements.
Toolbar Tool Description
Measurement Control CCDF Opens the CCDF window
(Complementary Cumulative Distribution
Function)
Trace Opens the trace window
Auto Meas Opens the auto measurement window
Statistical Meas Opens the stat measurement window
Meter Opens the meter view
Acquisition Control Run Starts a capture
Stop Stops a capture
Single Performs a single sweep
Clear Clears measurement buffer
Init Initializes meter settings
Control Windows Time/Trig Views time and trigger settings
Channel Views channel controls
Mark Opens marker control form
Pulse Def Opens pulse definition editor
Stat Cntl Opens stat mode control editor
Memory Channel
Swap/Change Swaps the USB power meter for a channel
Save Mem Channel Saves (archives) a memory channel
Recall Mem Channel Loads an archived memory channel
Figure 3-15. Main Toolbar Toolbars
MA244xxA UG PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C 3-9
3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics Getting Started
With each of these tools is associated a dialog; these are described in Chapter 4 in more detail. When several
are open simultaneously you can switch between them using the shortcuts at the bottom of the dialog.
Figure 3-16. Toolbar Shortcuts: Left View is Docked; Right View is Undocked.
3-10 PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C MA244xxA UG
Getting Started 3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics
Trace Group
Trigger Group
Trace View Window
To display a pulse measurement, select the Trace button from the Measurement toolbar. This is the default
view for a Virtual Power Analyzer instance.
The Channel and Time/Trig(ger) settings are related to pulse measurement can be selected from the Control
toolbar and can be applied to the measurement.
Figure 3-17. The Trace, Channel, and Time/Trigger Buttons
A Virtual Power Analyzer instance, in a configuration suitable for pulse measurements, is shown in
Figure 3-18. This shows a large trace window, automatic measurements, and a tabbed control box for time and
channel settings.
Figure 3-18. Main Application Window of the MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer
The Virtual Power Analyzer allows you to directly enter numeric values for most settings in the Channel
Control and Time/Trigger windows. For many of the controls, additional methods such as increment/decrement
or preset buttons are available.
MA244xxA UG PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C 3-11
3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics Getting Started
Virtual Power Analyzer Lower Toolbar
Trace Pan and Zoom
The mouse can be used to select a zoom area to view detail in an area of interest on the displayed waveform.
The highlighted dragged rectangular area indicates the minimum area that will be shown when the zoom
operation completes.
Horizontal pan or zoom adjusts the timebase (within preset values) and the trigger delay to highlight an area
of interest without vertical rescaling.
You can also directly pan or zoom to waveform areas of interest by selecting any option from the lower toolbar
of the trace window. Available options for zoom/pan control are: Horizontal & Vertical, Horizontal, Pan and
None.
Clicking the Trace View display, dragging a zoom box, and releasing the mouse button results in the trace being
expanded to show the area outlined by the zoom indicators.
AutoSet
The Auto Set button tries to configure level scaling, trigger level, and timing for a best-fit display based upon
amplitude and timing of the applied signal. All other parameters are set to defaults. If the Auto Set process
fails, all settings are left untouched.
You can undo or redo an action with the undo and redo buttons.
Trace Data Export
Any trace window can be exported and saved or printed as a PDF or CSV document by selecting PDF or CSV
from the Export drop-down menu. An exported trace file can easily be imported into a spreadsheet or other
report file or documentation.
Channel Control Window
Select the Channel button of the Trigger group and a dockable sidebar appears, by default, on the right-hand
side of the main application window. This allows you to change all the related settings that control one or more
sensor channels. The Channel Control is defined by these parameters.
Figure 3-19. Channel Control Dialog
3-12 PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C MA244xxA UG
Getting Started 3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics
Channel
Select one channel to update from the drop-down list or select All channels (available only with multiple
channels) to simultaneously update all measurement channels (up to 8) for most settings.
Memory Pull-down
You can select the stored memory channels.
Info Group
Serial: Displays the serial number of the sensor.
Model: Displays the model number of the sensor.
Firmware: Displays the date of the firmware version.
FPGA: Displays the FPGA version.
Mark Control: Brings up the Mark Control dialog.
Pulse Definition: Brings up the Pulse Definition dialog.
Vertical Group
Scale: Sets vertical amplitude scaling and centering of the displayed waveform. These settings
affect only the Trace display.
Units: Selects dBm, Watts, or Volts measurement units. Selection affects displayed text,
measurements, and trace.
Center: The center frequency for the display.
Sensor Group
Sensor Enabled: Enable or disable individual connected sensors.
Trace Avg: Sets number of acquired sweeps averaged together for displayed trace in pulse/triggered
modes. Useful for noisy signals.
Mod Filter: Sets the modulation filter integration time.
Filter Mode: Sets manual or automatic filter integration time window for measurements in modulated
(non-triggered) acquisition modes.
Video BW: Selects sensor video bandwidth, high or low.
Frequency: Sets measurement frequency for the applied RF signal.
Peak Hold Group
Mode: Sets the mode of the sensor to either manual or tracking.
Decay Count: Sets peak hold duration (# of sweeps).
Cal&Corrections Group
Offset: Compensates reading for external gain/loss.
Zero and Fixed Cal : Performs sensor zeroing or fixed calibration by selecting each specific button.
Clear User Cal: Clears any user calibration for the sensor selected (refer to “Channel” on page 3-13).
Fixed Cal: Performs a calibration at 0 dBm at the currently set frequency.
MA244xxA UG PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C 3-13
3-5 MA244xxA Peak Power Analyzer Basics Getting Started
Time / Trigger Settings Window
Click the Time/Trig button of the Trigger group to customize all related settings for both timebase and trigger of
a pulse signal. Refer “Time/Trigger Control Window” on page 4-5 for details.
Figure 3-20. Time and Trigger Dialog
Time
Timebase: Acquisition time in seconds per division. The power sensors use a fixed grid of 10
divisions for the sweep extents. Settings are in a 1-2-5 sequence. Consult series
specifications for timebase range.
Trigger: Delay The trigger delay can be adjusted by manually entering a numerical value into the
field or using the up-down arrow keys. Refer to “Time Control” on page 4-6.
Trigger Position
The trigger position can be changed by entering numerical values into the Divisions field, clicking the
scroll arrows, dragging the slide control, or by clicking the L/M/R (Left/Middle/Right) indicators. Refer to
“Trigger Position Control” on page 4-7.
Trigger Control
Source: Several trigger modes are available for each trigger source under Trigger Control section.
Multiple trigger sources are available under the drop-down list including both Internal
and External selection.
Mode: Select Normal, Auto, AutoLevel or Free run.
Level: Sets trigger level when trigger source is INT and trigger mode is Auto or Normal.
Slope: Selects rising- or falling-edge triggering.
Holdoff: Sets trigger holdoff time.
Holdoff Mode : Selects between Normal or Gap.
Trigger Skew
Adjustment: Adjusts the skew for internal trigger with master trigger output, and also external and
slave triggers. Skew adjustments allow you to calibrate out-trigger delay between sensors
so the you can measure the propagation delay of the DUT from input to output. Manual
skew adjustments can be made by entering the skew value in the numeric entry field.
The button to the right of each skew adjustment is the Auto-Skew, which allows
automatic adjustment of the skew. Refer to“Trigger Skew Adj(ust)” on page 4-9.
3-14 PN: 10585-00033 Rev. C MA244xxA UG
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